AdvantagesLight,cheep depending on quality,easy to disinfect,can be moulded into any shape,are durable,cannot be destroyed by insects and fungusare water-proof. DisadvantagesAre easily destroyed,fragile,very expensiverequire skilled labour. Wood Timber AdvantagesThey are workable,cheap,can be re-usedare fairly strong. DisadvantagesThey can catch fire easily,decay if exposed to waterare affected by fungus and insects. ConcreteIs a mixture of cement, sand, aggregate and watere.g. In making blocks the ratio is 1:2:3; one part cement, two parts sand and three parts aggregate. UsesMaking posts for fencing. Making walls and floor of buildings. Making gabions and water channels to prevent erosion. Making water troughs. AdvantagesThese materials are;durable, workable,easy to disinfect,cheap to maintain,fire resistantDisadvantagesThese materials are ;expensive,require skilled labour,bulky,cannot be reusedAnimal handling structuresThe crush used when doing following activities;Spraying livestock to control ticks,milking,examining sick animals,artificial insemination,treating animals, eg drenching, vaccination,dong routine jobs such as dehorning, identification marks,The spray race-used in the control of ticks by spraying livestock with acaricidesThe dip- machakos type, and the pludge dip. This is used in the control of ticks by dipping livestockFarm BuildingsFactors to be considered in site selection;SecurityNearness to a source of waterTopographyDirection of the prevailing windDirection of the sunPersonal whims tastes and preferenceNearness to means of communication. Types of farm buildingsHouses for farm animals. Stores for farm produce. Stores for equipment, tools and supplies. Buildings for growing crops e.g green house. Building for processing plant e.g milk plant. Parts of a buildingThe foundation,The walls,The roofInclude;kingpost,rafters,struts,tie beam,rafter battenInclude;concrete floor,foundation wall,PVC sheet damp-proof course the compacted fill hard core . FencesImportance of Fence in a FarmKeep out intruders to the farm,Define the boundary lines of the farm. Paddocking of fields to make rotational grazing possible.


Parts of a buildingThe foundation,The walls,The roofInclude;kingpost,rafters,struts,tie beam,rafter battenInclude;concrete floor,foundation wall,PVC sheet damp-proof course the compacted fill hard core . FencesImportance of Fence in a FarmKeep out intruders to the farm,Define the boundary lines of the farm. Paddocking of fields to make rotational grazing possible. Live fences serve as windbreaks. Fences are used in mixed farming to protect crops from. Damage by livestock. Fences add aesthetic values to the farm. It is easy to control breeding. It is easy to isolate sick animals from the rest of the herd. Types of FencesDead fences. Barbed wire fences. Electric fence. Concrete fence. Chicken wire fence mesh wire fence . Woven wire fence chain link . Wooden fence. Fencing PracticeMaterials include;wires,staples,nails,posts,droppersconcrete materials. Size of posts:General purpose 2.5m by 25cm in diameterStrainer units and corner posts 3m by 30cm in diameter:Distance between the posts:3m between posts, 10m if droppers are to be used. 200m between strainer units. Depth of holes - 60cm. Gate Posts, Gates and Strainer UnitsGates should be hung on posts separate from the fence. Mechanical implements for example tractors require 4.0-4.5m width of gate. Entrance gates for pedestrians can be accommodated within the fence. Steps in FencingLocate the cornersClear the fencing area. Mark gates, strainers, pass places and standards by pegging. Dig holes to proper depths. Fix the standard posts. Firm around posts or apply concrete. Fix wires on posts. Fix the droppers. Agricultural Economics II Land Tenure and Land Reforms IntroductionLand is an important factor of production. Without land it is impossible to practice the agricultural business. However the efficiency of utilization of land is influenced to a large extent by the condition of holding the land. Land TenureLand tenure is defined as the possession of the legal rights to the use of land. Various kinds of rights to the use of land give rise to different tenure systems.


