- FINAL REPORT ON RPSUD FUNDED PROJECT, APRIL 2006
- PROJECT INVESTIGATORS
| Name | Responsibility | |
| (a) | Prof. G. H. N. Nyamasyo | Principal Investigator |
| (b) | Dr. Esther Kioko, National Museums of Kenya | Associate Principal Investigator |
| (c) | Ms. Marylucy Oronje, University of Nairobi | MSc Student |
| (d) | Leah Wangui | Research Assistant |
| (e) | Sarah Mbai | Research Assistant |
| (f) | Paul Ambundo | Research Assistant |
| (g) | Judith Shilavula | Research Assistant |
Symbol of success of project (HONEY HOUSE CONSTRUCTED AT KAVUKO COMMUNITY CENTRE) opened by Dr. Helida Oyieke, National RPSUD Coordinator on 13th October 2005.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
- Pollinators include bees, wasps, butterflies, moths, beetles, bats, rodents, birds and may other organisms (over 100,000 invertebrates and 1,000 vertebrate species). In their normal behavioral and ecological interactions with plants, these organisms help to transfer pollen (male reproductive parts) from one flower to another of the same species and hence facilitate in the productivity process of plants. This is referred to as pollination. More than 150 food crops require pollination to produce food (i.e. 75%). Likewise, 80% of all flowering plant species rely on animal pollinators. Therefore, pollinators contribute to the maintenance of biodiversity and ensure the survival of plant species that provide food security to innumerable rural households. Unfortunately, this essential ecosystem service is reportedly threatened by the declining diversity and density of pollinators as a consequence of human activities as well as climate change.
- Generally, the loss of biodiversity is faster in the dry lands where the phenomenon of desertification is serious and where droughts are frequently recurring. Makueni County, Kenya is one such area and it is here where the project on pollinator assessments was based.
- The goals/objectives of the project were: –
- To assess the status of insect pollinators in eth area in terms of species diversity. This information would serve as baseline data for future assessments or monitoring of pollinators.
- To develop a floral calendar in order to relate flowering to seasonal distribution of pollinators.
- To estimate the population of honeybees being the only domesticated pollinator in the area and possibly the most important in relation to food crop pollination.
- To evaluate the economic importance of pollinators in the production of sunflower.
- To mainstream pollinators conservation in the community’s livelihood activities by promoting appropriate linkage to sustainable use of pollinators and the overall conservation of dryland biodiversity.
- To achieve the above goals/objectives, several methods were employed.
- General survey of a 25km2 area to establish the population of beehives and their occupancy status.
- General survey to establish the species of insects in the area.
- General survey to establish the species of plants (both crops and wild) in the area.
- Transect surveys to develop the floral calendar.
- Controlled experiments to determine the differential yields between sunflower visited by pollinators and those not visited.
- Mobilization of a community group to undertake professional bee keeping as a livelihood activity in partnership with the Ministry of Environment, the meeting point here being the long-term protection of a gazetted hilltop area.
- Construction of honey processing units/houses equipped with facilities to promote marketing of standard quality honey.
- Field days where the community was invited to learn about pollinators and share their experiences.
- Results
- A total of 73 log hives were noted, of which 44 were occupied at the time of survey.
- A total of 97 plant species representing 34 families were identified.
- A total of 60 insect species representing 9 orders and 37 families were identified.
- A floral calendar was developed showing the diversity of bee plants in flower during the long rains season 2004/short rains season 2005.
- A Master of Science Thesis by Marylucy Oronje entitled, Effects of Pollinators on Yield of Sunflower (Helianthus annus L.) in Makueni County, Eastern Kenya” in which the main findings are: –
- 20 species including Apis mellifera visited flowers.
- Plants visited yielded 182.4% in seed number, 107% in seed weight and 66.7% in oil content per flower head in plots exposed to pollination than in plots gagged to exclude pollinators.
- Insecticide use on sunflower at flowering resulted in reduced sunflower yields, there was 36.4% increase in number of seeds, 33.4 increase in seed weight and 46% reduction in number of deformed seeds when control – no application was used.
- A community group (Kyundu Hill Youth Group) was successfully mobilized to practice modern bee keeping. At the moment, they are keeping up to 40 Langstroth hives at 33 acres gazetted Kiongwani Hills – with authority from the Government.
- A honey processing laboratory run by Kavuko Community Conservation Centre is already refining and marketing honey. The Kavuko Community Centre is a project of an NGO, Kenya Initiatives for Development, which also has a GEF funded land degradation project in the area.
- Field days were organized on four different occasions. These included: –
- The field day to launch the GEF-SGP on 11th June 2005. In attendance were the Mp and Councillor. Trees were planted.
- The field day to open the Honey Processing Unit held on 13th October 2005.
- The field day for the community members to discuss the way forward.
- A field day to receive the visitors from the UNCCD COP 7 on 22nd October 2005 where trees were planted. Present were the DFO, Makueni and Machakos.
- Conclusion
- The RPSUD funded project has catalyzed action at community level with community members identifying themselves with the projects.
- The project has promoted academic research where students from the University of Nairobi have worked side by side with community groups. They include: –
| Marylucy Oronje (MSc Crop Protection) | Effects of Pollinators on yields of sunflower |
| Esther Magambo (M.A. Environmental Management) | Assessment of Poverty Levels in Kavuko |
| Rosemary Chege (MSc Proposal development | Acacia Conservation |
| Sarah Mbai (MSc Proposal Development) | Assessment of Land degradation on Kavuko |
| Dennis Kimata (PhD Zoology) | Guinea Fowl Domestication |
| Judith Mbai (PhD Zoology) | Porcupine ex-situ Conservation |
| Grace Asiko (PhD Zoology) | In planning to carry out a project on stingless bee in the pollination of strawberries |
| Leah Wangui (Higher National Diploma) | Survey of plants and invertebrate diversity in Kavuko |
- Gratitude
Finally, on behalf of the investigators, the Kenya Initiatives for Development, the Kavoko Community Groups, the Government Officers (Makueni and Machakos Districts), the area MP, the students and our own behalf, we sincerely wish to thank RPSUD for the funds and we look forward to another opportunity to work together.
Acknowledgements
- RPSUD: The Research Programme on Sustainable Use of Dryland Biodiversity which
funded this project is hereby recognized as the main driving force for the entire work. Without the funds, this project would not have been initiated in the first place. In particular, we wish to thank Dr. Jeff Odera, the Regional Coordinator, Dr. Helida Oyieke, the National Coordinator and Ms. Joyce Kinyanjui, the Secretary/Programme Officer for their efficiency in processing the research grant.
- KID: The Kenya Initiatives for Development was the Non Governmental
Organization, which helped to link the Pollinators Conservation Project with the local community at KIMA. KID has established the Kavuko Community Conservation Centre as a village conservation research and development coordination mechanism. It is here where the project was based and KID’s role is greatly appreciated.
- Konza Ranching and Farming Co-operative Society
The 2 ½ acres piece of land on which the Kavuko Community Centre is located was donated by the Konza Ranch for community conservation activities. We wish to thank the Society for this offer and specifically Mr. David Mutangili (the Chairman) and his entire Board of Directors for facilitating the offer.
- University of Nairobi
The RPSUD funds were received and managed by the University of Nairobi, Grants Section. The speed at which the monies were released to us is commendable and we wish to thank the officers involved. We appreciate the architectural design of the bee house provided by the Estates Manager and his Officers.
- Kima-Kavuko Local Community
This project could not have been successful without the genuine participation of the local community. We specifically thank the local Member of Parliament Hon. Mutinda Mutiso, the area Chief, Mr. Joseph Nganga, The Ass. Chief, Mrs. Phyllis Kiema, the Divisional Agricultural Officers, the Late Stephen Kimomyi and Ms. Jane Kioko, the District Forest Officers (Machakos and Makueni), the area local manager, Mzee Kiema, The Kyandu Hills Youth Group and many other local villagers. These people were always ready to participate in the field days making the events very colourful and profitable.
