University Of Eldoret Research Articles

The Physical and Physiological Quality of Informal Seeds of Rwanda: Case of Common Bean (Phaseolus Vulgaris L.)

This study was carried out at the laboratories of the Department of Seed, Crop, and Horticultural Sciences; School of Agriculture and Biotechnology; University of Eldoret, Kenya, on common bean seed samples collected in major growing areas’ markets of the Southern Province of Rwanda, where informal seeds are predominant and with a varied physical and physiological seed quality. Therefore, we conducted this study to assess the physical and physiological quality of seeds in Rwanda's informal system through laboratory tests. The GenStat computer package was used to run data. The markets of Kamonyi, Muhanga, and Nyanza are sources of market common bean informal seed in the southern province of Rwanda. The physiological qualities were more in the sample M1E from Muhanga market, locally known as Shyushya, because this local variety proved to be the best to have better seeds that develop into normal plants (96.5%) and vigorous plants through first count and speed of germination with 95.5% and 26.11, respectively. This was also observed on the sample M2C from Nyanza that shares the same local name. Nyanza market had more physiological qualities than the others; its seeds grew more into normal plants (72.2%) and vigorous plants via first count and speed of germination with 63.3% and 21.68, respectively, than the others. Muhanga market had more good physical characteristics of seeds, with the highest mean of thousand seed weight (340.9 grams) and seed length (1.31 cm). The sample M2B, locally known as Mutiki, is a variety with the highest mean of thousand seed weights (446.1 grams), and this is common with other samples (M2B and M3A) locally known as Mutiki from other markets. This study revealed that the inform variety known as Shyushya is to be considered for agronomical purposes, while the formal variety locally known as Mutiki could be considered for market purposes. Nyanza market to be considered as the source of seeds for the agronomical aspects, while Muhanga market could be the source of seed for the grains of market

Effectiveness Of Teacher Performance Appraisal And Development On Students’ Academic Achievements In Public Secondary Schools In Elgeyo Marakwet County, Kenya

The quality of education has been declining in Kenya national examinations which made the Teachers Service Commission to come up with an accountability tool for the teachers which led to introduction of teacher performance appraisal and development (TPAD).This study was aimed at examining the effectiveness of TPAD on students’ academic achievement in public secondary schools in Elgeyo Marakwet County. The study specifically intended to analyze the effectiveness of teacher lesson observation planning on student academic achievements students’ academic achievements. The study was informed by goal-setting theory by Okumbe, (2000). The study adopted mixed methods research design and used a mixed method approach in collecting and analyzing data. The study utilized a sample of 40 principals, 153 teachers, and 384 students drawn from four constituencies in Elgeyo Marakwet County. Stratified sampling was used to categorize schools into National, Extra County, County and Sub-County schools. Simple random sampling was used to select teachers and students from sampled schools while purposive sampling was used to select the national schools and principals from the selected schools. A structured questionnaire was used on teachers and students on a likert scale and an unstructured interview guide was administered to the principals. The two instruments were validated by expert researchers in the department of educational management and policy studies at the University of Eldoret. Descriptive statistics were made up of frequencies, percentages; means and standard deviation which were calculated and presented in tables and figures, and inferential statistics involving Pearson Correlation and Regression coefficients were calculated to test the research hypotheses. The study findings on lesson observation and students’ academic achievements indicated that there is a positive weak correlation between lesson observation frequency/intensity and student academic achievements. A coefficient of 0.243 indicates that when lesson observation increases, there is a tendency for student academic achievement to improve, albeit not very strongly. The research findings will benefit the TSC in seeking for the best way of aligning TPAD practices to students’ academic achievements. MOE, policy makers and teachers will be able to get the best out of the TPAD and assist in making future decisions pertaining to the education sector. The research study recommended regular awareness of TPAD practices in order to get the best out of these exercises

Effects of Flexible Work Arrangements on Employee Performance among Non-Teaching Employees in Selected Public Universities, Western Kenya

