School of Agriculture & Biotechnology

PERFORMANCE OF IMPROVED INDIGENOUS CHICKEN REARED ON SORGHUM-BASED RATIONS UNDER THREE PRODUCTION SYSTEMS IN WESTERN AND NORTH-RIFT REGIONS, KENYA

Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT

PERFORMANCE OF IMPROVED INDIGENOUS CHICKEN REARED ON SORGHUM-BASED RATIONS UNDER THREE PRODUCTION SYSTEMS IN WESTERN AND NORTH-RIFT REGIONS, KENYA JEMUTAI, KIPTUI, BRENDA Improved indigenous chicken (IIC) contribute to nutritional requirements, socio-cultural benefits, and welfare of smallholder farmers. Maize as an energy source in chicken feed is becoming unrealistic due to high costs and competition with humans; therefore, alternatives like low-tannin sorghum should be considered. Semi-arid conditions in Western Kenya make sorghum a viable option. Objectives of this study were to determine performance of IIC on sorghum-based rations under three production systems and investigate socio-economic drivers of IIC rearing in Busia, Siaya and Uasin Gishu Counties. A randomized complete block experimental design with split-plot arrangement of treatments determined nutrient composition of sorghum-based diets and growth of 390, 4-week-old IIC for 12 weeks. Diets consisted T1 (50%), T2 (75%), RUC26 sorghum variety inclusion levels, T3 – a commercial feed designated as Control and T4 was Free-range feeding. Farmers were purposively selected; those practicing Semi-intensive and Intensive production systems received one of the diets, while Free-range farmers received none. Field survey investigated socio-economic dynamics from forty-five purposively selected sorghum-growing and chicken-rearing farmers supplied eight Rainbow Rooster growers. Nutrient composition showed significant differences (p<0.05) among diets for crude ash, crude fat, crude fibre and metabolizable energy. Crude protein was highest (15.15%) in T1. Metabolizable energy (3616 Kcal/Kg) and lysine (0.86%) were highest in T2. Growth of IIC was significantly different (p<0.05) among diets and production systems. Diet T1 had higher (694.56g) weight gain than T3 (668.02g), which significantly differed (p<0.05) from T2 (618.83g). Weight gain in Intensive system was significantly (p<0.05) higher (880.26g) than Free-range (424.94g) and Semi-intensive (416.25g) systems. Survey showed that most (36%) farmers’ age ranged from 30 to 39 years, with majority (58%) being female. Management practices adopted most were veterinarian services (76%) and poultry housing (67%). The IIC breed was highly (69%) preferred, with 58% having 1 to 15 birds flock size. Most (69%) farmers purchased feeds, majorly (24%) being chick mash. Home-grown rations were formulated by majority (71%), with maize (71%) intensely used than sorghum (51%). Feed cost per kilogram of T1 (63 KSh) and T2 (59 KSh) were significantly lower (p<0.05) than T3 (70 KSh). Most (64%) farmers did not incur marketing costs. Egg and chicken sales were high at 78%, and domestic consumption of chicken products was 98%. Diet T1 met minimum nutrient requirements, promoted high growth, and was cost- effective. Growth was best in intensive system, and IIC breed was highly preferred. Farmers should grow RUC26 sorghum for chicken feed.

ECONOMIC DETERMINANTS OF DAIRY COW MILK PRODUCTION AMONG SMALL-SCALE FARMERS IN MARAKWET EAST SUB-COUNTY, ELGEYO-MARAKWET COUNTY, KENYA

Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT

ECONOMIC DETERMINANTS OF DAIRY COW MILK PRODUCTION AMONG SMALL-SCALE FARMERS IN MARAKWET EAST SUB-COUNTY, ELGEYO-MARAKWET COUNTY, KENYA CHELANGA, RICHARD KAINO Dairy farming remains a major economic backbone in Kenya, contributing food and income to the households of many small-scale farmers. In Marakwet East Sub-County, however, annual milk production has plateaued at approximately 25 metric tonnes of milk despite concerted improvement efforts in recent decades. The average milk production per cow per day between 2016 and 2021 was 5.52-5.75 liters against a national potential of 10-12 liters per day achievable under optimal dairy farming conditions. This study’s specific objectives were to determine socio-economic, technological, farm production, and institutional factors influencing dairy cow milk production among small-scale dairy farmers in Marakwet East Sub-County. Production and resource allocation theories guided the study while descriptive and cross-sectional research designs were adopted. Primary data was collected using a questionnaire from 230 small-scale dairy farmers through purposive, stratified, and systematic random sampling techniques. Secondary data was collected from existing records. Multiple Linear regression model and Cobb-Douglas production functions (double log-linear form) were used to analyze data. Descriptive results revealed that the mean age of the small-scale dairy farmers was 47 years, owned on average 3.3 acres of land, with 16.8 years of farming experience, and earning an average annual farmer income of KShs. 91,938. Multiple linear regression results revealed that a unit increase in the level of education, family/household size, farmer’s experience, and total farmer’s income positively affected dairy cow milk production by 60.2%, 109.1%, 131.1%, and 112.2%, respectively. Technological factors like artificial Insemination, deworming services, high-yielding fodder/pasture, improved feeds, and improved dairy breeds positively affected milk production by 69%, 68.4%, 183.4%, 178% and 167.2% respectively. Further, results revealed that a unit increase in the type of land tenure system, access to extension services and credit facilities, and membership in farmer organizations had a positive influence on milk production by 45%, 172.4%, 190.4% and 105.6%, respectively. Cobb-Douglas production function results revealed that a unit increase in farm size, capital, type of dairy breed, farming system, access to veterinary services, and quality feeds positively influenced milk production by 21.51%, 82.37%, 46.23%, 89.97%, 82.60% and 108.23%, respectively. To enhance dairy milk production, the study recommends strategies that encourage farmers to direct their resources toward securing high-quality feeds and improving their farming systems, promoting interventions and activities geared towards the adoption of technologies that improve milk production, such as access to credit facilities, subsidies, or micro financing programs to boost farmers' capital, and enhance veterinary care and education. Additionally, policymakers should encourage the adoption of high-yielding breeds through subsidies and breeding programs. There is need to improve access to quality feeds, farming system, and capital to boost milk production.

EVALUATION OF THE INFLUENCE OF INPUT SUBSIDY ON POTATO PRODUCTION, PRODUCTIVITY AND TECHNOLOGY ADOPTION AMONG SMALLHOLDER FARMERS IN MARAKWET WEST SUB- COUNTY, ELGEYO MARAKWET COUNTY, KENYA

Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT

EVALUATION OF THE INFLUENCE OF INPUT SUBSIDY ON POTATO PRODUCTION, PRODUCTIVITY AND TECHNOLOGY ADOPTION AMONG SMALLHOLDER FARMERS IN MARAKWET WEST SUB- COUNTY, ELGEYO MARAKWET COUNTY, KENYA Kibor, Ben Agricultural input subsidies are widely promoted to improve access to critical farm inputs such as fertilizers and certified seeds, especially among resource-constrained smallholder farmers in developing countries. However, limited empirical evidence exists on the extent to which such subsidies impact productivity, profitability, and technology adoption among Potato farmers in Kenya. This study evaluated the influence of agricultural input subsidies on the livelihoods of smallholder Potato farmers in Marakwet West Sub-county. Specifically, the study sought to assess the effect of subsidies on Potato yields, determine their influence on profitability, and examine their role in the adoption of improved production technologies. The study was guided by the Theory of Production and the Cobb-Douglas production function, applying both descriptive and explanatory research designs. A multistage sampling technique was used to select 372 smallholder farmers from a target population of 5,499, from whom data were collected using structured questionnaires. Analytical methods included descriptive statistics, multiple linear regression, the Cobb-Douglas model, and binary logistic regression. The results revealed that 58.0% of farmers received subsidized fertilizers, averaging 537 kg per household, while 83.1% received subsidized Potato seeds, averaging 1,600 kg. Most farmers received fertilizer and seed subsidies once per year, indicating limited seasonal coverage. The average yield of Potato was 9.8 t/ha without subsidies, increasing to 17.1 t/ha with fertilizer subsidy, 12.9 t/ha with seed subsidy, and 21.8 t/ha when both subsidies were received. Profitability also followed a similar trend, with net returns above total variable cost increasing from Kshs 145,764 (31%) without subsidies to Kshs 458,439 (56%) with fertilizer subsidy, Kshs 291,364 (47%) with seed subsidy, and Kshs 718,564 (69%) with both. However, only 32.2% of farmers adopted certified potato production technologies despite the availability of subsidies. Regression analysis showed that agricultural subsidies significantly influenced potato yield (R2 = 0.714, P < 0.01), profitability, and technology adoption. Fertilizer quantity (β = 0.679, P < 0.001), seed quantity (β = 0.481, P = 0.012), and combined subsidy access (β = 1.315, P < 0.001) were the most influential predictors driving observed improvements. The study concludes that fertilizer and seed subsidies are effective in improving yields, profitability, and the uptake of certified agricultural technologies, thereby contributing positively to farmer livelihoods. Based on these findings, it is recommended that the government enhance the reach, targeting, and consistency of input subsidy programs, including increasing access to both fertilizers and certified potato seeds. There is also a need to support research on high-yielding, drought- and disease-resistant potato varieties, and strengthen market access through the elimination of brokers and improved farm-to-market linkages. For future research, longitudinal studies are suggested to evaluate the long-term livelihood effects of input subsidies, particularly on income stability and food security. Further studies should examine gender- disaggregated impacts of subsidies and assess the efficiency of digital delivery systems such as e-vouchers in enhancing transparency and accountability in subsidy distribution.

