Kwale County Research Articles

Agroforestry and Household Food Security Status among Small-Scale Farmers in Kubo South and Samburu Wards of Kwale County, Kenya

This study investigated the contributions of agroforestry to household food security in Kwale County. The study objectives were to determine the status of agroforestry, the status of household food security, and the relationship between agroforestry and household food security. Descriptive cross-sectional survey research design was applied, with multistage sampling procedure, which comprised of purposive and random sampling for selection of the study sites and respondents from different villages in Kubo south and Samburu wards, Kwale County. The sample size for the study comprised of 270 smallholders and 10 key informants. The study used a combination of instruments, namely, structured questionnaires, focus group discussions, observation, and interview schedules. Descriptive statistics and regression analysis were used to test relationship between agroforestry and household food security. The study found that 14.1 % were food secure, 2.96 % households mildly food insecure, 54.81 % were moderately food insecure and 27.41 % were severely food insecure. Majority of farmers practice agrosilvopastoral system of agroforestry due to the multiplicity of social, economic, and environmental benefits they derive from it. The results further indicated that challenges facing agroforestry farmers include poor access to credit, inadequate extension services, wildlife destruction, pests and diseases, and inadequate markets for agroforestry products. The study concludes that there is high level of food insecurity among smallholder farmers and recommends concerted efforts by county and national governments to intensify the practice of agroforestry, improvement of access to inputs for agroforestry, allocate more land for agroforestry practice, proper tree species selection, adoption of best agroforestry practices based on research, and suitable tree planting arrangements for improved household food security.

Dietary Intake and Pneumococcal Vaccine Response Among Children (5-7 Years) in Msambweni Division, Kwale County, Kenya.

BackgroundVaccine and sufficient food availability are key factors for reducing pneumonia outbreaks in sub-Saharan Africa.MethodsIn this study, the 10-valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine (Synflorix® or PCV10) was administered to a child cohort (5–7 years old, n = 237) in Msambweni, Kenya, to determine relationships between dietary intake, nutritional/socioeconomic status of mothers/caregivers, and vaccine response. 7-day food frequency questionnaire (FFQ), dietary diversity score (DDS) and single 24-h dietary recall were used to address participants' dietary assessment and nutritional status. Individual food varieties were recorded and divided into 9 food groups as recommended by Food and Agriculture Organization. Anthropometric measurements, nasopharyngeal swabs and vaccine administration were performed at the initial visit. Participants were followed 4–8 weeks with a blood draw for pneumococcal IgG titers assessed by Luminex assay.FindingsChronic malnutrition was prevalent in the cohort (15% stunting, 16% underweight). Unbalanced dietary intake was observed, with mean energy intake 14% below Recommended Dietary Allowances (1,822 Kcal) for 5–7 years age range. 72% of the daily energy was derived from carbohydrates, 18% from fats and only 10% from proteins. Poor anthropometric status (stunting/underweight) was associated with low socioeconomic/educational status and younger mother/caregiver age (p < 0.002). Limited intake of essential micronutrients (vitamins A, E, K) and minerals (calcium, potassium) associated with low consumption of fresh fruits, vegetables, and animal source foods (dairy, meat) was observed and correlated with poor vaccine response (p < 0.001). In contrast, children who consumed higher amounts of dietary fiber, vitamin B1, zinc, iron, and magnesium had adequate vaccine response (p < 0.05). Correlation between higher dietary diversity score (DDS), higher Vitamin E, K, Zinc intake and adequate vaccine response was also observed (p < 0.03).InterpretationOverall, this study highlights ongoing food scarcity and malnutrition in Kenya and demonstrates the links between adequate socioeconomic conditions, adequate nutrient intake, and vaccine efficacy.

Coastal and mangrove economic valuation associated fisheries and problems in Kwale County, Kenya

