Kenyatta University

Research and Innovation News A Publication from the Division of Research, Innovation and Outreach

Issue No. 7 December 2020 6 UNIVERSITY FUNDAMENTAL STATEMENTS Inside This Issue 60

The Mission of Kenyatta Truth, Creativity, University is to provide quality Excellence, Self Reliance, education and training, Innovation, Equal promote scholarship, service, Opportunity, Corporate innovation and creativity and 20 Governance, Institutional inculcate moral values for Culture, Competitiveness, sustainable individual and Academic Freedom and

societal development Respect for Diversity VISION IDENTITY PHILOSOPHY Editorial PG.1 STATEMENT STATEMENT STATEMENT Innovation News PG. 4

53 Research News: MISSION CORE • Research & Development PG. 13 The Vision of Kenyatta STATEMENT Kenyatta University is a VALUES Sensitivity and Grants(New) University is to be a community of scholars responsiveness to societal • Ongoing Research PG. 33 dynamic, inclusive and committed to the needs and the right of PG. 41 competetive centre of generation and every person to knowledge • Partnerships/Collaborations excellence in teaching, dissemination of learning, research and knowledge and cultivation service to humanity of wisdom of the welfare of Research Dissemination & Uptake PG. 46 society Mobility/Visiting Scholars/Fellowships PG. 56 73 Students Corner PG. 69 Editorial Perfomance at a Glance Editorial Committee: e welcome you to this 7th We wish you a healthy and peaceful issue of The Research and Merry Christmas and Prosperous New Year WInnovation News! This is a 2021. Prof. Vincent Onywera; PhD, ISAK 2 signature publication from the Division of 346 10 471 Research, Innovation and Outreach. Despite Proposals Research Capacity Scholarly Ms. Violet S. Tindi the challenges caused by the covid-19 Developed Building Trainings Publication Ms. Sylvia Anzagi pandemic, Kenyatta University faculty, staff and students have remained resilient and Ms. Martha Wainaina committed in pursuing the core mandate of the university - teaching, learning, research Mr. Laban Migudi and community service. In this publication, Ms. Pamela Mbae we highlight notable achievements and efforts by the University Management Mrs. Emily Cheruiyot Board, Schools, Departments, Directorates, members of faculty, staff and students as well as key stakeholders in significantly Design and Layout: contributing to the University’s Research and Mr. David Werimo Innovation agenda despite the challenges of covid-19. This publication covers a wide range 77 Ksh. 549,604,442 2 Grants of topical stories and news including but not Innovative Secured Research Grant amount Secured limited to funded research and development Ideas Funded Copyright: grants, dissemination of research findings, Kenyatta University, 2020 community engagements, incubations and innovations as well as visiting scholars. We Prof. Vincent Onywera, PhD, ISAK 2 All Rights Reserved congratulate and celebrate all of you for your Registrar Research, Innovation and support, efforts and achievements which are true to the aspirations of Kenyatta University. Outreach and Editor - in - Chief

1 Issue No. 7 - December 2020 www.ku.ac.ke www.ku.ac.ke Issue No. 7 - December 2020 2 Perfomance at a Glance

Grants Awarded Startups Admitted 12 32 Startups Faculty Commercialized 6

Patents Applications Filed 6 1 2 Research Dissemination & Innovators Outreach Activities 10 INNOVATION NEWS 45 International and National Posoststtgraduatgraaduauattee Conference/ Workshop Studentsuddenntsts Attended by Faculty 284

3 Issue No. 7 - December 2020 www.ku.ac.ke www.ku.ac.ke Issue No. 7 - December 2020 4 Students’ led COVID-19 Innovations TIBA Vent Ventilators

ifteen Kenyatta University students KU student develops test kit with the support of faculty and Ftechnicians have developed ventilators to aid in the treatment of Covid19 prototype for COVID-19 patients. The ventilator which is developed from locally and readily available material takes charge of the patient’s lungs while enabling the patient to breath well without Mr. Simon Karuga Ndirangu showcasing the swabs developed lung pressure.

It has an air tank or air bag to store oxygen, r. Simon Karuga Ndirangu a Features of new swab a mixer and a compressor that develops the A demonstration of the ventilator in use. student in the Department of required pressure and tidal volume. The Biochemistry, Microbiology and • Easy to use M ventilator has two valves: inhalation and Biotechnology has developed a prototype • Material used offers more exhalation that control the flow of air in and kit for diagnosing respiratory diseases flexibility out of the lungs. It has the capacity filter and focusing on Covid-19. With the support of his • Has a weakness point for cutting humidifies the air before being fed into the supervisors in the department, Mr. Ndirangu - eliminates the need to touch the patient. has developed improved prototypes for swab swabs that can be used to collect samples • Cost effective thus ideal for mass The machine self-calibrates its sensors the innovation seeks to help improve the production and has a friendly graphical user interface. efficiency of the testing process which is • Method of production is from The technology which has been patented limited by accessibility to testing kits. The 3D-printing with the Kenya Industrial Property Institute project is timely and important for Kenyatta KE/U/2020/1401 can be monitored remotely. University and the Country and is in-line with Kenya’s Big 4 Agenda especially the one on The production level is Additionally, the technology has earned universal health coverage. The innovation The development of the prototype was between 500-1000 swabs per the team of innovators the coveted UN has locally been patented with Kenya " financed by Kenyatta University, the Kenya PERSON OF THE YEAR AWARD 2020 for their Industrial Property Institute, Patent number day. National Innovation Agency, and Betika.com A sample of the swabs effort in responding to COVID -19 pandemic. KE/P/2020/3654. amongst others.

5 Issue No. 7 - December 2020 www.ku.ac.ke www.ku.ac.ke Issue No. 7 - Decembery 2020 6 APOLLO an “Intelligent barrier system”

The system measures the user’s body temperature, while detects whether the user has a face mask on and properly won, giving people access based on the parameters.

The system is also used as a security system. It has an incorporated face identity technology that allows access by only registered users using their facial data or allowing access using an assigned Radio Frequency Identification tag (RFID) or organization identification card.

Being an intelligent barrier system, Apollo finds its applications in many fields. This includes entry barriers in institutions, banking halls, malls and any other restricted entry access areas. This helps in enforcing the COVID-19 measures by ensuring that all people accessing the premise adhere to wearing their masks and have their body temperature within the required limits. If any of these conditions is not met then access is denied and an alarm is raised for the relevant authorities to take action.

The product is ready for the market ive students from the school of and has been patented with the Kenya Engineering and Technology led Industrial Property Institute. Patent number The team of 15 students together with the VC Prof. P. K. Wainaina (middle) and Dean, School of Engineering and Technology Dr. Shadrack The team of innovators led by Fidel Makatia, demonstrates the use of intelligent barrier system to the Fby Fidel Makatia have developed KE/P/2020/3722. Mambo at the UN office pose for a photo with their UN PERSON OF THE YEAR AWARD 2020. Vice Chancellor Prof, Paul Wainaina and other guests a first of its kind Intelligent Barrier system for allowing people access to premises.

7 Issue No. 7 - December 2020 www.ku.ac.ke www.ku.ac.ke Issue No. 7 - Decembery 2020 8 Enthusiastic KU engineering club holds mega Innovation and Entreprenuership Expo

handaria Incubation Centre in collaboration with School of Engineering, Engineering CStudents Association (ESA) organized a Mega Innovation and Entrepreneurship Expo (MIEE) which saw over thirty engineering projects developed by the students exhibited. The expo which is meant to encourage students towards innovation and en- trepreneurship in their class projects is part of the university’s initiative in inculcating innovation and entrepreneurship towards teaching methodologies in a bid to commercialization of research projects. This initiative is also a way of harvesting innovative business ideas from the schools for support towards commer- cialization at the Chandaria Incubation Centre.

The three top projects Table Salt Fueled Power Generator, by Leakey Kebaso, Secure Eco Friendly housing developed by Issac Ngatia, Eva Mugweru, Gregory Osembe, Eric Ouma and Hostel Security developed by Eric Ouma and Elijah Kiplimo were each awarded each A cash prize and a trophy. A total of eleven projects with potential for development Cynthia Thuo, one of the team members demonstrating how the machine is towards product and commercialization were used. exhibited as developed both in groups and individual Prof, Frederick Gravenir (DVC, RIO) and Leakey Kebaso winner of the MEGA EXPO, on his project Table Salt Fueled The smart barrier during the design and development stage capacities. Power Generator.

9 Issue No. 7 - December 2020 www.ku.ac.ke www.ku.ac.ke Issue No. 7 - Decembery 2020 10 he number of students both perpetrators, Professor Wamue-Ngare’s male and female that are sexually hope that the app will break the culture of Tharassed in institutions of higher silence that prevents people from coming KU Don learning here in Kenya are on the rise. forward. The result: a safer campus for all. The This problem is further exacerbated by app will also function as a communications non-prosecution of incidents of sexual and tool allowing the Centre for Gender Equality develops gender-based violence (SGBV), as cases are to communicate important news. Messages often dropped because of lack of evidence about SGBV and gender issues, developed or are simply not reported due to a fear that in collaboration with Women Education survivors will not be taken seriously Researchers of Kenya (WERK), will also be SGBV featured. Prof. Grace Wamue-Ngare of the Department of Sociology, Gender and The app has attracted a lot of attention Development decided to work out a from other universities administration and Reporting solution to this growing problem, through there is hope that this will be adopted in all the ACU Gender Grant Prof. Wamue-Ngare institutions around the country developed a mobile App makes it easy for students and staff at who have experienced ‘To have delivered this to the university App SBGV to anonymously report incidents gives me a lot of fulfilment because I’m of sexual harassment, abuse and gender passionate about addressing SGBV. I am a discrimination. The data is then submitted survivor of it, and I would hate anybody to to the KU Centre for Gender Equity and go through what I went through. I believe if Empowerment for investigation. Users we could transform the life of only one girl can upload evidence, view emergency or one boy in the university, then we have numbers to contact the police and access done something.’ a counselling centre, all via the fully secure Android app. The Kenyatta University SGBV Reporting 2 App is available to download on Android. The Prof. Wamue-Ngare observed that App was launched on 21 June 2020 and has the commonest form of SGBV in Kenyan had 50,000+ downloads. RESEARCH universities is sexual harassment among staff and students, often surrounded by gender power dynamics. The app brings to the fore the usual culture of silence, NEWS fear of intimidation and general apathy of unconcluded cases, which quite often lack factual evidence. Additionally, it strengthens Prof. Grace Wamue-Ngare showcasing the Kenyatta University reporting mechanisms and evidence SGBV Reporting App. collection which should deter possible

