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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,
20
University is to provide quality Excellence, Self Reliance,
education and training, Innovation, Equal
promote scholarship, service, Opportunity, Corporate
innovation and creativity and 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
53
Innovation News PG. 4
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
• Partnerships/Collaborations PG. 41
competetive centre of generation and every person to knowledge
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:
W 346 10 471
e welcome you to this 7th We wish you a healthy and peaceful
issue of The Research and Merry Christmas and Prosperous New Year
Innovation News! This is a 2021.
Prof. Vincent Onywera; PhD, ISAK 2 signature publication from the Division of
Research, Innovation and Outreach. Despite Proposals Research Capacity Scholarly
Ms. Violet S. Tindi the challenges caused by the covid-19 Developed Building Trainings Publication
pandemic, Kenyatta University faculty, staff
Ms. Sylvia Anzagi
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
2 77
well as key stakeholders in significantly
Design and Layout: contributing to the University’s Research and
Ksh. 549,604,442
Innovation agenda despite the challenges of
Mr. David Werimo covid-19. This publication covers a wide range
of topical stories and news including but not Grants
Innovative Research Grant amount Secured
limited to funded research and development Secured
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
1
Grants Awarded
Startups
Admitted 12
32
Faculty
Startups
Commercialized 6
Patents
Applications Filed 6
2
Innovators
Research Dissemination &
Outreach Activities 10 INNOVATION
45 NEWS
284
International and National
Postgraduate
osstgra
t ad
a ua
aduaua
ate
te
te Conference/ Workshop
Students
udent
dent
nts
ts
ts Attended by Faculty
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
KU student develops test kit
F
ifteen Kenyatta University students
with the support of faculty and
prototype for COVID-19
technicians have developed
ventilators to aid in the treatment of Covid19
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.
M
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
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 between 500-1000 swabs per the team of innovators the coveted UN
The development of the prototype was
has locally been patented with Kenya financed by Kenyatta University, the Kenya
Industrial Property Institute, Patent number day. PERSON OF THE YEAR AWARD 2020 for their National Innovation Agency, and Betika.com
A sample of the swabs effort in responding to COVID -19 pandemic. amongst others.
KE/P/2020/3654.
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.
F
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,
by Fidel Makatia have developed KE/P/2020/3722.
demonstrates the use of intelligent barrier system to the
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
C
handaria Incubation Centre in collaboration
with School of Engineering, Engineering
Students 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
KU Don T
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
harassed in institutions of higher silence that prevents people from coming
learning here in Kenya are on the rise. forward. The result: a safer campus for all. The
develops
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
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
SGBV
or are simply not reported due to a fear that in collaboration with Women Education
2
survivors will not be taken seriously Researchers of Kenya (WERK), will also be
featured.
Prof. Grace Wamue-Ngare of the
Reporting
Department of Sociology, Gender and The app has attracted a lot of attention
Development decided to work out a from other universities administration and
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
App
developed a mobile App makes it easy for
students and staff at who have experienced ‘To have delivered this to the university
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
RESEARCH
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.
NEWS
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,
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:
Kenyatta University receives grant to establish
a). The role of Women in the Public and Prof. Caroline Prof. Judith
Private Sectors Thoruwa Waudo
b). Skilling and Mentoring
a Women Economic Empowerment Hub
The Hub Board The Hub Leader
c). Violence, Crisis and Women’s Work chairperson
2. Impact evaluation - to generate
evidence on causal relationships and the
K
30% Increment in;
enyatta University has received effectiveness of a promising intervention to
development grant of USD. • Representation of women in improve WEE.
400million from the Bill and Prof. Grace Prof. Germano
management and leadership
Wamue-Ngare Mwabu
50%
Melinda Gates Foundation. The grant is positions 3. Stakeholder engagement - Involving
meant to support the establishment of a • Participation of women in policymakers, citizens as well as civil
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)
• Proportion of women-owned and advocate for evidence-based policy making.