- African Bee Keepers Limited
This private business under the Directorship of Mr. Ernest Simeoni supplied us with the Langstroth bee hives, the honey extractor, harvesting gears and related bee keeping equipment on time. Furthermore, Mr. Simeoni continued to offer professional advice to us on volunteer basis. We appreciate his contribution to the success of the project and wish to thank him very much.
- Paul Ambundo
The day to day running up and down to collect money, purchase research items and submit accounts was effectively done by Mr. Paul Ambundo of the former Department of Zoology. With his participation, we were able to remain in good books of the grants Office and those of the RPSUD Office. Likewise, Paul assisted in the pinning and identification of the insects and the plants. We greatly appreciate his service and thank him very much.
- Judy Shilavula.
We thank Judy very much for her contribution o the project that ranged from technical handling of the insect specimens to providing secretarial services. Through her, we were able to submit reports on time.
- Simon Mathenge of the former Department of Botany identified the plant species and advised us on how to preserve plant specimens. We thank him for that.
- Ms. Veronica Muiruri of NMK provided invaluable contribution in the counting (or estimation) of pollen grains.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Top Page ………………………………………………………………………………. 1
Executive Summary ………………………………………………………………………. 2
Acknowledgements …………………………………………………………………………. 5
Table of Contents …………………………………………………………………………. 7 – 9
General Survey of Bee Hives in a 25 km2 area ……………………………………………. 9
General survey to establish the species of plants (both crops and wild) in the area ………. 11
General survey to establish the diversity of insect species in Kima ………………………. 17
The floral resources for enhancement of modern beekeeping and pollinator conservation
in Kima area, Makueni District ……………………………………………………………… 21
List of Figures
Fig. 1 The diversity of plant species on I transect established at Pollen Glory Farm (PFM)
and 4 at the Konza Ranch (TR1, TR2, TR3 and TR4) ……………………………… 56
Fig. 2 The diversity of families represented in the plant species recorded from transects … 57
Fig. 3 The animal distribution of species in flower recorded from transects on monthly
basis in 2005 …………………………………………………………………………. 58
List of Tables
Page
Table 1 The population and ownership of log hives in Kima 2005 9
Table 2 Some common plants recorded in the study area and their local names 11
Table 3 Insects recorded on plant species in flower 17
Table 5 Some of the common melliferous plants recorded in Kima area and their
Local names 55
Table 6 Insects recorded on plant species in flower 59
Table 7 Participants for the open day during the UNDP/GEF/SGP launch of the
Land Degradation Project, 17th June 2006 …………………………………
Table 8 List of participants during the launch of the honey house 13th Oct 2005 131
A SURVEY OF TRADITIONAL LOG HIVES WITHIN A 25 KM2 AREAS, THEIR OWNERS AND STATUS OF OCCUPANCY BY BEE COLONIES IN 2005
Oronje M. L., Nyamasyo, G.H.N and Mutuku Paul.
Introduction, Justification and Rationale
Traditional beekeeping is a livelihood activity of the Akamba people. In the recent past however, the practice has been replaced by other activities and the skill is feared to be disappearing. It was decided to investigate how popular the practice was in the area and simultaneously estimate the number of hives and by extension that of domesticated bee colonies. A survey was done within a 25km2 area where the researchers walked from homestead to homestead. When hives were encountered, the owner was invited for discussion as the researchers examined the presence or absence of bee colonies in the hive.
Results and Discussion
Table 1: Population of Log Hives in Kima in 2005
| No | Name of Owner | No. of Hives | Hives Occupied | % Occupancy |
| 1 | Mr. Charles Mwingi | 11 | 8 | 72.7 |
| 2 | Mr. Peter Mbevi | 10 | 6 | 60.0 |
| 3 | Mrs. Christine Mutungi | 7 | 1 | 14.3 |
| 4 | Mr. Henry Ngumbo | 7 | 6 | 85.7 |
| 5 | Mr. Mumo Mbevi | 7 | 4 | 57.1 |
| 6 | Mr. Mwangangi | 6 | 3 | 50.0 |
| 7 | Mrs. Dorcas Kioko | 5 | 3 | 60.0 |
| 8 | Mr. Paul M. Kivuva | 5 | 3 | 60.0 |
| 9 | Mr. Richard Kimbe | 4 | 2 | 50.0 |
| 10 | Mr. Moses Katia | 2 | 1 | 50.0 |
| 11 | Mr. Dicky Yoma | 2 | 2 | 100.0 |
| 12 | Mr. David Mulei | 2 | 1 | 50.0 |
| 13 | Mrs. Rose Mueni | 1 | 1 | 100.0 |
| 14 | Mr. Jonathan Kavithi | 1 | 1 | 100.0 |
| 15 | Mr. Kyalo N. Mwema | 1 | 0 | 0.0 |
| 16 | Mr. Mwongela Norman | 1 | 1 | 100.0 |
| 17 | Mr. Mutuku Ndonye | 1 | 1 | 100.0 |
| Total | 73 | 44 | 59.9% | |
| Mean | 4.3 | 2.6 |
A total of 17 traditional bee keepers were recorded in Kima. These owned log hives ranging from 1 to 11 per person (mean 4.3). More than half of these hives had bee colonies indicating the potential for bee keeping in the area.
The occupied hives were examined to establish the reasons for colony abscondment. Most of these hives had ants in them, while others had just been neglected.
A GENERAL SURVEY TO INVENTORISE PLANT SPECIES IN THE STUDY AREA
Gideon Nyamasyo, Leah Wangui and Paul Ambundo
A general survey was conducted to pick and identifying all plant species in the area. The collection was done both during the rainy as well as the dry season. Plant specimens were prepared and pressed between papers in the professional herbarium way. They were then coded and taken for identification at the University of Nairobi Herbarium.
Results and Discussion
97 plant species were identified and these are presented in Table 2. They comprised 35 families. This plant diversity will be used in future to monitor biodiversity changes. There is need therefore to update the list periodically.
Table 2: PLANTS COLLECTED IN KAVUKO, MAKUENI DISTRICT DURING THE
LONG AND SHORT RAINS SEASON, 1004/2005.
