Browsing by Author "Muya, E.M."

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Characterization of AOP Project sites for Gums and Resins production: Integrating Socio-Economic issues with biophysical information for the rehabilitation of the degraded arid and semi-Arid lands in Kenya. KARI-NARL-KSS M 90 2006
(Kenya Agricultural Research Institute, 2006) Muga, M.O.; Esilaba, A.O.; Keya, G.; Wanjogu, C.R.K.; Maingi, P.M.; Kenya Agricultural Research Institute; Muya, E.M.; Lelon, J.K.
Kenya is an agricultural country, depending almost entirely on land productivity for subsistence and socio-economic development. However, about two-thirds of the country is semi-arid to arid. Rainfed agriculture is confined to the remaining one-third of the country. The pressure is exerted on the fragile ecosystems that characterize these lands by the rapidly increasing population, thereby increasing land degradation. Since the main objective of Acacia Operation Project is to rehabilitate the degraded land and enhance its productivity for gums and resins, baseline information on the current state of land degradation is required against which the impacts of the proposed intervention and relative degree of desertification in future can be assessed. This has been done by evaluating the interactions between climate, relief, soils, vegetation and land cover, and their influence on biological functions, at both national, regional and site levels. Also, the indicators of land degradation have been reviewed. At the micro-catchment level the physical, hydrological and biological properties of soil have been evaluated as the basis of comparing the impacts of Delifino and Treno ploughs in rehabilitating the degraded land.
Detailed Soil Survey Report No. D51 December, 1991
(Kenya Agricultural Research Institute, 1991) Muya, E.M.; Kenya Agricultural Research Institute; Ekirapa, A.E.; Kenya Agricultural Research Institute
The University of Nairobi, Kibwezi dry land irrigation farm, was formerly under sisal a plantation, forming part of the Dwa sisal plantations. This section of land was latter donated to' the University of Nairobi rangeland department, by the government of Kenya for research purposes. The total acreage of land that- was donated to the University was about 1600 ha. The first phase of the irrigation project surveyed covered about 16.7 ha. The second phase (covering about 30 ha) will be executed in future depending on the success of the first project.
Evaluation of irrigation suitablility of Kalacha Irrigation Scheme Marsabit District. KARI-NARL-KSS D81 2006
(Ministry of Agriculture, 2006) Muya, E.M.; Lelon, J.K.; Gitau, J.; Sikunyi, S.; Esilaba, A.O.; Ogara, S.; Maingi, P.M; Kenya Soil Survey
Soil survey was carried out to collect the baseline data on biophysical characteristics of land resources with the following objectives: • To assess the water quality and its suitability for irrigation • To evaluate the current irrigation practices and their sustainability • To assess the potentials and limitations of soils for the envisaged crops • To identify appropriate land use and management alternatives for improved land productivity and diversified irrigated agriculture • To provide the framework for monitoring the impacts of the current and proposed intervention on the environment
Evaluation of soils, nutrients and ecological adaptations of indigenous Aloes in the drylands of Baringo, Laikipia, Nyeri and Nakuru Districts of Kenya. KARI-NARL-KSS NO.M84 2007
(Kenya Agricultural Research Institute, 2007) Mukonyi, K.; Lelon, J.K.; Muya, E.M.; Kenya Agricultural Research Institute; Machua, J.; Kenya Soil Survey; Kenya Soil Survey
Most of the indigenous Aloes surveyed were found within Baringo District. In order to establish the cause of their edaphic adaptation in Baringo, a comprehensive study of soils, nutrients and climate was therefore undertaken in Baringo District.
KARI-NARL-KSS - Detailed Soil Survey for the Improvement of Fodder and Livestock Production in CYKA Estates (South Kinangop, Nyandarua District), 1994
(Kenya Agricultural Research Institute, 1994) Kinyanjui, H.C.K.; Muya, E.M.; Kenya Agricultural Research Institute; Kinyanjui H.CK; Kenya Agricultural Research Institute
The Kinangop area is one of the main suppliers of vegetables and other perishable food stuffs to the city of Nairobi and other nearby towns such as Naivasha, Gilgil and Nakuru. Production of milk is also a major enterprise. In view of the above, the owner of the farm Mr. requested for soil investigations that would form better land management and improvement. He intended for dairy cattle. C.K. Waithaka the basis for to grow fodder Soil survey of the farm was carried out in the month of April, 1994.