Globally, workplaces face numerous challenges in enforcing flexible work arrangements for their employees, leading to burnout, dissatisfaction, stress, and poor performance. Generally, organizations have to develop strategies that retain attract, and improve performance. Malleable work arrangements have become significant in the current digital technology innovation ensuring employee performance. Specifically, the study assessed the effects of flexible work arrangements and performance among non-teaching employees in selected public universities in Western Kenya. Flexi-time and job sharing were used as construct measures and two theories: spill-over and social exchange were anchored. The study embraced philosophical research into positivism. The study used a cross-section survey research design. The target population was 3538, where stratified random sampling techniques were exploited. The Yamane’s formula calculated a sample size of 343 respondents. The questionnaire and interview schedule were utilized as collection instruments. A pilot study was examined at the University of Eldoret. A Cronbach’s alpha tested the reliability of instruments. Validity was tested using content analysis and expert Judgment validity. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 27. Descriptive statistics - frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations- and inferential statistics - Pearson’s correlation and regression analysis- were used. Interview data was analyzed using content analysis and expert judgment. The findings of the study disclosed a strong positive evident relationship between flexible work arrangements and performance (t-statistic=22.385, p-value=0.001< 0.05). The study recommends that public universities and governments embrace flexible work arrangements and develop policies to safeguard public employees and other companies.

Recognition Strategy and Performance of Non-Teaching Staff at University of Eldoret in Kenya

Non-academic staff contribute significantly to the effective functioning of universities across the globe, supporting the institution's mission of education, research, and service to society. Their roles are diverse and essential, helping to create a supportive and conducive environment for academic excellence and student success. Their performance is aligned with broader national development priorities and the global agenda set forth by the SDGs. Their contributions are essential for advancing education, fostering innovation, promoting sustainable development, and building inclusive societies. By recognizing and supporting the role of non-academic staff, governments and institutions can better harness their potential to contribute to positive social, economic, and environmental outcomes. By facilitating access to quality education, they help build the knowledge and skills necessary for individuals to participate effectively in society and contribute to economic development. Unlike academic staff, whose work is more closely tied to research and teaching, the roles of non-academic staff, may not always be as directly connected to the core mission of the institution. This disconnect has led to several challenges that demotivate the work of non-teaching staffs. The purpose of this study was to examine the extent to which employee recognition strategy has influenced the performance of non-academic staff in the UOE, in Kenya. The study based on a quantitative research approach and underpinned by Maslow Theory of Motivation. The researcher used a correlational research design to establish the relationship between the study variables. The target population of this study comprised all the 208 permanent non-teaching staff in the university of Eldoret from which 137 were picked as sample size of the study Yamane formula. Stratified random sampling and simple random samplings were used to select respondents for the study. The study used structured self-administered questionnaires as its main primary data collection tool. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze data with the aid of the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25. Descriptive statistics included percentages, frequencies, mean and standard deviation. Inferentially, regression analysis was applied to get the changes in dependent variable caused by the influence of independent variables. Analyzed data was presented in form of tables, suitable graphs based on the APA format. The study results revealed that there was positive linear effect of influence of recognition on employee’s performance (β1=0.798, p=0.000 < 0.05). The study concluded that there is a significant relationship between recognition and performance of non-academic staff in the University of Eldoret.