Abstract. Ahmed HA, Mwaura F, Thenya T, Kairo JG. 2022. Coastal and mangrove economic valuation associated fisheries and problems in Kwale County, Kenya. Indo Pac J Ocean Life 6: 17-27. The coastal fisheries in Kenya are essential to the livelihoods of the coastal communities. They provide employment, income, and food and support other auxiliary industries. Despite the socio-economic importance of coastal fisheries, various anthropogenic and climate change impact threatened their existence. Fish habitats, including mangroves, coral reefs, and seagrasses, are threatened by human activities such as aquaculture, mangrove extraction, unplanned expansion of coastal cities, and marine pollution. Usually, coastal fisheries are also neglected in key policy-making agendas. That is attributed to inadequate information and a lack of data on the socio-economic contribution of coastal communities engaged in fisheries. This study aimed to estimate the economic value to provide crucial information for policy making of mangrove ecosystem-based coastal fisheries in Kwale County. The study also attempted to establish the coastal fishery production trend for the past decade, to estimate the economic value of mangrove ecosystems to fishery production, and the future of coastal fisheries projecting based on Climate Compatible Development (CCD) and Business As Usual (BAU) scenarios. Combining the primary data from interviews with 242 respondents with secondary data, including a decade of fish catch data, were analyzed, which exhibited a continuous increase from 1,908 tonnes in 2004 to 2,450 tonnes in 2013 coastal fisheries production. The coastal fisheries value was estimated to be Ksh.182 million (US$ 2.2) annually after deducting all fishing-related costs in 2013. This study also estimated that mangrove ecosystems could support the production of 160kg/ha/year, comprable to Ksh.11,610/ha/year (US$ 198/ha/year). Moreover, the estimated values could be much higher than the calculated ones because a considerable amount of fish caught is unrecorded. The future projections reveal that the scenario of Business As Usual (BAU) is not sustainable. Hence, the study demands a shift to the scenario of Climate Compatible Development (CCD), which incorporates mitigation measures, climate change adaptation, and investment in infrastructure. The study recommends reviewing the existing fishery policies regarding the unique characteristics of coastal fisheries to ensure sustainable exploitation and address the challenges. The research also recommends further economic studies on the coastal fisheries value chain.

Molecular survey of Babesia parasites in Kenya: first detailed report on occurrence of Babesia bovis in cattle

BackgroundAmong protozoan parasites in the genus Babesia, Babesia bigemina is endemic and widespread in the East African region while the status of the more pathogenic Babesia bovis remains unclear despite the presence of the tick vector, Rhipicephalus microplus, which transmits both species. Recent studies have confirmed the occurrence of R. microplus in coastal Kenya, and although B. bovis DNA has previously been detected in cattle blood in Kenya, no surveillance has been done to establish its prevalence. This study therefore investigated the occurrence of B. bovis in cattle in Kwale County, Kenya, where R. microplus is present in large numbers.MethodsA species-specific multiplex TaqMan real-time PCR assay targeting two Babesia bovis genes, 18S ribosomal RNA and mitochondrially-encoded cytochrome b and B. bigemina cytochrome b gene was used to screen 506 cattle blood DNA samples collected from Kwale County for presence of Babesia parasite DNA. A sub-set of 29 B. bovis real-time PCR-positive samples were further amplified using a B. bovis-specific spherical body protein-4 (SBP-4) nested PCR and the resulting products sequenced to confirm the presence of B. bovis.ResultsA total of 131 animals (25.8%) were found to have bovine babesiosis based on real-time PCR. Twenty-four SBP4 nucleotide sequences obtained matched to B. bovis with a similarity of 97–100%. Of 131 infected animals, 87 (17.2%) were positive for B. bovis while 70 (13.8%) had B. bigemina and 26 (5.1%) were observed to be co-infected with both Babesia species. A total of 61 animals (12.1%) were found to be infected with B. bovis parasites only, while 44 animals (8.7%) had B. bigemina only. Babesia bovis and B. bigemina infections were detected in the three Kwale sub-counties.ConclusionThese findings reveal high prevalence of pathogenic B. bovis in a Kenyan area cutting across a busy transboundary livestock trade route with neighbouring Tanzania. The Babesia multiplex real-time PCR assay used in this study is specific and can detect and differentiate the two Babesia species and should be used for routine B. bovis surveillance to monitor the spread and establishment of the pathogen in other African countries where B. bigemina is endemic. Moreover, these findings highlight the threat of fatal babesiosis caused by B. bovis, whose endemic status is yet to be established.Graphical Abtract

Factors associated with tungiasis among school-age children in Kwale County, rural Kenya.

The parasitic disease tungiasis, caused by the flea Tunga penetrans, remains an important public health problem among children and the elderly. The study assessed the factors influencing prevention and control of tungiasis infection among school-age children in Kwale County, Kenya. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in five villages in Lunga Lunga subcounty among 538 children ages 5-14y. The study employed a mobile application tool in collecting sociodemographic, knowledge, perception and practice data on prevention and control of tungiasis with frequencies and bivariate and multivariate regression analysis used. The prevalence of tungiasis was found to be 62.1% (328/528), with fathers' education level, place of residence and wearing shoes being factors associated with infection. Those who wore shoes were less likely to be infected compared with those who did not (odds ratio 0.059 [95% confidence interval 0.29 to 0.12]). Children living in Dzombo B and Kinyungu were less likely to be infected with tungiasis compared with those living in Bandu, holding other factors constant. Creating awareness of the cause of tungiasis remains of key public importance. Hygiene promotion, including wearing of shoes and the general cleanliness of the environment at the community level, needs to be implemented.

