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KENYATTA UNIVERSITY RESEARCH GRANTS
MAIN PROJECT TITLE: Training Programme In Integrated Soil Fertility Management
FUNDING AGENCY ALLIANCE FOR A GREEN REVOLUTION IN AFRICA
GRANT NO: NO 2009 SHP 024 KU
SCHOOL: AGRICULTURE AND ENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT
DEPARTMENT: AGRICULTURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
PROJECT TITLE (MSc research project)
Evaluation of Different Local Lime Sources on Soil Properties and Yield of Irish Potatoes (Solanum tuberosum L.) in Burera District, Rwanda
DURATION September 2010 to August 2012
RESEARCH TEAM (MSc Student 1)
Researcher: Athanase Nduwumuremyi (Rwandese)
Supervisor:
Dr. Jayne Mugwe, Kenyatta University
Supervisor:
Dr. Vicky Ruganzu (The Institut des Sciences Agronomiques du Rwanda
(ISAR), Rwanda
BACKGROUND Agriculture is the most important sector of Rwanda’s economy. Irish potato
(Solanum tuberosum) underpins Rwanda’s food security but its production is
threatened by widespread acidity in many parts of Rwanda. The problems of
acid soils (pH less than 5) are widespread in Rwanda occupying approximately
45% of the total arable land or covering about 60% of the highland areas
(Beenart,1999) which are the major growing areas of the main staple food, Irish
potatoes. There are several good sources of lime in Rwanda and some local
production of this lime is currently done by using artisanal technologies. Despite
these potentials, there is a limited use by smallholder farmers. However, the
serious limiting factor to the widespread use of lime in Rwanda is the lack of
awareness among farmers on its use and the lack of appropriate
recommendation rates. The efficiency of lime utilization for acid soils
amelioration depends on its chemical interactions with soil particles and
therefore its solubility (Huang et al., 2007). In Rwanda no much work has been
done to characterize the solubility of these lime sources. This information is
vital for lime selection and uses recommendations, and would spur farmer
uptake of the liming technology. This research therefore aimed to fill the gap by
evaluating local lime (travertine) sources and their effectiveness on soil
properties/Soil pH ameliorations and crop productivity especially Irish potatoes.
For more information contact the researcher at nduwatha@gmail.com
KENYATTA UNIVERSITY RESEARCH GRANTS
MAIN PROJECT TITLE: Training Programme In Integrated Soil Fertility Management
FUNDING AGENCY ALLIANCE FOR A GREEN REVOLUTION IN AFRICA
GRANT NO: NO 2009 SHP 024 KU
SCHOOL: AGRICULTURE AND ENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT
DEPARTMENT: AGRICULTURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
PROJECT TITLE(MSc research project)
Bio-Slurry and Inorganic Fertilizers Effect on Soil Properties and Maize Yield in
Kicukiro District, Rwanda
DURATION September 2010 to August 2012
RESEARCH TEAM (MSc Student 2)
Researcher:
Olive Tuyishime (Rwandese)
Supervisor:
Dr. Benjamin O. Danga
Kenyatta University
Supervisor:
Prof. Benson Evans Mochoge;
Kenyatta University
Supervisor: Dr. Charles
Karamangingo Higher Institute of
Agriculture and Animal Husbandry
(ISAE Busogo)
BACKGROUND Low soil fertility is widespread in Rwanda and is a major cause of low maize yields
facing smallholder farmers. Presently, smallholder farmers tend to overly rely on
chemical fertilizers which are often subsidized and easily available in the local
markets (Guy Dekelver et al., 2005). This has contributed to increased soil
degradation processes such as low soil organic matter, increased acidity and soil
structure deterioration (IFDC 2007). Despite this, farmers lack knowledge and
awareness about the value of organic soil amendments such as bio-slurry and
farmyard manure. However, constraints in the production of organic fertilizers and
high import costs of mineral fertilizers could threaten the long-term production of
maize crop in Rwanda. Bio-slurry use as organic fertilizer and as a component of
integrated soil fertility management technologies could help in improving soil fertility
and increase the yield and hence contribute to food security in Rwanda. Although the
number of biogas plants has been increasing in Rwanda, bio-slurry has not been
studied for generating adequate scientific data regarding its importance in
agricultural production. Its impact on the soil physical, chemical and biological
properties as well as on crop yield improvement is not well documented. Therefore a
scientific study needs to be conducted to generate data which can be used to
integrate bio-slurry in soil fertility management technologies and create farmers
awareness on its impact in agricultural productivity in Rwanda.
OBJECTIVES:
The main objective of this study was to evaluate the combined effect of bio-slurry
and inorganic fertilizers on soil improvement and maize production in Kicukiro district
in Rwanda.