11 Issue No. 7 - December 2020 www.ku.ac.ke www.ku.ac.ke Issue No. 7 - Decembery 2020 12 The project activities will include: The Key Hub personnel a. Research & development grants 1. Analytical studies in three thematic areas:

a). The role of Women in the Public and Prof. Caroline Prof. Judith Private Sectors Thoruwa Waudo Kenyatta University receives grant to establish b). Skilling and Mentoring The Hub Board The Hub Leader a Women Economic Empowerment Hub c). Violence, Crisis and Women’s Work chairperson 2. Impact evaluation - to generate evidence on causal relationships and the 30% Increment in; enyatta University has received effectiveness of a promising intervention to development grant of USD. • Representation of women in improve WEE. Prof. Grace Prof. Germano 400million from the Bill and management and leadership K Wamue-Ngare Mwabu Melinda Gates Foundation. The grant is positions 3. Stakeholder engagement - Involving • Participation of women in policymakers, citizens as well as civil meant to support the establishment of a Advocacy and Research Associate Women Economic Empowerment (KU-WEE) • corporate governance in public society groups so that a range of informed Policy Engagement (Quality Control and Hub at Kenyatta University. The KU-WEE and private companies stakeholder groups can come together to Expert Partnerships) 50% • Proportion of women-owned and Hub Project aims to ensure that various advocate for evidence-based policy making. managed enterprises within the stakeholders such as government ministries Reduction of Sexual and gender-based manufacturing sector and departments, county governments, 4. Capacity building - To ensure that violence prevalence policy leaders (legislators and policy makers) strong institutions and networks emerge and non-governmental organizations and 20% girls and women improved exposure; are available to partner with governments agencies as well as donors utilize empirical and others on evidence generation for WEE. evidence to implement and shape policies, • 4 gender responsive • To transferable skills and transited to work by programs, interventions and advocacy policies to protect women 2025 5. Advocacy and Communications and communities against -Trainings on: packaging of research evidence efforts related to supporting women’s sudden adverse socio - • To apprenticeship and mentorship programs to economic empowerment (WEE) in Kenya. economic shocks enhance their work readiness for media; effective policy communications • New women economic • To lifelong learning programs to enhance their and advocacy; modes of communicating The primary 11 outcomes to be achieved empowerment skills for economic self-empowerment and evidence effectively; how evidence needs to measurement index by the year 2025 include: • 20% Increment in diversity and quality of women be packaged in order to be most impactful. • New gender responsive Prof. Nelson H. W. Mr. James O. Onditi Prof. Simon Onywere budgeting tool livelihoods in at least five (5) counties Wawire Administrative and Research Associate Research Coordinator Finance Manager (Fieldwork Coordinator)

13 Issue No. 7 - December 2020 www.ku.ac.ke www.ku.ac.ke Issue No. 7 - December 2020 14 Mathematical Transforming universities modelling for for a changing climate

disease control r. Jackline Nyerere of the through teaching, community engagement Department of Education and public awareness. These roles of DManagement Policy and Curriculum universities are critical in addressing climate Studies is the country lead for a project titled change, given the deep social, political and r. Winifred Mutuku, of the UK. ‘Transforming Universities for a Changing economic roots of the crisis, and the need Department of Mathematics Climate’ having won a multidisciplinary grant to engage with professional development, and Actuarial Science, was The project is in line with the United D from ESRC worth £280,129.57. The project civic action and public awareness. It is awarded the Genomics and Modelling to Nations Strategic Development Goal (SDG) aims at strengthening the contribution of also clear that despite the potentialities of control of virus pathogens (GeMVi) Research 3, which advocates for good health and universities to addressing the causes and universities more could be done particularly Fellowship for a project titled, “Estimating well-being through reduction of global impacts of climate change in lower-income in low and middle-income countries where the Distribution of New HIV Infections maternal mortality rate, end preventable contexts in four countries each of which is there is disproportionate impact of the most in Kenya through the Modes of deaths of new-borns and children under mobilizing to develop policies and action to devastating effects of climate change. Transmission”. Dr. Mutuku won 5 years, end epidemics of AIDS, malaria, address the damaging impacts of climate £17,280. tuberculosis, and neglected tropical change - Brazil, Fiji, Kenya and Mozambique. The study countries, Kenya, Brazil, Fiji diseases, and to increase health financing. It seeks to contribute to the broader task and Mozambique were selected not only The award is part of the In order to respond to the HIV epidemic in of understanding the role of education on account of the vulnerability of their continued capacity building terms of resource allocation for prevention in achieving the full set of Sustainable populations to climate-related disasters, but programme by the and control of HIV (programmatic planning), Development Goals, and to bring impact also because of the potentialities of their KEMRI-Wellcome Trust there is need to understand its dynamics at the local level through locally designed higher education systems for responding to Research Programme. in terms of new infections according to initiatives to transform the curriculum, make the challenges, and in generating learning As part of the award, identifiable characteristics such as different campuses more sustainable, and empower that can be utilized in other contexts. The she will undergo age groups, sexes, geographical regions and students, staff and local communities to project will be implemented in 4 work further training and population groups (sex workers, people who work collaboratively. packages: (i) analyzing the systems of higher capacity building inject drugs, men who have sex with men). education in the participating countries, in mathematical The project recognizes that higher (ii) Contextualizing universities as change modelling of This study aims at developing a model education institutions have a crucial role to makers in their communities and beyond, disease control to estimate the distribution of new HIV play in responding to the climate crisis, not (iii) Building a theory of university impact, at Warwick infections in accordance to the different only through carrying out research, but also and (iv) Sharing knowledge globally. University, population groups and regions.

15 Issue No. 7 - December 2020 www.ku.ac.ke www.ku.ac.ke Issue No. 7 - December 2020 16 KU Researcher's quest to Exploring virtual reality technology to enhance accountability for enhance maternal care to migrant mothers The researchers championing the project from Kenyatta University include Dr. sexual violence through Josephine Gitome(Co-PI)of the Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies, assisted by: Dr. Newton Kahumbi, Philosophy & forensics Religious Studies Department KU, Dr. Muthoni Mainah Sociology, Gender & Dev rof. Richard O. Oduor of the world Religions and Civil Society through Studies Department KU and Ms. Jacqueline Department of the Department the University of Leicester to conduct a Mutheu Ndambuki Kituku Department Pof Biochemistry, Microbiology and study entitled, ‘Testing new forensic DNA of Community and Reproductive Health, Biotechnology is part of a collaborative methods to enhance accountability for Traditional Birth Assistants mothers experiencing virtual reality Kenyatta University. The team from project which was awarded a research grant sexual violence in Kenya’. The project and spatial audio through which their story on traditional birth Newcastle comprises of the project Principal by the Foundation Peace Dialogue of the which was awarded USD 31,824.72 is a follow assistance practice will soon be narrated. Investigator (PI) Dr. Jennifer Bagelman and up to the successful collaborative pilot study Co-PI Prof. Rachel Pain Geography. on Forensic DNA analyses. 27,415.86 by the Global Challenges Research In November 2020 a team of four Fund (GCRF) aims to document traditional The project aims to improve prosecution from KU and Black Rhino VR Company birth assistants and refugee midwives/safe rates, by enabling access to recovery and Dr. Josephine Gitome (Co-PI), managed to collect data from the TBAS and Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies mothers’ informal knowledge pertaining preservation of DNA evidence in low-resource Refugee midwives, mothers and fathers’ the provision of vital maternal care in an environments, where full forensic medical representatives in Dadaab. The analysis will examinations are not available. It is emergency context, like the Dadaab refugee igrant Mothers: Digital Health soon form virtual reality content. anticipated that the outcomes of this project camps (one of the world’s largest, and Network project is an international will find great application within the ambits longest standing camp). The project will be collaboration of academics at of law and enhance proper use of human M using immersive storytelling (Virtual Reality Kenyatta University, Newcastle University genetic information in Kenya, and ensure and spatial audio) to document women's and Black Rhino (a Nairobi based virtual that, even in exceptional circumstances, knowledge, with these stories, digital reality team). The project team is working human rights, justice and sustainable toolkits that can then be used to train future with traditional birth attendants (TBAs) development are not compromised. midwives will be produced. The toolkits will among the refugee Somalis based in Dadaab also be used by humanitarian workers (UN camps with an aim of working to promote Collaborators in this project include & MSF) to help health practitioners better maternal care in humanitarian contexts Government Chemist, KEMRI, University understand sensitive, culturally appropriate and mothers in marginalized context in of Leicester, Directorate of Criminal maternal care from the perspectives of TBAs Africa. The project which was awarded USD Investigations and Wangu Kanja Foundation. and refugee midwives/safe mothers.

17 Issue No. 7 - December 2020 www.ku.ac.ke www.ku.ac.ke Issue No. 7 - December 2020 18 Emerging science of character strength intervention in Family planning critical in achievement overcoming emotional challenges among the youth of SDG 11 – KU researcher explores

r. Christine Wasanga of the In expansion of this previous a large r. Eliphas Gitonga of the orphans and refugees. Family planning Department of Psychology was randomized controlled trial will be Department of Population, is critical is achieving SDG 11 (sustainable Dawarded a collaborative grant of conducted to compare the effects of the Dreproductive health and cities and communities) by improving USD 233,926.1 from Templeton World Charity three character strength interventions. community resource management housed human rights of women via enabling them Foundation (TWCF). The Project titled Components of Shamiri will be analyzed to in the school of Public Health and applied to choose the number of children, timing, Shamiri: Improving Character Strengths, determine which are most helpful, and in human sciences has won a competitive spacing and contraception. Currently most Wellness, Social Functioning and Academic turn, which character strength interventions Urban Family Planning research and policy researches have no linkage with policy Achievement in Kenyan High School Youths. are most important to disseminate fellowship funded by International Union of thereby deeming them only academic and Emotional problems are common among Scientific Study of populations (IUSSP) and is reducing sustainability of any interventions. SDG 11 youths in Sub Saharan Africa (SSA) who Key project objectives: being supervised by IUSSP Panel on Family The project will bridge this gap through cannot access professional help there is need Planning, Fertility and Urban Development. production of policy relevant/appropriate for brief, low-cost and scalable interventions. • to advance the science of character The funded project at USD 41,000 is “Family evidence, stakeholder engagement, strength interventions planning among blended Somali Women policy communications and effective The emerging science of character • to cultivate three key character aged 15 -39 years in Nairobi: Barriers and dissemination of key findings to target strength intervention offers promising strengths (gratitude, growth, and Inequalities in Nairobi City, Kenya”. global and local audience. solutions. Besides cultivating character purpose) strengths, these interventions have also • to understand which interventions By 2050, it is estimated that 2 Key relationships that will be established been shown to help young people overcome are suitable for further development billion of the world’s population in this study is urbanization and family emotional challenges. One advantage is that and widespread dissemination will be living in urban areas. planning, barriers/inequalities of family they can be delivered by non-professionals With an annual growth rate planning services among vulnerable city in community settings and at low cost. The project is being implemented in of 4%, Nairobi city (the study populations and the family planning policy In two previous trials of a program called collaboration with a team from Harvard location), the Kenyan capital, situation of urban vulnerable communities. Shamiri (Swahili for “thrive) that focused University led by Dr. John R. Weisz, a Co- is one of the fastest growing on three character strengths: gratitude, Director of the project. The other researchers cities in sub-Saharan Africa growth mindsets, and purpose, it was found are: and is projected to increase Besides cultivating character that a four-week intervention delivered in size to five million " strengths, these interventions by non-professionals caused significant a• Mr. Tom L Osborn, Project Operations residents by 2025. Such have also been shown to help improvements in depressive symptoms, Sub-Director. (Kenya) rapid urban growth has anxiety symptoms, social support and b• Mr. Akash L Wasil, Project Scientific negative influence on young people overcome emotional academic functioning among Kenyan high Co Sub-Director. (United States) health of vulnerable challenges school students. c• Ms. Katherine E Venturo-Conerly, populations such slum Project Scientific Co Sub-Director. dwellers, adolescents,