Farmers’ Demonstrate Rationality and Transitivity in Variety Choice: Empirical Evidence From two Rice Growing Niches in Coastal Kenya.

Purpose: A cross-sectional survey was designed to study farmers’ preference and choice framework for rice varieties in Kwale and Taita-Taveta counties of coastal lowland Kenya.&#x0D; Methodology: The survey used a multi-stage sampling technique; systematic selection for the study counties/niches, a purposive sampling approach for the study population (rice growers only) and a systematic random sampling for the respondents on an nth occurrence. Data was collected with the aid of a semi-structured questionnaire and key informant interviews from key rice value chain actors; including farmers as producers as well as consumers and agricultural extension service providers (AESPs) and other stakeholders. A total of 137 individual respondents were interviewed using the semi-structured questionnaire while the key informant interviews engaged a total of 29 AESPs. Data analysis focused on exploring on the varieties that farmers grew and whether they had a criteria or pattern for choosing the varieties to grow and seed source.&#x0D; Findings: Results confirmed that the Kwale rice growing niche had a higher rice variety diversity (more than 12 varieties) while Taita-Taveta had only around seven (7) common varieties. Rice was more traditionally grown in Kwale with low acreage and low yields compared to Taita-Taveta. Common varieties grown were Pachanga, Supa, Kitumbo, Makonde and Kibawa in Kwale while in Taita-Taveta, Japan, Supa and Hybrid 6444 rice varieties were common (with prevalence rating of 44.8%, 25.4%, 22.4%, 20.9 and 17.9% in Kwale respectively and 55.7%, 54.3% and 18.6% in Taita-Taveta respectively). Varieties grown by farmers in Kwale had a long history of seed recycling and were characterized by low productivity (less than 6, 90-kg bags per acre) and subsistent in nature than in Taita-Taveta. The general picture for variety prevalence in both (Kwale and Taita) growing niches was that farmers mostly relied on traditional (own-preserved, farmer-to-farmer exchange or market) seed systems for the recycled rice varieties. Variety choice by farmers who are both producers and consumers demonstrated a rational and transitive behavior with land resource allocation.&#x0D; Contribution to theory, practice and policy: The study provided evidence of an urgent need for strategic interventions towards improving the production system through on-farm researcher-led demonstrations for superior rice varieties, agronomic practices as well as an input subsidy and sustainable market linkages. Formation of farmer producer groups and strategic facilitation of the groups with rice certified seed and mills are proposed as positive drivers to improving rice marketing and increased productivity.

The influence of monsoons on the spatial distribution and composition of floating marine litter

Floating marine litter (FML) surveys were conducted in the near shore waters of Mombasa, Kilifi and Kwale Counties of Kenya through trawling using a manta net. A mean density of 26,665 ± 2869 items km−2 composed of 34.8% hard plastic, 40.5% soft plastics and 22.0% plastic lines/fibers was reported in this study. Litter densities in Kwale, Kilifi and Mombasa Counties were not influenced by monsoons, however, litter composition was influenced by monsoons with NEM and SEM being dominated mainly by hard plastics and soft plastics respectively. Litter categories diversity, evenness and richness were also not influenced by the monsoons during both NEM (1.01, 0.78 and 3, respectively) and SEM (1.09, 0.78 and 4, respectively). Fishing and recreational beaches had higher litter densities during NEM compared to SEM attributed to higher beach visitation and increased fishing activities during the calmer NEM season.