KARI-NARL-KSS: Assessment of the degree of land degradation and opportunities for improved productivity and livelihoods in Chalbi Desert, Marsabit District, 2008
(Kenya Agricultural Research Institute, 2008) Muya, E.M.; Lelon, j.K.; Maingi, P.M; Kenya Agricultural Research Institute; Kenya Agricultural Research Institute
In arid and semi-arid areas of Kenya, the main biophysical constraints are low organic matter content and poor soil structure. In addition, high evaporation rates and low rainfall raise the risks of salinization and solidification. Socio-economic constraints include land tenure and marketing problems, little access to credit facilities and agricultural inputs. Lack of farmers' empowerment, extension services and training is a further impediment to sustainable development. In the face of rapid population growth and fixed supply of land, it is going to be extremely difficult to maintain sufficiency in foodstuffs in the future. Therefore, an alternative means of survival is required, not only to complement agricultural production, but also to reverse the declining trends in soil productivity, caused by land degradation.
KARI-NARL-KSS: Assessment of the degree of land degradation and opportunities for improved productivity of Chalbi Desert, 2008
(Kenya Agricultural Research Institute, 2008) Muya, E.M.; Maingi, P.M.; Kenya Agricultural Research Institute; Kenya Agricultural Research Institute; Kenya Agricultural Research Institute
Kenya is an agricultural country, depending almost entirely on land productivity for subsistence and socio-economic development. However, about two-thirds of the country is semi-arid to arid (ASAL). The land cover in the ASAls is generally poor with high degree of land degradation, caused mainly by limited organic inputs required to facilitate the biological processes and ecosystem functions that sustain land productivity. In addition, there is, generally, limited ecosystem capacity to intercept, store and redistribute the rainwater for agricultural production. In the face of rapid population growth and these constraints, it is going to be extremely difficult to maintain sufficiency in foodstuffs in the future. Therefore, an alternative means of survival is required, not only to improve agricultural production, but also to reverse the declining trends in soil productivity, caused by land degradation. Therefore, the main objective of Acacia Operation Project is to rehabilitate the degraded land and enhance its productivity for crops, gums and resins. This is will be achieved by mechanized water harvesting technologies called Delfmo and Treno ploughs. The research areas include Sereolipi, Merille, Laisamis, Loglogo and North Horr.
KARI-University of Nairobi-NAK NO.M74 2008
(Kenya Agricultural Research Institute, 2008) Kenya Agricultural Research Institute; Roimen, H.; Wachira, P.; Muya, E.M.; Karanja, N.; Kenya Agricultural Research Institute; University of Nairobi
The interactions between soils, landscape characteristics, land use and management, when integrated with farmers' perceptions ofBGBD, forms an integral part of the decision support tool for the identification of the appropriate strategies for sustainable management of land resource base including BGBD. Soils in Embu benchmark sites are developed from volcanic footridges, uplands, plateaus and bottomlands. The geology is volcanic rocks consisting of basic and intermediate rocks mainly phonolites. Based on physiography, geology and soil characteristics, five soil mapping units were identified. The interactions between land use, soils and physiography are very important in evaluating the degree of aggregation and degradation of soil particles in terms of soil structure attributes that influence soil quality, soil health and ecosystem services. Therefore, conceptualization of the links between human interventions and environment is facilitated by understanding the interactions between land use, management and environment. In this respect, it was observed that steep slopes under tea had very good surface cover, while those under coffee had bench terraces, thereby controlling erosion in these land units. However, where land conversion took place from tea to annual cropping, severe land degradation was observed mainly in form of rill erosion. In intensively cultivated area under maize and beans, the type of degradation taking place was soil structure deterioration, resulting into unfavourable pore size distribution. This causes increased leaching of nutrient bases resulting in low pH, high acidity and aluminum toxicity, thereby creating unfavourable environment for belowground biodiversity. The fertility status of the area was found to be extremely low. Since the use of soil organisms to restore soil fertility and productivity in these critically degraded areas is one of the core issues addressed by the BGBD project, the results of biophysical site characterization provide the basis of characterizing the functional significance of different groups of soil biota in sustaining ecosystem processes, functions and services. These results include characterization of the dimensions, properties and dynamic nature of the microenvironments in which the soil organisms interact. An appreciation of these results by the scientists, extension workers and farmers is prerequisite for understanding the effects of management on soil quality and soil health as well as the role of soil organisms in enhancing these important attributes and soil productivity.
