https://repository.maseno.ac.ke/handle/123456789/11 2026-05-15T10:57:10Z https://repository.maseno.ac.ke/handle/123456789/6452 Epidemiological and genetic analysis of quantitative resistance to gray leaf spot (cercospora zeina) in elite maize (zea mays l) genotypes NYANAPAH, James Osare Maize has a significant and increasingly crucial role in global food security systems, but the threat of gray leaf spot (GLS) disease, caused by Cercospora zeina, persists and continues to impact its yields on a global scale.Forty-eight inbred lines of maize from the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT)were sorted into 6 sets and factorial crosses of each set generated according the North Carolina mating design II. The lines alongside their crosses evaluated across 12 environments to characterize partial disease resistance to artificial GLS epidemics,temporal progress of the disease, genetic association of resistance with 9 phenological traits, and combining abilities alongside heterotic effects of the inbred lines for resistance. Eight measures of resistancethat includedstandardized area under disease progress curve (SAUDPC), and weighted mean absolute rate of disease increase (ρ) were examined. SAUDPCs were the most efficient infection measure, buttheir variability were best explained (R2 = 93.9%) by disease ratings between the VT (full tassel emergence preceding pollen shed) and R4 (dough stage) stages of development. Individual disease ratings at R4 were almost as effective as SAUDPCs in characterizing genotype reactions.The Levenberg-Marquardt algorithm, along with integration of data eyeballing and gridding to determine starting parameter values, were the best methods for estimating the nonlinear regression model that accurately fit the gray leaf spot (GLS) epidemics.The generalized version of the Richards model outperformed all other growth curve models examined except in some instances where its curve shape parameter matched the fixed curve shape models that best fit any particular epidemic. Goodness of fit of the monomolecular, Gompertz, logistic and exponential models varied with the resistance of entries and favorability of the trial environments to GLS development. Genotypic and phenotypic correlations of SAUDPC were strongest with the Stay-green characteristic (SGR) (r = −0.87). The magnitude and direction of coheritability estimates mirrored trends in genotypic and phenotypic correlations. The covariation of GLS resistance with agronomic traits was mainly due to the direct effects of days to anthesis (DTA) and days to silking (DTS), and the indirect effects of stay-green capacity (SGR) and silking-maturity interval (SMI). General combining ability (GCA) and specific combing ability (SCA) effects were significant. However, the GCA effects were more important than SCA effects signifying the preponderance of additive gene action. Although this was confirmed by significant correlations between GCA effects and per seresistance of inbred parents, the correlations were not strong enough to be of predictive value. Estimates of potence ratio suggested that non-additive effects were due to multiple loci and alleles with recessive, dominance, over-dominance, and various types of epistasis. These findings indicate that comparative analysis of GLS epidemics should be based on the generalized Richards model and breeding for resistance should prioritizereciprocal recurrent selection, pedigree selection, restricted index selection, multiple population improvement, and multistage selection depending on the genetic background of the sources of resistance. PhD Thesis 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z https://repository.maseno.ac.ke/handle/123456789/6451 An assessment of the implementation of the national policy on older persons' objective to facilitate reasonable care and assistance by families and the state in Kisumu city, Kenya ODHIAMBO, Charles Gundo Population aging, also called the “graying of the planet” is increasing in developing countries. The UN Report on aging (2023) demand for long term care is soaring in many countries as the population of older persons increases. UNFPA (2022) highlights Kenya’s 2019 census that points to the expected trebling of the number of older people to 10.3% by 2050. The life expectancy in Kenya between 2019 and 2023 rose from 66.70 to 67.47 while total fertility rate declined from a high of 8.1 in 1977-78 to 3.4 children per woman in 2022. This rapid population aging is happening on the backdrop of limited economic and social resources. Current trends indicate that many older African adults are now permanent residents in cities. Most studies on older peoples’ experiences in urban contexts are in richer countries. The National Policy on Older Persons in Kenya explicitly includes the objective to facilitate the provision of reasonable care and assistance to older persons by both family and the state. This is grounded in the Constitution of Kenya (2010), particularly Article 57, which obligates the state together with families to ensure older persons can participate in society, pursue personal development, live with dignity, and receive protection and reasonable care. The main aim of this study was to interrogate the National Policy on Older Persons objective of facilitating the provision