Effectiveness of Job Responsibility Initiatives for Satisfaction on Commitment of Non-Academic Staff In Universities in Kenya: A Case of University of Eldoret

The level of job commitment by non-academic staff in universities is a critical factor that influences organizational success. By creating a supportive work environment, offering growth opportunities, promoting work-life balance, and recognizing employee contributions, universities can enhance the job commitment of their non-academic staff and ultimately improve overall performance. By balancing workload, providing support, recognition, and growth opportunities, institutions can cultivate a more committed workforce that contributes positively to the overall success of the university. The level of satisfaction obtained from job responsibilities assigned to nonacademic staffs in universities plays a significant role in determining their commitment levels. Incorporating job responsibilities into the management and leadership practices within universities, universities can foster a work environment where non-academic staff feel fulfilled, engaged, and committed to their roles and the mission of the university. However, this is deficient in most universities, including Kenya, which is contrary to a multifaceted role non-teaching staff play in supporting national development goals in many nations. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the extent to which effectiveness of job responsibility influences commitment of non-academic staffs in University of Eldoret in Kenya. The study was based on expectancy theory of motivation. This study adopted on a quantitative research approach. The study utilized a correlational research design to determine the extent of relationship between job responsibility and commitment of non-academic staff in the research site. A sample size of 137 nonacademic staffs was drawn from target population of 208 using Yamane formula. both Stratified random sampling and simple random samplings were used to select units of analysis. Structured self-administered questionnaires were used for primary data collection. Data analysis utilized descriptive statistics as well as inferential statistics with the aid of the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25. Analyzed data was presented in using suitable tables and figures. The study’s findings revealed a positive significant relationship between job responsibility and commitment of workers (β1=0.802, p=0.000 < 0.05). The study concluded that there is a significant relationship between job responsibility and commitment of non-academic staff in the university of Eldoret.

Analysis of Genetic Variability of Potato Induced Mutants Using Simple Sequence Repeat (SSR) Markers

Aims: Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) is ranked fourth amongst the world’s major stable food crop and second in Kenya after maize and thus plays a vital role in food and nutrition security and sustainable development. Despite its importance, potato production in Kenya is still low due to abiotic and biotic constraints. Traditional breeding and improvement have been difficult due to the narrow genetic diversity of the crop owed to the complex tetrasomic inheritance patterns. Induced mutation has been used to generate genetic variations in potato from which desired putative mutants are selected. In most cases the level of genetic variability is not known. The objective of this study was to determine the genetic variability of potato mutants using SSR markers. Study Design: The study involved three potato varieties; Asante, Kenya Mpya and Kenya Sherekea which are high yielding and commercially grown varieties in Kenya. Place and Duration of Study: Sample: They were irradiated at different dose rates of gamma rays at Co60 source at FAO/IAEA laboratories, Seiberdorf Austria in 2014. A total of 163 mutants were advanced to M1V4 generation at the University of Eldoret between 2015 and 2018. Methodology: Genomic DNA was extracted to assess the diversity with 20 SSRs markers. Results: All the 20 SSR primers were polymorphic with 6-19 bands amplified per primer and marker STM5127 showed the highest allele number (19) using PowerMarker software. The STRUCTURE analysis suggested that the potato mutants were clustered into six sub-populations based on the unweighted pair-group method of arithmetic averages (UPGMA) thus, the accessions were divided into three major clusters. Analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) indicated that 8.6% of total molecular variance was attributed to diversity among sub-populations, while 91.4% of variance was associated with differences within sub-populations. Conclusion: This study highlights the most comprehensive investigation of the genetic diversity and population structure of potato mutants, and provides valuable information for genetic improvement, and systematic utilization.

Quality Status of Wild Simsim (Sesamum Calycinum) Seeds Harvested from Croplands in Khwisero, Kakamega County

Wild simsim is among the indigenous vegetables still gathered during scarcity by some communities in Kakamega County. Domestication of such vegetables is important as they are adaptable to adverse climatic conditions and high in nutritional value. Seed quality is paramount in crop establishment, growth and yield. Being wild, the seeds have not undergone any certification process to come up with the required standard specifications. The objective of the study was to assess the quality of wild simsim seeds by evaluating the influence of the harvesting stage on germination and vigor. The seeds were harvested at yellow and brown capsule stages from croplands in Khwisero. Seed germination and vigor tests were conducted in the seed laboratory at the University of Eldoret. The data was subjected to ANOVA using a Genstat statistical package and means separated by LSD at a 5% significance level. Results indicated that the seeds were of low quality having a germination percentage of 68.50 and 49.75 for seeds harvested at yellow and brown capsule stages respectively. Consequently, Seed vigor was also low recording 8% and 6.25 % at yellow and brown capsule stages respectively. Wild simsim Seeds are of low quality below the 70% recommendation by KEPHIS for indigenous vegetables although those harvested at yellow capsule stage are of a better quality in terms of germination. Wild simsim seeds should be harvested at the yellow capsule stage for a higher germination percentage.