Participatory Assessment of Soil Conditions, Limitations and Remedies for Sustainable Irrigated Agriculture, Nguruman Irrigation Scheme, 2001. KARI-NARL-KSS
(Kenya Agricultural Research Institute, 2001) Muya, E.M.; Ogendo, R.; Mulliei, R.; Maingi, P.M.; Kenya Agricultural Research Institute
The purpose of the survey was to establish the causes, degree and extent of salinity, sodicity and infertility as well as the influence of the farmers' practices on the problems in Nguruman irrigation scheme. This included the assessment of water quality, existing water uses and certainty of the supply. Soil survey was carried out to delineate the extent and distribution of different soil types, together with their chemical and physical characteristics, particularly those that affect soil-water related properties. The important soil-water related properties studied were: soil depth, water holding capacity,infiltration rate and drainage conditions. In relation to the soil conditions studied, the present farming systems were examined as well as their influence on salinity, sodicity and infertility. The main objective of this study was to derive data on the basis of which to derme appropriate approaches to the solutions of the identified constraints in the irrigation scheme.
Potassium Nutrient Status and Management in Kenyan Soils for Increased Productivity
(East African Agricultural and Forestry Journal, 2022) Kathuku-Gitonga, A.N.; Esilaba, A.O.; Mangale, N.; Wasilwa, L.; Okoti, M.; Nyongesa, D.; Kamoni, P.T.; Waruru, B.K.; Muya, E.M.; Thuranira, E.; Mutisya, D.; African Plant Nutrition Institute (APNI) ; Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO), Kabete & Katumani
Nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium are regarded as the main basic nutrients necessary for plant growth and production and their functions are interrelated. Potassium is necessary for regulation of plant cells, for the production of proteins and enzymes. It improves crop's disease and pests' resistance, and it increases crop yield and plays a significant role in enhancing crop quality. Potassium deficiency inhibits protein production even when nitrogen is abundant. The objective of the study was to determine status of potassium in selected Kenyan soils and responses to applied potassium fertilizers. Studies were carried out in Kenya through laboratory soil analysis, meta-data analysis and fertilizer response studies. Soils were collected in the trial sites and analyzed using wet chemistry method. For meta-analysis, published materials were collected, collated, digitized and harmonized. Benefit cost ratios were calculated for each technology to ascertain its profitability. The soil analysis results showed that potassium, nitrogen, organic carbon and zinc were deficient. The meta-analysis results showed that, limited research studies had been conducted on potassium in Eastern, Coast and Rift Valley regions of Kenya. The most economical potassium responses were recorded under application of 60 kg K/ha, although the yields were not profitable. However, the fertilizer response studies showed increased crop yields on addition of potassium fertilizer up to 40 kg K/ha. Hence lower rates of potassium (less than or equal to 40 kg K/ha) are recommended to offset and maintain adequate potassium levels in the soil for optimal crop production and income. Nevertheless, soil analysis is key before any fertilizers are added to soils.
Preliminary Report on Biophysical Characterisation of DMF and AOP Project Sites Report NO.67
(Ministry of Agriculture, 2005) Ogara, Z.; Muya, E.M.; Lelon, J.K.; Gitau, J.