For more information contact the researcher at tuyoli2000@yahoo.fr
KENYATTA UNIVERSITY RESEARCH GRANTS
MAIN PROJECT TITLE: Training Programme In Integrated Soil Fertility Management
FUNDING AGENCY ALLIANCE FOR A GREEN REVOLUTION IN AFRICA
GRANT NO: NO 2009 SHP 024 KU
SCHOOL: AGRICULTURE AND ENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT
DEPARTMENT: AGRICULTURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
PROJECT TITLE(MSc research project)
Effects of Phosphorous Sources and Starter Nitrogen on Soil Properties and
Soybean Yield in Central Highlands of Kenya.
DURATION September 2010 to August 2012
RESEARCH TEAM (MSc Student 3)
Researcher:
Abuli Sianje Jackson
(Kenyan)
Supervisor:
Dr. Jayne Mugwe Kenyatta University
Supervisor:
Dr. Monica Mucheru Muna Kenyatta University
BACKGROUND The farmers of central highlands of Kenya are experiencing low soil fertility that is
affecting land productivity and incomes. Their attempts at addressing the situation
have been hampered by high fertilizer prices. Integration of legumes into farming
systems is one of the Integrated Soil Fertility Management (ISFM) options for
improving soil fertility. By using legumes, farmers’ cost of production can be
minimized considering; legumes can convert atmospheric nitrogen in association with
Rhizobia. To function effectively as nitrogen fixers, legumes require phosphorous (P),
which is inadequate in central highland farms. This study assessed the effects of
different sources of Phosphorous on soybean’s Biological Nitrogen Fixation (BNF),
yield and soil properties. The study also assessed the effects of Starter N on soybean
BNF. The study areas were Kigogo in Meru South District and Kamujine in Tigania
district. The study purposed to enhance production and improve soils through use of
appropriate source of P, and small amount of starter N application. Triple Super
Phosphate (TSP), Manjingu rock phosphate, Mavuno fertilizer, DAP, manure and
fortified manure (manure with Manjingu fertilizer at 5-:50 ratio) were the P sources
all giving 30kg P ha -1. The study is completed and thesis under examination. The
study results will contribute to existing body of knowledge on soybean production
whose use may translate to improved soil fertility, higher yields, sustainable farming
systems and better farm incomes.
For more information contact the researcher at jacksianje@gmail.com
KENYATTA UNIVERSITY RESEARCH GRANTS
MAIN PROJECT TITLE: Training Programme In Integrated Soil Fertility Management
FUNDING AGENCY ALLIANCE FOR A GREEN REVOLUTION IN AFRICA
GRANT NO: NO 2009 SHP 024 KU
SCHOOL: AGRICULTURE AND ENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT
DEPARTMENT: AGRICULTURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
PROJECT TITLE(MSc research project)
Efficiency of Integrated Incorporation of Manure and Mineral Fertilizers on
Maize Yield in Acidic Soils of Biera Corridor, Mozambique
DURATION September 2010 to August 2012
RESEARCH TEAM (MSc Student 4)
Researcher:
Arlindo Muambole
(Mozambique)
Supervisor:
Dr. Benjamin O. Danga
Kenyatta University
Supervisor:
Prof. Reuben M. Muasya;
Supervisor:
Dr. Magalhães M. Amade
(Agricultural Research Institute
of Mozambique (IIAM))
BACKGROUND Currently, Mozambique lags behind all Southern and Eastern African countries in
maize productivity leading to maize imports. Declining maize production has been
attributed to degradation of soil physical-chemical properties, soil acidity with P
sorption and soil nutrient depletion due to low chemical fertilizer use by most small-
scale farmers who cannot afford the expensive fertilizer (MINAG. 2009). The empirical
knowledge on the relationship between fertilizer use, yield response, and profitability
is not considered as most important. For these reasons, it is difficult to understand
whether the reasons for low fertilizer use are related primarily to market failures that
prevent farmers from using fertilizer despite being profitable for them to do so, or
whether input/output price conditions and low response rates make fertilizer use
unprofitable. Apart from the erratic and unreliable rainfall, rudimentary cultivation
techniques and use of low yield varieties contributing to the crop yield decline, soil
nutrient depletion and lack of measures to increase soil organic matter content have
been identified as main causes of the declining crop yields and consequent food
insecurity (MINAG, 2007 and SETSAN, 2009). Though most farmers in Nhamatanda
and Barue Districts own large numbers of cattle, the use of cattle manure as source of
nutrients to increase crop productivity is less than 3% in the central region of
Mozambique (DNSA, 2009). Nevertheless, very few studies have examined the use of
organic manure for increased crop production in this region with none at all for
maize. Using cattle manure as the only means to maintain soil fertility is possible, but
in that case very large quantity of manure is needed. Moreover, the efficiency of
chemical fertilizer applied alone is low in physically degraded soils.
OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study therefore was to identify and recommend the optimum
combination of cattle manure and mineral fertilizer to increase maize yield while
improving soil chemical and physical properties in Nhamatanda and Barue Districts,
central region of Mozambique. The study is completed and thesis under examination.
Updated on 20. Feb 2013.
More information needed, please contact the researcher at Arlindo Muambole
muambole@gmail.com.
KENYATTA UNIVERSITY RESEARCH GRANTS
MAIN PROJECT TITLE: Training Programme In Integrated Soil Fertility Management
FUNDING AGENCY ALLIANCE FOR A GREEN REVOLUTION IN AFRICA
GRANT NO: NO 2009 SHP 024 KU
SCHOOL: AGRICULTURE AND ENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT
DEPARTMENT: AGRICULTURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
PROJECT TITLE (MSc research project)
Effect of Cattle Manure and Mineral Fertilizer on Climbing Bean Production
and Soil Properties Changes in Musanze District, Rwanda
DURATION September 2010 to August 2012
RESEARCH TEAM (MSc Student 5)
Researcher:
Nadia
Musaninkindi
(Rwandese)
Supervisor:
Prof. Benson E. Mochoge;
Kenyatta University
Supervisor:
Dr. Jean Jacques Mbonigada
Muhinda (Ministry of
Agriculture and Animal Resources)
Supervisor:
Dr. Isaac Osuga;
Kenyatta
University
BACKGROUND Agriculture remains unproductive due to intensive exploitation of shrinking land
brought about mainly by high population density. In that context, 56% of farm
households in Rwanda exploit less than 0.5 hectare and with no simultaneous
measures to maintain soil health, which results in soil fertility decline (MINAGRI,
2004). Though expensive to small scale farmers, mineral fertilizers are still not
efficiently used in terms of rates, time of application as well as choice of the right
fertilizer. Cattle manure, as one of farm available organic resources is not well
managed in order to transfer its benefits to soils (Uphoff et al., 2006; Azeez and Van
Averbeke, 2010). Moreover, the combination of mineral and organic fertilizers is not
well understood by smallholder farmers, yet its results in increased yields and good
soil conditions. The important contribution of climbing beans in livelihood
improvement is also being negatively affected by such inadequate use of inputs.
OBJECTIVES This study evaluated the effect of organic and inorganic fertilizers on climbing beans
yield as well as soil properties. The study is completed and thesis under examination.
For more information contact: "Nadia Musaninkindi" < nadiev2002@yahoo.fr >
KENYATTA UNIVERSITY RESEARCH GRANTS
MAIN PROJECT TITLE: Training Programme In Integrated Soil Fertility Management
FUNDING AGENCY ALLIANCE FOR A GREEN REVOLUTION IN AFRICA
GRANT NO: NO 2009 SHP 024 KU
SCHOOL: AGRICULTURE AND ENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT
DEPARTMENT: AGRICULTURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
PROJECT TITLE (MSc research project)
The Effect of Method, Rate and Time of Urea Application on Nitrogen Use
Efficiency and Yield of Wetland Rice in Rwamagana District of Rwanda
DURATION September 2010 to August 2012
RESEARCH TEAM (MSc Student 6)
Researcher: Imaculee
Nyampinga
(Rwandese)
Supervisor:
Prof. Benson E. Mochoge; Kenyatta
University
Supervisor: Dr. Isaac Osuga.
Kenyatta University
Supervisor:
Prof. Mambani
Banda Pierre
Department of Soil
and Environmental
Management,
National University
of Rwanda)
BACKGROUND Rice is increasingly becoming staple cereal in Rwanda. Through the promotion of rice
intensification by the government, there has been a significant raise in area under rice
cultivation. However the production is low mainly due to the fact that farmers are still
broadcasting NPK as application method into floodwaters to fertilize paddy plants
(ISAR, 2009). This is highly inefficient because the fertilizer nutrients are not taken up
by the plant because they are applied at the wrong time or in the wrong place or
transformation of nutrients makes them unavailable to plant uptake. About 60% of
Nitrogen fertilizer applied is lost as greenhouse gas or becomes a groundwater
pollutant (Savant and Stangel, 1990). Urea fertilizer applied at different rate and
applied at deep placement methods are more efficient and environmental
responsible methods of fertilization. This study compared the effectiveness of surface
application and deep placement on rice yield and the generated information from the
study is used to advice farmers on the proper fertilizer management which will lead to
increased yields as part of food security and improved income.
OBJECTIVES The overall objective of the study is to increase yields through efficient use of inputs
and hence improve livelihoods of many small-scale farmers in Rwanda.