| Family | Common Name | Local Name | Species Name | Date Collected |
| Acanthaceae | Asystasis mysorensis | 05/07/05 | ||
| Nthangula | Acanthosperum hispidum | 09/06/05 | ||
| Kilumbu | Monechma debile | 10/06/05 | ||
| Ntangila | Alystasis mysorensis | 10/06/05 | ||
| King’aa | Acanthopale australe | 05/07/05 | ||
| Justicia cordata | 05/07/05 | |||
| Amaranthaceae | Devil’s horsewhip | Munthekenthe | Alternanthera pangens | 05/07/05 |
| Munthekenthen | Achyranthus aspera | 05/07/05 | ||
| Psiotrichum elliottii | 07/09/05 | |||
| Telele | Amaranthus dubins | 05/07/05 | ||
| Pigweed | Musavula | Amaranthus hydrides | 05/06/05 | |
| Amaranthus | Kivia | Amaranthus graecizans | 05/07/05 | |
| Apocynaceae | Madagascar periwinkle | Catharanthus roseus | 07/06/05 | |
| Asclepidiaceae | Ng’ondu/Kikwasi | Pergularia daemia | 05/07/05 | |
| Boraginaceae | Heliotropium zeylanicum | 07/07/05 | ||
| Mukuutu | Trichodesma zeylanicum | 07/07/05 | ||
| Heliotraium subulatum | 07/07/05 | |||
| Caesalpinaceae | Muathaa | Senna didymobotrya | 13/07/05 | |
| Commelinaceae | Wandering Jew | Kitulandu | Commelina beghalensis | 05/06/05 |
| Wandering Jew | Itindiki | Commelina latifolia | 05/07/05 | |
| Cappaceae | Spider herb, spider flower | Sakate | Cleone gynandra | 06/06/05 |
| Spider herb | Kamuanzo | Cleone hirta | 09/06/05 | |
| Kitandamboo | Capparis tomentosa | 05/07/05 | ||
| Caryophyllaceae | Mumo | Pollichidia campestris | 11/06/05 | |
| Ciraminae | Itindiki | Urochloa panicoides | 05/07/05 | |
| Compositae | Mukunga | Laggera brevipus | 07/07/05 | |
| Emilia diversifolia | 23/06/05 | |||
| Wild flower | Tithonia diversifolia | 07/07/05 | ||
| Soso | Tridas procumbeus | 09/06/05 | ||
| Microglossa oyrifolia | 07/06/05 | |||
| Sphaeranthus gomphrenoides | 07/07/05 | |||
| Black jack | Mukanga | Bidens pilosa | 05/06/05 | |
| Dwarf marigold | Kinuni | Schkuhria pinnata | 07/07/05 | |
| Apilia pluriseta | 10/06/05 | |||
| Sow thistle | Sonchus oleraceus | 05/07/05 | ||
| Ragwort | Ng’ondu | Emilia coccinia | 10/06/05 | |
| Mexican marigold | Muvangi | Tagetes minuta | 04/07/05 | |
| Kivantha | Vernonia sp | 07/06/05 | ||
| Kithangila | Acanthisperrmum austral | 05/06/05 | ||
| Convolvulaceae | Kinthui/Kaukwasi | Ipomoea sinensis | 09/06/05 | |
| Sunflower | Ilu | Astripomoe hyoscamoides | 05/07/05 | |
| Cucurbitaceae | Pumpkin | Cucurbita pepo | 05/07/05 | |
| Songe | Cucumis dipsaceus | 23/06/05 | ||
| Cyperaceae | Mbiu | Cyperus rotundus | 05/06/05 | |
| Euphorbiacceae | Kinthunthua | Euphorbia geniculata | 10/06/05 | |
| Kaminzaminzi | Phyllanthus moderaspatensis | 09/06/05 | ||
| Castor oil | Ricenus comunis | 07/07/05 | ||
| Croton | Croton meglocaropus | 07/07/05 | ||
| Gramineae | Love grass | Eragrostis superba | 07/07/05 | |
| Napier grass | Pennisetum purpureum | 05/07/05 | ||
| Sorghum | Mungaimu | Sorghum arundinaceae | 05/07/05 | |
| Red top soil | Rhychelytrum repens | 07/07/05 | ||
| Bulrush millet | Mwee | Pennisetum typhoides | 21/06/05 | |
| Sorghum | Sorghum bicolor | 21/06/05 | ||
| Couch grass | Kinthangai | Digitaria rukwae | 09/06/05 | |
| Craw foot grass | Crow foot grass | 09/06/05 | ||
| Ukuku | Dactylocrerium gigabnteum | 10/06/05 | ||
| Labiatae | Kamuloo/Kiroo | Leucas mariticensis | 05/07/05 | |
| Mwenye | Ociemum flamentosum. | 07/07/05 | ||
| Muloo | Leucas grandis | 09/06/05 | ||
| Musoli | Hosludia opposite | 07/06/05 | ||
| Mukandu | Ocimum gratissisimum | 07/06/05 | ||
| Liliaceae | Kausia | Asparagus flagellaris | 11/06/05 | |
| Malvaceae | Mbinda | Hibiscus canabinus | 07/07/05 | |
| Azanza garkeana | 07/07/05 | |||
| Musingi | Hibiscus micranthus | 05/07/05 | ||
| Mulyambila | Abutilon hirsutum | 05/07/05 | ||
| Mulyambila | Sida rhombifolia | 05/07/05 | ||
| Mimosaccae | Kisewa | Albizia stuhlmaunii | 07/07/05 | |
| Dichrostachys cinerea | 10/06/05 | |||
| Egyptian thorn | Mulila | Acacia nilotica | 05/07/05 | |
| Moraceae | Murry berry | Ndale | Morus alba | 07/07/05 |
| Orobanchaceae | Orobanche minor | 02/06/05 | ||
| Plumbaginaceae | Mung’antha | Plumbago zeylanica | 07/07/05 | |
| Papilinioceae | Glycine wightii | 07/07/05 | ||
| Indigofera arrecta | 07/07/05 | |||
| Kamukai | Crotalaria incemum | 05/07/05 | ||
| Kamukai/Kikai | Crotalaria pycnostachya | 05/07/05 | ||
| Kilanga | Alysicarpus rugosus | 07/06/05 | ||
| Kisuusuu | Indigofera spicata | 07/06/05 | ||
| Polygonaceae | Double thorns | Songe | Oxygomum sinuatum | 04/07/05 |
| Punicaceae | Pomegranate | Kikungumanga | Punica graniatum | 07/07/05 |
| Rutaceae | Ndimu | Citrus lemonii | 07/07/05 | |
| Solanaceae | Sodom apple | Solanum incanum | 05/07/05 | |
| Chinese lantern | Kithongolo | Nicandra physalodes | 04/07/04 | |
| Mukondu | Solamum renschii | 07/06/05 | ||
| Stercuaceae | Kilolo | Methania velutina | 07/07/05 | |
| Kilolo | Methania ovate | 09/06/05 | ||
| Thymelaceae | Muvila | Gridia latifolia | 07/06/05 | |
| Tiliaceae | Mutumba | Grewiatembensis | 07/06/05 | |
| Triumferta rhomboids | 07/06/05 | |||
| Corchorns trilocularis | 21/06/05 | |||
| Verbenaceae | Muthieti | Lantana rhodenseensis | 07/06/05 | |
| Lili | Pentas parvifolia | 07/07/05 | ||
| Mutalisyi | Lanata camara | 07/07/05 | ||
| Vitaceae | Kiungu | Hyphostemma merernse | 11/06/05 | |
| Zygophyllaceae | Tribulus terrestris | 05/07/05 |
A GENERAL SURVEY TO ESTABLISH THE DIVERSITY OF INSECT SPECIES IN KENYA
Gideon Nyamasyo, Leah Wangui and Paul Ambundo
A general survey was carried out during the short rains in 2005 to establish the diversity of insect species at Kima area. Insects were collected using a standard sweep net, killed using chloroform and pinned in insect boxes. They were then coded and identified using University of Nairobi Museum’s collections. Those that could not be identified were taken to the National Museums of Kenya for identification.
Results and Discussions
60 insect species from 37 families and 9 orders were recorded during the short rains season, 2005. These are presented in Table 3. The identified insect species are preserved as a reference collection at Pollen Glory Farm and this will be used in future as a baseline in monitoring biodiversity changes. However, there is need to update this existing data periodically for crop production concerns and biodiversity conservation purposes.