English

Teacher motivation is by and large the major determinant of students&rsquo; success during the schooling process. This is primarily because a motivated teacher is likely to be more engaged and enthusiastic in the workplace. Kenya&rsquo;s education sector has in the recent past experienced industrial disharmony which has been occasioned by teachers&rsquo; demand for higher remuneration. This demand, however, could be a pointer to the existence of other unmet needs among teachers in the country. This is what informed the study whose overall objective was to determine whether besides compensation other factors, specifically work environment, opportunities for career progression, performance appraisal, recognition and training opportunities could also be impacting teachers&rsquo; motivation in public secondary schools in the country. Additionally, the study sought to establish the relative influence of the six factors (predictor variables) on teachers&rsquo; motivation (criteria variable). Data were collected through a self - delivered questionnaire from 255 teachers who were randomly selected from 752 teachers in public secondary schools in Kwale County. Data were analyzed by way of arithmetic mean and multiple regression analysis at 0.05 alpha level. The findings demonstrated that the factor that had the highest teachers&rsquo; motivation impact was opportunities for career progression (mean=3.720; &beta;=0.238), followed by compensation (mean=3.477; &beta;=0.175), recognition (mean =2.489 &beta;=0.0168), performance appraisal (mean =2.410;&beta;=.120), training opportunities (mean=2.388; &beta;=0.075) and lastly work environment (mean =2.053;&beta;=.041). The six predictor variables accounted for 81% of total variation in teachers&rsquo; motivation. These findings have important lessons and implications for teachers&rsquo; motivation in the country. Specifically, teacher managers at the school and national level should rethink their approach to teachers&rsquo; motivation. In particular, they need to not only focus on teacher remuneration but also the unmet needs in areas relating to work environment, performance appraisal, training opportunities and recognition. &nbsp; Key words: Teachers&rsquo; motivation, secondary schools, Kenya.

Abdul, G., A., &amp; Sehar, S. (2015). Conflict management and organizational performance: A case study of Askari Bank Ltd. Research Journal of Finance and Accounting. 6(11), 201. Adhiambo, R., &amp; Simatwa, M. (2011). Assessment of conflict management and resolution in public secondary schools in Kenya: A case study of Nyakach District. International Research Journal 2(4), 1074-1088. Adomi, E., &amp; Anie,

The Constitution of Kenya specifically recognizes the freedom of association to form and belong to trade unions. However, despite the adoption of the Labour Relations Act, union practice is still hampered by excessive restrictions. The EPZ companies are labor intensive requiring a large amount of labor to produce its goods or service and thus, the welfare of the employees play a key role in their functions. This study sought to determine the effect of trade union practices on employees’ welfare at export processing zones industries in Athi River, Kenya. The specific objectives sought to determine the effect of collective bargaining agreements, industrial action, dispute resolution and trade union representation on employees’ welfare at export processing zones industries in Athi River, Kenya. The study employed a descriptive research design. Primary data was collected by means of a structured questionnaire. The target population of the study was employees in EPZ companies in Athi River, Kenya with large employees enrolled in active trade unions. The unit of observation was the employees in the trade unions. The findings indicated that collective bargaining agreements had a positive and significant coefficient with employees’ welfare at the EPZ industries. Industrial action had a positive but non-significant effect with employees’ welfare at Export Processing Zones industries. Dispute resolution had a positive and significant coefficient with employees’ welfare at the EPZ industries. Trade union representation had a positive and significant coefficient with employees’ welfare at the EPZ industries. The study recommended that trade union should avoid the path of confrontation but continue dialogue through the collective bargaining process and demands should be realistic in nature with what is obtainable in the related industry. An existence of a formal two way communication between management and trade unions will ensure that right message is properly understood and on time too. Keywords: Collective Bargaining Agreements, Industrial Action, Dispute Resolution, Trade Union Representation, Employees Welfare &amp; Export Processing Zones

Schistosomiasis, soil transmitted helminthiasis, and malaria co-infections among women of reproductive age in rural communities of Kwale County, coastal Kenya