19 Issue No. 7 - December 2020 www.ku.ac.ke www.ku.ac.ke Issue No. 7 - December 2020 20 Identification of sensor targets Capacity Strengthening in Technology Transfer and for low cost soil fertility Commercialization of University assessment Intellectual Property

is to create a low cost, portable rapid, affordable soil sensor that can be used by farmers testing technology, to determine soil fertility status in informing “best bet” the field in real time. Soil samples soil amendment will be studied from a number of strategies leading smallholder farms in east Kenya to increased crop to identify the key chemical and production. Dr. George Kosimbei, biological markers indicative of Director, Innovation fertile soil conditions. To achieve Incubation and this, chemical testing of samples University-Industry will be performed in Kenya, looking Linkages specifically at nitrogen, phosphate and organic carbon. enyatta University in collaboration intellectual property and research. In order at the University of Rwanda’s College of This will be augmented with DNA with the University of Rwanda and to accomplish the above functions, the Science and Technology). The project team Dr. Ezekiel Mugendi (with cap and notebook) in the field during planting sequencing in the UK, which will KNeu-Ulm University of Applied universities’ Technology Transfer Offices will on the Kenyatta University side is comprised be used to determine the microbial Sciences in Germany won a grant of €216,956 carry out a very variable range of activities of project manager Dr. George K. Kosimbei, r. Ezekiel Mugendi Njeru of the communities within each sample. Following for Capacity Strengthening in Technology relating to different channels of knowledge and members Dr. Shadrach Mambo, Prof. Department of Biochemistry, sample collection, a workshop and field trip Transfer and Commercialization of University and technology transfer based on contracts Michael Gicheru and Prof. Benard Njihia. DMicrobiology and Biotechnology will be held within Kenya to identify the most Intellectual Property (TT-CUIP) under the between the university and a third party. in collaboration with Dr. Andrew Ward of suitable markers that could form the basis of DIES-Partnerships with Higher Education These channels include: collaborative the University of Strathclyde, UK and Dr. a low cost sensor platform. Additionally, the Institutions in Developing Countries. research, contract research, consultancy, Ruben Sakrabani of Cranfield University, UK data from the project will support research Kenyatta University and the University spin-off and start-up companies, licensing, recently secured seed funding of GBP 4,740 on the best soil amendment strategies for of Rwanda will pursue the goal of more patenting, and incubator facilities (Chandaria from the Royal Academy of Engineering, UK smallholder farmers. The project represents effective university-industry linkages, where Business Innovation and Incubation Centre to help build a new collaborative research a new multidisciplinary collaboration there would be visible products and services (CBIIC) at Kenyatta University and the Grid project. The long term aim of this project and will springboard the development of in the market associated with university Innovation and Incubation Centre (GIIC)

21 Issue No. 7 - December 2020 www.ku.ac.ke www.ku.ac.ke Issue No. 7 - December 2020 22 KU Don explores the use of isotope ERASMUS + International Credit Mobility Fund technique applications to assess 2020-2023 the effects of nutrition related he coveted Erasmus + mobility University. The project will seek to enhance fund has been awarded to Kenyatta KU’s vision of extending the collaboration interventions TUniversity (KU) and Linnaeus with European universities It is expected that University (LNU) Sweden. LNU and KU the increase in staff members competences Kenyatta have had a long standing collaboration from this project support desired increase he Kenyan population is rapidly participated in IAEA’s Technical Corporation dating back to 2011 with the Linnaeus/ in education quality specifically in becoming overweight and obese. (TC) Projects. In the recent IAEA funding Palme project. This new mobility project contemporary pedagogy, research, transfer Obesity which is the new “silent cycle, Kenya, led by Kenyatta University University fund will enable KU and LNU to participate of know-how and education technologies. T in the joint vision of internationalization killer” occurs when there is repetitive in collaboration with the IAEA, developed ‘energy imbalance’, where more calories a National Nutrition project KEN6025; of their programmes. The aim is to help in This novel Erasmus+ funded project are consumed than expended as energy Enhancing the Use of Isotope Technique and Linnaeus the creation of an international mind set will also contribute towards establishing through physical activity. Obesity is a Applications to Assess the Effects of Nutrition in students and members of staff as well regional and international networks for true disease and a major risk factor of Related Interventions. as to stimulate learning processes that prosperity. The funding is a great milestone non-communicable diseases (NCDs) University prepare students to become successful in a towards the University’s efforts of building a which continue to overwhelm the already The IAEA approved budget for this 4-year globalized world. For sustainability, this fund strong versatile and informed academic staff over-stretched health services. Many factors (2020-2023) project is Ksh. 33 million. The Collaboration will help to open up collaboration space in and employable graduates influence people’s food consumption. In project is in line with the government’s Big Dr. Dorcus Mbithe David-Kigaru education and research activities on both 4 Agenda – Universal Health Coverage and continents of Europe and Africa for the next African culture, obesity is perceived as Food and Nutrition Security. This project generation of students/professionals in the a sign of power, prosperity, respect and is led and implemented by Kenyatta academics obese people may be eye appealing. These University’s Department of Food, Nutrition attitudes make obesity seem harmless, if not and Dietetics under the lead of Dr. Dorcus Cross border mobility has been part and explicitly attractive. Research contributes to Mbithe David-Kigaru who is the Project Lead parcel of Kenyatta University (KU) interna- understanding obesity as whether it is just scientist and Counterpart together with tionalization strategy through this project, weight(kg) compared to height(m2), known partners from Ministry of Health and other staff and students will participate in studies as Body-Mass Index (BMI) or whether body collaborators. by travelling to Linnaeus and Kenyatta composition (what the body is comprised of) would be a better indicator, dividing it into fat mass (FM) and fat free mass (FFM). Members of the department of Ed. Communication Technology together with a team of faculty from Linnaeus University (LNU) Sweden during a group Kenya has been member state of the photo UN-IAEA since 1965 and has actively

23 Issue No. 7 - December 2020 www.ku.ac.ke www.ku.ac.ke Issue No. 7 - December 2020 24 KU Researchers explore use of finger millet and oyster mushrooms in management of Type 2 Diabetes become vital to find alternative cost effective The project envisions graduating Banana paper: materials that can be used to produce these students at masters/ PhD level to further Finger millet is rich not only in chromium, include; Dr. Judith Munga (Department products. Additionally, researchers posit research and academic inquiry. The team calcium, potassium and phosphorus but also of Food, Nutrition and Dietetics, KU), that it takes up to 400 years to decompose of multi-disciplinary researchers will design in dietary fiber that slows glycemic response, Dr. Everlyne Wanzala (Department of commercializing these non-biodegradable polymers used machinery and produce minimum viable and essential amino acids. Oyster mushroom Pharmacognosy, Pharmaceutical Chemistry in polythene bags, resulting in pollution of biodegradable packaging products and is also rich in essential amino acids and, in and Pharmaceutics & Industrial Pharmacy, eco-friendly water bodies globally, blocking the smooth sanitary towels from banana pseudo-stem addition, fatty acids (linoleic acids), minerals KU), Dr. John Kinyuru (Department of Food water filtration and percolation into the soil waste as one way to replace the toxic (iron, zinc, potassium, calcium, phosphorus Science and Technology, JKUAT) and Dr. thus putting soil fertility in jeopardy (NEMA, plastic packaging waste threatening the and vitamin (C, D and B series). Chrispus Oduori (Food Crops Research packaging and 2014). The bio-degradable packaging and environment. Institute (FCRI), KALRO Kisii Centre). The sanitary towel project is a 3 year National The study will formulate bioavailable study will support seven PhD and four MSc sanitary towels Research Fund (NRF) funded project of products from finger millet and oyster students. Kshs. 18,805,500 under the industrialization, mushrooms and test their efficacy using manufacturing and agro-processing sector. animal models and randomized controlled trials. Education to key stakeholders rof. Hudson Nyambaka of the The project synergizes expertise from, on products will be done to enhance Department of Chemistry was material science, chemistry, engineering, acceptability and continued production and awarded a multidisciplinary grant fashion design and entrepreneurship to P utilization. The resultant nutrition products of Kshs. 19,999,865 by National Research create packaging prototypes and sanitary and their use will not only contribute to Dr. Jackline Kisato, Fund for the study, entitled “Value addition towels from banana pseudo stems the management of hyperglycemia and Project PI to finger millet-based food products and appropriate business models for hypertension in T2D conditions but also in and their efficacy in the management commercialization of these products. the management of other nutrition related of hyperglycemia, hypertension and conditions such as low body immunity while n today’s world, environmental promotion of nutrition security among Oyster mushrooms The team comprises of Dr. Jacqueline ensuring nutrient security for general health sustainability is an imperative aspect Type 2 Diabetics in Kenya’ aims to Kisato of the Department of Fashion Design and wellbeing. for development and a supporting formulate bioavailable nutrient rich I and Marketing as Principal investigator pillar of the world’s ecosystem. Natural fibres food-based products from finger millet (Kenyatta University), Co investigators: Prof This multidisciplinary project, which is in are attributed as being at the heart of an and oyster mushrooms for management Ambrose Kiprop (Moi University), Dr. Jerry the first phase, is a collaboration of three eco-fashion movement that seeks to create of hyperglycemia, hypertension while Ochola (Moi University) and Dr. Kenneth institutions: Kenyatta University (KU), Jomo products that are sustainable at every stage providing nutrient security among Type 2 Chelule (KIRDI). Dr. Mercy Wanduara Kenyatta University of Agriculture and of their life cycle; from production to disposal. Diabetics (T2D). Most people with T2D have (Kenyatta University) has been co-opted Technology (JKUAT) and Kenya Agricultural With the banning of single use polythene secondary hypertension, with between 60 % as a member of the team to enhance the and Livestock Research Organization bags and the environmental concern and 90 % among them being hypertensive. production aspect of the project. (KALRO). The other team members of pollution from sanitary towels, it has Finger Millet

25 Issue No. 7 - December 2020 www.ku.ac.ke www.ku.ac.ke Issue No. 7 - December 2020 26 NRF Multidisplinary Dr. Evelyne Dr. Catherine Projects Samita Muui

Dept. of Agricultural Science & Technology

Grant: Kshs. 18,919,600

Project Title: Propagation of Ocimum kilimandscharicum determination of efficacy against Anopheles gambiase ss and formulation of O. kilimandscharicum essential oils into jelly into jelly and bathing soap mosquito repellent

The project is being administered by Karatina University in collaboration with Comet The National Research Fund (NRF) has a mandate to mobilize, allocate and Eng. Dr. Isaiah Bosire Omosa Health Care Limited and Kenyatta University manage financial resources to facilitate an effective national innovation Dept. of the Civil Engineering Department Dr. Margaret Muturi system that would create required knowledge and innovations in all fields of Grant: Kshs. 19,930,000 Department of Medical Laboratory Science Project Title: Development of novel Science and Technology for the growing economy. NRF allocates resources construction materials and energy Grant: Kshs. 12,356,250 generation systems that make use of for competitive multi-disciplinary research and collaborations among selected agricultural waste Project Title: Developing low-cost diagnostic tools and biosensors for rapid Universities and research institutions. Kenyatta University faculty have The project is being administered by detection of crop and human pathogens University of Nairobi in collaboration with in Kenya continued to competitively apply in large numbers with a good number of Kenyatta University and Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology The project is being administered by ISAAA AfriCenter in collaboration with University proposals being successful, either as PI’s or in a collaborative capacity as of Nairobi, Kenyatta University and National Commission for Science, Technology and Co-PI’s. Some of the collaborative projects Innovation

27 Issue No. 7 - December 2020 www.ku.ac.ke www.ku.ac.ke Issue No. 7 - December 2020 28 Adaptive collaborative research on climate smart crops; livestock and aquaculture; socio - economic research; land, water and agroforestry; and sustainable bio-energy