Effect of Water Stress Duration on the Growth Characteristics and Yield Components of Upland Rice Varieties in Kenya

Drought stress is a major problem in upland rice grown areas under rainfed conditions. It affects plant growth and development, and eventually leads to a considerable yield reduction. The study was carried out with the aim of evaluating the effect of drought stress duration on the growth characteristics and yield components of upland rice varieties. The experiment was conducted at the University of Eldoret with Sixteen upland commercial and local rice varieties were used in the study obtained from Kenya and Liberia. Rice plants were subjected to drought stress treatments at tillering and flowering stages in the green house. The experiment was layout in a complete randomized design (CRD) in a split plot arrangement with five treatments and replicated three times. The results of leaf rolling, plant height, days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, panicle number, spikelet sterility, biological yield, leaf relative water content,1000-grain weight, harvest index and grain yield revealed that there were significant differences as a result of water stress on the treatments (p≤0.001) and rice varieties (p≤0.05). All the sixteen varieties were significantly affected by the treatments when compared with the control. The results also revealed that MWUR, Dourado, L-22, Komboka, Jaowo, LAC-23, Kpatawee, MWUR, White rice and Red Youmo varieties were significantly affected by the water stress treatments at leaf rolling, flowering and maturity then that of NERICA 1,2 ,3, 4, 10,11 and 14 at tillering and flowering stages. The findings of this study indicated that NERICA 1, 2, 3, 4, 10 varieties were less affected by soil water stress treatments amongst the tested varieties, followed by NERICA 11 and14 respectively. Thus, NERICA varieties had the best performance in most of the parameters that were measured. Therefore, these varieties can thus be used by breeders to develop varieties adapted to areas with limited rain fall and insufficient soil moisture for rice production.

Field Screening of Elite Cassava (Manihot esculenta) Mutant Lines for their Response to Mosaic and Brown Streak Viruses

Cassava Brown Streak Disease (CBSD) and Cassava Mosaic Disease (CMD) have been major limiting biotic factors to the productivity of cassava farming in Kenya. Development of resistant cassava varieties is most effective way. The study was to determine response of elite cassava lines to CBSD and CMD under field conditions on different agro-ecological zones in Kenya. Screening was done under hot-spot field conditions where five lines together with their parents were evaluated in Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications at University of Eldoret (UoE), Solai and Marakwet sites in Kenya. Severity assessment done on 1-5 rating scale where 1 very resistant and 5 most susceptible. Elite cassava lines had significant differences in their response (p < 0.05) to CBSD and CMD. Additionally, genotypes, site and time interval were also significant (p < 0.05). The three elite lines (CAS1, CAS2 and CAS3) had better tolerance to both diseases compared to their parents (KME3 and KME4) with KME4 showing visible brown rings on the root typical of CBSD The elite lines CAS1, CAS2 and CAS3 identified to have better adaptability to both CBSD and CMD could be further exploited in breeding for new cassava varieties for Kenya and other countries in the region with similar ecology.