of reasonable care and assistance to older persons by both family and the state. in Kisumu city, Kenya. The specific objectives of the study were to assess the care needs of the elderly population; to examine family and non-family-based strategies of gerontological care; and to assess elderly care challenges of NPOPA in Kisumu City as experienced by the elderly. This study used a pragmatic philosophical paradigm based on experiences, context and solutions. Structural functionalism was adopted as the theoretical framework and mixed methods as the research design. Narrative interviewing was applied to collect qualitative data. For quantitative data, descriptive cross-sectional survey was preferred. The study focused on the older population (70+ years). Sample determination was based on Krejcie and Morgan table and the 2019 Kenya Population and Housing Census data. Using multi stage sampling, Northern, Kaloleni and Bandari sub-locations were chosen in Kisumu Central Sub-County, Central Division and 270 persons aged 70 and above traced with the help of village elders. Using Krejcie and Morgan table, 165 were randomly selected for this research. Key informant interviews with national and county government officers were done. Descriptive data analysis was used to generate means, percentages and frequencies of the data on the quantitative side. On the qualitative side, both thematic and narrative analyses were deployed to draw themes and narratives from the findings. The study found that the state offers minimal care services to the elderly beyond cash transfers, which were helpful but inadequate, and that family-based care-giving for the elderly has changed more towards transactional than obligatory. There is need to adjust policy to the new realities. The study recommended devolving management of elderly care services for better reach and context, mainstreaming ‘active ageing’ as a major policy for government and further studies to establish what happened to respondents beyond age 80 as many were untraceable in the study area, and also to do comparative and longitudinal studies to enrich findings. Master's Thesis 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z https://repository.maseno.ac.ke/handle/123456789/6450 Allelopathic potential of Tithonia diversifolia (Hemsl.) A.Gray and Lantana camara L. Leafy materials on growth, photosynthetic performance and yield of SB 19 and SB 97 soybean varieties KHAVERE, Emily Kavuludi Soybean is a legume which is widely grown in western Kenya for its edible seed but their yields are reduced by the effect of low soil fertility. The use of forest tree species and weeds as green manure has exacerbated soil fertility issues, potentially due to the allelopathic chemicals present in these organic materials. In Western Kenya, farmers are being encouraged to use shrubs as green manure such as Tithonia diversifolia and Lantana camara which have shown to improve soil fertility by 24% to 54%. Soybean varieties, SB97 and SB19 are known to be good yielders, whereas the two plants are being used as organic manure to increase nutrients in the soil for better crop growth and productivity, they are however also known to have allelopathic effects on some crops. Information available on their allelopathic potential on photosynthetic pigment, chlorophyll fluorescence and growth of soybean is not exhaustive. The main objective of this study was to investigate the allelopathic effects of fresh leaf aqueous extracts and fresh leaf material of T. diversifolia and L. camara on germination of seeds, growth, photosynthetic performance and yield of SB97 and SB19 soybean varieties. The specific objectives were to determine allelopathic effects of aqueous extract of L. camara and T. diversifolia on germination of SB97 and SB19 soybean varieties, to determine the allelopathic effects of fresh leaf segments of L. camara and T. diversifolia on growth and yield of SB97 and SB19 soybean varieties and to determine allelopathic effects of fresh leaf segments of L. camara and T. diversifolia on chlorophyll pigments and chlorophyll fluorescence of SB97 and SB19 soybean varieties. The experiments were carried out in the laboratory and greenhouse at Maseno University. In the lab, different concentrations of aqueous extracts, (25%, 50%, 75%, and 100%) and the control- tap water was used. Germination experiment was set in petri dishes and growth, yield and physiological parameters was carried out in the green house. Fresh leaf material of T. diversifolia and L. camara of 4g, 8g, 12g and 16g was added to soil in pots. The control only composed soil. This was replicated four times and laid out in Completely Randomized Design (CRD). Data on germination count were recorded daily, while growth and physiological parameters were recorded weekly. Data were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) using SAS 9.1 to establish significant differences among treatments, varieties and plant materials. The treatment means were separated and compared using the Least Significance Differences (LSD) at P = 0.05. The results revealed that leaf extracts from Lantana camara and Tithonia diversifolia reduced the germination of both soybean varieties. These extracts contained bioactive compounds that inhibited germination, root and shoot growth and