The fieldwork started from 2615105 to 22/6/05 for the DMP and AOP project areas in Matsabit district. The participants were: E. M. Muya, J. K. Lelon, K. Gitau and Z. Ogara. The objective of the study was to collect baseline data on biophysical characteristics for efficient use and management of scarce water and nutrient resources of DMP and AOP project areas. This was achieved by systematic soil and topographical surveys; identification and description of representative soil profiles; field measurements of soil physical properties and sampling of soil and water for laboratory analysis. Based on field measurements and observations, it was found that most of the research areas have compact soils, high surface sealing and restricted infiltration. In addition, these areas have low, unreliable and unpredictable single rainfall regime, hence poor plant performance. Although low rainfall amounts and poor distribution cause poor plant performance, low water uptake and retention capacity of most soils as well as inappropriate management practices also playa signiflCallt role. In Kalacha irrigation scheme, there has been a continuous decline in crop yield to an extent that most farmers have abandoned their field and reverted to alternative activities. In Logologo, high evaporation rate and limited water storage within the root zones cause severe desiccation, hence poor plant performance in microcatchments. Although reasonably g plant performance has been observed in Laisamis, non-uniformity of the performance in the same field is the major concern. This is opposed to Sereolipi, where the main problem is poor plant performance and severe physical degradation, affecting almost half of block 2 and 3.
The relationships between vegetation, soils and ecosystem dynamics for land degradation control in Ngurunit, Marsabit district, 2006
(Kenya Agricultural Research Institute, 2006) Muya, E.M.; Lelon, J.K.; Kenya Agricultural Research Institute
Naturally growing or planted trees alone is not enough to control land degradation. Rehabilitation and sustainable use of the degraded ecosystems require integrated analysis of soil quality and vegetation as important components of ecosystem structure and functions. Such analysis forms basis of formulating the appropriate intervention strategies. This approach was applied in Ngurunit, and the results show that diversity in soil characteristics relates to diversity in plant species along the transect from the foot of Ndutu mountains to Lepidera. On the Acrisols, the main plant species are Acacia Senegal and comiphora, while Acacia tortilis occurs mainly on Lixisols, Arenosls and Solonetz. Acacia seyal, mellifera and ruficiens are found on the Vertisols. The degree of land degradation and the consequences of desertification processes also vary with different soil types. Land degradation is most severe on the red soils with compact B horizon occurring between steep mountain slopes and the low-lying plains. Use of micro-catchments between these slopes and the plains may not only check the run-off speed, but also increase the water uptake and storage capacity of the soil by breaking the compact layer. The run-off water, reaching the highly permeable plains, may provide the opportunity for increased water supply. This is because the water percolating through the soil may be tapped using shallow wells, which are cheap to construct, and can increase water supply, not only for domestic consumption, but also irrigation of the kitchen gardens for improved livelihoods.
Site Selection and Characterization for Below Ground Biodiversity Project in Kenya
(Kenya Agricultural Research Institute, 1999) Roimen, H.; Muya, E.M.; Kenya Agricultural Research Institute; Department of Resource Survey and Remote Sensing
Allover Eastern Africa Sub-region, below ground biodiversity has been neglected for a long time yet it played a crucial role to the presence of the above ground biodiversity. It has a role to play in the growth of plants and in particular crop plants. The below ground biodiversity includes: Bacteria, Earthworms, Nematodes, Fungi, and Termites. They all determine the above ground biodiversity. This project has brought together many researchers from various institutions including: University of Nairobi, KARl, KEFRI, Museum, DRSRS, RCMRD, USIU and Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources and Wildlife.