For more information contact the researcher at nyampinga9@yahoo.fr
KENYATTA UNIVERSITY RESEARCH GRANTS
MAIN PROJECT TITLE: Training Programme In Integrated Soil Fertility Management
FUNDING AGENCY ALLIANCE FOR A GREEN REVOLUTION IN AFRICA
GRANT NO: NO 2009 SHP 024 KU
SCHOOL: AGRICULTURE AND ENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT
DEPARTMENT: AGRICULTURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
PROJECT TITLE (MSc research project)
Effects of Soybean Inoculation, Lime and Inorganic Fertilizer on Soil N, Grain Yield and
Profitability of Soybean-Maize Rotation on Acidic Soils of Western Kenya
DURATION September 2010 to August 2012
RESEARCH TEAM (MSc Student 7)
Researcher:
Maurine Akinyi
Onyango
(Kenyan)
Supervisor:
Dr. Benjamin Oginga Danga;
Kenyatta University
Supervisor:
Dr. Martins Odendo. (Principal
investigator) KARI Kakamega
Supervisor:
Prof. Benson E.
Mochoge;
Kenyatta
University
BACKGROUND Kenya has become a major importer of maize due to high food insecurity and the ever
increasing population with low production levels yet the country has a potential of
producing adequate food quantities through management of low soil productivity. At
smallholder farmer levels maize production levels could reach up to 6tons/ha when
practices such as use of improved seed varieties, proper fertilization and good
management practices are put in place. Biological Nitrogen Fixation has an ability to
save up to 90% of costs incurred when using an equivalent of N fertilizers as well as
improved soil properties; this offers a best bet option especially from the resource
limited small-scale farmers. Management of the soil environment for improved BNF
and enhanced nutrient availability for improved maize production which is the main
staple food in the region can earn farmers some income and help alleviate poverty
which is one of the Millennium Development Goals (MDG) and the Government of
Kenya aims to achieve by 2015. This is also in line with the vision 2030 which
emphasis on the need to improve the agricultural sector which is the driving force o f
the Kenyan economy.
This study had three approaches in addressing the acidity of the western Kenya soil;
(1) liming approach to raise pH, increase to plants, improve soil structure which in
turn leads to reduced soil crusting, enhance microbial activities, reduce cation
toxicity, better emergence of small-seeded crops and improved aggregate stability, (2)
plant based approach, including legumes for N-fixation, deep roots to break soil hard
pan hence improve soil structure and nutrient cycling, (3) organic inputs to improve
the organic matter content, soil aggregate stability, soil water holding capacity,
reduction of P sorption, enhance microbial activities and increase soil pH (through
increased basic cations and ligand exchange reactions).
OBJECTIVES The broad objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of agricultural lime,
inorganic fertilizer on soil properties and performance of maize in a soybean-maize
rotation on acidic soils of smallholder farms of Kakamega District in western Kenya.
The study is completed and thesis under examination.
For more information contact researchers at; "Maurine Beckie" <
maurinebeckie@gmail.com >
KENYATTA UNIVERSITY RESEARCH GRANTS
MAIN PROJECT TITLE: Training Programme In Integrated Soil Fertility Management
FUNDING AGENCY ALLIANCE FOR A GREEN REVOLUTION IN AFRICA
GRANT NO: NO 2009 SHP 024 KU
SCHOOL: AGRICULTURE AND ENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT
DEPARTMENT: AGRICULTURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
PROJECT TITLE (MSc research project)
Mineralogy of Africa’s Soils as a Predictor of Soil Fertility
DURATION September 2010 to August 2012
RESEARCH TEAM (MSc Student 8)
Researcher:
Mercy Kamau Nyambura
(Kenyan)
Supervisor:
Prof. Benson E. Mochoge
Kenyatta University
Supervisor:
Dr. Keith Shepherd
World Agrofoerestry
Centre (ICRAF)
BACKGROUND Soil health surveillance systems are required to achieve information on soil functional
properties at fine spatial resolution. A key challenge to their implementation is how to
measure soil functional properties on tens of thousands of geo-referenced soil
samples in a consistent and cost effective way. To solve this problem, the African Soils
Information Services (AfSIS) deploys spectral diagnostics – low cost, high throughout
analytical techniques based on reflectance of electromagnetic radiation. The data
generated by these high-throughput techniques can all be treated as spectra and used
as input to pedo-transfer functions for predictions of soil functional properties that
are expensive or time consuming to measure (Shepherd and Walsh 2007). Up till now
soil infrared spectroscopy has been used as the key soil screening tool in soil health
surveillance systems (Shepherd & Walsh, 2002; 2007). However the importance of soil
mineralogy as a determinant of all soil functional properties, and soil fertility and
fertilizer response in particular, new developments in instruments capability for high
throughput X-ray diffraction (XRD) could provide a powerful complementary tool.