2020 SUB-AWARDEES Prof. Lucy Kabuage Prof. Maina Mwangi Dr. Joseph Gweyi Dr. Purity Nguhiu

limate-smart agriculture (CSA) adaption to climate change. Livestock and Fisheries. Towards this aims to achieve three outcomes end, competitive grants were awarded to Department of Agricultural Department of Department of (triple wins): TIMPs exist within the National various multidisciplinary teams; we applaud Department of Agricultural C Resource Management Agriculture Science & Agriculture Science & Agricultural Research System (KALRO, our researchers who were awarded as Resource Management i. sustainably increasing agricultural KEFRI, KIRDI, KMFRI, agricultural universities co-investigators to projects lead by KALRO Technology Technology productivity and incomes; and others), developed by scientists in Grant: Kshs. 8,790,600 Grant: Kshs. 2,830,500 ii. adapting agricultural systems and these institutions, which can respond to Grant: Kshs. 5,000,000 Grant: Kshs. 1,068,346 building resilience to climate change; Climate-smart agriculture needs of the Project Title: Project Title: Enhancing and country. Some of these TIMPs require Development, Validation Project Title: Use Project Title: Scaling Goat Market in Kajiado iii. reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) further testing, prior to their up-scaling and Promotion of Climate of Climate Smart Integrated Soil Fertility and Taita-Taveta Counties emissions. It offers an appropriate for adoption in the target project counties. Smart Indigenous Technologies to Enhance Management Tech. for through Improved strategic framework for responding KALRO received research funds under the Contagious Caprine Pleuro Chicken for Improved Open Fields Tomato Improved Food Nutrition to the challenges. Kenya Climate Smart Agriculture Project Pneumonia Vaccine and (KCSAP) facilitated through a Credit from Productivity Productivity in arid and Security and Livelihoods diagnostics Meeting these challenges requires the World Bank to Government of Kenya, Semi-Arid Areas in Kenya technologies, innovations and management acting as administrator of the research funds practices (TIMPs) to build resilience and provided through the Ministry of Agriculture

29 Issue No. 7 - December 2020 www.ku.ac.ke www.ku.ac.ke Issue No. 7 - December 2020 30 IFS Grants Wycliffe Luasi Dept. Biochemistry, Microbiology and The beautiful yet destructive Biotechnology, Kenyatta University Lantana camara

habitats like the undisturbed protected insights on the best time for its mapping areas has led to ad-hoc mapping campaigns and application of control measures within by agencies such as the Kenya Wildlife invaded habitats. The project’s outcomes Service, these campaigns are not only will provide immediate assessment on costly and time-consuming but also do not areas under lantana within area of study. In r. Julius Waititu of the department result to complete eradication. Alternative addition, the study would set precedence r. Wycliffe Luasi of the Department of Urban and Regional Planning methodologies involving the use of remote and define a novel methodology to map the of Biochemistry, Microbiology has secured a research grant sensing data need to be used so as to balance expert of various invasive species, in a bid to Mand Biotechnology, Kenyatta M on costs and accuracy in invasive species design their control measures. of USD 14,050 funded by International University - Plant Transformation Laboratory Foundation for Science (IFS), Sweden. The monitoring system for effective conservation has been awarded a research grant of USD award will support his PhD research entitled actions 14,979 by the IFS towards his PhD research “Developing a spectral index to identify titled “Bioengineering blast resistance in Lantana camara L. Invasive shrub from Few studies have employed hyperspectral finger millet through targeted mutagenesis Blast infected millet stems and leaves co-occurring vegetation.” This research data in mapping the invasive species it follows of ethylene response factor transcription that the method will involve modelling the factor gene.’ focusses on lantana mapping through at 28-36%, and in certain areas, as high as against M. oryzae. species spectral responses during its various hyperspectral and multispectral remote 80-90% yield losses have been reported. growth stages to determine its unique Blast disease caused by a fungal pathogen sensing. Alien invasive species negatively Enhancing the resistance of finger millet Mr. Luasi’s research focuses on improving separability with co-occurring vegetation Magnaporthe oryzae is one of the major affect the functions of fragile ecosystems to M. oryzae has been shown to be the resistance of finger millet against blast using field hyperspectral remote sensing. factors affecting finger millet growth and such as forest resources, water resources, most economical and effective approach disease by introducing frameshift mutations This spectral information will be needed for yield. The disease has been singled out as and agriculture. Lantana camara L. invasive for controlling blast. Various studies have in ethylene response transcription factor development of a unique spectral index for a top constraint to finger millet production species has been listed as an agent of shown that expression of ethylene response gene through site-specific mutagenesis. its discrimination from the rest of vegetation since most landraces and a number of other biodiversity change in natural habitats transcription factor gene suppresses with hyperspectral and multispectral images. genotypes are highly susceptible, with since its introduction in Kenya in the 1950s. Julius Maina Waititu (L) during field reconnaissance expression of defense genes and resistance Its adaptability and fast spread to new In addition, the modelling part will provide average losses owing to blast estimated

31 Issue No. 7 - December 2020 www.ku.ac.ke www.ku.ac.ke Issue No. 7 - December 2020 32 Expected Project Outputs

• Improved network for sharing degree courses through blended learning b. Ongoing Research • Online platform (OER Africa) and individual Learning Management System Leveraging on technology enabled learning • Increased capacity n to support pedagogical approaches for blended for enhanced and blended learning project learning

• For partner and participating n an increasingly globalized Universities working with various partner universities in East Africa environment anchored in knowledge Universities in East Africa, technical partners The Technical Partners

based economies, the demand for 21st and higher education commissions. The I • Staff and Education Development • Strengthened Quality Assurance Century workforce equipped with modern partner universities include Kenyatta systems for blended learning courses technology skills and competencies has University – Kenya, Strathmore University Association (SEDA), reconfigured the manner technology is – Kenya, Makerere University - Uganda, • Commonwealth of Learning (COL), • High quality credit bearing blended used in many sectors including education. University of Rwanda, Open University of • University of Edinburgh. learning courses included within Technology holds immense potential in Tanzania, and State University of Zanzibar. Participants and trainers during the PEBL workshop held at the Kenyatta University Conference Centre regular programmes transforming teaching and learning in higher Higher Education Commissions in the educational institutions world over. As one The Technical Partners include Staff EA countries of the leading institutions of higher learning and Education Development Association s a key task, team members in the successfully completed the courses include; hosted on the OER Africa the third module in the region, Kenyatta University has sought (SEDA), Commonwealth of Learning (COL), partner universities underwent a Dr. Samuel Mutweleli, Dr. Eric Masika, Dr. Management Accounting 1 is under to leverage on the affordances of technology University of Edinburgh. one year training conducted by Syprine Oyoo and Dr. Hellen Kiende development, Further, the university has Partner Universities A enabled learning to promote academic SEDA to equip them with the knowledge embarked on the development of interactive excellence. The identification of the KU as There are close to 20 participant and skills to ensure effective delivery and Milestones realized - Development of blended learning modules across all the • Kenyatta University, one of the partners in the Partnership for universities drawn from the East African achievement of the project outputs. This the Blended Learning Policy – provides programmes and year groups. • Strathmore University Enhanced and Blended Learning (PEBL) region participating in the project. culminated into the award of a Certificate in guidelines for the delivery of the face to • Makerere University could therefore not have come in the right Developing People and Enhancing Practice face (full-time & part-time), Virtual and 2. Capacity development of faculty, more • University of Rwanda time. (DPEP) and certificate in Supporting Open Distance Learning, and Continuing than 1000 faculty members have been • Open University of Tanzania Technology Enabled Learning (STEL) to Education Programmes trained in the facilitation of online learning • State University of Zanzibar The PEBL project started in September successful participants. The KU PEBL team and more specifically online pedagogies. • 20 participant universities from East 2017 with the support from UK Department members led by Dr. George Onyango (the Outputs achieved Africa for International Development (DFID’S) Dean) comprising of Dr. Elizabeth Mwaniki 3. Quality Assurance rubric developed - to Strategic Partnership for Higher Education and Dr. Rhoda Gitonga were among the 1. Two modules developed Introduction ensure the quality of blended teaching and Innovation and Reform (SPHEIR) Portfolio, successful participants awarded the two to Entrepreneurship’ and ‘Psychology of learning activities. led by the Association of Commonwealth certificates each. Other members who have Learning’ as Open Education Resources -

33 Issue No. 7 - December 2020 www.ku.ac.ke www.ku.ac.ke Issue No. 7 - December 2020 34 African Development Bank (AfDB) doctoral and masters training programs in Applied Chemistry and Physics

he School of Pure and Applied Physics department have also visited other Science has been implementing a collaborating laboratories in Germany and Postgraduate Tpostgraduate training program in South Africa. Students 34 Ph.D the departments of Chemistry and Physics One Ph.D. student from Chemistry since January 2016 to date. This was made Department was awarded a 74th enrolled possible through joint funding by the International Union of Laboratories and 28 M.Sc Government of Kenya (through the Ministry Experts in Construction Materials, Systems of Education) and the African Development and Structures (RILEM) PhD grant for Bank (AfDB). The grant is ably managed participation in the 74th RILEM 40thCement through an implementation committee and Concrete Science Conference hosted by Key outputs appointed by the Vice Chancellor and the University of Sheffield. An international chaired by Prof. Joseph J. N. Ngeranwa. conference is being planned for 2021. • Various teaching,learning and The grant targets academic staff in public research equipment and instruments universities as well as public technical Research areas have been procured for the training institutions for capacity building departments of Chemistry and especially in attaining masters and Ph.D • atomic collision physics Physics degrees in Engineering supporting Sciences. • materials science, • 6 Ph.D and 6 M.Sc. students • nanotechnology successful completed Benefits • chemical ecology • 2 day dissemination workshop • theoretical chemistry hosted by School in 2018 in The students have been exposed to world • environmental collaboration with Tanzania class exposure through joint co-supervision • radiation physics Medical Institute and University of with experts at the national, regional and • applied analytical chemistry Johannesburg international levels. The students have been • cement chemistry able to utilize advanced research facilities • natural products chemistry International Conference planned for • inorganic chemistry 2021 through the extensive research collaboration Beneficiaries of AfDB grant with their mentors during the 2 day dissemination workshop in 2018 networks. Two Ph.D students from the

35 Issue No. 7 - December 2020 www.ku.ac.ke www.ku.ac.ke Issue No. 7 - December 2020 36 Cross transfer of disease causing bacteria between livestock, wildlife and humans

Dr. Lucas Asaava (left and right) recording data collected from camels during field work.

oonotic diseases are those diseases and disseminated disease (most common importance were isolated in camel milk and that pass from an animal or insect and typically involves lungs, heart, liver, Human saliva and mucus. The response by all Zto a human Nontuberculous intestine, lymph nodes and bone marrow). respondents was that fresh and fermented Mycobacteria (NTM) cross infect a wide milk were consumed without boiling. While range of domestic animals, wildlife and man In both humans and animals, they are there is need for more robust studies to causing various diseases. Despite the public important due to misdiagnosis with other further unravel their true significance, there health implications associated with infection notifiable mycobacterial diseases such as is no doubt that these uncommon bacteria with these uncommon bacteria, information tuberculosis (TB). A one-health approach cross transfer diseases. on the identification, frequency, pattern and study involving Arabian camels and determinants of zoonotic NTM is scanty. associated household members presumed The study came up with two important to have TB was carried out in Samburu East public health policy recommendations, Recent data indicates that there has been sub-County. Screening of milk producing first, the declaration of NTMs as notifiable an increase in occurrence of human NTM camels for Mycobacteria infection was infections and second, is the establishment infections locally and globally. In humans, done and a milk sample from tuberculin of monitoring and surveillance systems in these Mycobacteria are associated with test reactive camels was collected for both humans and animals to determine progressive lung disease often resistant to confirmatory mycobacteriology andthe true burden of these infections and in antibiotics, superficial cervical lymphadenitis molecular tests at Kenya medical research order for those affected to be identified and (the presence of a painful mass in the cervical institute (KEMRI)/ centre for respiratory treated appropriately. area, often accompanied by fever, runny disease research (CRDR) enhanced BSL2 nose, sore throat, and cough, skin infection laboratory. Several bacteria of medical