Soil, Environmental Conditions and Management Requirements of BAT Growing Area, Eastern Province : Site Evaluation Report 2008
(Kenya Agricultural Research Institute, 2008) Kenya Agricultural Research Institute; Muya, E.M.; Gachini. G.N.; Macharia, P.N.; Kenya Agricultural Research Institute; British American Tobacco
Site evaluation was conducted in eastern province following the request from BAT Company from 18/3/08 to 2/3/08. The main objective of the exercise was to collect the biophysical data that will assist in formulating the recommendations for improved soil quality, nutrient availability and productivity. The sites were characterized in terms of observable soil characteristics such as slope, colour, depth, texture, and compactness. These characteristics helped in making quick decision on the possible soil units. These characteristics, to a certain extent, relate to non-observable soil characteristics that must be determined in the laboratory. Where there were marked differences in soil conditions, soil and tissue samples were taken for laboratory determinations. The results show both uniformity and sharp variations in soil conditions in some areas. The main challenge in management lies where there are variations in soil conditions in the same farmers' fields, such that such variation have a serious implication on management. This means that different soil units occur in the same fields and each unit differ from any other adjoining units to the extent that it will respond differently to management. Other challenges are in the area with special problems such as high ground water table, salinity, sodicity and compaction in the subsoil. However, there are cases in which farmers have, over years, developed appropriate mechanisms to cope with some of the observed biophysical constraints with good potential for sustainable agriculture. Such innovative practices should be incorporated in the long-term development agenda. In addition to this, technologies being developed in the demonstration plots should address all the critical problem issues identified on the farms. Based on these findings, the following are recommended as the way forward: 1) Identification of appropriate biophysical and socio-economic indicators of sustainability to be done for the farms and for demonstration plots through detailed characterization of area with sharp variations in soil conditions, demonstration plots and farms with success stories or innovative practices. This will assist in formulating strategies for sustainable crop production. 2) Demonstration plots to be characterized in details in terms of the relevant biophysical indicators to facilitate the up scaling of the technologies in broad geographical scales. 3) Areas with evidences of salt and sodium problems should be studied in details to establish characterize the physical and hydrological conditions of the area for the identification of the cause and appropriate mitigation strategies.
Strategies for Improved Integrated Management Practices and Post-Harvest Options for Mountain and Oasis Agriculture: Farming Systems Characterization for Garissa and Ijara Districts Report, 2008
(Kenya Agricultural Research Institute, 2008) Obanyi S.N.; Muya, E.M.; Bulle, O.M.; Walaga, H.H.; Yussuf, A.; Kenya Agricultural Research Institute
Garissa district has a large number of poor people in both the town centers and the rural areas. Most people have lost their livestock in previous droughts. Livestock has for a long time been the mainstay of the people. The scenario is slowly changing as loss of livestock has led to more and more people turning to crop production as a source of income and food. However there are still many people who are moving to towns in search of relief food. This explains the rapid growth of Garissa and other towns in the province. The over reliance on relief food is one of the factors contributing to poverty increase in the district. The low purchasing power among resource-poor farmers and lack of risk management strategies are the main cause of low crop production. Depending on relief food is not sustainable therefore ways have to be found to assist the people produce their own food and even surplus for sale. Already the government is putting resources in this sector and a ministry has been formed to look at the development of ASAL areas of Kenya. The project on developing strategies for improved integrated management practices and postharvest options for mountain and oasis agriculture offers an opportunity to improve agricultural practices and to increase food production through research.
Water Use Efficiency and Biomass Assessment of Vallerani Micro-catchments at Laisamis Acacia Operation Project (AOP) Site 2007.
(Kenya Agriculture Research Institute, 2007) Kenya Agricultural Research Institute; Lelon, J.K.; Muya, E.M.; Nganga, J.K.; Kimani, P.K.
The Acacia Operation Project attempts to develop agro-silvo-pastoral systems in arid and semi-arid lands and improvement of the production of gums and resins, through a Mechanized Water Harvesting Technology (The Vallerani System). Natural gums and resins in sub-Saharan Africa may contribute to rural livelihoods of local communities in terms of food security, income generation and foreign exchange earnings. The main concern of these micro-catchments is whether they harvest adequate capacity of water and also store enough within the root zone at a level that will meet the crop water requirements throughout the growing season; and at the same time, check the run-off speed to a non-erosive value. The broad objective of the study is to rehabilitate the degraded areas of the project sites using Acacia senegal in a Vallerani micro-catchment system. Specific Objectives are: 1) To establish the experimental plot for monitoring and evaluating the effect of the micro-catchments in relation to the tree growth performance in the project site. 2) To evaluate and assess biomass production, water balance and water use efficiency in shallow, moderately deep and deep soil units in relation to good and poor oriented microcatchments. 3) To assess the extent and the degree of soil erosion in the experimental plot.

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