BackgroundSchistosoma haematobium, soil transmitted helminthes (STH), and malaria lead to a double burden in pregnancy that eventually leads to poor immunity, increased susceptibility to other infections, and poor pregnancy outcomes. Many studies have been carried out on pre-school and school aged children but very little has been done among the at risk adult population including women of reproductive age (WRA). Our current study sought to establish the risk factors and burden of co-infection with S. haematobium, STH, and Plasmodium sp. among WRA in Kwale County, Coastal Kenya.MethodsA total of 534 WRA between the ages of 15–50 were enrolled in this cross-sectional study from four villages; Bilashaka and Mwaluphamba in Matuga sub-County, and Mwachinga and Dumbule in Kinango sub-County. Socio-demographic information was collected using a pre-tested standardized questionnaire. Parasitological examination was done using urine filtration method for Schistosoma haematobium, Kato Katz for STH (Ascaris lumbricoides, Hookworm, Trichuris trichiura), and standard slide microscopy for Plasmodium sp. Statistical analyses were carried out using STATA version 15.1.ResultsThe overall prevalence of S. haematobium was 3.8% (95% CI: 2.6–5.4) while that for malaria was 4.9% (95% CI: 2.0–11.7). The prevalence of STH was 5.6% (95% CI: 2.8–11.3) with overall prevalence of 5.3% (95% CI: 2.5–10.9) for hookworm and 0.6% (95% CI: 0.2–1.9) for T. trichiura. The occurrence of co-infection was low and was recorded between S. haematobium and P. falciparum (0.6%), followed by S. haematobium and STH (0.4%).Among pregnant women, 2.6% had co-infection with S. haematobium and P. falciparum. Only 1.3% had co-infection with S. haematobium and hookworm or T. trichiura. Among non-pregnant women, co-infection with S. haematobium and P. falciparum was 0.2%. Similarly, co-infection with S. haematobium and hookworm or T. trichiura was 0.2%.Bed net ownership and usage among pregnant women was 87.8 and 96.6%, respectively. 66.3% of the women reported using improved water sources for drinking while 78.1% reported using improved sanitation facilities.ConclusionThe use of improved WASH activities might have contributed to the low prevalence of STHs and S. haematobium infections. Further, bed net ownership and usage might have resulted in the low prevalence of Plasmodium sp. infections observed.

Performance of Home-Made Activated Carbon Ceramic Filter on Quality of Surface and Underground Water from Msambweni, Kwale County, Kenya

About 17 million Kenyans lack access to clean water, causing fears of water-borne diseases. This is a consequence of contaminants introduced through human acts, including agricultural activities, industrialization, poor waste disposal, and poor drainage. In Msambweni, Kwale County, the scenario is not any different. The removal of contaminants in water to reach the World Health Organization and Kenya Bureau of Standards permissible qualities of clean water for human consumption is generally expensive. This is a challenge for residents of Msambweni, who 74.9 % live below the poverty line. This research aimed at fabricating an activated carbon-ceramic (ACC) filter using locally available finely crushed clay and sawdust and test its efficiency, i.e. removal of Escherichia coli and total coliform, the effect on temperature, turbidity, total dissolved solids, dissolved oxygen, salinity, pH, electrical conductivity, dissolved ions of Na + , K + , Ca 2+ , Mg 2+ , HCO 3 - , Cl - and SO 4 2- . The test was carried on three selected water sources of deep underground, hand pump, and surface water before and after filtration using the ACC filter. The physicochemical parameters were measured using an aqua read meter while the aqua genx test kit was employed for the bacteriological analysis. Na + , K + , Ca 2+ , Mg 2+ , HCO 3 - , Cl - and SO 4 2- were analyzed using atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS) and calorimetry. Statistical analysis was performed by SPSS software version 21. The turbidity and DO were beyond the WHO recommended limits at (30.00±1.00 NTU) and DO (4.21±0.96 mg/L) from the specimen drawn from hand pumps before filtration. The Mean±SE ranged from 22.72±1.15-23.24±1.22°C (Temperature); 4.99±0.01-30.00±1.00 NTU (Turbidity), 51.12±31.85-68.62±66.93 mg/L (TDS), 4.21±0.96-7.48±0.33 mg/L (DO), 3.85±0.78-5.17±0.56 mg/L (salinity), 7.37±0.15-7.46±0.02 (pH) and 0.18±0.01-0.87±0.03 mg/L (EC). These levels decreased significantly after filtration of the water samples using the fabricated ACC Filter, subsequently falling within admissible limitation in line with the WHO excellence levels. Amounts of Faecal E. Coli (CFU/100 ml) and Faecal Coliforms (MPN/100 ml) before filtration ranged between 1.00±0.00 - 5.00±0.00 and 12.00±00 - 25.00±0.00 respectively, being higher than the WHO standards. However, the levels decreased significantly after filtration falling within permissible levels. The levels of dissolved ions (mg/L) were within WHO standards before filtration (BF). Notably, Mg 2+ ranged from 1.04±0.01 in underground water and HCO 3 - ranged 225.67+0.58 in the surface water samples. These levels decreased to 0.35±0.01 for Mg 2+ and 30.50+0.10 for HCO 3 - in underground and surface water samples, respectively, after filtration. The fabricated ACC Filter was found to remove Faecal E. Coli effectively and Faecal Coliforms in all water samples, improving turbidity but with minimal effect on dissolved ions in water hence recommended for use. Keywords: Activated carbon, Ceramic filter, Surface water, Underground water, Water sampling DOI: 10.7176/JEES/12-1-04 Publication date: January 31 st 2022

Busting contraception myths and misconceptions among youth in Kwale County, Kenya: results of a digital health randomised control trial

ObjectivesThe objective of this randomised controlled trial in Kenya was to assess the effect of delivering sexual and reproductive health (SRH) information via text message to young people on their...