TABLE 3: INSECT SPECIES DIVERSITY CAPTURED AT KAVUKO DURING THE SHORT AND LONG RAINS SEASON IN 2005
| Order/Family | Species |
| ORDER: Lepidoptera | |
| Nymphalidae | Junonia oenone |
| Byblia ilithya | |
| Hamanumida daedalus | |
| Acraea eponina | |
| Belenois aurola | |
| Pieridae | Eurema hecabe |
| Eronia teda | |
| Colotis enippe | |
| Colotis vesta hanningtoni | |
| Noctuidae | Catocalinae gramodes sp |
| Erebus Walker | |
| Arctidae | Urethesia pulchella |
| Sphingidae | Cephonodes sp. |
| Papilionidae | Papilio demodocus |
| Geometridae | Larentinae rhodomentra sp. |
| Danaidae | Danaus chrysippus Linnaeus |
| ORDER: Hemiptera | |
| Pyrrhocoridae | Drsdercus cardinalis Gerst |
| Reduviidae | Ectomoris quadrimaculatis sp |
| Coreidae | Leptoglassus australis F. |
| Coreidae | Stenocris southwood Ahmed |
| ORDER: Coleoptera | |
| Meloidae | Coryna apicicolnis |
| Mylabris tristigma | |
| Ceroctis sp. | |
| Tenebrionidae | Phytinota sp. |
| Tentyrtimae sepidium sp. | |
| Adesmia nigrogemmata | |
| Cerambycidae | Prioninae macromate sp. |
| Thermophilidae | Thermophilum hexastictum Gerst |
| Elateridae | Tetralobus rotundiflous |
| Melyridae | Melyris viridicolor |
| Scarabaeidae | Melolonthinae sp. |
| Oryctes rhinoceros | |
| Lucanidae | Nigidius bubalus |
| Trogostidae | Alindria grandis |
| Anthribidae | Xylinada meculipex |
| Cerambycidae | Crossotus plumicornis |
| Diastocera reticulata | |
| ORDER: Diptera | |
| Diopsidae | Diopsis sp. |
| Asilidae | Asilideae sp |
| Sarcophagidae | Sarcophaga sp |
| Tiphidae | Micromeriella sp |
| Syrphidae | Phytomia incisca |
| ORDER: Hymenoptera | |
| Apidae | Apis mellifera |
| Heriades spp. | |
| Plebeina denoiti | |
| Pseudoanthidium sp | |
| Tetraloniella spp. | |
| Lipotriches spp. | |
| Ceratina spp. | |
| Anthophoridae | Amegilla torrid Sm |
| Xylocopa somalica magretti | |
| Xylocopa flavorufa | |
| Amegillo cormita Fabr. | |
| Cahirners sp. | |
| Sphecidae | Chalicodoma sp |
| ORDER: Orthoptera | |
| Tettigonidae | Eugasteroides sp |
| Pyrgomophidae | Phymatis sp |
| ORDER: Dictyoptera | |
| Mantidae | Parashiendale sp. |
| ORDER: Neuroptera | |
| Myrmeleontidae | Stenares sp. |
| ORDER: Odonata | |
| Libellulidae | Libellula sp. |
THE FLORAL RESOURCES FOR ENHANCEMENT OF MODERN BEEKEEPING AND POLLINATOR CONSERVATION IN KIMA AREA, MAKUENI DISTRICT
By Esther Kioko1, Marylucy Oronje2, G.H.N. Nyamasyo3 and Paul Mutuku4
- Department of Invertebrate Zoology, National Museums of Kenya
- MSc Student. UON
- School of Biological Sciences
- Chairman, Kyundu Hills Youth Group
- Introduction
It is thought that man has hunted honey from wild bees throughout his existence. The practice of keeping hives to harvest honey is about 4,500 year old. The earliest known evidence of honey hunting relates to Apis mellifera in a Mesolithic rock painting in Eastern Spain, dated 6000 BC. There are also biblical references to honey hunting: Judges 14: 8 – 9, 1 Samuel 14: 25 – 27 and 4 references to bees in Deuteronomy 1:4, Isaiah 7:18, Judges 14:8 and Psalms 118:12. Honey, the natural sweet substance produced by bees from the nectar blossoms is considered the most important product in beekeeping. However, other products gaining importance are (1) Beeswax usually used in manufacture of polish, candles, varnish, cosmetics and waterproofing materials. (2) Propolis, which has an antibiotic property. (3) Royal jelly particularly useful in cosmetic industry as an anti-stretch mark, anti-wrinkle e.t.c. (4) Bee venom used as a desensitizer for allergic reactions especially in connection to bee stings but also useful in managing arthritis.
- Distribution of honeybees’ species in Africa
All honey bees fall in only one genus, Apis, which is apparently tropical in origin. The African races are Apis mellifera intermissa (North African race), a small dark bee, highly aggressive and swarms frequently, (Rutter, 1975), Apis mellifera lamarckii, the Egyptian bee found in North East Africa, in Egypt and Sudan along the Nile Valley. It rears numerous queens and swarms frequently. Apis mellifera capensus is restricted to the southwest coast of the Republic of South Africa especially around Cape Town. Apismellifera unicolor found in Madagascar. Apis mellifera jemenitica found in parts of Ethiopia, Eritrea and Somalia. There are three other races in East Africa, Apis mellifera litorea found below 500 metres above sea level, along the coastal regions stretching from Somalia to Mozambique.
It is more prone to stinging and less migratory, probably due to the somewhat more predictable rainfall available in it habitat. Apis mellifera scutellata is found above the coastal escarpment and is common throughout East Africa. It frequently swarms and absconds and is highly defensive. Apis mellifera monticola is found 2000 – 3000 metres above sea level. It is less migratory probably due to the rainfall stability.
- Bees in the Environment, Biodiversity Conservation and Income Generation
Plant species diversity is a significant factor in stabilizing world food supply and it is of interest to note that it depends on pollinator diversity. Bees are among the best known pollinators of agricultural crops as well as natural plants. About 67% of flowering plants depend on insects especially bees for pollination (Kearns & Inouye, 1997). Pollination is important for the survival of most forest tree species because it ensures a healthy regeneration. Bees are among those pollinator groups with high influence in plant population structure and are consequently referred to as keystones species.
It has become very clear that there are close links between rural poverty and environmental degradation and the underlying problems must be tackled in an integrated way by conserving and sustaining utilization of the natural resources. this degradation can be slowed down by introducing economic incentives that integrate conservation with economic enterprises for the rural people (Munthali and Mughogo, 1992). Beekeeping is one such enterprise. It has a strong tradition in many African tribes, thus the technology is already available and what is needed is an improvement in the methods already in use. Beekeeping provides rural people in developing countries with sources of income and nutrition and as such has potential for enhancing rural livelihoods (Raina et al, 1999).
Honeybees and flowering plants have mutualistic relationships as they depend on each other for sustenance. There is no significant correspondence between honeybee phenology and total flora but significant correspondence occurs between honeybees and flowering in the genera of the apiflora (Hepburn and Radloff, 1995).
The population densities of wild A. mellifera subspecies in East Africa depend on seasonal flowering of plants (Lizeki, 1999). The nectar flow period is at its peak when forest trees, shrubs, climbers, weeds and crops flower. Cold weather, drought and fires cause dearth periods, when nectar and pollen sources are scarce. At such dearth periods, the honeybees survive by utilizing food stored in the wax combs, by adjusting colony activities and metabolism or by absconding (the whole colony moving to another area where there are bee resources).
- Beekeeping in Kenya
In general, 80% of Kenya is suitable for beekeeping. This is so particularly in arid and semi-arid areas. According to the Kenya’s Ministry of Livestock estimates, about 80% of the country is suitable for beekeeping. The estimate production of honey is 80,000-100,000 metric tonnes and 10,000 tonnes of beeswax. To date, only 20% of these products are being realized and these are mainly from traditional beekeeping. The other hive products such as royal jelly, bee venom and propolis are not being produced to any significant quantities. Te ministry is committed to encouraging sustainable beekeeping and promotion of other hive products other than honey.
Over the years, several studies and reviews have been undertaken to try and gather information for enhancement of beekeeping in Kenya (Kigatira, 1984; Carroll, 2002; Raina et al, 1999; Muli, 2004). These studies have all indicated the high potential for honey and other hive products, which needs to be harnessed and utilized for poverty alleviation and biodiversity conservation.