New instrumentation developments in high-throughput X-ray diffractometry (XRD)
and study improvements in mineral identification databases and software have
opened up new opportunities for quantitative determination of mineral phases on
large sample number. The recent launch of bench-top XRD technology opens up the
technology as a routine high throughput technique in soil science. Until now use of
XRD has been largely confined to detailed analysis on small sets of samples (Dixon and
Weed, 1989; Dixon and Schulze, 2002) and the links between soil function and soil
mineralogy have remained largely descriptive (Cornu et al., 2009; Andrist-Rangel et
al., 2006).
OBJECTIVES The main objective was to evaluate the ability of X-ray diffraction (XRD) technique to
rapidly predict soil functional properties and to develop pedo-transfer functions for
Africa’s soils. The study is completed and thesis examined.
For more information contact researchers at: "Nyambura, Mercy (ICRAF)" <
M.NYAMBURA@cgiar.org >
KENYATTA UNIVERSITY RESEARCH GRANTS
MAIN PROJECT TITLE: Training Programme In Integrated Soil Fertility Management
FUNDING AGENCY ALLIANCE FOR A GREEN REVOLUTION IN AFRICA
GRANT NO: NO 2009 SHP 024 KU
SCHOOL: AGRICULTURE AND ENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT
DEPARTMENT: AGRICULTURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
PROJECT TITLE (MSc research project)
Effects of Farmyard Manure and Mineral Fertilizers on Maize Yield and Soil
Properties in Two Districts of Rwanda.
DURATION September 2011 –August 2013
RESEARCH TEAM (MSc Student 9)
Researcher: Innocent Munyabarenzi
(Rwandese)
Supervisor:
Prof. Benson E.
Mochoge;
Kenyatta University
Supervisor:
Dr. Nabahungu L
Rwanda Agricultural Board
BACKGROUND Agriculture in Rwanda is today characterized by low agricultural productivity due to
soil fertility decline. This is mainly attributed to the mining of nutrients due to
continuous cropping without external addition of adequate nutrients coupled with
small land sizes which promotes limited scope for crop rotation and inadequate land
productivity. The adoption of ISFM technologies such as the combination of organic
manure and mineral fertilizers is being taken as one of solutions to the situation. The
objective of this study is to investigate the effect of farmyard manure and mineral
fertilizers on maize yield, determine the crop nutrient uptake and nutrient use
efficiency and evaluate changes due to treatments on bio-chemical soil properties.
The study is being conducted in Huye and Bugesera Districts in Southern and Eastern
Rwanda. The experiments is being conducted in the field where maize crop has been
planted in plots measuring 4.5x4.5 m with spacing of 75 x 30 cm. Treatments have
been in a factorial design arranged in a randomized complete bloc design (RCBD) with
three factors (nitrogen, phosphorus fertilizers and manure) at three levels for
nitrogen (0; 50 and 100 kg/ha), three levels for phosphorus (0; 25 and 50 kg/ha) and
two levels for manure (0 and 10 tons/ha). Soil samples will be analyzed for aggregate
stability, soil PH, soil organic carbon, available N, total N, Phosphorus, available
Potassium, CEC and ECEC. Maize grains will be dried after harvest and be weighed at
12.5% moisture content. The experiment has been replicated three times.
OBJECTIVES This study will provide information on response of NP fertilizers and manure on maize
yield and soil bio-chemical properties. By complementing cattle manure and mineral
fertilizers, soil productivity and smallholder farmers’ livelihoods can be improved and
come better through increased income resulting from higher yields of maize. Lastly,
the study will bring useful information which can guide extension services.
For more information contact researcher at munyainnocent@yahoo.fr
KENYATTA UNIVERSITY RESEARCH GRANTS
MAIN PROJECT TITLE: Training Programme In Integrated Soil Fertility Management
FUNDING AGENCY ALLIANCE FOR A GREEN REVOLUTION IN AFRICA
GRANT NO: NO 2009 SHP 024 KU
SCHOOL: AGRICULTURE AND ENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT
DEPARTMENT: AGRICULTURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
PROJECT TITLE (MSc research project)
Effects of Manure, Lime and Mineral Fertilizer on Soil Properties and Soybean
(Glycine Max L. Merrill) Yields in Central Highlands of Kenya.