Hub Project aims to ensure that various
Reduction of Sexual managed enterprises within the
stakeholders such as government ministries
and gender-based manufacturing sector
and departments, county governments, 4. Capacity building - To ensure that
violence prevalence strong institutions and networks emerge and
policy leaders (legislators and policy makers)
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 be packaged in order to be most impactful.
by the year 2025 include: • New gender responsive • 20% Increment in diversity and quality of women
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 D
r. Jackline
Department
Nyerere
of
of the
Education
Management Policy and Curriculum
through teaching, community engagement
and public awareness. These roles of
universities are critical in addressing climate
D
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
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.
U n i ve r s i ty, population groups and regions.
15 Issue No. 7 - December 2020 www.ku.ac.ke www.ku.ac.ke Issue No. 7 - December 2020 16KU Researcher's quest to Exploring virtual reality technology to
enhance accountability for enhance maternal care to migrant mothers
sexual violence through The researchers championing the
project from Kenyatta University include Dr.
Josephine Gitome(Co-PI)of the Department
forensics
of Philosophy and Religious Studies, assisted
by: Dr. Newton Kahumbi, Philosophy &
Religious Studies Department KU, Dr.
P
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
of 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
The project aims to improve prosecution Fund (GCRF) aims to document traditional
from KU and Black Rhino VR Company
rates, by enabling access to recovery and Dr. Josephine Gitome (Co-PI), birth assistants and refugee midwives/safe
Department of Philosophy and Religious Studies
managed to collect data from the TBAS and
preservation of DNA evidence in low-resource mothers’ informal knowledge pertaining
Refugee midwives, mothers and fathers’
environments, where full forensic medical the provision of vital maternal care in an
representatives in Dadaab. The analysis will
M
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 longest standing camp). The project will be
will find great application within the ambits
collaboration of academics at using immersive storytelling (Virtual Reality
of law and enhance proper use of human
Kenyatta University, Newcastle University and spatial audio) to document women's
genetic information in Kenya, and ensure
and Black Rhino (a Nairobi based virtual knowledge, with these stories, digital
that, even in exceptional circumstances,
reality team). The project team is working toolkits that can then be used to train future
human rights, justice and sustainable
with traditional birth attendants (TBAs) midwives will be produced. The toolkits will
development are not compromised.
among the refugee Somalis based in Dadaab also be used by humanitarian workers (UN
camps with an aim of working to promote & MSF) to help health practitioners better
Collaborators in this project include
maternal care in humanitarian contexts understand sensitive, culturally appropriate
Government Chemist, KEMRI, University
and mothers in marginalized context in maternal care from the perspectives of TBAs
of Leicester, Directorate of Criminal
Africa. The project which was awarded USD and refugee midwives/safe mothers.
Investigations and Wangu Kanja Foundation.
17 Issue No. 7 - December 2020 www.ku.ac.ke www.ku.ac.ke Issue No. 7 - December 2020 18Emerging science of character strength intervention in Family planning critical in achievement
overcoming emotional challenges among the youth of SDG 11 – KU researcher explores
D D
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
awarded a collaborative grant of conducted to compare the effects of the reproductive 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
SDG 11
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.
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 20Identification 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
K
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 Neu-Ulm University of Applied universities’ Technology Transfer Offices will on the Kenyatta University side is comprised
D
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.
Microbiology 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 22KU Don explores the use of isotope ERASMUS + International Credit Mobility Fund
technique applications to assess 2020-2023
the effects of nutrition related
T
he coveted Erasmus + mobility University. The project will seek to enhance
interventions
fund has been awarded to Kenyatta KU’s vision of extending the collaboration
University (KU) and Linnaeus with European universities It is expected that
Kenyatta
University (LNU) Sweden. LNU and KU the increase in staff members competences
have had a long standing collaboration from this project support desired increase
T
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.
Obesity which is the new “silent
(TC) Projects. In the recent IAEA funding
cycle, Kenya, led by Kenyatta University University Palme project. This new mobility project
fund will enable KU and LNU to participate
in the joint vision of internationalization
contemporary pedagogy, research, transfer
of know-how and education technologies.
and Linnaeus
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 the creation of an international mind set will also contribute towards establishing
University
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) prepare students to become successful in a towards the University’s efforts of building a
Collaboration
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 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
Members of the department of Ed. Communication
fat mass (FM) and fat free mass (FFM).