Assessment of Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices Regarding HIV/AIDS among Road Construction Workers and Adjacent Communities in Kwale County, Kenya

Assessment of Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices Regarding HIV/AIDS among Road Construction Workers and Adjacent Communities in Kwale County, Kenya

Quality and human health risk assessment of uranium and other heavy metals in drinking water from Kwale County, Kenya.

Heavy metal contamination in drinking water is a global health concern. Anthropogenic and geogenic activities exacerbate the concentrations of these metals in surface and groundwater. In this study, we sampled drinking water sourced from surface and groundwater resources at the environs of Mrima Hill and the Kwale heavy minerals sand deposit, Kwale County, Kenya. The concentrations of Cr, Ni, Cu, As, Cd, Pb, and U were measured using the inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometer. The water quality indices were evaluated using the weighted arithmetic index method, while the human health risks due to exposure to these heavy metals through the ingestion pathway were assessed using deterministic and probabilistic techniques. The concentrations of Cr and Cd in samples from both study areas exceeded the national and international maximum contaminant levels in drinking water. The concentration levels of Ni, Cu, As, and U in all samples from both study areas were within the recommended values in drinking water. Therefore, the quality of water from both study areas was unsuitable for human consumption due to Cd and Cr contamination. The non-carcinogenic risk assessment also showed that the hazard indices (HI) evaluated for both children and adults at the study areas were higher than unity. In addition, the estimated carcinogenic risks of both population groups were more than the recommended value of 10-4. This study shows that the residents near Mrima Hill and the Kwale heavy minerals sand deposit remain susceptible to carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic health risks emanating from exposure to these heavy metals in drinking water.

Evidence of circulation of Orthobunyaviruses in diverse mosquito species in Kwale County, Kenya

BackgroundArbovirus surveillance and recurrence of outbreaks in Kenya continues to reveal the re-emergence of viruses of public health importance. This calls for sustained efforts in early detection and characterization of these agents to avert future potential outbreaks.MethodsA larval survey was carried out in three different sites in Kwale County, Vanga, Jego and Lunga Lunga. All containers in every accessible household and compound were sampled for immature mosquitoes. In addition, adult mosquitoes were also sampled using CO2-baited CDC light traps and BG-Sentinel traps in the three sites and also in Tsuini. The mosquitoes were knocked down using trimethylamine and stored in a liquid nitrogen shipper for transportation to the laboratory where they were identified to species, pooled and homogenized ready for testing.ResultsA total of 366 houses and 1730 containers were inspected. The House Index (HI), Container Index (CI) and Breateau Index (BI) for Vanga Island were (3%: 0.66: 3.66) respectively. In Jego, a rural site, the HI, CI and BI were (2.4%: 0.48: 2.4) respectively. In Lunga Lunga, a site in an urban area, the HI, CI and BI were (22.03%: 3.97: 29.7) respectively. The indices suggest that this region is at risk of arbovirus transmission given they were above the WHO threshold (CI > 1, HI > 1% and BI > 5). The most productive containers were the concrete tanks (44.4%), plastic tank (22.2%), claypot (13.3%), plastic drums (8.9%), plastic basins (4%), jerricans (1.2%) and buckets (0.3%). Over 20,200 adult mosquitoes were collected using CDC light traps, and over 9,200 using BG- sentinel traps. These mosquitoes were screened for viruses by inoculating in Vero cells. Eleven Orthobunyavirus isolates were obtained from pools of Ae. pembaensis (4), Ae. tricholabis (1), Cx. quinquefasciatus (3), Culex spp. (1) and Cx. zombaensis (2). Five of the Orthobunyaviruses were sequenced and four of these were determined to be Bunyamwera viruses while one isolate was found to be Nyando virus. One isolate remained unidentified.ConclusionsThese results indicate circulation of Orthobunyaviruses known to cause diverse grades of febrile illness with rash in humans in this region and highlights the need for continued monitoring and surveillance to avert outbreaks.