- Beekeeping in Makueni District
Makueni District, which was, curved from Machakos District in 1992 covers an area of 7,965.8 km2, most of which is semi-arid. The District is mainly occupied by the Kamba people. However, the District has flora that harbours and provides a habitat for both stingless and honeybees. Beekeeping is a traditional activity in Ukambani. This is exemplified by the high value given to honey and its wide use in traditional medicine and traditional ceremonies in the District. The beehive, referred to as ‘MWATU’, honey referred to as ‘UKI’ and bees as ‘NZUKI’ by the Kamba people have been used in names common in the community such as Kaluki, Koki, Munyoki, Nzuki, Mwatu, Mwaniki among others. The Kamba people have been known as traditional beekeepers but today’s market demand for quality is pushing some of the traditional beekeepers out of the business. There is need to develop floral calendars and introduce modern beekeeping for the improved quality and quantity of honey and other hive products. In this project, modern methods of beekeeping using the Langstroth hive has been introduced aimed at boosting honey production for income generation within the Kima area. Beekeeping has also a major role in conservation of biological resources and hence serves both socio-economic and ecological purposes.
Plate 2: A Langstroth beehive sited under one of the bee plants, Croton megalocarpus, at the Pollen Glory Farm.
Plate 3: The Honeybee, Apis mellifera foraging on a flower.
Plate 5: Log hives hanging on an Acacia tree.
3.0 STUDY AREA
The study was undertaken at the Kima area, Mukaa Location, Kilome Division of Makueni District.
4.0 METHODOLOGY
Data was collected using the Belt Transect Method. At the Konza ranch, four belt transects each measuring 10 meters wide and 200 meters long were randomly selected and marked with pain. Transects were observed after every two weeks in every month. All plant species within each transect were recorded, those not easy to identify in the field were collected for identification and documentation at the National Museums of Kenya. A fifth transect was selected within a cultivated area the number of the Pollen Glory farm to capture plants within the farmland. Insect visitors to flowering plants were recorded and some collected for identification at the Department of Invertebrate zoology. National Museums of Kenya records were kept on the type of lower (i.e. colour) and the presence or absence of bees during the transect surveys.
Plate 6: Community members taking data on plants.
5.0 RESULTS
Table 4: Summary of transects
| Transect description | Characteristics | No. of Plant species/ transect diversity | No. of Plant families | |
| 1 | Acacia – balanites Wooded grassland | 25% tree cover 5% shrub 70% glass | 80 | 30 |
| 2 | Acacia-Albizia Balanites wooded grassland | 30% tree cover 10% shrub 60% grass/herb | 67 | 27 |
| 3 | Acacia – Balanites wooded bushland | 40% tree cover 20% shrub 40% grass/herb | 47 | 19 |
| 4 | Acacia – Balanites wooded grassland | 20% tree cover 5% shrub 75% grass/herb | 62 | 17 |
| 5 | Pollen Glory Farm | Cultivated area | 144 | 44 |
| Total | 97 | 34 |
Table 6 is a summary of the transects, their vegetation characteristics and the record number of species. A total of 97 plant species representing 34 families were identified. The cultivated area had a higher plant diversity both in species and families than the open ranch (Fig. 1).
During the month of April 2005 (long rain season), 140 plant species were in flower as compared to 120 plant species recorded for the month of December 2005 (short rain season)?? The month of October 2005 (dry season) had the least number of plant species recorded in flower (Figure 3) with respect of flower types the yellow ones were preferred by bees than the red, yellow-green, creamy-white, blue, white, purple-white, purple and pink coloured flowers in that order. However, no bees visited red coloured flowers although some bees were recorded visiting pink flowers. Open shaped flowers visited by bees were 88% of total bee plant species recorded while the remaining 12% were tubular in shape.
| STUDY AREA |
Fig. 1: The diversity of plant species recorded along 5 transects (FM – Pollen Glory Farm, TR1,
TR2, TR3, TR4 – transects established at the Konza Ranch).
| STUDY AREA |
Fig. 2: The diversity of families represented in the plant species recorded from the transects.
| MONTH |
Fig. 3: The annual distribution of flowering species recorded form the transects on monthly basis
in 2005.
From the preliminary results, the Kima area has some of the already recorded leading melliferous plants. These include the plants listed in Table 1.
Table 5: Some of the common melliferous plants recorded in Kima area and their local
names.
| FAMILY | GENUS | SPECIES | KAMBA NAME |
| Anacardiaceae | Rhus | Natalensis | Kitheu |
| Anacardiaceae | Lannea | Schweinfurthii | Kyuasi |
| Leguminosae | Acacia | Mellifera | Kithiia |
| Leguminosae | Acacia | Drepanolobium | Kiunga |
| Leguminosae | Acacia | Tortilis | Kilaa |
| Leguminosae | Acacia | Nilotica | Kisemei |
| Leguminosae | Acacia | Seyal | Musewa |
| Leguminosae | Acacia | Brevispica | Mukuswii |
| Leguminosae | Acacia | Senegal | King’ole |
| Leguminosae | Acacia | Polycantha | Kivovoa |
| Anacardiaceae | Rhus | Natalensis | Kitheu |
| Labiatae | Ocimum | Gratissimum | Mukandu |
| Compositae | Aspilia | Mossambicensis | Muti |
| Euphorbiaceae | Croton | Megalocarpus | Kithulu |
| Tiliacea | Grewia | Bicolor | Mulawa |
| Tiliacea | Grewia | Similis | mutuva |
Table 6: Insects recorded on plant species in flower
| Order | Family | genus | species | author | Host plant |
| Lepidoptera | Pieridae | Colitis | Damae | Fabricius | Ex kiundua |
| Lepidoptera | Pieridae | Catopsilia | Florella | Fabricius | Tagees minuta |
| Lepidoptera | Pieridae | Colitis | Damae | Fabricius | Grassland |
| Lepidoptera | Lycaenidae | Zizeeria | Knysna | Trimen | Oxygonum sinuatum |
| Lepidoptera | Lycaenidae | Funchrysops | Subpallida | B/Baker | Becium obovatum flowers |
| Lepidoptera | Arctiidae | Utethesia | Pulchella | L | Glinus lotoides |
| Lepidoptera | Hesperiidae | Kedestes | Rogersi | Druce | Hibiscus micranthus |
| Neuroptera | Myrmeleontidae | Palpares | Extensus | Navas | Abizia amara |
| Hymenoptera | Pompilidae | Hemipepsis sp. | Pumpkin flowers | ||
| Hymenoptera | Apidae | Xylocopa | Leucas masaiensis | ||
| Lepidoptera | Hesperiidae | Spialia | Spio | Linneus | Ex. Beans flowers |
| Lepidoptera | Lycaenidae | Zizina | Antanossa | Mabille | Becium obovatum flowers |
| Coleoptera | Meloidae | Cheilomenes | Lunata | F | Pumpkin flowers |
| Coleoptera | Meloidae | Cheilomenes | Peropinqua | Mulsant | Pumpkin flowers |
| Coleoptera | Meloidae | Coryna | Arussina | Gerst | Cucumi flowers |
| Coleoptera | Meloidae | Coryna | Arussina | Gerst | Pentanisia ouronogyne |
| Coleoptera | Prionoceridae | Idgia | Dimidiate | Gerst | Cenchrus ciliaris |
| Diptera | Bombylidae | Bombylius sp. | Aspilia Mossambicensis | ||
| Diptera | Asilidae | Promachus sp. | Ex. Albizia amara | ||
| Diptera | Asilidae | Laxenecera | Dasypoda | Speiser | Ex. Albizia amara |
| Hymenoptera | Formicidae | Crematogaster | Castanea | Ocimum (yenye) | |
| Hemiptera | Scutellaridae | (Nymphis) | Enteropogon macrostachylus | ||
| Diptera | Bombylidae | Bombylisoma | Nucale | Bezzi | Pentanisia ouronogyne |
| Hymenoptera | Amegila sp. | Leucas masaiensis | |||
| Hymenoptera | Apidae | Apis | Mellifera | Aspilia Mossambicensis | |
| Hymenoptera | Formicidae | Camponotus sp | Albizia amara | ||
| Hymenoptera | Hypotrigona sp. | (Hovering to the eyes and ears) | |||
| Hymenoptera | Apidae | Bidens pilosa (Blackjack) | |||
| Hymenoptera | Leucas masaiensis | ||||
| Hymenoptera | Aspilia Mossambicensis | ||||
| Hymenoptera | Aspilia Mossambicensis | ||||
| Hymenoptera | Ocimum gratissimum | ||||
| Hymenoptera | Ocimum gratissimum | ||||
| Hymenoptera | Ex Cleome monophila | ||||
| Hymenoptera | Ocimum gratissimum | ||||
| Hymenoptera | Braunsaipis | Bouyssoui | Vachal | Balanites sp. | |
| Hymenoptera | Braunsaipis | Bouyssoui | Vachal | Cadaba farinose |
5.1 DISCUSSION
From this study, there are several potential plant species that can be utilized for beekeeping to the Kima area. Most of the sites had Acacia species and Acacia honey has a high demand within the country and outside.