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 24KU Researchers explore use of finger millet and oyster
mushrooms in management of Type 2 Diabetes
Banana paper:
become vital to find alternative cost effective The project envisions graduating
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),
commercializing that it takes up to 400 years to decompose
these non-biodegradable polymers used
of multi-disciplinary researchers will design
machinery and produce minimum viable
in dietary fiber that slows glycemic response,
and essential amino acids. Oyster mushroom
Dr. Everlyne Wanzala (Department of
Pharmacognosy, Pharmaceutical Chemistry
eco-friendly
in polythene bags, resulting in pollution of biodegradable packaging products and is also rich in essential amino acids and, in and Pharmaceutics & Industrial Pharmacy,
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
packaging and
(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
2014). The bio-degradable packaging and environment. Institute (FCRI), KALRO Kisii Centre). The
sanitary towels sanitary towel project is a 3 year National
Research Fund (NRF) funded project of
The study will formulate bioavailable
products from finger millet and oyster
study will support seven PhD and four MSc
students.
Kshs. 18,805,500 under the industrialization, mushrooms and test their efficacy using
manufacturing and agro-processing sector. animal models and randomized controlled
P
trials. Education to key stakeholders
The project synergizes expertise from, rof. Hudson Nyambaka of the
on products will be done to enhance
material science, chemistry, engineering, Department of Chemistry was
acceptability and continued production and
fashion design and entrepreneurship to awarded a multidisciplinary grant
utilization. The resultant nutrition products
create packaging prototypes and sanitary of Kshs. 19,999,865 by National Research
Dr. Jackline Kisato, and their use will not only contribute to
towels from banana pseudo stems Fund for the study, entitled “Value addition
Project PI the management of hyperglycemia and
and appropriate business models for to finger millet-based food products
hypertension in T2D conditions but also in
commercialization of these products. and their efficacy in the management
the management of other nutrition related
I
of hyperglycemia, hypertension and
conditions such as low body immunity while Oyster mushrooms
n today’s world, environmental promotion of nutrition security among
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
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 26NRF Multidisplinary
Projects
Dr. Evelyne Dr. Catherine
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 National Research Fund (NRF) has a mandate to mobilize, allocate and Eng. Dr. Isaiah Bosire Omosa
The project is being administered by Karatina University in collaboration with Comet
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
Science and Technology for the growing economy. NRF allocates resources Project Title: Development of novel
construction materials and energy Grant: Kshs. 12,356,250
for competitive multi-disciplinary research and collaborations among generation systems that make use of
selected agricultural waste Project Title: Developing low-cost
Universities and research institutions. Kenyatta University faculty have The project is being administered by
diagnostic tools and biosensors for rapid
detection of crop and human pathogens
continued to competitively apply in large numbers with a good number of University of Nairobi in collaboration with in Kenya
Kenyatta University and Jomo Kenyatta
University of Agriculture and Technology The project is being administered by ISAAA
proposals being successful, either as PI’s or in a collaborative capacity as AfriCenter in collaboration with University
of Nairobi, Kenyatta University and National
Co-PI’s. Some of the collaborative projects Commission for Science, Technology and
Innovation
27 Issue No. 7 - December 2020 www.ku.ac.ke www.ku.ac.ke Issue No. 7 - December 2020 28Adaptive 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
C
limate-smart agriculture (CSA) adaption to climate change. Livestock and Fisheries. Towards this
aims to achieve three outcomes end, competitive grants were awarded to
(triple wins): TIMPs exist within the National various multidisciplinary teams; we applaud Department of Agricultural Department of Department of
Department of Agricultural
Agricultural Research System (KALRO, our researchers who were awarded as Resource Management Agriculture Science & Agriculture Science & 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. through Improved
Smart Indigenous Technologies to Enhance Management Tech. for
strategic framework for responding KALRO received research funds under the Contagious Caprine Pleuro
to the challenges. Kenya Climate Smart Agriculture Project Chicken for Improved Open Fields Tomato Improved Food Nutrition
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 30IFS 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
M
costly and time-consuming but also do not areas under lantana within area of study. In
M
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 and Biotechnology, Kenyatta
of USD 14,050 funded by International on costs and accuracy in invasive species design their control measures. 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
focusses on lantana mapping through that the method will involve modelling the factor gene.’