DURATION Jan 2012- Dec 2013
RESEARCH TEAM (MSc Student 10)
Researcher:
Benvido Verde Mukithi
(Mozambique)
Supervisor:
Dr. Jayne Mugwe; Kenyatta University
Supervisor:
Dr. Benjamin Danga; Kenyatta University
BACKGROUND Declining soil fertility and acidity are the major constraints facing agricultural
production in Sub-Saharan Africa. Continuous cultivation associated with P sorption
and Al toxicity in acid soils are the causes of low soybean (Glycine max L. Merrill)
yields in Central Highlands of Kenya. This study aims to determine: (I) the effect of
manure, lime and P fertilizer on soil chemical properties and soybean yields; (ii) the
effect of manure, lime and P fertilizer on P uptake and N-fixation; (iii) the effects of
manure, lime and P fertilizer on Soil Microbial Biomass. The study will be carried out
in Embu district, central highlands of Kenya. The treatments comprise: 1 - manure (10
ton ha-1), 2 - lime (2 ton ha-1), 3 - TSP (60 kg ha-1 P2O5), 4 - manure (5 ton ha-1) +
lime (2 ton ha-1), 5 - manure (5 ton ha-1) + TPS (30 kg ha-1 P2O5), 6 - manure (5 ton
ha-1) + lime (2 ton ha-1) + TPS (30 kg ha-1 P2O5), 7 - lime (2 ton ha-1) + TSP (30 kg ha-
1 P2O5), 8 - reference crop (non-nodulating), and 9 - control ( no inputs). The
experiment will be laid out as a RCBD with 4 replicates on 4.5 m x 4.0 m plots with a
net plot of 18 m2. After the soil is ploughed soybean will be planted at a spacing of 50
cm x 10 cm. Soils will be sampled before, mid season and after the experiment to
determine changes as a result of treatment application. Soil measurements will
include soil pH, exchangeable cations, extractable P, exchangeable acidity, and
Microbial Biomass (MB). Plant will be sampled at mid and at harvesting to determine
the concentration of P in the tissues. N2 fixation will be assessed at flowering. At
harvest yields will be determined. This study will bring additional knowledge to
extension agents or services on soybean production with emphasis on acidic soils. In
addition, the smallholder farmers will use the results to improve soil management
practices in soybean production that is envisaged to increase soybean yields in the
Central Highlands of Kenya.
For more information contact researcher at bmukithi@gmail.com>
KENYATTA UNIVERSITY RESEARCH GRANTS
MAIN PROJECT TITLE: Training Programme In Integrated Soil Fertility Management
FUNDING AGENCY ALLIANCE FOR A GREEN REVOLUTION IN AFRICA
GRANT NO: NO 2009 SHP 024 KU
SCHOOL: AGRICULTURE AND ENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT
DEPARTMENT: AGRICULTURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
PROJECT TITLE (MSc research project)
Effects of sorghum- cowpea intercropping, Rhizobial inoculation and inorganic
phosphorus on soil properties and yield in Lower Eastern Kenya
DURATION September 2011- August 2013
RESEARCH TEAM (MSc Student 11
Researcher: Damaris Musyoka
(Kenyan)
Supervisor:
Prof. Reuben Muasya.
Supervisor:
Prof. Benson Mochoge Kenyatta University
BACKGROUND Agriculture constitutes the dominant source of livelihoods for the smallholder farmers in
rural areas. However, in the arid and semi-arid lands (ASALs), grain productivity is
diminishing due to declining soil fertility and frequent droughts. This has led to severe food
insecurity, hunger and extreme poverty, with increased cases of malnutrition, especially
protein deficiency. Approximately 83% of Kenyan land is ASALs. Nitrogen (N) is the
principal nutrient element limiting crop productivity in these regions, followed by
phosphorus (P). Biological nitrogen fixation (BNF) is a vital process in the N depleted soils
as it aids in availing N into plant tissues through symbiotic relationship between legumes
and Rhizobium spp. Low integration of grain legumes in smallholder cropping systems is
cited as limiting maximum exploitation of the advantages of the mechanism of BNF in
ASALs. Moreover, insufficient levels of P in the soil are major constraints to the BNF
process. The use of Rhizobial inoculants in N-depleted smallholder fields can reduce
reliance on inorganic N. Inoculation, is however, not universal and does not always elicit
positive responses. It is necessary in absence of compatible Rhizobia and when Rhizobial
populations are inadequate in fixing N.
OPJECTIVES This study, therefore, aims at determining the effects of intercropping sorghum and
cowpea, Rhizobial inoculation and inorganic P on soil properties and yield in semi-arid
Eastern Kenya. Specifically, this study will,
(1) determine the effects of intercropping on BNF, soil properties and yield of the
intercrops;
(2) examine the effects of Rhizobial inoculation on BNF, soil N and yield of the intercrops;
(3) assess the effects of inorganic P on BNF and yield of the intercrops; and
(4) calculate gross returns of sorghum – cowpea intercropping in response to the
treatments.