PREVALENCE AND ECONOMIC IMPACT OF FASCIOLA GIGANTICA AND HYDATID CYSTS IN CATTLE AND SHEEP AT ELDORET SLAUGHTERHOUSE, KENYA

Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT

PREVALENCE AND ECONOMIC IMPACT OF FASCIOLA GIGANTICA AND HYDATID CYSTS IN CATTLE AND SHEEP AT ELDORET SLAUGHTERHOUSE, KENYA TAWANE, FARDOSA ABASS Fasciolosis and hydatidosis significantly affect livestock production globally, with a high prevalence in Sub-Saharan Africa. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of Fasciola gigantica and hydatid cysts in cattle and sheep, along with the financial losses associated with organ condemnation and to assess the knowledge of farmers, meat sellers and meat inspectors about fasciola gigantica and hydatid cysts in cattle and sheep, at Eldoret Slaughterhouse. A total of 479 cattle and 313 sheep carcasses were examined and various samples, including bile, faeces, and condemned organs, were analysed at the Veterinary Investigation Laboratory, Eldoret. Data were collected through systematic post-mortem inspection using visual examination, palpation, incision and laboratory analysis. The collected data were analysed using spss. The findings revealed a Fasciola gigantica prevalence of 91.77% in cattle and 58.58% in sheep. In cattle, 39.09% had Fasciola eggs in bile and 19.41% in faeces. Additionally, 19.83% whole and 13.5% partially trimmed livers of cattle were condemned. In sheep, 24.92% had Fasciola eggs in bile and 14.69% in faeces, with 11.82% of livers entirely condemned and 4.15% partially trimmed. Hydatidosis had a prevalence of 13.36% in cattle and 9.9% in sheep. Financial losses due to organ condemnation were substantial: KSh 329,580 from cattle livers and KSh 27,990 due to fasciolosis in cattle, while sheep-related losses amounted to KSh 29,520 for condemned livers and KSh 2,850 for hydatidosis-infected lungs. Awareness among respondents showed that 66% recognized economic losses caused by these parasitic infections, 14% had limited awareness, and 20% highlighted inadequate government support. The study concluded that Fasciola gigantica and hydatid cysts were more prevalent in cattle than in sheep. Recommendations conducting regular deworm programme in livestock, Educating the farmers on parasites control and improved animal husbandry i.e. emphasized fencing of wet areas, provision of clean water, regulate stray dogs and avoid feeding them raw infected offal’s to break the hydatid life cycles.

EFFICIENCY OF ARBUSCULAR MYCORRHIZAL FUNGI IN ENHANCING PHOSPHORUS AND COPPER UTILIZATION IN WHEAT GROWN IN FERRALSOLS OF UASIN GISHU COUNTY, KENYA

Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT

EFFICIENCY OF ARBUSCULAR MYCORRHIZAL FUNGI IN ENHANCING PHOSPHORUS AND COPPER UTILIZATION IN WHEAT GROWN IN FERRALSOLS OF UASIN GISHU COUNTY, KENYA Njoki, Anne Declining soil fertility characterized by deficiency of both macro and micronutrients is a major challenge to sustainable wheat production. Integrating bio-stimulants such as Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF) with inorganic fertilizers has been shown to have the potential to enhance wheat production by optimizing their mutual benefits. However, a combination of AMF and micronutrients has not been given the necessary attention, especially in low-input systems such as those dominant in sub-Saharan Africa. Thus, the current study was conducted in Uasin Gishu County, Kenya, for two seasons to evaluate the effect of integrating AMF with phosphorus (P) and copper (Cu) fertilizers on wheat grain yield, nutrient uptake, and use efficiency. Two levels of AMF (0 and 60 kg ha -1 ) were applied with three levels of P: 0 kg, 8.8 kg, and 17.6 kg ha -1 , and three levels of Cu at 0 kg, 5 kg, and 10 kg ha -1 . The experiment was conducted in an RCBD, and fertilizer treatments were applied in a factorial arrangement in the 2018 and 2019 long rains seasons. Results showed that while AMF did not have a significant impact on soil available P, available Cu increased by 32% - 40% compared to the control. AMF also enhanced P and Cu uptake by 27 - 30% and 24 - 38%, respectively. Furthermore, AMF boosted P and Cu uptake efficiency by 30 - 35% and 25 - 40%, respectively, whereas P and Cu use efficiency increased by about 15 - 31% and 18 - 35% above the plots without AMF, respectively. Co-application of P at 8.8 kg ha -1 and 60 kg AMF ha -1 recorded the highest wheat grain yield of 2.84 and 4.72 Mg ha -1 during the 2018 and 2019 long rain seasons, respectively. The study shows that the use of AMF could play a significant role in reducing the amount of inorganic fertilizers, which cuts down the cost of production to most smallholder farmers, but at the same time enhancing nutrient uptake and use efficiencies, and thus grain yield. This study recommends co-application of 60 kg ha -1 of AMF and 8.8 kg P ha -1 for optimal wheat yield and P nutrition in wheat.

EFFECTIVENESS OF ORGANIC AND REDUCED INORGANIC FERTILIZERS ON YIELD AND FODDER QUALITY IMPROVEMENT OF MAIZE IN WESTERN KENYA

Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT

EFFECTIVENESS OF ORGANIC AND REDUCED INORGANIC FERTILIZERS ON YIELD AND FODDER QUALITY IMPROVEMENT OF MAIZE IN WESTERN KENYA HATANGIMANA, MODESTE Maize remains a vital staple in Kenya, providing food for over 90% of the population and serving as the backbone of both food security and livestock nutrition. Despite its importance, maize production has declined in recent years, largely due to soil fertility depletion. This study, therefore, adopts the Integrated Soil Fertility Management (ISFM) principle of combining inorganic and organic P amendments to improve soil health and increase maize yields. The study leverages pressmud, a nutrient-rich residue from sugarcane processing that remains largely untapped in East Africa, despite its potential to improve soil health. Field trials were set up using a randomized complete block design to evaluate effect of sole application of pressmud in combination with cattle manure and reduced doses of P inorganic fertilizers in enhancing soil fertility, maize performance (grain yield and forage quality) and economic returns in two agro-ecological zones of western Kenya- Bungoma (LM2) and Kisumu (LM3). Soil samples were collected before and after the season to monitor changes in pH, organic carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. Agronomic data, including plant growth, grain yield, forage quality and cost- effectiveness, were also recorded and analyzed using ANOVA. The results showed that pressmud applied at 30 kg P ha-1 (PM30) improved soil pH, available phosphorus and organic carbon, while cattle manure was more effective at boosting nitrogen content. The combination of 15kg Pha-1 from both organic and inorganic sources (TSP15+PM15 or TSP15+CM15) consistently resulted in grain yields exceeding 4.4 tons per ha, improved plant growth, crude protein in fodder and showed superior profitability while forage dry matter yields peaked under TSP10+PM10+CM10 in Bungoma and TSP22.5+PM7.5 in Kisumu. While not all treatments enhanced every aspect of forage quality most improved digestibility and maintained acceptable fiber levels but however, fodder from Bungoma showed slightly inferior acid detergent fiber (ADF) content. Based on these findings, farmers in similar regions are encouraged to use PM30 for improving phosphorus availability or CM30 for boosting nitrogen. To maximize grain yields and profitability, TSP15+CM15 (75kgTSP+3.06 t per ha of cattle manure) is recommended which also supports better fodder quality. Further research is needed in other agro-ecological zones and to better understand the factors behind reduced fodder quality.