37 Issue No. 7 - December 2020 www.ku.ac.ke www.ku.ac.ke Issue No. 7 - December 2020 38 he CLISMABAN project is a being importation of in vitro cultures of certified implemented by a consortium of germplasm from the International Banana Tresearchers from Kenya, Uganda, transit centre in Ibadan Nigeria. Further, CLISMABAN Project Pioneers Spain and Belgium and is funded by Prof. Rony Swennen a consortium members the LEAP-Agri: EU-Africa Research and and a lead scientist in the development of Innovation grant. The project is aimed at the hybrids facilitated the importation of keen on establishing Centre for exploiting the existing genetic resources the germplasm to Kenya for the first time. and diversity of bananas to select varieties As per the KEPHIS requirements, Kenyatta improved cooking bananas resilient to climate change-induced University has supported the establishment constraints, using a participatory gender of a tissue culture laboratory to specifically responsive and all-inclusive approach in propagate the new varieties. So far, 25 and plantain hybrids at KU the banana and plantains value chains. accessions of NARITAs have been successfully CLISMABAN has a strong capacity building multiplied, acclimatized and planted in the strategy targeting both producers and Kenyatta University Research farm. Data researchers, training them in different collection on agronomic performance is aspects of the banana research- to- market ongoing in the laboratory, greenhouse and pipeline, with the aim being to stimulate the farm. This information will guide the Prof. Grace Wamue-Ngare and Ms. better utilization of scientific results. selection of the most promising accessions. Mary Mwangi (in orange t-shirt) pose with participants during a The Kenyan team which comprises of Prof. The next step is to embark on gender training brainstorming Grace Wamue -Ngare of the department participatory varietal selection whereby workshop of Sociology, Gender & Development gender-integrated farmers will work closely studies and Mary Mwangi of Biochemistry, with the researchers to identify the most Microbiology and Biotechnology have desirable varieties based on agronomic and embarked on popularization and evaluation sensory evaluations. The sustainability plan of improved cooking banana (NARITA) and is one, to utilize the laboratory for training plantain (PITA) hybrids using a participatory, and commercial propagation. The team is gender-integrated approach. looking into the possibility of establishing an in vitro cooking banana and plantain Prof. Ngare offers the gender strategy for germplasm conservation centre at KU, the entire project team, the participating as well as extending the demonstration famers and other players in the banana and and research farm for the climate resilient plantain value chains. In this, she advises varieties at the KU, Kitui campus. on affirmative action, where applicable, especially in all training and knowledge transfer activities while Ms. Mwangi works closely with other scientists in the team to identify the most promising accessions for evaluation in Kenya. This culminated in the Ms. Mary Mwangi in the lab

39 Issue No. 7 - December 2020 www.ku.ac.ke www.ku.ac.ke Issue No. 7 - December 2020 40 Departments exploring research partnerships and c. Partnerships collaborations

enyatta University (KU) partnered Kenyatta University Researchers Building Strong with University of Tsukuba (UT) Joint International Symposium Kand Japan Society for Promotion of Science (JSPS) to host a Joint International University Industry Partnerships Symposium on “Partnership in Sports and on “Partnership in Sports and Development for Tomorrow”. The symposium University researchers on this project have which was coordinated by the Department trained beneficiaries using a competency Development for Tomorrow” of Physical Education, Exercise and Sports based curriculum that includes monitored Science was held on 3rd March 2020 at BSSC, internship and placement activities. The Kenyatta University. The symposium was team ensures that each intern regularly part of the on-going initiatives to establish records work activities in a logbook while long term partnership and collaborations the employer monitors the performance of the intern(s), reviews the logbook, writes in Physical Education and Sports Studies related areas between KU and University of enyatta University through unemployment or who are currently working down competencies achieved, areas for Delegates from Kenyatta the Directorate of Capacity in vulnerable jobs. improvement and provide guidance and University (KU), Tsukuba, Japan. KDevelopment and Consultancy mentorship focused on improving job University of Tsukuba Services has been awarded projects worth The numbers of beneficiaries who have performance. This project is a testament (UT), and Japan Society The forum was organised to enable Ksh.40M by National Industrial Training successfully gone through the training, of the active role the University plays in the for Promotion of Science discussions on current educational and Authority (NITA) to offer job-specific internship and placement by KU are 1,042 industry. (JSPS), Anti-Doping research trends in sports studies in Kenya training, arrange internship and placement youths spread across the six counties. The Agency of Kenya (ADAK), and Japan, and possible areas of future in ICT computer repairs and maintenance University posted an average transition The KU researchers are: Prof. Simon Kenya Judo Association collaborations. Other invited partner in Nairobi, Nakuru, Kisumu, Kwale and rate of 95% from training to internship Onywere (Project advisor).Mr. James (KJA), and Kenya Wildlife institutions that participated in the Mombasa counties. The Kenya Youth and 82% from internship to placement Ombogo Onditi (Project lead and County Services (KWS) during the symposium included Anti-Doping Agency of Employment and Opportunities Project phases of the project. The University has coordinator); Prof. John Aluko Orodho International Symposium (KYEOP) is a five year (2016-2021) Government been contracted to implement additional (County coordinator) Mr. David Ngigi on “Partnership in Sports Kenya (ADAK), Kenya Judo Association (KJA), of Kenya and the World Bank funded project. trades as: photography and videography, (County coordinator) Dr. Hannah Orwa and Development for Kenya Wildlife Services (KWS), Mount Kenya It aims to increase employment and earning landscaping and interior design, and disk Bula (County coordinator), Mr. James Tomorrow” held on 3rd University (MKU), and Athletics Kenya (AK). opportunities among targeted youths. The jockey and music production. The University Odhiambo Oringo (County coordinator) March 2020 at BSSC, main beneficiaries of the programme are has participated in cycles one to four of the Mr. John Maraigua (Secretariat). Kenyatta University. youth aged between 18 and 29 years, who project in six counties including Bungoma are have experienced extended spells of County.

41 Issue No. 7 - December 2020 www.ku.ac.ke www.ku.ac.ke Issue No. 7 - December 2020 42 symposium informed the development University of Tsukuba. It will involve faculty of specific initiatives and memorandum members and students, at undergraduate of agreements to operationalize the and graduate levels. The partners have cooperation between Kenyatta University – already started organising joint activities Translating the ‘Farmsmart’ App a collaboration the leading university in physical education including academic visits by faculty and sports studies in East and Central Africa, members across the institutions and joint between the University of London – School of and University of Tsukuba –the leading symposium, and much more is expected to university in physical education and sports be realised through this cooperation. studies in Japan and the Asia continent. Oriental and African Studies and Kenyatta

This culminated to the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding in May University - Department of Kiswahili 2020 between the University through the department of Physical Education, Exercise enyatta University and the App created by the SOAS Team. The App is and Sports Science the University of University of London (SOAS) have available on Google Play Store Tsukuba in the field of Physical Education had an MOU on academic and and Sports Studies. University of Tsukuba is K research cooperation since 2016. It is under The translation team members included the leading university in Physical Education this collaboration that the Department Prof. Catherine Ndungo, Prof. Kitula King’ei, and Sports Studies in Japan and the of Kiswahili undertook a joint translation Dr. Miriam Osore, Dr. Leonard M. Chacha and Asian continent. The MoU formed a basis project with the School of Oriental and Dr. Pamela Ngugi- Coordinator. of developing specific partnerships in African Studies (SOAS) –London in the academic, research and innovation, utility month of July under the Coordination of as well as community outreach activities Prof. Chege Githiora (SOAS) and Dr. Pamela Dr. Francis Mundia Mwangi, Chairman, Department of related to Physical Education and Sports Ngugi (KU). The international, collaborative Physical Education, Exercise and Sports Science, Kenyatta Studies. The cooperation will be in (but not University (right) and Prof. Takeshi Nishiyasu, Dean, exercise involved translating the entire limited to) the areas of Physical Education, Faculty of Health and Sport Sciences, University of Tsukuba, content of a farming computer program or Sports for Development and Peace, African during the signing of Letter of Intent in December 2019, at Application (“Farmsmart”) into Kiswahili. University of Tsukuba, Japan. Sport and Olympic-Paralympic Education, Sports and Diversity, Sports and Tourism, Farm Smart is an innovative app Coaching, Athletes Training and Anti-Doping developed in partnership with leading Education, Sport Science and Medicine, The purpose of the symposium was to tech consultants, Amido. The app provides Sport Psych-Sociology and Anthropology. ` provide opportunity for the partners to Delegates trying their hand at some Japanese and Kenyan tailored crop recommendations to farmers showcase the educational and research traditional games during the International Symposium on based on factors such as their location The cooperation between the two “Partnership in Sports and Development for Tomorrow” held outcomes that have been achieved so far, and the season. The app aims to equip universities will mainly involve the School on 3rd March 2020 at BSSC, Kenyatta University. and to explore further improvement in the smallholder farmers with the tools to live off Prof. Chege Githiora – Dr. Pamela Ngugi - of Public Health & Applied Human Sciences SOAS -Lead Coordinator KU -Coordinator quality of education and research activities any plot of land and create a world where and School of Hospitality, Tourism and in sport related areas in Kenya and East farmers are thriving, healthy and happy. The Leisure Studies in Kenyatta University, and Africa region through collaboration with translation project has been completed and the Faculty of Health and Sport Sciences in Japan agencies. The outcomes of the joint is ready for uploading on the Farmsmart

43 Issue No. 7 - December 2020 www.ku.ac.ke www.ku.ac.ke Issue No. 7 - December 2020 44 Contributing to society empowerment through collaborations and partnerships – Department of Applied Economics

he Department of in Italy, the department is Applied Economics is undertaking a collaborative Tcurrently involved in research within a project titled cutting edge research projects ‘Safe Communities for Safe that are aimed at contributing Children and Adolescents’. The to knowledge and availing project is being implemented solutions to communities in collaboration with CISP, in Kenya. 7 Members of the national government agencies, department are involved either county governments of Nakuru as Principal Investigators, and Kakamega, civil society 3 Co-Principle Investigators or organizations from the two researchers in the Women counties (K-NOTE and MARPA), Economic Empowerment and other local and international RESEARCH project by Bill and Melinda gates collaborators. Foundation. The department continues Additionally through to seek for more research and DISSEMINATION its partnership with the consultancy opportunities International Committee through responding to request for Development of Peoples for proposals and establishing & UPTAKE (CISP) a non – governmental working collaborations with local organization international and international organizations.