For more information contact researcher at kambuah4lf@ymail.com>
KENYATTA UNIVERSITY RESEARCH GRANTS
MAIN PROJECT TITLE: Training Programme In Integrated Soil Fertility Management
FUNDING AGENCY ALLIANCE FOR A GREEN REVOLUTION IN AFRICA
GRANT NO: NO 2009 SHP 024 KU
SCHOOL: AGRICULTURE AND ENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT
DEPARTMENT: AGRICULTURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
PROJECT TITLE (MSc research project)
Improving Sorghum Grain Yield through Use of Mineral Fertilizer and Manure
for Smallholder Farmers in Makueni and Machakos Counties, Eastern Kenya
DURATION Jan 2012- Dec 2013
RESEARCH TEAM (MSc Student 12)
Researcher:
Riziki Umazi Mwadalu (Kenyan)
Supervisor:
Prof Benson Mochoge Kenyatta University
Supervisor:
Dr. Maina Mwangi Kenyatta University
BACKGROUND Reduced food productivity in smallholder farms is the principal cause of food
insecurity in semi-arid parts of Kenya. This is mainly attributed to soil fertility
decline, land degradation and adverse effects of climate change. The solution
herein lies in the efficient use of nutrients, addition of nutrients to the soils and
planting of drought tolerant crop varieties which are able to cope up with the low
rainfall in the ASALs. This study will investigate the effects of farmyard manure,
mineral fertilizer and their combination on Sorghum Gadam grain yield, nutrient
uptake and nutrient use efficiency, manure effect on soil moisture storage and
nutrient intensity at different growth stages and bio-chemical properties of the
soil. The experiment will be conducted in the field in plot sizes of 4.5x4.5m with a
spacing of 75x20 cm between the rows and within the rows respectively where
sorghum Gadam will be planted as the test crop. Soil samples will be analyzed for
soil PH, soil organic carbon, available N, total N, phosphorus, available K, CEC, and
microbial status of the soil. Plant tissue samples and sorghum grains will be
analyzed for total N and P. The experiment will include two trials and treatments
will be in a factorial design arranged as a Randomized Complete Block Design
(RCBD). The first trial will have two factors (nitrogen and phosphorus, each at four
levels; 0, 25, 50, 75 kg/ha). The second trial will contain two levels of N P (0,
50kg/ha) and three levels of FYM (0, 5, 10 ton/ha). Treatments will be replicated
three times. The data will be subjected to analysis of variance using SAS software
at 95% confidence level. The treatment means will be examined using Least
Significant Difference (LSD) test. Regression and correlation analyses between
various variables will be done to draw key relationships and determine the extent
of the existing relationships.
For more information contact researcher at zikiemwa@gmail.com
KENYATTA UNIVERSITY RESEARCH GRANTS
MAIN PROJECT TITLE: Training Programme In Integrated Soil Fertility Management
FUNDING AGENCY ALLIANCE FOR A GREEN REVOLUTION IN AFRICA
GRANT NO: NO 2009 SHP 024 KU
SCHOOL: AGRICULTURE AND ENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT
DEPARTMENT: AGRIBUSINESS MANAGEMENT
PROJECT TITLE Effects Of Maize (Zea Mays L.) – Soybean (Glycine Max (L.) Merrill) Intercropping
Patterns On Yields And Soil Properties In The Central Highlands Of Kenya
DURATION September 2011- August 2013
RESEARCH TEAM (MSc Student 13)
Researcher:
Jossias Mateus Materusse Matusso
(Mozambique)
Supervisor:
Dr. Jayne Njeri Mugwe Kenyatta University
Supervisor:
Dr. Monicah Wanjiku Mucheru-Muna
Kenyatta University
BACKGROUND In the central highlands of Kenya, the low soil fertility and inability to replenish it are
amongst the major constraints affecting maize productivity and income generating crops,
leading to hunger and poverty, where over 90% of farmers are resource poor smallholders.
The situation is worsened by continued mining of nutrients, poor nutrient conservation
practices, increasing population growth and land scarcity. The adoption of ISFM
technologies such as maize-soybean intercropping system is being promoted as one of the
options to address low crop productivity among the farmers of this region. However, small
scale farmers of this region lack information on optimum cropping pattern and the
profitability of maize-soybean intercropping system.
OPJECTIVES This study therefore aims to:
(i) determine the effects of maize-soybean intercropping patterns on yields and N uptake,
and soil properties;
(ii) determine the effects of different maize-soybean intercropping patterns on light
interception and leaf area index (LAI);
(iii) quantify the land equivalent ratio (LER) of various maize soybean intercropping
patterns;
(iv) assess the economics of various maize soybean intercropping patterns.