The major constraint is the dearth period, during the drought season when few plants are flowering. This is the time when feeding of bees should be encouraged to prevent absconding and to ensure that the bee colonies remain strong and survive the drought season. Alternatively, there is need to grow bee plants around the apiaries than can sustain the bee colony during the drought period.
Plate 7: Launaea cornuta (Uthungu in Kamba) flowering during the dry season
Plate 8: Dearth period, during the dry season when few plants are in flower.
Plate 9: Dearth period when the farms are bare and bees lack floral resources
Plate 10: Members of the Kavuko Community. The Kyundu Youth Group has started a choir, which comprises conservation songs.
6.0. RECOMMENDATIONS
The local community can participate and sustain beekeeping and conserve insect pollinators by: –
- Plating trees and protecting them.
- Allowing wild plants to flower on the farm edges, terraces e.t.c. as these support wild foraging insects when cultivated crops are not in flower.
- Selecting and using pesticides with great care so as not to kill bees and other useful insects.
- Not using the selected pesticides when flowers are open. Foraging bees and other insects visit open flowers and will be killed by the pesticide. If one must spray, it should be done very early or late in eth day when flowers are closed.
- During the drought season, providing water to the bees in small containers with floating twigs to support the bees and prevent drowning.
Plate 11: A fruiting mango tree. An example of crop plants on which pesticides are applied threatening bees and other non-target insects.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The Research Programme on Sustainable Use of Dryland Biodiversity (RPSUD) is acknowledged for the financial support that enable us to undertake this study. The Kenya Initiatives for Development (KID) is acknowledged for providing the technical support o the ground. Mr. Joshua Muasya is highly acknowledged for his support and assistance in identification of the plant species.
REFERENCES
Hepburn, H. R and Radloff, S. E. 1995. First approximation to a Phenology of the Honeybees (Apis mellifera) and Flora in Africa. Oecologia 101: 265 – 273.
Jones R. 1999. Beekeeping as a Business. Commonwealth Secretariat, London. 70pp.
Kearns, C.A. & Inouye, D. W. (1997). Pollinators, Flowering Plants and Conservation Biology. Biosc. 47: 297 – 307.
Lieski, S. 1999. Floral Calendar for Beekeeping in Northern Tanzania, (Raina, S. K; Kioko, E. N. and Mwanycky, S.W. Eds) proceedings of the First International Workshop, Nairobi, 18 – 21, August 1997. PP 85 – 86.
Mbae, R. M. 1999. Overview of Beekeeping Development in Kenya in the Conservation and Utilization of Commercial Insects in Kenya (Raina, S.K; Kioko, E.N. and Mwanycky, S.W. Eds) proceedings of the First International Workshop, Nairobi, 18 – 21, August 1997. PP 85 – 86.
Munthali, S. M. and Mugho, E.C.D. 1992. Economic Incentives for Conservation Beekeeping and Saturniidae Caterpillar Utilization by Rural Communities. Biodiversity Conservation 1: 143 – 154.
National Beekeeping Station (2004). Annual Report, 2004.
Raina, S. K. 2004. A Practical Guide for Raising and Utilizing Silk moths and Honeybees in Africa. ICIPE Science Press, Nairobi. 164 pp.
Raina, S. K; Kioko, E; Adolkar, V. V, Shi Wei, Muiru, H. Kimbu, D. Ouma, J and Nyagode, B. 1999. A Review of Commercial Insects Innovative Research and Technology Development in Africa, in S. K. Raina, E.N. Kioko, S.W. Mwaniki (Eds).
Proceedings First International Workshop. The Conservation and Utilization of Commercial Insects (1999). ICIPE Science Press, Nairobi, 18 – 21, August 1997, pp. 3 – 14.
Ruttner, F. B. 1975. African Races of Honeybees. Proceedings XXV Inter. Apic. Congress. Grenoble, pp. 325-344.
Stanghellini, M.S. Ambrose, J.T. and Schulthesis, J.R. (1998). The Effects of Honeybee and Bumblebee Pollination on Fruit Set and Abortion of Cucumber and Watermelon. Amer. Bee J. 137 (5): 386 – 391.
MOBILIZATION OF A COMMUNITY FOR MODERN BEEKEEPING
By Prof. Gideon Nyamasyo and Sarah Mbai
- INTRODUCTION
Although beekeeping activity in Kima area has been practiced since time immemorial, there was need to train some members on modern beekeeping technology. In addition, Kenya Initiatives for Development needed to train some members of Kima area on how to handle the 40 Langstroth beehives that it received. Further, the community required to know how to harvest high quality honey for sale.
- OBJECTIVES OF THE TRAINING
The overall objective of the training was to make beekeeping a livelihood activity.
- STRATEGY
- Organizing a training
- Establishing a youth group
- Identifying people for beekeeping training
- Identifying people for the beekeeping training
- Identifying a beekeeping apiary.
- METHODOLOGY
- Organizing a training
A survey for training institution/organization was carried out. African Beekeepers Limited was finally identified as capable and affordable. Beekeeping equipment and Langstroth hives were also purchased from African Beekeeping at a reasonable price.
- Establishing a Youth Group
Kyundu Pollen Youth Group was identified for the purpose of promoting modern beekeeping activities in the area. The members of Kyundu Pollen Youth Group rallied behind a Mr. Paul Mutuku, a strong and sober leader with the following characteristics: –
- Social with good relationship with the local community
- Married with three children
- An employee of the Pollen Glory farm.
- Keen interest in nature with an inclination to herbalism.
- Identifying people for modern beekeeping training
Among the twenty Kyundu Pollen Youth Group, 8 members were identified to undertake modern beekeeping training. The training was held from 17th – 20th January 2005 at the Forest Department, Machakos District. The members who were trained included: –
- Mr. Paul Ambundo – a Laboratory Technician at the University of Nairobi with a keen interest in Botany and Zoology.
- Ms. Sarah Mbai – an employee of te Kenya Initiatives for Development. She is trained as a Geographic Information Systems and Remote Sensing Technician and has keen interest in Community Mobilization in Combating Land Degradation.
- Mr. Paul Mutuku – an employee of the Pollen Glory Farm with keen interest in nature, especially herbal medicinal plants.