Applying conjoint analysis to match farmer's preferences for cattle traits with those conferred by the improved trypanotolerant Orma Boran cattle in coastal Kenya

Bovine trypanosomiasis is a key constraint to increased livestock production across all production systems of Kwale County in coastal Kenya. Genetically controlled trypanotolerance of cattle is regarded as one of the promising methods available to mitigate the impact of this disease, and the improved trypanonotolerant Orma Boran is one of the breeds available in Kenya for this purpose. Conjoint analysis was thus used to match farmer’s preference for cattle traits against those conferred by this breed in three production systems of Kwale County. The study also estimated the transaction costs (TC) that would influence access to breeding services while availing the breed. The aim was to identify production systems where the breed matches well with farmer preferences, as an initial step towards its dissemination. In order of importance, farmers preferred cattle that were resistant to trypanosomiasis, had large body size, exhibited resistance to tick-borne diseases (TBD), and had high milk output. However, there were inter-production system differences in trait preferences, where resistance to TBD was least valued in the agro-pastoral system, with more emphasis put on the size of animal and trypanotolerance respectively. On the other hand, in medium potential and marginal pastoral systems, more emphasis was placed on TBD resistance, followed by trypanosomiasis resistance. The agro-pastoral production system was therefore delineated as a potential area for disseminating the breed. Regarding transaction costs, the price of service was the most important transaction costs element. Furthermore, whereas bull service was preferred over artificial insemination (AI) services in marginal pastoral and medium potential systems, AI was given preference in an agro-pastoral system. It was thus concluded that the Orma Boran dissemination would be successful among agro-pastoral households system, and should be delivered using subsidized AI services.

PARENTAL INFLUENCE ON DRUG AND SUBSTANCE ABUSE AMONG SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS IN KINANGO SUB-COUNTY, KENYA

&lt;p&gt;The United Nations office on Drug and Crime estimates that 200 million people worldwide abuse drugs. Africa is a major supplier of drugs such as cannabis and cocaine which are the most widely abused. Large hauls of cannabis and cocaine have been discovered in East African region. In Kenya, findings show that drug and substance abuse is a major social problem. A report of survey on drug and substance abuse by NACADA, revealed that 32.4% of people aged between 18-28 years have consumed alcohol or other type of drugs and substances. Majority of secondary school students are in the age bracket 14-22 years, the group that is most affected. Drug and substance abuse is partly responsible for the riots, strikes, destruction and burning of property in secondary schools. The prevalence rate of drug abuse in Kinango Sub-County was 20.3%. The purpose of the study was to investigate parental influence on Drug and Substance Abuse among Secondary School Students in Kinango Sub-County Kwale County. Erickson’s theory on social development and Bandura’s Social Learning Theory (SLT) helped in explaining the findings of the study. A survey research design was employed for the study with the study population comprising of all secondary school students, heads of guidance and counselling departments and deputy principals in Kinango sub-county totalling 4,964 people. Four public secondary schools were selected through stratified random sampling. The sample size comprised of 4 deputy principals, 4 heads of guidance and counselling departments of the selected schools and 384 students selected by random sampling. Data was collected through questionnaires and an interview schedule. Validity of the instruments was ensured by using expert judgement of my supervisors. A mixed research methodology was used during data presentation where both descriptive and inferential statistics were used to make inferences and draw conclusions. This was done with help of SPSS version 23. The overall reliability of all the instruments had Cronbach’s alpha of 0.842 which was above the minimum threshold of 0.7. Validity was determined by; the Kaiser- Meyer-Olkim (KMO) Measures of Sampling Adequacy and Bartlett’s Test of Sphericity. Values of 0.787 and 0.000 were obtained respectively, which are acceptable indexes. It was established that there is statistically significant influence of parental influence on drug and substance abuse among secondary school students in Kinango sub-County from hypothesis one (p˂ 0.05). The study recommended that parents should abstain from drugs because they are role models of their children and that guidance and counselling should be strengthen in schools.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt; &lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt; Article visualizations:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;img src="/-counters-/edu_01/0863/a.php" alt="Hit counter" /&gt;&lt;/p&gt;

Assessment of malaria infection among pregnant women and children below five years of age attending rural health facilities of Kenya: A cross-sectional survey in two counties of Kenya