at 28-36%, and in certain areas, as high as against M. oryzae.
hyperspectral and multispectral remote species spectral responses during its various
80-90% yield losses have been reported.
sensing. Alien invasive species negatively growth stages to determine its unique Blast disease caused by a fungal pathogen
Enhancing the resistance of finger millet Mr. Luasi’s research focuses on improving
affect the functions of fragile ecosystems separability with co-occurring vegetation Magnaporthe oryzae is one of the major
to M. oryzae has been shown to be the resistance of finger millet against blast
such as forest resources, water resources, using field hyperspectral remote sensing. factors affecting finger millet growth and
most economical and effective approach disease by introducing frameshift mutations
and agriculture. Lantana camara L. invasive This spectral information will be needed for yield. The disease has been singled out as
for controlling blast. Various studies have in ethylene response transcription factor
species has been listed as an agent of development of a unique spectral index for a top constraint to finger millet production
shown that expression of ethylene response gene through site-specific mutagenesis.
biodiversity change in natural habitats its discrimination from the rest of vegetation since most landraces and a number of other
transcription factor gene suppresses
since its introduction in Kenya in the 1950s. with hyperspectral and multispectral images. genotypes are highly susceptible, with
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 32Expected Project Outputs
b. Ongoing Research •
•
Improved network for sharing degree
courses through blended learning
Online platform (OER Africa) and
Leveraging on technology enabled learning
individual Learning Management
System
for enhanced and blended learning project
• Increased capacity n to support
pedagogical approaches for blended
learning
I
• For partner and participating
n an increasingly globalized Universities working with various partner
The Technical Partners universities in East Africa
environment anchored in knowledge Universities in East Africa, technical partners
based economies, the demand for 21st and higher education commissions. The
• Staff and Education Development • Strengthened Quality Assurance
Century workforce equipped with modern partner universities include Kenyatta
Association (SEDA), systems for blended learning courses
technology skills and competencies has University – Kenya, Strathmore University
• Commonwealth of Learning (COL),
reconfigured the manner technology is – Kenya, Makerere University - Uganda,
• University of Edinburgh. • High quality credit bearing blended
used in many sectors including education. University of Rwanda, Open University of
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
Higher Education Commissions in the regular programmes
transforming teaching and learning in higher
EA countries
A
educational institutions world over. As one The Technical Partners include Staff
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 SEDA to equip them with the knowledge embarked on the development of interactive
enabled learning to promote academic
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, achievement of the project outputs. This the Blended Learning Policy – provides programmes and year groups.
one of the partners in the Partnership for universities drawn from the East African
• Strathmore University culminated into the award of a Certificate in guidelines for the delivery of the face to
Enhanced and Blended Learning (PEBL) region participating in the project.
• Makerere University Developing People and Enhancing Practice face (full-time & part-time), Virtual and 2. Capacity development of faculty, more
could therefore not have come in the right
• University of Rwanda (DPEP) and certificate in Supporting Open Distance Learning, and Continuing than 1000 faculty members have been
time.
• Open University of Tanzania Technology Enabled Learning (STEL) to Education Programmes trained in the facilitation of online learning
• State University of Zanzibar successful participants. The KU PEBL team and more specifically online pedagogies.
The PEBL project started in September
• 20 participant universities from East members led by Dr. George Onyango (the Outputs achieved
2017 with the support from UK Department
Africa Dean) comprising of Dr. Elizabeth Mwaniki 3. Quality Assurance rubric developed - to
for International Development (DFID’S)
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 34African Development Bank (AfDB)
doctoral and masters training programs
in Applied Chemistry and Physics
T
he School of Pure and Applied Physics department have also visited other
34 Ph.D
Science has been implementing a collaborating laboratories in Germany and Postgraduate
postgraduate training program in South Africa.
Students
the departments of Chemistry and Physics One Ph.D. student from Chemistry
28 M.Sc
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
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
through the extensive research collaboration • inorganic chemistry 2021
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 36Cross transfer of disease
causing bacteria between
livestock, wildlife and
humans
Dr. Lucas Asaava (left and right) recording data collected from camels
during field work.
Z
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
to 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 and the 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 38You can also read