45 Issue No. 7 - December 2020 www.ku.ac.ke www.ku.ac.ke Issue No. 7 - December 2020 46 Agronomic and economic effects Impact of gender shift in floodplain farming of phosphate rock on acidic soils on local livelihoods and food security

in TharakaNithi County to the gender shift, the socio-economic findings will further up scaled to key actors implications and the impact on household and stakeholders including policy makers food security in Kiambu County. with the aim of informing policies on gender and agriculture, gender and empowerment, on maize yield, soil P-fraction and P-sorption. under review. Two conference papers were The key finding of the research were: wetland policy and land ownership and presented in the Kenyatta University Biennial (i) there is not only gender shift in the property rights. The study was carried out in Tharaka Nithi Research and Innovation Conference cultivation of floodplains from women to County. Treatments comprised: Manure, (KUBRIC) 2019. The project was implemented men dominated, but also on the type of crops The results will be valuable in addressing Rock Phosphate, rock phosphate + manure, with the collaboration of University of Embu grown (ii) the demise of the original owners gender specific challenges associated Tithonia diversifolia, Tithonia diversifolia + (Prof Felix Ng’etich) and NARL & KARLO and the patriarchal nature of the community with floodplain cultivation, including rock phosphate, CAN + TSP and Control. Muguga laboratories. where only sons but not daughters inherit development and implementation of CAN+TSP recorded significantly higher the land as well as shift from food crop relevant projects and programmes for Prof. Monicah Mucheru-Muna maize grain yields compared to other production which is female dominated to redress. These outcomes will impact directly Department of Environmental Sciences and Education treatments due to the readily available Male inheritor grows horticultural crops along Karura production of commercial crops which is on achievement of the Kenya Vision 2030 nutrients. Tithonia diversifolia and CAN floodplains male dominated were the main causes of as well as Sustainable Development Goals, hosphorus (P) is an essential plant combined with TSP had the highest labile the gender shift in the cultivation of flood particularly Numbers 1, 2, 3, 5, 8 10 and 13. nutrient and its deficiency restricts P (Resin-Pi+Po and NaHCO3-Po) and raditionally, floodplain farmingplains; (iii) gender shift in cultivation of Pcrop yield severely. Humid Tropics, moderately labile P (Pi+Po in NaOH) while is gendered. On the one hand, floodplain and of crops has by far affected subhumid tropics and semiarid tropics, control had the lowest. Soil P associated with women in Central Kenya cultivated social economic status and food security at soils are predominantly acidic, and often T calcium (HCl-P) was highest in sole Tithonia food crops for household consumption in household level with women who are wives extremely P deficient with high P-sorption diversifolia. CAN+TSP recorded significantly floodplains while on the other hand, men of the men flood plain farmers cannot make capacities. The appropriate use and sound higher P sorption levels and this could be have dominated agricultural activities in decision on family finances and nutrition, utilization of phosphate rock (PR) as P related to the presence of readily available the elevated lands. However, in recent resulting to lack of finances to meet their sources can contribute to sustainable P that is then easily adsorbed on the soil past, there has been gender shift in the personal needs as well as lack of a healthy agricultural intensification, particularly on colloids. Where organic inputs were used cultivation of food crops along floodplains. diet among other important findings. acidic soils. solely or in combination with phosphate Men, especially in the peri-urban regions of rock, a decrease in P sorption was observed. Maize Plantations grown under Kiambu County, have taken over cultivation These findings are significant because the various soil treatments The study supported under the in floodplains from women. The reasons and more than six hundred thousand of families Vice-Chancellor Research and Innovation The project supported two master’s implications of this shift have not been fully depend on floodplains within the county for Grant sought to determine the effect of students (Emily Mwake, Kenyatta University understood. The study supported under the their livelihood. Also, about twenty millions of Woman rentee bends to Dr. Muthoni Mainah phosphate rock (PR) when applied either and Janey Okoth, University of Embu). Vice-Chancellor Research and Innovative Kenyans depend on produce from the flood weed her arrowroots using Department of Gender and alone, in combination with organic residues One paper has been published and one is Grant sort to explore the contributory factors plains for food and nutrition security. These “muro” (panga) along Rueno Development Studies floodplains

47 Issue No. 7 - December 2020 www.ku.ac.ke www.ku.ac.ke Issue No. 7 - December 2020 48 Family Lyctidae Family Cerambycidae Predators of the wood-boring beetles Wood-boring beetles and the associated natural (representative) enemies of Naivasha thorn Tree Family Cleridae

he Naivasha thorn tree, Acacia athi. The Family Bostrichidae was the most xanthophloea is grown for its dominant in KU and Machakos with 12 and Tmultipurpose use such as foliage, 9 species accounting for 57.27% and 28.82% timber, shade, apiculture, medicine and followed by Scolytidae with 20.43%) and soil rehabilitation. However, its production 14.9%, respectively. Xylion adustus accounted is threatened by biotic constraints such as for 24.73% followed by Glostatus sp. 10.64% in arthropod pests. A study funded by the Vice Mitaboni. Chancellor’s Research and Innovation Grant was conducted to document the The natural enemies are responsible for abundance, species diversity and species keeping the pest population under check. richness of the wood-boring beetles and From the results it was observed that species their associated natural enemies on A. diversity, richness and evenness differed xanthophloea in Nairobi and Machakos with region. Higher species diversity of Counties. wood-boring beetles were observed infesting A. xanthophloea causing significant damage. The study involved collecting identified Species richness (S), Shannon diversity index volume of infested pieces of Acacia which (H), and evenness (J) were higher at Mitaboni were taken to the laboratory and incubated (S¼54; H¼2.45; and J¼0.614) than KU (S¼51; in containers for pest and natural enemy H¼2.33; and J¼0.596). Many specimens emergence. The emerged adults were remain unidentified to species level due to counted and identified using taxonomic lack of expertise, funds and export permit. features. Seventeen families of the wood-boring beetles were recovered 16, The study was conducted by Dr. Ruth 17 and 6 families were recovered from KU, Kahuthia-Gathu , senior lecturer in the Mitaboni and Stoni athi, respectively. Department of Agricultural Science and Technology A total of 7,959 individual wood-boring beetles from 16 families and belonging Wood Damage: to 52 species were recovered in KU, 7,804 wood-boring beetles from 17 families and Wood-boring beetles of Acacia Xanthophloea 55 species in Mitaboni, Machakos, and 2,326 wood-boring from 6 families from Stoni

49 Issue No. 7 - December 2020 www.ku.ac.ke www.ku.ac.ke Issue No. 7 - December 2020 50 KENFIN-EDURA holds international Complexity symposium of Masculinity in Africa A refelection of the misconceptions that The overarching goal of the project is "to promote the health and wellness accompany implementation of well-meaning of Kenyans through creative and " impactful research and capacity gender responsive programs esearchers from Kenyatta development activities University, Kenya together with Rtheir counterparts from University of Helsinki as well as Haaga-Helia University education, gender, family interactions and he Nexus of Culture and Christianity: are made on how such programs could be resources available to them including time in of Applied Sciences in Finland have been place of residence (urban low socioeconomic Complexity of Masculinity in made friendly to benefit women without a manner to be useful to the church ministry working on a research project entitled, status and urban middle- socioeconomic TAfrica is a book that promotes the excluding or disadvantaging men. The book and community while not disadvantaging “Building higher education and research status) as well as family interaction. The understanding of manhood in Africa from recognizes that there have been cases of their families. The book acknowledges the capacity to address the physical activity project will come to an end on 31st December a Christian biblical perspective. It explores men and women failing to understand role of men as mediators in conflict, and also and nutrition transition in Kenya: The 2021. the barriers that boys experience right from one another in the course of their everyday prepares them for the challenges related to Kenya-Finland education and research conception to old age and how such barriers communication. Consequently, it walks old age. alliance (KENFIN-EDURA)”. As part of its close out activities, the inform manhood. men through strategies to effective KENFIN-EDURA organized a dissemination communication and demonstrates how they The book is authored by Dr. Rubai The overarching goal of the project is to symposium that brought together various The book reflects on the misconceptions could use their words to build their families, Mandela Ochieng, Co-Chairperson of promote the health and wellness of Kenyans stakeholders including researchers, that come with implementation of given the power that such words carry. Women Educational Researchers of Kenya through creative and impactful research practitioners, policy makers as well as the well-meaning gender responsive programs (WERK) and a Senior Lecturer in the and capacity development activities. The civil society. The symposium was held on the in education, economic, social and political Utilization and sharing of scarce resources Department of Educational Foundations, primary objective of KENFIN-EDURA project 4th December 2020 at Kenyatta University spheres, which are likely to have negative is examined as a potential aspect in men’s Kenyatta University and Dr. Jafred Muyaka a is to establish if dietary patterns, physical Conference Centre (KUCC). The event was implications for men while trying to bridge life. Accordingly, the book illustrates how Lecturer in the Department of Educational activity and weight status in Nairobi City officially opened by His Excellency Erik the gender gaps that have disadvantaged African men subscribing to the Christian Foundations at University of Eldoret County, Kenya can be explained by income, Lundberg, the Finnish Ambassador to Kenya. women over time. As a response, suggestions faith could find a balance in the allocation of

51 Issue No. 7 - December 2020 www.ku.ac.ke www.ku.ac.ke Issue No. 7 - December 2020 52 KU Don publishes School of Business annual in the DZUWA 2020 International Business Research edition and Industrial Conference (IBRIC)

he school of Business has been University. The 2nd IBRIC conference researchers, practitioners and educators in the forefront in realigning whose theme was “Academia-Industry to present and discuss the most recent Tthe School’s mission with the Partnerships for Competitive Innovations innovations, trends, and concerns as well University’s on enhancing research capacity and Global Sustainable Development’ was as practical challenges encountered and and productivity among scholars. To achieve anchored in seven sub themes namely: solutions adopted in the fields of Business this, the School held its First International Technological innovations, disruptive Management and innovation through Business Research and Industrial technologies, and industrialization, Strategic the conference podium and refereed ZUWA is an editorially Conference (IBRIC) on June 20th – 21st 2019 capabilities, industrial responsiveness and publications. The conference further independent Publication of the in the North Coast Beach Hotel, Mombasa. socio-economic development; Corporate provided opportunities for academia to DAfrican Women Human Rights A total of 181 presentations were made with governance, financial markets and global receive informal in-depth feedback from the Defenders Platform. It is supported by 150 participants, drawn from academia and convergence; Emerging marketing trends, industry through discussions and to enable Urgent Action Fund Africa as a space filled industry – local and international, attending blue economy and entrepreneurship; them to establish contact with professionals with story-telling, sharing and learning about the conference. Changing landscape in human resource in other countries and institutions. holistic security, healing, wellness and radical management; Data analytics, forensic and Following the tremendous success of the Cyber Security and collaborative project The conference attracted an audience care for and by African women, transgender 1st IBRIC 2019, which was brought about management and global value chain. of about 160 delegates including: Industry and gender non-conforming human largely by the strategic positioning of the players, experts who have conducted rights defenders and their communities school as well as the commitment by the The virtual conference was officially rigorous studies, or have developed to draw inspiration of the rich resilience of school leadership and staff, the School of opened by the Vice Chancellor, Kenyatta innovative business management solutions their movements. Ms. Anne Mwiti of the Business embarked on a mission to have University, Prof. Paul K. Wainaina represented for business and economic growth, or department of Fine Art published in the the 2nd IBRIC 2020 in June 2020 at the by Prof. F. Q. Gravenir, DVC. Research, implemented effective large-scale projects, DZUWA publication. Ms. Mwiti is a lecturer in North Coast Beach Hotel, Mombasa but Innovation and Outreach. were invited to join the plenary and breakout the Department of Fine Arts. She is an artist Ms. Anne Mwiti’s work as featured in due to the Covid-19 pandemic, a decision sessions; international and local delegates. and researcher focusing on crisis, conflict DZUWA was made to have the 2nd IBRIC 2020 The 2nd IBRIC, conference sought The conference was aired live on KUTV and virtually on 3rd and 4th December, 2020, to provide an interdisciplinary platform all Kenyatta University social media handles and culture. the first virtual conference held by Kenyatta for policy makers, key industry players, with an audience of over 20,000 followers.