HETEROSIS FOR YIELD AND ITS COMPONENTS IN SORGHUM HYBRIDS DEVELOPED BETWEEN WILD AND EXOTIC SORGHUM IN WESTERN KENYA

Fri, 01 Aug 2025 00:00:00 GMT

HETEROSIS FOR YIELD AND ITS COMPONENTS IN SORGHUM HYBRIDS DEVELOPED BETWEEN WILD AND EXOTIC SORGHUM IN WESTERN KENYA Otieno, Kennedy; Ouma, Evans; Kiplagat, Oliver Hybrid breeding facilitates the development of high-yielding cultivars relative to one or both parents across a wider range of crops which is key to meeting future food demands. This study was conducted to determine the magnitude of hybrid vigour (heterosis) for selected traits in sorghum crosses. A total of 7 improved sorghum varieties obtained from Rongo University sorghum breeding program together with 7 sorghum wild relatives (SWRs) obtained from ICRISAT-Mali were crossed using North Carolina Mating design II. A total of 9 successful hybrid crosses together with their parents were evaluated at Kibos Research Station in Kisumu County in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. Each entry was sown in a single row plot of 4 m length with a uniform spacing of 60 x 15 cm. Phenotypic data was collected throughout the growing period as per IPGRI, (1993) descriptors for sorghum on 15 randomly selected plants. The low number of crosses obtained was attributed to the partial incompatibilities between the SWRs and cultivated sorghum. Results showed high heterosis among the crosses for most of the selected traits. Heterosis for grain yield ranged from -31.48% to 194.27% and -49.39% to 137.89% for mid and better parent, respectively while for days to 50% Flowering, Average Heterosis ranged between -8.86% and 4.04% and that of better parent ranging from -6.49% to 7.46%. The best grain yield per plant heterotic cross combination identified was (RUC26 X 586) which expressed high positive heterosis over both mid and better parent (194.27% and 137.89%, respectively). This cross also showed significant positive average heterosis and heterobeltiosis for yieldcontributing components. Likewise, RUMUK 154 X 586 was identified as the most promising cross combination recording -8.86% average heterosis and -6.49% heterobeltiosis in the case of days to 50% flowering. The negative average heterosis and heterobeltiosis expressed in this cross showed that it was very early maturing, a trait for escaping terminal drought in rainfed agriculture, characteristic of the Kenyan cultivation system. The results illustrate the potential of improving sorghum yield potential using Sorghum wild relatives.

PREVALENCE AND PREDICTORS OF IRON DEFICIENCY ANEMIA AMONG PRESCHOOL CHILDREN: A CASE OF UASIN GISHU COUNTY, KENYA

Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT

PREVALENCE AND PREDICTORS OF IRON DEFICIENCY ANEMIA AMONG PRESCHOOL CHILDREN: A CASE OF UASIN GISHU COUNTY, KENYA KOSGEI, SHEILA CHEBICHII Iron Deficiency Anemia (IDA) is the most widespread micronutrient deficiency in Africa and South Asia. About 2 billion people in these continents have IDA with approximately 50% of them being children of preschool-age. In Kenya, IDA among preschool-aged children stands at 25% which is relatively high yet very minimal intervention is conducted for that age group. Furthermore, despite the fact that Uasin Gishu County is Kenya’s food basket, reports indicate high levels of malnutrition among preschool-aged children in the county with 33% being stunted, 11% being underweight and 3% being wasted. Little is known about micronutrient deficiencies such as IDA in this county despite its tremendous consequences, especially among preschool-aged children. This study therefore sought to contribute towards improved community nutrition by assessing the predictors of IDA among preschool-aged children in Uasin Gishu County. The objectives of this study were; to evaluate the relationship between socio-economic characteristics and IDA among preschool-aged children in Uasin Gishu County, to assess the nutrition status of preschool-aged children through anthropometric measures in Uasin Gishu County, to determine the prevalence of IDA among preschool-aged children in Uasin Gishu County and to determine the influence of dietary diversity on IDA among preschool-aged children in Uasin Gishu County. A cross-sectional study design was used with a target sample size of 289 children aged 6- 59 months. A three-tier sampling technique was used consisting of purposive sampling,stratified sampling and simple random sampling. Data was collected by use of researcher-administered questionnaires and the Hemoglobin levels were measured by the use of a portable HemoCue® Hb 201+ system. WHO Anthro Software and STATA version 18 were used to analyze data. From the results it’s evident that the prevalence of IDA was 48.4%. The highest number of children suffering from IDA were between the ages of 6-12 months (44.4%) and 24-35 months with (44.8%) There was no statistically significant relationship between IDA and children’s age group, (χ2 = 5.5201, p-value=0.701). Children from married parents were 4.53 times more likely to be normal (not suffering from IDA) [Odds ratio (OR):4.53; 95%CI], p-value <0.01. An increase in wealth was found to be associated with a decreased risk of IDA, [OR: 5.45; (95% CI, 1.18 to 5.125), p-value<0.01]. A statistically significant relationship between dietary diversity and IDA, Tau (2, N = 289) = 0.0667, p-value = 0.0445. The predictors of IDA are poor nutrition status, low maternal education, low dietary diversity and low household wealth index. Due to the high prevalence of IDA, the government should consider prophylactic iron supplementation for susceptible children.