Evaluation of Procedures and Policies used in Controlling Personnel Records at University of Eldoret, Kenya

The role records control is to ensure that records are available at the point of use, has up-to-date information, reliable, checked and have statutory requirements for records and documents that require access. Records control procedures define the role of personnel records by limiting staff numbers, monitoring performance and protecting the rights of individual staff. In Kenya, proper record-keeping is mandated in law. However, it has been noted that challenges of personnel records control in Kenyan universities are common, and with dire consequences. Therefore, the study investigated the personnel records control procedures and policies at University of Eldoret’s Central Registry. Descriptive research design was adopted. The study targeted all the 10 employees of the Central Registry. Therefore, census sampling techniques were used to identify all the staff as respondents. Observation, interviews and questionnaires were used to collect data and results were presented by use of pie charts and bar graphs. Qualitative data was analysed thematically and presented in narrative form. The study found that the University of Eldoret’s Central Registry has in place standardized personnel records control procedures. These procedures include file registration, file classification, file plans, foliating of records, file transit sheets, and records inventories. However, there was no file colour coding to ease identification and retrieval of files. Further, the Registry does not have records management policies in place. From the findings and conclusion, it is recommended that the Central Registry management should adopt colour coding as one of the main procedures for controlling records. Additionally, the University should develop a records control and management policy.

Phytochemical Screening and Acute oral Toxicity Study of Root Extracts of Combretum hereroense Schinz and Balanites aegyptiaca Del. Traditionally Used to Treat Female Infertility in Baringo County, Kenya

Aims: To carry out phytochemical screening and acute oral toxicity test to validate their safety and efficacy.
 Study Design: Standard phytochemical screening tests were used to highlight phytochemical compounds of roots of the plants. The evaluation of acute toxicity of the root extracts of the plants followed the model of Acute Toxicity Class based on OECD 423 Guideline, 2001.
 Place and Duration of the Study: The study was undertaken at the Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry for the extraction for samples extraction and phytochemical screening. Acute oral toxicity studies were done at the Department of Biological Sciences for acute toxicity study, University of Eldoret, Between June and September 2022.
 Methodology: Phytochemical screening for presence of Tannins, saponins, flavonoids, glycosides, alkaloids, anthocyanin, terpenoids, steroids, coumarins, lipids, proteins and carbohydrates were carried out. Acute oral toxicity studies were done using the fixed dose method at a dose of 2000mg/kg body weights of rats. Three groups were used: control and test groups for each of the respective plant root extracts. Signs of toxicity and/or mortality were monitored daily for 14 days. Weekly fasting body weights were also recorded.
 Results: The phytochemical screening results showed the presence of tannins, saponins, flavonoids, glycosides, alkaloids, anthocyanin, terpenoids, steroids, lipids, proteins and carbohydrates present in the root extract of Combretum hereroense. Tannins, saponins, flavonoids, glycosides, terpenoids, steroids, and carbohydrates were present in root extracts of Balanites aegyptiaca. Following the acute oral toxicity study, there were no abnormalities observed in physiological parameters. In addition, no deaths were recorded during the study period. The LD50 was therefore greater than 2000 mg/kg. The fasting body weights of extract treated rats increased stably compared to the control [p = .05].
 Conclusion: The results showed C. hereroense and B. aegyptiaca methanol root extracts were considered safe in acute oral exposure. Long-term toxicity studies are needed for further toxicological profile elicitation of the plant, and a possible reinforcement of clinical relevance of the results of laboratory studies.

Influence of Guidance and Counselling on Choice of Careers in Home Science Education Programme in Kenyan Universities

Aims: This study sought to establish the extent of influence of guidance and counselling on choice of Home Science education programme in universities.
 Study design: This study adopted the Convergent Parallel mixed method design employing both quantitative and qualitative approaches at the same time.
 Place and Duration of Study: University of Eldoret and Kenyatta University, Kenya, between October 2020 and October 2021.
 Methodology: Purposive sampling was used to select the two Universities where Two (2) Heads of Department were purposively selected and 254 students were conveniently selected and took part in this study.
 Results: This study established that guidance and counselling played a key role in choice of Home Science education programme. Majority of the respondents were aware of the many career opportunities in the field and the availability of career information resources. Home science teachers were the key persons offering guidance and counselling. A small number of respondents revealed that they did not benefit because the schools they had attended did not offer guidance and counselling services.
 Conclusion: Guidance and counselling offered to students played a key role and this made them choose Home Science Education programme at the University.