For more information contact researcher at matujossias@gmail.com
KENYATTA UNIVERSITY RESEARCH GRANTS
MAIN PROJECT TITLE: Training Programme In Integrated Soil Fertility Management
FUNDING AGENCY ALLIANCE FOR A GREEN REVOLUTION IN AFRICA
GRANT NO: NO 2009 SHP 024 KU
SCHOOL: AGRICULTURE AND ENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT
DEPARTMENT: AGRICULTURAL RESOURCE MANAGEMENT
PROJECT TITLE (MSc research project)
Quantifying Fertility Gradient Variations, Effects Of Inoculation And P Levels
On Soybean Production And Soil Properties In Central Highlands Of Kenya
DURATION September 2011 to August 2013
RESEARCH TEAM (MSc Student 14 )
Researcher:
Albert Mwaniki Ndung’u
Supervisor:
Dr. Jayne N. Mugwe; Kenyatta University
Supervisor:
Dr. Monica Mucheru Muna; Kenyatta University
BACKGROUND African agriculture stands at crossroads with Food security remaining elusive with isolated successes fueling a sense of false optimism in an otherwise dismal situation. Poor soil fertility, nutrient depletion and unavailability continue to represent huge obstacles to securing needed harvests. Improving nutrient availability is a necessary countermeasure, particularly when farmers develop Integrated Soil Fertility Management (ISFM) skills in selecting the required soil nutrients and to derive utmost benefits from their application. Farmers can better returns to investment in fertilizer through its combination with agro-minerals and available organic resources. The study will determine farmer soil fertility levels, effectiveness of Rhizobia inoculation and P fertilization, and soil liming from commercial sources that can be used by farmers to enhance soil nitrogen resource availability and Biological Nitrogen Fixation (BNF) in soybean-Rhizobia symbiosis. This will be on hypothetical basis that soil pH, C and major nutrients significantly vary in CHK, Rhizobia inoculation significantly increases soybean nodulation and FUE, inorganic P significantly influences soybean yield and liming significantly change soil pH. The study will be undertaken in Imenti South, Maara, Meru South, Embu North, Embu East, Embu West, Mbeere north and Mbeere south Districts, in Meru and Embu Counties. Soil characterization will be done on 70 farms at 0-20cm and 21-40cm depths to assess soil nutrients.
OBJECTIVES To improve soybean yields and soil chemical properties to farmers in CHK, by
increasing soil nitrogen through Rhizobia inoculation, P fertilization and liming.
KENYATTA UNIVERSITY RESEARCH GRANTS
MAIN PROJECT TITLE: Training Programme In Integrated Soil Fertility Management
FUNDING AGENCY ALLIANCE FOR A GREEN REVOLUTION IN AFRICA
GRANT NO: NO 2009 SHP 024 KU
SCHOOL: AGRICULTURE AND ENTERPRISE DEVELOPMENT
DEPARTMENT: AGRIBUSINESS MANAGEMENT AND TRADE
PROJECT TITLE (MSc research project)
Evaluating The Economic Benefits of Soya bean (Glycine Max), Maize (Zea Mays) and
Climbing Bean under Varied ISFM Regimes in Central Highlands of Kenya
DURATION
RESEARCH TEAM (MSc Student )
Researcher:
Nicholas Karuku
Muba
(Kenyan)
Supervisor: Eric K. Bett.
Kenyatta University
Supervisor:
Dr Jayne Mugwe;
Kenyatta University
Supervisor:
Dr. S. K.
Wambugu;
Kenyatta University
BACKGROUND Soil fertility is a main factor that inhibits agricultural growth in Kenya, the use of
inorganic fertilizers is limited to a few financially able farmers. The small-scale
farmers’ intake of inorganic fertilizer application has been on the decline due to high
cost associated with it. In Kenya, the decline in land productivity caused by among
others decline in soil fertility, leading to decrease in the contribution of agricultural
sector to the national GDP. Due to high cost of mineral fertilizers majority of farmers
are unable to replenish the fertility levels in their soil. Scientists have developed soil
nutrients replenishment technologies involving organic and inorganic inputs or a
combination of both which are cost effective and farmer friendly such as the
integrated soil fertility management (ISFM) technologies. However, the country faces
a deficit in supply of major food crops especially common beans and soya bean due to
low soil fertility and low production variety. Kenya has the largest area under
common beans in the Eastern and Southern African region but comes second after
Uganda in terms of production (Katungi et al., 2009). This depicts a less efficient
production system. Legumes plays a key role in replenishing soil nutrients as well as
being a major source of cheap human and animal dietary source.
This study aims to investigate the profitability of ISFM regimes at the on-station level
and comparative profitability of soya bean and climbing beans against the common
bean at farmer level. The study will adopt both type I and II research models to
achieve its objective, costs and benefits analysis will be assessed, gross margins, net
benefits, benefits cost ratio, return to labor and break-even points for the ISFM
technologies and the selected legumes. The study will also perform a scenario analysis
to simulate the future of climbing bean if adopted to address the current bean supply
deficit in the country. The expected outputs of this study will be to find out the most
profitable ISFM regimes under soya bean (Glycine max) and maize (Zea mays), the
break-even points for the production of these test crops under the technologies.
Additionally, come up with the comparative profitability of soya bean, climbing and
bush beans under farmer management. Lastly, the study will identify the production
potential of climbing beans needed to cover the national beans supply gap.
For more information contact researcher at nick.karuku@gmail.com>
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