yield of Soybean varieties SB 19 and SB 97. Lantana camara exhibited stronger allelopathic activity than Tithonia diversifolia. On growth parameters, including shoot height, leaf number, leaf area, fresh and dry weights, and yield, the presence of allelochemicals in the biomass was suggested to have hindered growth by disrupting enzyme activities and nutrient uptake. Chlorophyll fluorescence and chlorophyll concentration analysis revealed that both leaf biomass materials impacted negatively on photosynthetic activity of the soy bean varieties. Allelochemicals in the fresh leaf segments of these plants decreased maximum photochemical efficiency and quantum efficiency, potentially reducing photosynthetic activity. Farmers are therefore advised not to incorporate Lantana camara and Tithonia diversifolia leafy biomass in farms where soy bean varieties SB 19 and SB 97 are growing. Master's Thesis 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z https://repository.maseno.ac.ke/handle/123456789/6449 Assessment of the role of reverse logistics on supply chain optimization: a case of plastic manufacturing firms in Kisumu County, Kenya KAMANDA, Emmah Kweng’e The plastic industry in Kenya is currently facing a pivotal moment, contending with numerous challenges that hinder its sustainability and operational effectiveness. Plastic firms in Kisumu face inefficiencies in supply chain optimization, with order fulfillment below 70% versus 90% globally, delivery delays of 7–14 days versus 2–3 days, and customer satisfaction at 64% versus 85% in emerging economies such as Vietnam. Weak reverse logistics disrupt inputs, underscoring the need for recovery, recycling, and remanufacturing solutions. A significant issue is the widespread absence of a structured approach to managing plastic products at the end of their life cycle, worsening environmental issues and wasting valuable economic prospects. In this light, the implementation of reverse logistics is identified as a crucial strategic requirement. Reverse logistics, which involves the movement of goods from their final destination for value recovery or appropriate disposal, presents an effective solution to various challenges faced by the sector. As environmental pollution and resource depletion have become growing concerns, manufacturing companies have recognized that recovering used products is an eco-friendly approach to promoting sustainable development. However, many businesses struggle with the challenge of integrating product recovery processes into their existing forward logistics systems. Supply chain optimization is a critical concern for businesses seeking to maximize efficiency, minimize costs, and deliver value to customers. As global markets continue to evolve, companies are constantly seeking innovative methods to streamline their supply chain processes and gain a competitive advantage. The improper disposal and management of plastic waste not only pollute the environment but also disrupt the supply chain of plastic products, affecting various stakeholders from manufacturers to consumers. These inefficiencies disrupt plastic recovery, reuse, and recycling, undermining both environmental sustainability and supply chain efficiency. The general objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of reverse logistics on supply chain optimization within plastic manufacturing industry in Kisumu County. The study was guided by three specific objectives: to assess the effect of plastic waste collection, plastic waste product recovery and recycling as well as plastic waste remanufacturing on supply chain optimization. The study was anchored on Triple Bottom Line Theory and Stakeholder Theory. The study utilized correlational research design and based positivist research philosophy. The study population consisted of 120 employees of the two plastic manufacturing companies in Kisumu County who were surveyed using census technique. Data analysis employed multiple regression, and results presented in tables and charts. The results collectively demonstrated that reverse logistics practices positively influence supply chain optimization in plastic manufacturing firms in Kisumu County. In particular, waste collection through source separation and automatic sorting technologies, recorded the highest explanatory power (R² = 0.502) followed by mechanical and chemical recycling (R² = 0.308) and lastly remanufacturing practices (R² = 0.134). The study concluded that improving reverse logistics activities enhances supply chain optimization. The study recommends that firms adopt advanced sorting and recycling technologies, establish partnerships with waste collectors, and integrate reverse logistics into supply chain planning to promote a circular economy and sustainable development. The study may help the plastic manufacturing sector discern the logistical bottlenecks that impede the recycling and disposal of plastic waste. The study’s findings would benefit not only plastic manufacturers but also policymakers, environmental management agencies, informal waste collectors, and the Kisumu County Government in designing effective waste recovery systems Master's Project 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z https://repository.maseno.ac.ke/handle/123456789/6448 Effectiveness of community