53 Issue No. 7 - December 2020 www.ku.ac.ke www.ku.ac.ke Issue No. 7 - December 2020 54 Some of the key note speakers included the following:

Prof.Vincent O. Onywera PhD, ISAK 2 Mohammad Saeed, Ph.D. CPA Edwin Makori, Chief Executive Mr. Geoffrey Odundo, Chief Registrar, Research, Innovation and Officer – ICPAK Executive Nairobi Securities Outreach, Kenyatta University Exchange Plc

Dr. Eric Lewa Katana From Mrs. Jacqueline Mugo Loise Wangui – Head of Kenya School Of Revenue Executive Director/CEO, Regulatory Affairs, Nairobi Administration Mombasa FKE. Securities Exchange (NSE) 4

Fred Gituku Human Dr. Eric Balan – B. Eng., Caroline Wanjeri Kihara Resource Manager Vivo MBA, Phd Econ. PMP CEO KCB Foundation MOBILITY/ Energy (USA), CCIA(Malaysia (Universiti Tun Abdul Razak, Malaysia) VISITING SCHOLARS/ Sponsors: FELLOWSHIPS

55 Issue No. 7 - December 2020 www.ku.ac.ke www.ku.ac.ke Issue No. 7 - December 2020 56 Dr. Muthoka Mutie’s fellowship experience at Bayreuth Academy of Advanced African Studies My staff exchange experience

Dr. Job Omagwa

Dept. of Accounting and Finance r. Muthoka Mutie of the and socio-cultural environment. The lack sent out the wrong knowledge about Africa Department of Literature, of a clear authentic African voice in the but also laid a wrong foundation that has with the teaching department. professors/lecturers have sole discretion in DLinguistics and Foreign languages African studies today has made it difficult produced decades of tussle and academic determining the structure, scope and weighting of was a post-doctoral international fellow of for African literary studies to tell the African combat. The university’s unique academic culture end-semester examinations; postgraduate students the Africa Multiple Cluster of Excellence at story, except, of course, for disfranchised the Bayreuth Academy of Advanced African and disparate voices on decolonisation Attempts to dissolve “Africa” as a research is noteworthy: lectures are mainly conducted pursue thesis writing concurrently with coursework; Studies from January 1st, 2020 to March (East Africa and West Africa, the trauma object by exclusively focusing on global via electronic platform; 45 minute lectures are postgraduate units are often examined via class 2nd, 2020. Funded through the Excellence of apartheid (in Southern Africa), and the connections, or, on the contrary, to establish punctuated with a 5-7 minutes break; students discussions and presentations. Strategy of Germany’s federal and state silence that characterises the Maghreb an essential “Africanness” by decoupling y staff exchange programme at revise by memorizing academic materials loudly governments, the aim of the Africa Multiple North. African knowledge production from Shandong Normal University, on the corridors and stairs; there is strictness in Besides lectures, I presented a talk (to students Cluster of Excellence is to reconfigure African hegemonic Western epistemologies, are PR China (from 14/10/2019 to class attendance; lecture presentations are often and staff) on Kenyan Culture and Economics. studies at the conceptual and the structural Essentially only the history of Europe exists two of the more extreme positions on this 03/01/2020)M was quite fulfilling and enriching. Dr. emailed to students about 1 week in advance; strict Dr. Muchemi and I often met about 15 Kenyan levels. in Africa today, the rest, as it was argued spectrum. These positions underscore the A. Muchemi and I was accommodated at Hanlin adherence to a single course text is observed; lectures Students on Scholarship and advised them on social years back is darkness, and darkness is not a fact that African studies are facing profound would strictly start and end on time; 1st and 2nd challenges, career choices and job opportunities once As part of this fellowship group, Dr. subject of history. African literary studies vied conceptual questions, highlighting power Hotel (at Main Campus) where several other foreign Mutie’s focus was on (re)configuring the as a heavily contested field, is characterised imbalances that continue to characterise faculties were hosted. I facilitated two Undergraduate year students are compelled to recite theories and they completed their studies. I equally visited the Africanness in African literary studies. The by many coexisting and sometimes knowledge production with a focus on classes and a PhD class (for 10 Pakistan Students concepts daily (at Mao Square from 5 45am to 6 Ancient City of QingZhou (the trip was organized project was pushed by the enduring disputes contradictory ways of conceptualising and Africa, raising the question of who studies on Scholarship). The School of Business assigned me 15am); undergraduate units are often examined by the University) to appreciate Chinese artifacts surrounding African literary studies’ inability studying Africa. This is attributed to the Africa, and how. a Teaching Assistant to help translate my lectures via True/False and Multiple choice questions; and antiques. We noted that university is gradually to spearhead an African identity that earlier anthropological, sociological, and “from English to Chinese in addition to linking me Chinese students would often not ask questions or embracing a multinational student and staff emanates from Africa’s ethos, philosophies, historical writings on Africa which not only clarifications during lectures to limit interruptions; population”.

57 Issue No. 7 - December 2020 www.ku.ac.ke www.ku.ac.ke Issue No. 7 - December 2020 58 Job Shadowing at Hochshule Bonn Rhein Sieg Visiting Scholar at University of Agder, Norway University of Applied Sciences

was job shadowing in a multicultural the University and the School of Dr. Teresa Mwoma had an workplace. Education. opportunity to visit University of During the visit, Dr. Mwoma • Working in a multicultural workplace He taught Business Presentation Skills provided new skills in multicultural Agder Department of Sociology in gave a lecture to Masters and Intercultural Communication. He also communication and etiquette. The February 2020 as a visiting scholar. Students on children’s safety observed other lecturers in their classrooms strictly regimented German way of " and contributed by sharing the Kenyan doing things is a good eye opener and security in preschools in perspective and teaching approaches. He and takeaway! he purpose of the visit was to explore also attended administrative meetings • The exchange has opened new opportunities for collaboration in informal settlement. to learn administrative aspects of the frontiers for future collaborations Tresearch focusing on migration and institution and networked with faculty from in research and mobility of both how it affects early childhood education. the University of Cape Coast in Ghana. staff and students, including During the visit, Dr. Mwoma gave a lecture Left: Dr. Mwoma giving a lecture to Masters Students at virtual exchanges, participation to Masters Students on children’s safety and University of Agder Norway. Highlights of the learning areas: in international conferences and security in preschools in informal settlement. faculty training. She also shared her research findings in a • Use of didactical approaches such as flipped classroom, project-based Discussions are ongoing to begin a seminar organized for faculty members on learning, simulation and case virtual exchange programme with KU and caregiving practices among pastoralists’ studies. Universities in Germany, Portugal, Ghana and communities in Kenya. • Use of online tools such as LMS, Canada. This programme will expose faculty Wikis, Adobe Connect, Zoom, and and students to multicultural diversity and During the visit, Dr. Mwoma also had an plagscan. increase students’ employability. opportunity to meet with faculty members Dr. Okech at the University campus facilities • Virtual Exchange projects with from the Kindergarten Teacher education, international students. with whom they are exploring opportunity r. Daniel Otieno Okech from • Basic German language classes. A1.1 of having exchange program for students the Department of Educational and members of staff for the two universities. Management Policy and Other benefits: D She also had an opportunity to visit the Curriculum Studies travelled to Hochshule Bonn-Rhein-Sieg University of Applied • Talked about KU and available university Kindergarten which is used by Sciences in Germany. This mission was part faculty/student mobility programs. student teachers as their lab school. Below Left: Dr. Mwoma in UiA Kindergarten. Right: Dr. Mwoma and Eric former KU student and currently PhD student at UiA pose Consequently, work is in progress are pictures for the visit. of the Collaboration for Entrepreneurial for a picture with Manager UiA Kindergarten during her visit to Universities (CEPU) project whose purpose to develop collaborations between the Kindergarten serving the university community

59 Issue No. 7 - December 2020 www.ku.ac.ke www.ku.ac.ke Issue No. 7 - December 2020 60 On this project, I am taking part in the Research Stay at Technische Hochshule Ingolstadt - development of optimization approaches for the design of new renewable energy system on the solar mini-grid based in Namibia. THI (Technical University of Ingolstadt) in Germany This was done using MATLAB/ Simulink. I have also had the opportunity to learn CARNOT (Conventional and Renewable ollowing the successful completion • Centre of Automotive Research and had the opportunity to participate in the eNergy systems OpTimization Block set of the first phase of DAAD sponsored on Integrated Safety Systems following ongoing projects: tool), a simulation software that works with Fproject on Network of Excellence for (CARISSMA) MATLAB. German Model for Universities of Applied • Institute for Innovative Mobility 1. Pathway to Renewable Energy Off-grid Sciences in 2018-2019 that involved 7 (IIMo) Community Energy for Development 2. Design and in-depth evaluation universities in Kenya (including Kenyatta • Institute of new Energy Systems (PROCEED) – This is a joint project involving of a cost effective optimized large area flat University), a second phase on Network (InES) 3 Universities in Germany and one industrial plate solar collector for central heating. This of Excellence for Universities of Applied partner with 5 work packages. The project is a project funded by the German Federal Sciences on Applied Teaching and Research The Institutes cut across faculties, i.e. they looks at the social, economic and technical Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy. This at the Institute of New Energy Systems are ad-hoc and composition depends on aspects in the implementation of a solar project has 4 industrial partners. The project (INES) at THI University started for the period the focus of the research project. Research mini-grid system in Namibia. aims at increasing efficiency of solar thermal 2019-2020. This phase was also funded by Administration supports an application for collectors through 3D CFD modelling and DAAD. The major activities for the second project funds, both from government and optimization of various parameters using phase include: industry. The support includes costing/ ANSYS software. budgets for projects (activities, materials, • Short-term scholarships for guest etc) and final accounting/ reporting. There 3. Optimization of Biogas- PV lecturers at THI (1-3 months), is close working relationship between Hybrid Plant for Deterministic Grid Power • Short-term stays for joint research academia and industries. Industries propose Production. The project aims at optimizing. activities at THI (up to 3 months), research problems and fund universities to The project aims at (i) improvement of • A group workshop at THI, carry research. existing of modelling approaches for the • Networking activities with investigation of interactive operation of (potential) industry partners as well The Institute of New Energy Systems biogas and PV power plants through design as of THI University has 5 Professors and 25 of an optimization algorithm. (ii) To develop • A regional conference on applied researchers who undertake applied research a predictive control system for biogas plants research in Renewable Energy in in the following areas: to respond to short term fluctuations in PV Kenya power generation. (iii)Concept validation on • • Industrial Energy Systems a commercial biogas plant. • • Energy Systems Technology The research division at Technische • • Domestic Energy Systems For the above projects, I have also Hochschule (THI) has three (3) institutes, managed to participate in virtual quarterly namely: During my research stay at InES I was progress meeting with the project partners Eng. Elias Ako assigned to the Domestic Energy Systems and associated lab works. Dept. of Energy Technology Photo Courtesy of pngwing.com