Spatial–Temporal Influence of Sand Dams on Chemical and Microbial Properties of Water from Scooping Holes in Degraded Semi-Arid Regions

Fri, 01 Sep 2023 00:00:00 GMT

Spatial–Temporal Influence of Sand Dams on Chemical and Microbial Properties of Water from Scooping Holes in Degraded Semi-Arid Regions Churu, Harrison; Kamau, Solomon; Ngetich, Wilson; Magiroi, Keziah; Alkamoi, Bonface; Kebeney, Syphyline; Wamalwa, Fred; Mumo, James Communities in semi-arid lands use sand dams to enhance access water during the dry seasons. However, there is limited information on the quality of water derived from these sand dams, especially in degraded lands where storm surface runoff poses contamination risk. Thus, this study aimed at assessing the spatial–temporal variations in water quality of sand dams in Chepareria, West Pokot County in Kenya. Water samples were collected from scooping holes across 18 purposefully selected sand dams. Results obtained showed significant differences in water quality based on a sand dam’s age and location of the scooping holes, but the magnitude of these differences differed with specific properties. For instance, in recently constructed sand dams (<1 year), scooping holes near the sand dam wall had lower pH values (8.5) than holes scooped a distance from the sand dam wall (9.2). For total dissolved solutes and microbial properties, sand dam age had the greatest impact, over the location of the scooping holes. For example, water obtained from <1 year old sand dams had significantly higher TDS with an average value of 100.3 mg L−1 . The thermotolerant coliforms (TTC) exceeded the maximum allowable levels recommended by The World Health Organization. Thus, water obtained from these sand dams should be treated before consumption. Finally, sand dams meant for domestic water harvesting should be protected. Shallow wells with appropriate aprons for effective protection against contamination should be installed to enhance abstraction of safe water from sand dams.

A Review on Challenges and Opportunities in Management of Soils of Arid and Semi-Arid Regions of Kenya

Sat, 01 Jan 2022 00:00:00 GMT

A Review on Challenges and Opportunities in Management of Soils of Arid and Semi-Arid Regions of Kenya Nyuma, Henry Tamba; Churu, Harrison Arid and semi-arid lands occupy currently 88% of arable land mass in Kenya, a region with significant diversity of production systems and economic opportunities. However, these areas are characterised by low and erratic rainfall, hence challenges to agriculture and socioeconomic development in the wake of an increasing population and the impacts of climate change. This review seeks to identify key challenges and opportunities associated with the management of agricultural soils in these arid and semi-arid communities. Arid and semi-arid regions in Kenya are dominated by 10 soil types; Solanchaks, Solonetz, Cambisols, Arenosols, Leptosols, Vertisols, Fluvisols, Phoezems, Calcisols, and Gypsisols. Among the main soil fertility challenges in these soils are moisture stress, high erodibility, and low organic matter content, salinity, and sodium toxicity, the deficiencies of mainly N, P, Zn, and Fe, hence the vulnerability of over 14 million inhabitants to the shocks of low crop and pasture production. Moreover, the adoption of soil conservation practices remains low as existing soil fertility management technologies have been criticized for being too abstract and not providing context and site-specific solutions. Improving soil fertility and moisture levels enhances soil ecosystem functions and food and pasture production in these regions. Encouraging farmers to join soil and water conservation groups, while providing economic incentives, could potentially accelerate the adoption of soil and water practices at the farm level through pulling resources together. Future research to validate a site and context-specific integrated soil fertility improvement technologies for these soils is evitable to enhance soil functions, agricultural production and livelihood at house hold level.