In Kenya, health service delivery and access to health care remains a challenge for vulnerable populations, particularly pregnant women and children below five years. The aim of this study, therefore, was to determine the positivity rate of Plasmodium falciparum parasites in pregnant women and children below five years of age seeking healthcare services at the rural health facilities of Kwale and Siaya counties as well as their access and uptake of malaria control integrated services, like antenatal care (ANC), offered in those facilities. Cluster random sampling method was used to select pregnant women and children below five years receiving maternal and child health services using two cross-sectional surveys conducted in eleven rural health facilities in two malaria endemic counties in western and coastal regions of Kenya. Each consenting participant provided single blood sample for determining malaria parasitaemia using microscopy and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) techniques. Using PCR technique, the overall malaria positivity rate was 27.9% (95%CI: 20.9-37.2), and was 34.1% (95%CI: 27.1-42.9) and 22.0% (95%CI: 13.3-36.3) in children below five years and pregnant women respectively. Additionally, using microscopy, the overall positivity rate was 39.0% (95%CI: 29.5-51.6), and was 50.4% (95%CI: 39.4-64.5) and 30.6% (95%CI: 22.4-41.7) in children below five years and pregnant women respectively. Siaya County in western Kenya showed higher malaria positivity rates for both children (36.4% and 54.9%) and pregnant women (27.8% and 38.5%) using both PCR and microscopy diagnosis techniques respectively, compared to Kwale County that showed positivity rates of 27.2% and 37.9% for children and 5.2% and 8.6% for pregnant women similarly using both PCR and microscopy techniques respectively. Pregnant women presenting themselves for their first ANC visit were up to five times at risk of malaria infection, (adjusted odds ratio = 5.40, 95%CI: 0.96-30.50, p = 0.046). Despite evidence of ANC attendance and administration of intermittent preventive treatment with sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine (IPTp-SP) dosage during these visits, malaria positivity rate was still high among pregnant women and children below five years in these two rural counties. These findings are important to the Kenyan National Malaria Control Programme and will help contribute to improvement of policies on integration of malaria control approaches in rural health facilities.

Operations and improvement needs in the informal charcoal sector: a participatory value stream analysis

Developing profitable and sustainable charcoal supply chains in Sub-Saharan Africa requires good knowledge about their properties, input needs and impacts. Charcoal supply chains in Taita Taveta and Kwale counties, Kenya, were analysed to identify operational and sustainability improvement opportunities. Using operations man agement, lean engineering and participatory research, charcoal value streams' processes, resources, and outcomes were analysed. Charcoal production and trade have low entry barriers, slow-paced innovation, and thin profit margins for value chain actors. Production is labour intensive, and the actors need specific skills, knowhow, and resources for proper business performance. The value chain's profitability and sustainability can be improved by regenerating exploited quality tree species, improving operation efficiency and safety, promoting market development, and appropriate policies on charcoal production and trade. The study's findings can guide the development of enabling policies and regulatory frameworks for the charcoal industry and improve the actors' performance in the charcoal value chain.

Farmer perceptions and willingness to pay for novel livestock pest control technologies: A case of tsetse repellent collar in Kwale County in Kenya.

Tsetse-transmitted Animal African Trypanosomosis (AAT) is one of the most important constraints to livestock development in Africa. Use of trypanocides has been the most widespread approach for the management of AAT, despite the associated drug resistance and health concerns associated with drug metabolites in animal products. Alternative control measures that target tsetse fly vectors of AAT, though effective, have been hard to sustain in part because these are public goods applied area-wide. The International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (icipe) and partners have developed and implemented a novel tsetse repellent collar (TRC) applied on animals to limit contact of tsetse flies and livestock, thereby reducing AAT transmission. The TRC has now advanced to commercialization. A household-level survey involving 632 cattle keeping households, was conducted in Shimba Hills region of Kwale County, where field trials of the TRC have been previously conducted to assess farmers' knowledge, perception, and practices towards the management of tsetse flies, their willingness to pay (WTP) for the TRC, and factors affecting the WTP. Almost all the respondents (90%) reported that tsetse flies were the leading cattle infesting pests in the area. About 22% of these correctly identified at least four AAT clinical signs, and even though many (68%) used trypanocidal drugs to manage the disease, 50% did not perceive the drug as being effective in AAT management (50%). Few respondents (8%) were aware of the harmful effects of trypanocidal drugs. About 89% of the respondents were aware of icipe TRC, and 30% of them were using the field trial collars during the survey. Sixty-three (63%) of them were willing to pay for the TRC at the same cost they spend treating an animal for AAT. On average farmers were willing to pay KES 3,352 per animal per year. Male educated household heads are likely to pay more for the TRC. Moreover, perceived high AAT prevalence and severity further increases the WTP. Wider dissemination and commercialization of the herd-level tsetse control approach (TRC) should be encouraged to impede AAT transmission and thus enhance food security and farm incomes among the affected rural communities. Besides the uptake of TRC can be enhanced through training, especially among women farmers.