health worker-led educational intervention on the uptake of cervical cancer screening in rural Kisumu, Kenya NAFULA, Clara Wanyonyi In Kenya, cervical cancer is among the most frequently diagnosed cancer in women and remains a significant contributor to illness and death, despite being preventable through screening. The national and regional cervical cancer screening rate remains low at 17%, with data paucity in rural Kisumu. In 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) introduced a global initiative aimed at eliminating cervical cancer through a 90-70-90 target: vaccinating 90% of girls, screening 70% of women, and ensuring that 90% of those with precancerous cervical lesions receive appropriate treatment. To achieve these targets, effective, community-based strategies must be developed. Community healthcare workers (CHWs) play a pivotal role in health education and fostering a culture of health prevention. There is, however, very limited local evidence on the effect of CHW-led education on uptake of screening for cervical cancer, especially in rural populations. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of CHW-led education on knowledge, perceived vulnerability, and uptake of cervical cancer screening among women seeking care at Gita and Miranga Sub-county hospitals. A quasi-experimental pre-posttest design with a control group was employed, with Gita Sub-County Hospital serving as the intervention site and Miranga Sub-County Hospital as the control. A total of 274 participants were enrolled at each site. A pretest questionnaire was administered in May and June 2024, followed by a three-month sensitization and education intervention led by trained CHWs in Gita Sub-County. A post-test questionnaire was then administered at both sites. The statistics and data software package (STATA) was used for analysis. Both descriptive and analytical statistical procedures were employed. Socio-demographic characteristics were analyzed descriptively with frequencies and percentages. Paired t-tests, Wilcoxon rank-sum, and McNemar’s tests assessed changes in knowledge, perception, and screening uptake. Generalized Estimating Equations adjusted for confounders. Baseline socio-demographics were similar between the two sites, except for health insurance coverage, which was significantly higher in Gita (25%) than in Miranga (14.4%) (p = 0.02). Knowledge, perceived self-vulnerability, and screening uptake were similar at baseline. The mean knowledge scores were 6.7 (41.8%) in Gita and 5.3 (33.1%) in Miranga. The median self-vulnerability score was 13 (IQR: 9–17), and screening uptake was 31% and 30% in Gita and Miranga, respectively (p = 0.83). Post-intervention, the mean knowledge score in Gita significantly improved from 6.7 to 8.3 (p < 0.001), perceived self-vulnerability increased to a median score of 15 (p < 0.001), and screening uptake rose to 57.7% (p < 0.001). In conclusion, CHW-led educational intervention leads to statistically significant improvements in knowledge, perceived self-vulnerability, and cervical cancer screening rates in rural Kisumu. CHW-led educational programs should be scaled up and integrated into routine community health programs to enhance knowledge and uptake of cervical cancer screening in rural settings such as Kisumu. Policy makers should invest in training, supporting and deploying CHWs as key agents in cervical cancer prevention strategies to contribute to achieving WHO cervical cancer elimination targets. Master's Thesis 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z https://repository.maseno.ac.ke/handle/123456789/6447 Effect of agro-dealers on profitability of improved indigenous chicken production among small holder farmers in Kisumu County, Kenya BWIBO, Beverly Shitandi Improved indigenous chicken production has remained low in Kisumu County, failing to bridge the supply gap of 3.9 million against a demand of 9.1 million chicken. Several efforts have been initiated by the Kisumu County government and different development partners to increase improved indigenous chicken production which have not resulted in any marked change. This implies that investments aimed at improving chicken production have not achieved desired outputs. This could be partly attributed to the weak linkages between agro-dealers and farmers. Further, there is scanty information on the effect of agro-dealers in sustaining the improved indigenous chicken input supply system and commercialization. This study sought to evaluate improved indigenous chicken farmers’ perception about services obtained from agro-dealers, determine the profit level of improved indigenous chicken farmers in Kisumu County, and determine the effect of agro-dealers on profitability of improved indigenous chicken production among small holder farmers in Kisumu County. The study was guided by the innovation theory and Clark’s dynamic theory of profit. The target population included 52,704 farmers practicing improved indigenous chicken farming on small scale in Kisumu West, Kisumu East and Kisumu Central Sub Counties. The study employed descriptive cross-sectional survey and causal-effect research design, using semi-structured questionnaires to obtain data from 384 farmers, selected using multi-stage sampling technique. A pilot study was done in Vihiga