- Mr. Thomas Mutie – a brilliant young man with keen interest on scientific research and also an employee of Pollen Glory Farm. He has assisted many students to carry out their field work in Kavuko Village.
- Mr. Gabriel Muema – a trained builder with good relationship with the local community.
- Ms. Mama Kasee – a middle aged lady, married with four children. She is also a farmer who earn her living through the sale of farm products especially fruits. She also has a keen interest in beekeeping as an income generating activity.
- Mr. Mbai – a farmer whose livelihood depends on his farm outputs. He has keen interest in beekeeping for effective crop pollination.
- Mr. Mutiso – a driver and a business man. He is also a social man with keen interest in beekeeping technology as an income generating activity.
- Identifying an Apiary
Kyundu Hills was identified as an ideal suite to set an apiary. The hiss is a part of the 33 hectares, Kiongwani gazzetted forest. Kyundu Pollen Youth Group made efforts to get authority from the Government to use the hill for conservation purposes. Authority to start conservation activities on the hill was given by the Forest Officer in Makueni District.
- RESULTS
The 8 members of Kyundu Pollen Youth Group were trained on eth following: –
- History of beekeeping activity
- Importance of beekeeping activity
- Biology of honey bees
- Honeybee diseases
- Honeybee pests and other enemies
- Management of a honeybee colony
- Setting an apiary
- How to feed bees
- Types and use of beehives
- Types and how to use modern beehive equipment
- Modern honey harvesting
- Types and uses of bee kit
- High quality honey extraction
- Hive products and their uses
DISCUSSION
The new approach of protecting Kyundu Hill by involving the local community is expected to be effective. This is because the community will directly benefit from their conservation work through beekeeping activities. Initially, it was not so and Kyundu Hill became degraded although there was a forest guard manning I from the Forest department, Makueni District. Likewise for pollinators to be conserved effectively, there is need to have benefits. It is through these benefits that local communities will realize how to maintain pollinators.
CONSTRUCTION OF A HONEY PROCESSING UNIT/HOUSE EQUIPPED WITH FACILITIES TO PROMOTE MARKETING OF STANDARD QUALITY HONEY:
By Prof. Gideon Nyamasyo and Sarah Mbai
Introduction:
Farmers from Kima area have practiced traditional beekeeping for a long time without a honey processing village factory. This problem has made many farmers to sell their honey at a cheap price due to the poor processing methods used leading to poor honey quality. The introduction of modern bee keeping in the area would increase the quality and quantity of honey. Establishment of a honey processing village factory at Kima would not only promote quality of honey but also increase its demand and price consecutively.
Objectives
- To construct a honey house and equip it with modern beekeeping equipment.
Methodology
- The design of the honey house was drawn and approved by the University Estate’s office.
- Construction of the honey house was done by builders from Kima area.
- Roofing materials such as timber, rafters, iron sheets, nails, sand, ballast, cement, doors and windows were purchased from local retailers.
- The walling of the honey house was done using solid-cement stabilized blocks. Blocks made using this technology do not require fire-curing, hence save trees. The blocks were made by trained members of Kyundu Pollen Youth Group using Appro-Tech block making machine.
- Modern beekeeping equipment such as smokers, hive knives, harvesting kits and honey extractor were purchased from African Beekeepers Limited.
Results
- A permanent three-roomed house with a verandah was constructed at the Kavuko Community Conservation Centre, about 85 kilometers from Nairobi along the Nairobi-Mombasa Road.
Outcome
- The construction, which took three months (Feb-March 2005), created job opportunities especially for young men who participated in the construction work. The local business people also generated income through supply of water, ballast, cement and iron sheets, timber, rafters, doors windows and gravel.
- The honey house is a living example of the use of soil-cement stabilized blocks as an alternative to fire-cured bricks. Kenya Initiatives for Development is creating awareness on the use of soil-cement stabilized blocks to promote dryland biodiversity conservation within the area.
- Te local community members are already using an improved device to extract high quality honey for sale from traditional log hives.
Discussion
The establishment of honey processing units in Kima area will create ready market for honey. His will encourage many farmers to engage in beekeeping as a livelihood activity. As a result, conservation of pollinators and dryland biodiversity as large will be promoted.
HELD DAYS TO PROMOTE COMMUNITY CONSERVATION AWARENESS
By Prof. Gideon Nyamasyo, Marylucy Oronje, Sarah Mbai, Rosemary Chege
Introduction
Conservation awareness is usually very low in a community’s priority of activities. People may unconsciously be involved in conservation as they go about their activities. In order to enhance conservation consciousness. It is prudent to hold open days where the linkages between ordinary livelihood activities, environmental protection and biodiversity conservation are articulated. The Kavuko Community Conservation was established precisely for this purpose.
Methodology
To organize a field day suitable occasions were identified and capitalized on. These were: –
- Launching of a GEF/SGP funded land degradation project (17th June 2005).
- The opening of RPSUD funded Honey Processing Unit of Bee House. On 11th October 2005.
- The officially organized tour for the delegates attending the 7th Conference of the Parties to the UNCCD (17th October 2005).
In all these occasions, the local government officers in charge of Agriculture, Environment, Forestry, Water and Administration were requested to mobilize the community. KID officers too participated in the exercise. During the actual field days, formal seminar posters and presentations as well as real product displays were made in a mix of languages (English, Swahili and Kamba). The community participants aired their views freely and there was a Question and Answer session. At the end of the presentation, participants planted trees at the centre.
Results
Table 7: Participants for the open day during the UNDP/GEF/SGP launch of the Land Degradation Project, 17th June 2005.
| Name of Organization | No. | Name of Attendants |
| Politicians | 1 2 | Hon. Mutinda Mutiso (Member of Parliament) Mr. Luke Kingoo (Councillor) |
| Provincial Administration | 3 4 5 | Mr. Joseph Nganga (OOP, Chief, Mukaa Location) Mr. N. Mwongela (Assistant Chief, Kima Kui) Mrs. Phyllis Kiema (Assistant Chief, Maiani) |
| UNDP-GEF/SGP | 6 7 | Mr. F. Boerstler (Technical Advisor) Sabine Rundgren (Technical Advisor) |
| Ministry of Agriculture (Kilome Division) | 8 9 10 | Mrs. Jane Kioko (Agricultural Officer) Mr. Kimonyi (Assistant Agricultural Officer) Mr. Richard Wambua |
| Ministry of Forest (Kilome Division) | 11 | Kennedy Kamau (Forester) |
| Ministry of Water (Kilome Division) | 12 | Charles Mutuku |
| Kenya Initiatives for Development | 13 14 15 16 | Prof. Gideon Nyamasyo (Executive Director) Mr. David Kilonzi (Treasurer) Mrs. Sarah Mbai (Project Coordinator) Leah Wangui (Researcher) |
| EAFRINET (Museums of Kenya) | 17 | Dr. Wanja Kinuthia (Co-ordinator) |
| Africa Beekeepers | 18 19 | Mr. Ernest Simeoni (Managing Director) Mr. Michael Munuve |
| University of Nairobi | 20 21 | Paul Abondo Marylucy Oronje |
| Konza Ranching Society | 22 23 | Mr. D. M. Mutangili (Chairman) Mr. Jones K. Wambua |
| Aimi Ma Kilungu Ranching Ltd | 24 | Mr. O. Kilonzo |
| Stanley & Sons Ranch Ltd | 25 | Mr. Robinson Stanley |
| SCOPE Ministries Church | 26 | Mr. Daniel Kiminza (Bishop) |
| Kavuko Primary School | 27 | Mr. William Mutiso |
| Thome Wa Kima CBO | 28 29 30 31 | Mr. Francis Kyenze Mr. Chalres Muindi Mr. Phillip Maleu Mr. Morris Mamuu |
| Kiumo CBO Ndaatai CBO | 32 33 34 35 36 37 | Mr. Justus Lavi Mr. Jonah Mutuku Mr. Francis Ndolo Mr. David Muia Mr. Aron Ndome Mrs. Margaret Nduse |
| Wema Self Help Group CBO | 38 39 40 41 | Mr. Joshua Mwoki Mrs. Anna Mutua Mr. Mauritz Kole Mrs. Teresia Kyalo |
| Aima Ma Kavuko FFS CBO | 42 43 | Mr. Raphael Mutungi Mrs. Monika Munuve |
| Kavuko Self Help Group CBO | 44 45 46 | Mr. B. Mwagangi Mr. Job Ndingi Mrs. Rael Mutuku |
| Wasya Wa Tuvilani Women Group CBO | 47 48 49 50 51 | Mrs. Esther N. Paul Mrs. Agnes Mwikali Kivuva Mrs. Dorcas Mumo Mr. Wamua Nzingu Mr. Henry Nduu |
| Kyundu Pollen Youth Group CBO | 52 53 54 | Mr. Paul Mutuku Mr. Thomas Mutie Mr. Mwovi Mbai |
| Kavuko Youth Group CBO | 55 56 57 | Mr. Timothy Nzioki Mr. Jackson Yuma Mr. Wambua Kitheka |
| Meko Ma Nduuka Women Group CBO | 58 59 60 61 62 | Mrs. Anna Katua Mrs. Mary Mutisya Mr. K. Wambua Caroline Mutuku Michael Mutisya |
| Others | 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 | Dorothy Musomba Margaret Nguthi Agnes Mulu Agnes Mbeli Regina Mutwa Rhoda Kihuba Boniface Kyalo Lazarus Nguta Ruth Peter Josephine Tendi Rosaline Morris Regina Mateta Susan Daud Winfred Nduku Gladys Kimba Martha Wangutu Pricilla Matheka |
Table 8: List of participants during the launch of the honey house: 13th October 2005.