61 Issue No. 7 - December 2020 www.ku.ac.ke www.ku.ac.ke Issue No. 7 - December 2020 62 and interacted with members of staff and students at the host institution, the Academy of Arts in Szczecin. Visits were made to the at Staff individual four departments: (a) Painting, My mobility experience (b) Media Art (c) Design and (d) Music. The members of staff were assigned classes to teach, mostly online and also facilitated University of Cape Coast, Ghana exchange several workshops and symposia; presenting several academic papers. Thanks to the was awarded a mobility scholarship the KU research ecosystem that was well received; Strengths/takeaways Pandemic, the team also benchmarked on under the ACADEMY project; African equally the DRIC team also presented their research how certain aspects of practical based art Trans-Regional Cooperation through ecosystem which I got to experience firsthand. • Staff complement that included research visit courses were handled through the online AcademicI Mobility (ACADEMY) is part of the Intra Both institutions have an almost similar research fellows Platform. Africa Academic Mobility Scheme, which favors the agenda and landscape; the DRIC team appreciated • Active inaugural lecture tradition exchange between higher education institutions in the well-established research processes at KU • UCC Scholar tool that provides real time team of four members of teaching The Kenyatta University team visited a the different African countries. The project seeks strengthened by various policy documents and data on their research output, allows for staff from the School of Creative and number of Art galleries within Szczecin, to challenge issues such as gender equality, job a solid structure which they were keen to adopt. monitoring and evaluation as well as Performing Arts, Film and Media Poland and Berlin, Germany. The team also A shortage, poverty, environmental sustainability I participated in the day to day administration informs decision making. Studies traveled to Poland and Germany visited the National Museum in Szczecin. from the 1st October to 1st December 2020 During these visits, the Kenyatta University and higher education quality. ACADEMY helps activities in the research directorate which also • Yearly action plan for the team that is on a Cultural Exchange programme under team learned a lot about the history of Polish knowledge and culture exchange through offering included accompanying various teams to check on reviewed quarterly with monthly reports the “Transcultural Perspectives in Art and and European Art and how to make the support for Masters, Doctoral and short research, researchers’ field work activities. expected Art Education” (TPAAE) project realized Creative Arts grow from the social dynamics teaching and administrative visits between the within the European Commission funded of Art education. How to conceptualise the consortium partners. The consortium partners Marie Sklodowska-Curie Actions Research Creative Arts around an entrepreneurial lead include University de Tlemcen (coordinating and Innovation Staff Exchange, Horizon2020 and target audience was a major focus of the university), University of Cape Coast, Ghana, (MSCA-RISE H2020). exchange visit. Kenyatta University, University of Ibadan, Nigeria Representing the four departments in and University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. the School, the four members of staff were: At Kenyatta University the project is coordinated (a) Prof. John Mugubi - Dean and Associate by Prof. Chris Shisanya in the Department of Professor, Department of Communication, Geography. Media, Film and Theatre Studies, (b) Dr. Mercy Wanduara - Department of Fashion Design I visited the University of Cape Coast, Ghana in and Marketing, (c) Dr. Priscilla Gitonga - March 2020 and was attached to the Directorate Department of Music and Danceand (d) of Research, Innovation and Consultancy (DRIC). Anne Mwiti - Department of Fine Art and Dr. Priscilla Gitonga, Ms. Anne Mwiti, Dr. Mercy Design. After settling in and meeting with the DRIC team Wanduara and Prof. John Mugubi together with their Polish a schedule of activities was jointly prepared for and German counterparts during their visits to the Art The Kenyatta University team visited galleries within Szczecin, Poland and Berlin, Germany the period. This was kickstart by a presentation of UCC Scholar

63 Issue No. 7 - December 2020 www.ku.ac.ke www.ku.ac.ke Issue No. 7 - December 2020 64 The Cultural experience

It was not all work although I did not get to visit is their hospitability and warmness, I ended up various touristic sites due to COVID-19, I got a being stuck due to the travel restrictions brought glimpse into the history and culture of Cape Coast about by COVID-19 but I felt right at home and and Ghana by large. I visited the birthplace of well taken care. The extended stay allowed me Kwame Nkrumah’s Convention People’s Party in to explore and sample the various dishes they Salt pond. I also got to learn of the history of the make. This was another highlight of my visit; the Fante people and how they came to settle in their Ghanaians have various rich dishes that keep one present home in Mankessim under the leadership salivating I know I did the entire time. highlight of of three legendary leaders with magical powers my visit; the Ghanaians have various rich dishes Oburumankoma (whale), Odapagyan (eagle), that keep one salivating I know I did the entire and Oson (elephant) Oburumankoma the whale time. is supposed to portray how the Fante were brave fisher-folks; Odapagyan the eagle speaks of Fante aerial ability and Oson the elephant symbolizes Fante land dominance. Fufu served with groundnut soup Banku served with okra soup I also visited Takoradi an industrial and commercial centre as well as the capital of the Western Region.

I enjoyed the colourfulness brought about by the African cloth (kitenge) that the Ghanaians proudly My deepest gratitude goes to the ACADEMY Project for availing this wear which is also worn as officially attire, the vibrancy in colour all around did not give room opportunity, the UCC team for creating a home away from home, for to any dull moments, equally worn with pride the valuable lessons and insights and overall enriching experience. Ms Tindi at Saltport the birthplace of the Convention People’s Party To KU for granting me the permission to undertake the mobility Ms. V. Tindi together with a KU MSc. Students Rogers Rono also under the ACADEMY project experience.

65 Issue No. 7 - December 2020 www.ku.ac.ke www.ku.ac.ke Issue No. 7 - December 2020 66 KU to host Cohort 2 of the East African Community Scholarships

Applicants by Country

31. RWANDA 2. KENYA

10. SOUTH SUDAN

YOUR LOGO

8. 37. BURUNDI TANZANIA enyatta University has been chosen Kenya, South Sudan and Uganda. by the Inter-University Council 45. UGANDA Kfor East Africa(IUCE) to host Being a fast growing regional economic cohort 2 of the EAC Masters Scholarship block, the EAC recognizes the importance Programme. The programme is in the areas of investing in education to create future of applied mathematics, biotechnology, crop change agents who identify themselves Applicants by Country protection (plant pathology), integrated soil with the integration agenda of the EAC Biotechnology fertility management, entrepreneurship and and are willing to share economic and de- Entrepreneurship physics. velopment-oriented expert knowledge. Kenyatta University was selected to host the The Programme that commenced EAC masters scholarship programme due 31 23 in 2018 is supported by the German to its uniqueness in providing high quality Development Bank-KFW and coordinated programmes that are globally competitive. Applied Maths by the Inter-University Council for East The Vice-Chancellor assured the IUCE Physics 18 25 Tuo Zaafi served with goat meat. Africa (IUCEA) on behalf of the participating secretariat that the university will create a universities in the region. The EAC has more conducive learning environment to enable 19 than 170 million citizens with diverse cultural the students undertake and complete their 17 Crop identities in the 6 member states of Rwanda, studies within the acceptable timeframe. ISFM Protection Did I mention I partook in fufu pounding… the United Republic of Tanzania, Burundi, The outlook of the applications was as follows

67 Issue No. 7 - December 2020 www.ku.ac.ke www.ku.ac.ke Issue No. 7 - December 2020 68 CABI Awadees

Center for Agriculture and Bioscience international (CABI) is an international not-for-profit organisation that works to improve people’s lives worldwide by 5 solving problems in agriculture and the environment. CABI’s work is delivered through dedicated teams and key partners in 49 countries across the globe. STUDENTS With over 11 centres across the globe including in Nairobi Kenya. Two Masters CORNER students in the School of Agriculture and Enterprise Development Ms. Berice Imbayi and Mr. Geoffrey Nyapom were supported by CABI to undertake their research projects which focus on plant health by management invasive pest through cost effective and environmental friendly methods.

69 Issue No. 7 - December 2020 www.ku.ac.ke www.ku.ac.ke Issue No. 7 - December 2020 70 Seeking cost effective and environmental friendly solutions to fruit flies menace

species are spread available pheromone lures as a convenient across Africa causing and fast method for detecting, monitoring losses ranging from and controlling fruit flies. The study will 30%-80% to crops. be carried out in Murang’a, Kirinyaga and Female fruit flies Embu Counties in Kenya were cucurbits damage fruits by the and mangoes are produced, 6 farms will puncturing the fruits be selected and three types of Pheromone to lay eggs and larvae traps installed. feeding inside fruits. The larval stage Data on fruit flies will be collected causes about 40% fortnightly, brought to the laboratory for damage on squash, separation, counting and identification sweet guard (30%), under a dissecting microscope. It is expected Ms. Imbayi at the laboratory above and Mr. Nyapom beneficiaries of research grant from CABI mangoes (40-75%), that the results will provide a better watermelon (30%), understanding of the extent of loss caused orticultural crops contribute pumpkins (29%) and cucumber (40%). Most by fruit flies on mango and cucurbit farms significantly to agriculturalfarmers use synthetic chemical pesticides and demonstrate the effectiveness of the Hproduction globally and are to control the fruit flies which are costly, lures as a tool for monitoring pest population characterized by a large diversity of crop harmful to our health, environment and and predicting loss and as a tool in decision species, high returns per unit area, high other beneficial organisms. Furthermore, making for control measures. nutritional value and high potential for insecticides are ineffective since the Direct estimation of Maize yield income generation compared to other types destructive larvae is inside the fruit pulp of crops. Fruit flies are highly destructive and pupation occurs in the soil, hence are insects that severely threaten fruits and protected from pesticides. vegetables production globally. There are loss caused by Fall armyworm approximately 4000 known species of Alternative effective and sustainable pest fruit flies worldwide, of which 200 species control strategies are necessary. Ms. Imbayi are invasive causing damage fruits and under the guidance of her supervisors vegetables. A good number of the Invasive will investigate the use of commercially Red rubber septa pheromone lure which is a type of insect trap that uses pheromones to lure insects in Kenya 71 Issue No. 7 - December 2020 www.ku.ac.ke www.ku.ac.ke Issue No. 7 - December 2020 72 aize is the major food crop in difference between the potential yield Kenya, where 2.4 million tons (yield that would have been obtained in the Fall armyworm a pest native to Mare produced yearly for over 28.6 absence of the pest) and the actual yield. America arrived in Africa in 2016, million people (85 kg/person). With the This study will be carried out in five major when it was first reported in Western population rapidly growing and the resulting maize growing agro ecologies in Kenya. Africa from where it spread rapidly. pressure on land every crop produce counts. Half of each fields will be protected against " By 2019, it was found in most of However, the fall armyworm (FAW) is posing FAW using a systemic insecticide, and the a threat on food security. other half left for natural infestation, and the sub-Saharan Africa threatening food comparison of yields gives an estimate of security. Fall armyworm a pest native to America crop loss. Mr. Nyapom hopes to provide the arrived in Africa in 2016, when it was first first experimental and statistical yield loss reported in Western Africa from where it assessment in maize attributable to FAW KU supervisors, Dr. Ruth Kahuthia-Gathu spread rapidly. By 2019, it was found in most infestation in Kenya as well as an estimate of and Dr. Everlyne Samita together with of sub-Saharan Africa threatening food the potential impact of the maize losses due CIMMYT Supervisor and Mr. Nyapom security. to FAW, paving way to the effective design (second right) during a field visit trial in of integrated pest management options for Kiboko. The trial, maize yield loss caused by Various management options have been FAW, leading to greater food security easing fall armyworm in Kenya is currently being adopted in Kenya, including use of climate global burden for crop loss. conducted in major maize growing areas in adapted push and pull, use of natural Kenya. enemies as well as use of insecticides. However, control and management measures of the pest infestation on maize may work successfully once the levels of attack are assessed and the pest status known. Several studies have tried to estimate the impact of FAW, in particular the crop losses that it causes. The first study, based on surveys, estimated that FAW had the potential to cause maize yield losses from 0.8 to 1 tonnes/ha (47.3% of crop damage), if left uncontrolled. To address this gap, actual maize yield assessment is essential for establishment of proper integrated pest management strategies.

Mr. Nyapom will seek to explore a more precise method of estimating crop losses which will be through direct measurement of the actual losses. Crop loss is simply the

73 Issue No. 7 - December 2020 www.ku.ac.ke Research and Innovation News

Office of the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Research, Innovation and Outreach) P.O. Box 43844-00100 Nairobi,Kenya Tel: +254 20 870 Ext: 3026 email: [email protected] www.ku.ac.ke http://research.ku.ac.ke/index.php/en/