County with 40 farmers. The Cronbach’s alpha method was used to compute reliability of the research instrument which resulted in a value of 0.79. The validity of the instrument was done through face and content validity through extensive literature review. Descriptive statistics was used to characterize the improved indigenous chicken farmers, the principal component analysis and Likert scale mean score were used to evaluate improved indigenous chicken farmers’ perceptions about services obtained from agro-dealers, gross margin per bird analysis was used to determine the profitability level of improved indigenous chicken farming, and the propensity score matching was used to determine the effect of agro-dealers on profitability of improved indigenous chicken production. Results revealed that mean age of the household heads was 45 years, majority of which are male headed, with an average flock size of 57 heads. Analysis of farmer perception on agro- dealers showed that an average response score of 3.51, indicated that agro- dealers contributed positively to their enterprises and thus enhanced their competitiveness. The results further revealed that an average improved indigenous chicken farmer made an annual gross margin of KES 265 per bird. Majority of the farmers, 77%, received agro-dealer extension services. Improved indigenous chicken farmers who accessed extension services fetched higher profits by 6% annually compared to those who did not. The study recommends government and development organizations to strengthen the capacities of agrodealers, and thus improve the provision of extension services through them, to enable small holder farmers improve their profitability. Master's Thesis 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z https://repository.maseno.ac.ke/handle/123456789/6446 Assessment of the effects of water quality parameters on zooplankton distribution, diversity, and abundance in water pans of semi-arid Narok, Kenya ACHIENG, Dorine Were Freshwater pans in Kenya’s semi-arid regions play an important role in supporting domestic use, irrigation, livestock, and aquatic biodiversity. However, they are increasingly threatened by climate variations, eutrophication, sedimentation, and overexploitation, all of which affect water quality and biological productivity. Understanding the interactions between water quality and zooplankton population is essential for maintaining the ecological integrity of these systems. This study therefore aimed to (i) assess variations in physico-chemical parameters, (ii) determine variations in zooplankton distribution, diversity, and abundance, and (iii) evaluate the influence of water quality parameters on zooplankton diversity and abundance in selected water pans of Narok County, Kenya. Sampling was conducted twice monthly between February and July 2023 across 20 water pans. In situ measurements were taken for temperature, dissolved oxygen (DO), pH, and electrical conductivity (EC), while nutrients (total nitrogen and total phosphorus) and chlorophyll-a were analyzed using standard laboratory methods. Zooplankton were identified and enumerated microscopically, and diversity indices were computed. Results showed that temperature ranged from 16.65–26.20 °C, DO from 0.40–9.55 mg/L, pH from 6.70–9.30, and EC from 79.83–761.85 µS/cm. Chlorophyll-a concentrations varied from 19.08–176.61 µg/L, total nitrogen from 393.00–2609.43 µg/L, and total phosphorus from 295.43–1331.14 µg/L. Zooplankton communities were dominated by Rotifera (48.9%), followed by Copepoda (25.8%), Cladocera (19.9%), and Ostracoda (5%). Diversity increased from February to June/July, with Shannon-Wiener Index rising from 1.76 to 1.96 and taxa richness from 14.21 ± 0.79 to 16.43 ± 0.67 (p = 0.043). Weak correlations between zooplankton abundance and most water quality parameters indicated that multiple interacting factors influence community composition. The study concluded that Narok water pans support diverse zooplankton under varying environmental conditions. Strengthening riparian vegetation, managing nutrient inflows, and regulating water abstraction are recommended to sustain ecosystem health and productivity.   Master's Thesis 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z https://repository.maseno.ac.ke/handle/123456789/6445 Characterization of maize rhizospheric microflora and evaluation of their antagonistic potential against Ustilago maydis OSENDI, Rosemary Opwondi Maize common smut, attributed to Ustilago maydis, poses a significant risk to maize farming across Kenya. Despite the known potential of rhizospheric microorganisms in biological disease control, limited information exists on their population, characterization, and efficacy against U. maydis in local maize cultivars. Additionally, data on their in vivo effect on disease incidence and severity remain largely unexplored. This study was designed to determine the bacterial and fungal populations within the maize rhizosphere, characterize them using morphological and biochemical characters, and evaluate the impact of selected microbial isolates on disease incidence and severity of common smut in maize. The study was conducted under field, laboratory, and greenhouse conditions at Maseno University. Two maize varieties, DK 8033 and Duma 43 were sown