Assessing the Influence of Loyalty Programs on Customer Satisfaction by Mobile Phone Users in Selected Public Universities in Western Region of Kenya

Customers have become more sophisticated and they are enjoying more alternative options of brands, for any organization, there is a need to understand what kind of service or products it offers, and for whom. Organizations have embraced the concept customer relationship management practices since it focuses on managing relationship between its current and prospective customer base hence helping in building long lasting relationships which consequently give the organization the joy of retained customers. The specific objective of study was to determine the effect of loyalty programs on customer satisfaction. The study was guided by the social exchange theory which focused on the fundamental principle that humans in social situations choose behaviors that maximize their likelihood of meeting self-interests in those situations. Descriptive and explanatory research designs were utilized in this study and the following networks were sampled; Safaricom, Airtel, Orange and, yuMobile A questionnaire was used to collect data from sample size of 250 respondents who were sampled from the staff of public universities in the Western region which included Moi, Masinde Muliro, Maseno, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, University of Eldoret and Kisii University. Data collected was analyzed by use of descriptive and inferential statistics. Multiple regressions were used to establish the effect between customer relationship management practices, customer satisfaction and customer Retention. Further, Loyalty programs had significant effect on Customer satisfaction, also it was established that, Customer satisfaction was significant in predicting customer retention. The study recommends that service providers should put more emphasis on Customer Relationship Management Practices since they influence customer satisfaction and hence customer retention. The study provides new theoretical insight into factors influencing customer retention by incorporating customer satisfaction as a mediator in the relationship between Customer Relationship Management Practices and customer retention.

Impact of Perceived Value on Customer Satisfaction among Mobile Phone Users in Selected Public Universities in Kenya

Organizations need to understand what kind of service or products it offers, and for whom and as such organizations have embraced the concept customer relationship management practices since it focuses on managing relationship between its current and prospective customer base hence helping in building long lasting relationships which consequently give the organization the joy of retained customers. The specific objectives of study were; to determine the influence of Perceived Value on customer satisfaction. The study was guided by the social exchange theory which focused on the fundamental principle that humans in social situations choose behaviors that maximize their likelihood of meeting self-interests in those situations. Descriptive and explanatory research designs were utilized in this study and the following networks were sampled; Safaricom, Airtel, Orange and, yuMobile A questionnaire was used to collect data from sample size of 250 respondents who were sampled from the staff of public universities in the Western region which included Moi, Masinde Muliro, Maseno, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, University of Eldoret and Kisii University. Data collected was analyzed by use of descriptive and inferential statistics. Multiple regressions were used to establish the effect between customer relationship management practices, customer satisfaction and customer Retention. The results revealed that Perceived value had significant effect on Customer satisfaction. Also, it was established that, Customer satisfaction was significant in predicting customer retention. The study recommends that service providers should put more emphasis on Customer Relationship Management Practices since they influence customer satisfaction and hence customer retention. The study provides new theoretical insight into factors influencing customer retention by incorporating customer satisfaction as a mediator in the relationship between Customer Relationship Management Practices and customer retention.

Influence of Relational Experience on Customer Satisfaction Among Mobile Phone Users in Selected Public Universities in Kenya