| NO | NAME OF PARTICIPANTS | ORGANIZATION |
| 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 | Dr. Helida Oyieke Ms. Joyce Kinyanjui Prof. Gideon Nyamasyo Prof. John Nderitu Dr. Eunice Auma Dr. Evans Mwangi Dr. Chira Dr. Esther Kioko Mr. Dennis Kimata Mr. David Kilonzi Mr. Stephen Kimonyi Charles Mutuku Mr. Paul Ambundo Ms. Judy Shilavula Ms. Marylucy Oronje Mr. Samson Maundu Ms. Sarah Mbai Mr. George Musembi Ms. Rosemary Chege Ms. Gladys Mbenzi Mr. Paul Mutuku Ms. Agnes Kivuva Ms. Rosmary Mabeni Ms. Monica Ms. Dorothy Mumo Mr. Josiah Kamula Mr. Mutiso Ndiku Mr. Mwovi Mbai Mr. Gabriel Mwema Mr. Justus Lavi Mr. Bennis Mutwiwa | National Museums of Kenya/RPSUD National Museums of Kenya/RPSUD KID/University of Nairobi KID/University of Nairobi KID/Jomo Kenyatta University University of Nairobi University of Nairobi National Museaums of Kenya University of Nairobi KID Kilome Division Agricultural Officer Ministry of Water (Kilome Division) University of Nairobi University of Nairobi University of Nairobi KID KID University of Nairobi KID Kavuko Community Conservation Centre Kyundu Pollen Youth Group Wasya Wa Tuvilani Women Group Kavuko Farmers’ Field School CBO Wasya Wa Tuvilani Women Group Kyundu Pollen Youth Group Meko Ma Nduuka Women Group Kyundu Pollen Youth Group Kyundu Pollen Youth Group Meko Ma Nduuka Women Group Kiumoni Environmental Rehabilitation Project Kyundu Pollen Youth Group |
Presentations
During the GEF/SGP launch, representatives for CBOs made formal presentations using wall charts to elaborate on their projects proposals. As a requirement, the projects were located on a 40 km square area shown in the list of plates. This figure was artistically drawn by a local community artist as a near true representation of the hilly, heavily degraded area. The land degradation project aims to rehabilitate this area and this will benefit the pollinators conservation project. Indeed, the Kiongwani Gazzetted Hills (which include Kyundu Hill) is the site where 40 bee hives have been set up. During this day, 62 tree seedlings were planted at the Kavuko Community Conservation Centre as a showcase to the local community on land degradation control through afforestation. The CBOs and their respective projects are illustrated in the table below.
| No | Name of CBO | Name of Project |
| 1 | Thome Wa Kima Self Help Group | Mbuu Dam Desilting |
| 2 | Ndaatai CBO | Ndaatai Hilltop Conservation |
| 3 | Meko Ma Nduuka Women Group | Kaketa River Rehabilitation |
| 4 | Kyundu Pollen Youth Group | Kyundu Hills Ra-afforestation |
| 5 | Kavuko Youth CBO | Kavuko Canal Reticulation |
| 6 | Wasya Wa Tuvilani Women’s’ Group | Tree Seedlings Production |
| 7 | Aimi Ma Kavuko Farmers’ Field School | Kavuko Hills Re-afforestation |
| 8 | Kavuko Self Help Group | Ngongo/Kwa Kikwu Gabion |
| 9 | Kiumoni CMO | Kiumoni/Kilome Environmental Rehabilitation |
| 10 | Wema Self Help Group | Usi-Unene and Enzai Dam Rehabilitation |
During the opening of the Bee House, scientific presentations on the RPSUD funded research as well as other researchers ongoing or planned for the area were made. These researches were on potential sustainable use of dryland biodiversity and included: –
- The Status of Pollinators in Dryland Biodiversity Conservation in Kima Area, Makueni District by Marylucy Oronje.
- The Floral Resources for Enhancement of Modern Beekeeping and Pollinator Conservation in Kima Area by Dr. Esther Kioko.
- Local Community Participation in Breeding of Guinea Fowl by Dr. Dennis Kimata.
- The Kilome – UNDP/GEF/SGP Land Degradation Cluster Project by Sarah Mbai.
- The Acacia Tree Conservation Project by Rosemary Chege.
During the UNCCD-COP7, delegates toured to see the various activities within the Kavuko Community Conservation Centre. The delegates also proceeded to see gullies that are indicators of land degradation in the area as well as meet members of the local communities. Members of Kyundu Pollen Youth Group demonstrated the use of soil-cement stabilized blocks as atree conservation strategy. Trees used in curing bricks but in this technology, firing bricks is avoided. The tour climaxed by tree planting activity. In all these occasions, the pollinators efforts were highlighted and participants purchased and took away jars of Kavuko Honey.
Discussion
Community mobilization is best done with the involvement of local government officers as well as local influential persons. Community members understand conservation issued is these are explained to them in simple language. Indeed, when they saw the displays, some community members were quick to add value in terms of information gained from personal experience.
The presentations at the Kavuko Community Centre highlighted the value of honeybees for both economic benefits that can accrue from Acacia pods (used as livestock feed), the Porcupine and the Guinea fowl which are used as food and for ornamental purposes.
The community was not intimidated by presentations from young scientists and in fact showed a willingness to support them in their researches. The Kavuko Community Conservation Centre is just opening its gates for more detailed research in conservation and sustainable use of dryland biodiversity.
Plate 12: Dr. Helidah Oyieke planting a tree at Kavuko Community Conservation Centre during the launch of the Honey House.
Plate 13: Bicycles bought with RPSUD funds for facilitation of the Kyundu Pollen Youth Group.
Plate 14: An artist’s view of the Land Degradation UNDP/GEF/SDP funded project area (40.8 km2)