at the university farm in a completely randomized block design. Rhizospheric soil samples were collected at 30 and 60 days after sowing with a soil auger and trowel, into aseptic containers, then conveyed to the botany lab for analysis. Triplicate soil samples were processed via serial dilution followed by plating to recover colonies, which were counted and characterized morphologically and biochemically. Dual culture assays were conducted in vitro to evaluate antagonism against U. maydis. Four promising antagonists: Serratia spp., Bacillus spp., Aspergillus spp., and unidentified fungal isolate MF14, were selected for in vivo greenhouse trials in three replicates, with ten treatments arranged in a completely randomized layout. Treatments included maize cultivars with microbial isolates alongside pathogen inoculation. Controls comprised maize inoculated with the pathogen and distilled water. Comparisons among treatment means used Fisher’s Least Significant Difference, at P ≤ 0.05. There were 25 bacterial and 26 fungal isolates obtained and characterized. Results revealed significantly higher bacterial counts (134.69 × 10⁸ cfu /g) than fungal counts (34.58 × 10⁸ cfu /g), both peaking at 60 days. There were 15 bacterial genera, including Bacillus, Pseudomonas, and Serratia, and six fungal genera (Penicillium, Trichoderma, Fusarium, Alternaria, Aspergillus, Curvularia). In vitro, MF14 isolate showed the highest inhibition zone (22.00 mm), followed by Serratia spp. (19.00 mm), Bacillus spp. (16.00 mm), and Aspergillus spp. (15.00 mm). Greenhouse trials showed that the unidentified fungal isolate MF14 reduced disease incidence and severity to 49.3%, outperforming other treatments. Serratia spp and Aspergillus spp. showed moderate suppression, while Bacillus spp. showed minimal but superior protection to control. This study highlights indigenous rhizospheric microorganisms with potent antagonistic activity, particularly MF14 isolate. Findings provide foundational data for developing microbial-based biocontrol strategies, offering eco-friendly biocontrol options for maize farmers in Kenya upon further research. Master's Thesis 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z https://repository.maseno.ac.ke/handle/123456789/6444 Mental health literacy and its influence on mental well-being and help-seeking attitudes among secondary school students in Homa bay county, Kenya ACHIENG, Monica Anne Oyoo The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that one in four Kenyans experiences a mental health problem, with depression and anxiety symptoms being the most prevalent. Among secondary school students, prevalence of depression and anxiety symptoms are 28.1% and 38% nationally. Prevalence of depression symptoms among students is 44.8% in Kakamega County while Kisii and Migori Counties record 23% and 23.6% respectively. In Homa Bay County, these rates are notably higher, at 57.5% for depression and 49.4% for anxiety. Such figures highlight the urgent need for interventions given the academic, social, and health implications of untreated mental health conditions. Previous studies suggest that enhancing Mental Health Literacy (MHL) can improve well-being and promote positive help-seeking behaviour. The purpose of the study therefore was to examine the influence of MHL on mental well-being and help-seeking attitudes of secondary school students in Homa Bay County, Kenya. Objectives of the study were to: evaluate levels of MHL, assess the nature of relationship between MHL, mental well-being and help-seeking attitudes; establish moderation effect of availability of school-based mental health resources and gender in the relationship between MHL, mental well-being and help-seeking attitudes and establish interventions that can be put in place to improve levels of MHL among students in secondary schools in Homa Bay County. The study was anchored on Health Belief Model, Social Cognitive Theory and a conceptual framework showing the interaction between MHL (independent variable), mental well-being and help-seeking attitudes (dependent variables). Descriptive, correlational and quasi-experimental research designs were employed. The study population was 131,749 students from form1 (F1) to form 4 (F4). Stratified random and purposive sampling were used to select 400 respondents using Yamane’s formula. Data were collected using questionnaires and focus group discussions (FGDs). A pilot study was conducted among 30 students. Reliability of the instruments was established using test–retest method, with Pearson’s correlation and Cronbach’s alpha were used to determine the reliability coefficients. The results were as follows: MHL Scale (r̄ = .78, α = .98), General Help-Seeking Questionnaire (r̄ = .89, α = .99), Questionnaire on interventions (r̄ = .74, α = .98), General Anxiety Disorder (GAD-7) (r̄ = .88, α = .98) and Depression Assessment Questionnaire (DAQ-9) (r̄ = .91, α = .99). Face and content validity of the instruments were ascertained by experts in the area of Educational Psychology. Quantitative data was analyzed using means, percentages, Pearson’s r, independent samples t-test, ANOVA and linear regression analysis. Qualitative data was transcribed, categorized and reported thematically. Results showed that levels of MHL was moderate (M = 