The study focused on the influence of relational experience on customer satisfaction.The study was guided by the social exchange theory which focused on the fundamental principle that humans in social situations choose behaviors that maximize their likelihood of meeting self-interests in those situations. Descriptive and explanatory research designs were utilized in this study and the following networks were sampled; Safaricom, Airtel,Orange and , yuMobile A questionnaire was used to collect data from sample size of 250 respondents who were sampled from the staff of public universities in the Western region which included Moi, Masinde Muliro, Maseno, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, University of Eldoret and Kisii University. Data collected was analyzed by use of descriptive and inferential statistics.Multiple regressions were used to establish the effect between customer relationship management practices, customer satisfaction and customer Retention. The results revealed that Customer relational experience had significant effect on Customer retention. Further,Customer relational experience had significant effect on Customer satisfaction. Also it was established that, Customer satisfaction was significant in predicting customer retention. The study recommends that service providers should put more emphasis on Customer Relationship Management Practices since they influence customer satisfaction and hence customer retention. Keywords: Relational Experience, customer, customer satisfaction, retention DOI: 10.7176/EJBM/13-20-11 Publication date: October 31 st 2021

INFLUENCE OF PERCEIVED VALUE ON CUSTOMER RETENTION AMONG MOBILE PHONE USERS IN THE PUBLIC UNIVERSITIES IN WESTERN REGION OF KENYA

Organizations have embraced the concept customer relationship management practices since it focuses on managing relationship between its current and prospective customer base hence helping in building long lasting relationships which consequently give the organization the joy of retained customers. The specific objective of this study is to determine the effect of perceived value on customer retention. The study was guided by the social exchange theory which focused on the fundamental principle that humans in social situations choose behaviors that maximize their likelihood of meeting self-interests in those situations. Descriptive and explanatory research designs were utilized in this study and the following networks were sampled; Safaricom, Airtel, Orange and, yuMobile A questionnaire was used to collect data from sample size of 222 respondents who were sampled from the staff of public universities in the Western region which included Moi, Masinde Muliro, Maseno, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga, University of Eldoret and Kisii University. Data collected was analyzed by use of descriptive and inferential statistics. Multiple regressions were used to establish the effect perceived value and customer Retention. The results revealed that Perceived value had significant effect on Customer retention. The study recommends that service providers should put more emphasis on Customer perceived value they influence customer retention. The study provides new theoretical insight into factors influencing customer retention. 
 
 JEL: L20; L22; L63
 
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Screening of Selected Sorghum Genotypes for Resistance to Covered Kernel Smut Disease in Western Kenya

Sorghum is an important food security crop for arid and semi-arid tropics but its production is hampered by many biotic and abiotic factors including covered kernel smut disease (CKSD) caused by fungus Sporosorium sorghi in the Ustilaginaceae family. The disease attacks susceptible sorghum genotypes causing yield losses estimated at 43% in Western Kenya. This study determined the response of selected sorghum genotypes to CKSD under field and greenhouse conditions. A total of 15 elite sorghum genotypes were screened under field conditions in Migori and Homa Bay sites and under greenhouse at the University of Eldoret. Data on disease incidence and severity were collected per genotype and analyzed using R-Studio software and means were separated at 1% using Tukey’s test. Results showed significant differences among genotypes for disease incidence and severity under fields and greenhouse conditions. Disease incidence varied significantly (p < 0.001) among the genotypes ranging from zero (for T53, T30, IS3092, N4 and N68) to 64% (for Nyadundo2) under field conditions but ranged from 0-69% under greenhouse conditions. Similarly, severity followed the same trend with C26 having the worst attack with a score of 5 while T53 recorded the least (score of 1). This study has identified potential sources of resistance for covered kernel smut disease that can be utilized to manage the disease and significantly improve sorghum yields in the target regions.