42.84, SD = 5.80), levels of MHL positively correlated with mental well-being r(382) = .822, p = .00 and attitudes towards help-seeking (r(382) = .102, p = .046); The moderating effect of school-based resources was statistically non-significant for mental well-being (R = .534, R² = .285, Adjusted R² = .279,F(3, 373) = 49.569, p < .001, Durbin–Watson = 2.134) and help-seeking attitudes (R = .223, R² = .050, Adjusted R² = .042, F(3, 373) = 6.530, p < .001, Durbin–Watson = 1.924). Moderating effect of gender was also statistically insignificant for mental well-being (R = .534, R² = .285, Adjusted R² = .280, F(3, 378) = 50.326, p < .001, Durbin–Watson = 2.126) and help-seeking attitudes (R = .132, R² = .017, Adjusted R² = .010, F(3, 378) = 2.220, p = .085, Durbin–Watson = 1.962). MHL programme was the most effective (M = 3.52, SD = .65) and use of school computers the least effective (M = 2.71, SD = .89). It was concluded that levels of MHL were moderate, MHL positively correlated with both mental well-being and help-seeking attitudes; interaction effect of availability of school-based mental health resources and gender were non-significant. MHL programme was the best strategy to improve MHL. It was recommended that schools teach MHL and make mental health resources accessible to improve MHL and help-seeking attitudes among students. Findings of this study are expected to inform development of policies to improve levels of MHL and mental well-being among students in secondary schools. PhD Thesis 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z https://repository.maseno.ac.ke/handle/123456789/6443 Effect of waterlogging on growth and development of selected green gram (Vigna radiata L.) varieties OCHAR, Samson Onyango In Kenya, green gram is mostly grown in arid and semi-arid areas under rainfed agricultural systems for both subsistence and commercial purposes. KAT 00301, KAT 00308, KAT 00309, KS20, N22 and N26 are grown in Kenya. However, the commonly grown varieties are KAT 00301 (dengu tosha), KAT 00308 (dengu biashara) and KAT 00309 (dengu karembo). Climate change has caused unpredictable rainfall patterns followed by floods which has led to waterlogging, which limits green gram production by affecting morpho-physiological and biochemical parameters hence food insecurity. There is need to fully understand morpho-physiological, biochemical and yield response of selected green gram varieties to waterlogging in order to identify waterlogging-tolerant varieties. The general objective of the study was to determine the effect of waterlogging on growth and development of selected green gram varieties. The specific objectives were to determine the effect of waterlogging on morphological, physiological, chlorophyll content and yield components of selected green gram varieties. The research was carried out under greenhouse set-up at the University Botanic Garden, Maseno. Ten-litre pots were arranged in a completely randomized design and filled with solarised soil obtained from the University Botanic Garden. Five seeds of KAT 00301, KAT 00308 and KAT 00309 were planted in the pots. Each pot was watered with 500 ml of water daily after and before the waterlogging treatment period. This continued throughout the study period. At 14 days after sowing (DAS), seedlings in each pot were thinned to three. Waterlogging treatments were induced at 21 DAS by dipping the 10-litre pots in larger 20-litre pots and maintaining standing water at 3 cm above the soil level for 3 days, 6 days and 9 days. The control treatment was watering each pot daily with 500 ml water throughout the study period. Each treatment had three replications. Collection of data began on 37 DAS and continued after every seven days throughout the study period. Morphological parameters data, i.e., the number of leaves were counted and fresh weight was determined using digital weighing balance. Data on physiological parameters; photosynthesis rate, stomatal conductance and transpiration rate were measured using LI-680 portable photosynthesis systems. Total chlorophyll content was determined using the Arnon method. Number of days to 50% flowering was counted and dry weight of 100 grains was determined using digital weighing balance. The data was subjected to analysis of variance using Statistical Analysis System (SAS) and separation of means done using LSD test at 5% level. Waterlogging significantly (P≤0.05) decreased the number of leaves, fresh weight, stomatal conductance, photosynthesis rate, transpiration rate, chlorophyll content and weight of 100 grains but significantly increased the days to 50 % flowering of the selected green gram varieties. The fresh weight, photosynthesis rate, chlorophyll content and weight of 100 grains were significantly lower in KAT 00308 as compared to KAT 00301 and KAT 00309. The number of days to 50% flowering in KAT 00308 was significantly more as compared to KAT 00301 and KAT 00309. KAT 00301 and KAT 00309 were less sensitive to waterlogging but KAT 00308 was more sensitive to waterlogging. KAT 00301 and KAT 00309 should be improved to waterlogging-tolerant varieties through breeding. Green gram farmers should plant either KAT 00301 or KAT 00309 to minimise losses due to waterlogging. Master's Thesis 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z