English

In Lablab bean, cooking time and organoleptic qualities are major factors that influence its adoption and consumption. Its production in Kenya has been constrained by low yielding varieties, pests, poor agronomy and varieties with non-preferred taste and flavor. This study was initiated to evaluate cooking time and organoleptic traits of six Dolichos genotypes, (G2, B1, M5, LG1, W7 and G2), that had been bred at the University of Eldoret and two checks (Local Variety and DL1002). Cooking time and organoleptic studies were carried out on-farm in Meru County, Ruiri sub location using an organized farmer group (Ruiri farmers group) that comprised of ten panelists (seven women and three men). There was a high significant difference (P ≤ 0.001) among the six improved genotypes and the two checks in terms of cooking time and sensory attributes evaluated. Cooking time ranged from 87 to 159 min, with genotype M5 taking the shortest time (87 min) and local variety taking the longest time (159 min) to cook, respectively. In overall acceptability, genotypes G2, G1, M5 and B1 were highly rated because of their short cooking time and good organoleptic attributes. High variability among the genotypes evaluated could be exploited even further in breeding programs to produce genotypes that take even less time to cook and with even better organoleptic characters for easy adoption by farmers. Key words: Lablab (Lablab purpureus), cooking time, organoleptic traits.

English

Lablab purpureus is a multipurpose legume mainly grown by subsistence farmers for pulse, forage and vegetable. Despite these diverse uses that can be combined successfully under various agronomic conditions, the bean has not been extensively exploited. Dolichos production in Kenya is constrained by low yielding varieties, pests, poor growing techniques and varieties with non-preferred taste and flavor. A study to characterize six newly bred Lablab genotypes (G2, B1, M5, LG1, W7 and G2), was initiated at the University of Eldoret using morphological and molecular markers. Morphological traits (qualitative and quantitative) were characterized using the descriptors of genus Lablab. Molecular characterization was done at the KEPHIS- Muguga laboratory, using ten SSR markers that are specific for Dolichos. Results from morphological characterization demonstrated a high variation for both qualitative and quantitative traits evaluated. Most of the quantitative traits were highly significant at 99.999% or (P≤ 0.001), except for number of racemes per plant and number of seeds per pod which were significant at 99.99% or (P≤ 0.01) and 99.95% or (P≤ 0.05), respectively. Microsatellite analysis produced six polymorphic primers mapping an average of 3.17 alleles per locus. The combination of morphological and DNA-based markers takes advantage of the best features of both marker types which can be beneficial in selection of best Lablab genotypes and in the process integrates the application of molecular markers to legume breeding. Key words: Lablab (Lablab purpureus), microsatellites (SSR), genetic diversity.

Design of Classroom Furniture for Use at Tertiary Institutions

The design of classroom desktop-chairs (one size fits all) in many institutions is usually done with no consideration of ergonomics. Therefore, there is a mismatch between classroom desktop-chairs dimensions and students' anthropometric characteristics. This may cause musculoskeletal disorders and affect learning effectiveness due to sitting for a long time in an awkward position. Ergonomically designed furniture is known to reduce musculoskeletal disorders and improve the attentiveness of students in the classroom environment. This research, therefore, aimed to use the concept of ergonomics to design classroom desktop-chair for students in Uasin-Gishu County. Anthropometric data was collected from a total of three hundred and eighty-two (382) students of both genders. The selected tertiary institutions for the survey were Moi University (MU), University of Eldoret (UoE), Rift Valley Technical Training Institute (RVTTI) and The Eldoret National Polytechnic (TENP). Fourteen (14) anthropometric measurements were taken from students with the help of anthropometric tools. The research applied fundamental engineering principles of product design and was carried out in compliance with ISO 7250-1: (Basic human body measurements for technological design part 1: Body measurement definitions and landmarks). The data obtained was analysed using Minitab 17.0 statistical package, to get the mean, standard deviation, minimum, maximum, 5 th , 50 th and 95 th percentiles. SolidWorks 2019, was used to design a desktop-chair. The analysed anthropometric data set was used to design, a suitable classroom desktop-chair. One type of ergonomically suitable classroom desktop-chair design was proposed to improve the match between classroom desktop-chairs dimensions and students' anthropometric characteristics. The analysed anthropometric data set can be used for the design of classroom desktop-chairs for students not only in the selected tertiary institutions but all over Kenya. Keywords: Musculoskeletal disorders, Awkward posture, Classroom environment. DOI: 10.7176/ISDE/11-5-05 Publication date: September 30 th 2020