However the efficiency of utilization of land is influenced to a large extent by the condition of holding the land. Land TenureLand tenure is defined as the possession of the legal rights to the use of land. Various kinds of rights to the use of land give rise to different tenure systems. Land Tenure SystemAll land tenure systems fall into two major classes, namely:Collective Tenure SystemsThis includes:Communal Tenure SystemsThis involves the possession of rights over land by the whole community. It works quite well under conditions of unlimited, land resources. Advantages of Communal TenureLandless problem does not exist. Land is not fragmented. Allows for free movement of animals in search of better pastures and water. Promotes community spirit among the members. Disadvantages of Communal TenureNo incentive among the users to conserve the land resources. Everybody strives to maximize returns from the land without the drive to invest, for example, in terms of soil conservation and maintenance of soil fertility. There is a tendency of overstocking and continuous cropping; which leads to soil erosion and loss of land productivity. As a result of communal grazing of livestock, it is impossible to improve livestock through;controlled breeding,proper feeding,disease and parasite control. Since there is no title deed, certificate of ownership it is virtually impossible to secure loans to develop the land. Co-operative Tenure SystemThis category includes various collective arrangements under the government or other authorities. Farmers voluntarily group together and buy land which they subsequently operate on co-operative basis. Examples are co-operative ranches. Advantages of Co-operative TenureNo land disputes. Labour is well utilized. Profit is distributed according to the number of shares. Resource use is enhanced for high production. Disadvantages of co-operative tenure. Incase of poor management everybody will loose. No individual title deed hence cannot secure loans. State ownershipLand is owned by the whole state and is refered to as government land. Examples in Kenya;Areas not allocated to individualsLand under local county councils cities and townsLand under forest, game reserve and parks, land for infra-structure and public utilityAdvantages of state ownershipGeneration of income for the stateAll the citizens benefit from whatever comes out of the land. DisadvantagesNon-competitive in terms of productionNo individual motivation when working on the land.


State ownershipLand is owned by the whole state and is refered to as government land. Examples in Kenya;Areas not allocated to individualsLand under local county councils cities and townsLand under forest, game reserve and parks, land for infra-structure and public utilityAdvantages of state ownershipGeneration of income for the stateAll the citizens benefit from whatever comes out of the land. DisadvantagesNon-competitive in terms of productionNo individual motivation when working on the land. Individual Tenure systemThe various forms of individual land tenure are;Owner operator,Plantation and Concestion,Land-lordism TenancyOwner operatorThis category includes all persons who operate on land to which they have absolute individual rights. Examples are the majority of individual land owners in areas where demarcation and registration of land has taken place and title deeds issued. AdvantagesThe owner is free to make permanent production plans. The owner can pledge the land title deed to secure loans credit from lending agencies for further developmentAn individual is motivated to work harder than when under communal arrangementManagerial failures usually affect small units of production and are therefore negligible. It is easy for the owner to get agricultural advice. DisadvantagesCost such as machinery for processing may be too high for the individual ownerInnovation may be inadequate due to low levels of education. Lack of capital to invest. Plantation and concessionIn this form of land tenure, the individual is usually a company or a corporation. Most of them engage in the production of only one commodityThey are rigid in their production plans and in most cases labour is hired on wage basis. Example are coffee, tea, sugarcane, sisal estates in . AdvantagesHigh production from the land hence high economic gainsAllows foreigners to use and develop landNo land disputesCreate employment for the local peopleGenerate government revenue through taxation. DisadvantagesIndividuals own large pieces of land while others are landlessLarge areas of land may be left underdeveloped. Foreigners may repatriate profit to their countries. Landlordism and tenancyThe arrangement here involves the ownership of land by one individual or group of individuals landlord who lease it to another individual tenant . A legal lease specifies the length of time during which the tenure is operative;and that serves as a security of tenure to the tenant.


Foreigners may repatriate profit to their countries. Landlordism and tenancyThe arrangement here involves the ownership of land by one individual or group of individuals landlord who lease it to another individual tenant . A legal lease specifies the length of time during which the tenure is operative;and that serves as a security of tenure to the tenant. The efficiency of production in this arrangement is greatly affected by the length of lease, its legal backing and rent payable. AdvantagesA person without land can get a chance to use land. A landlord who cannot operate the land, for any reason, can still earn income by leasing it to a needy tenant. It is a flexible arrangement; that is, it allows room for change of production plans should need arise. Security of tenure gives the tenant incentive to invest depending on the length of tenure. DisadvantagesPoor land use and low production if the tenant does not have enough funds to improve on land. Tenants cannot produce long term crops,Landlords can exploit the tenants by overcharging. Lack of incentives to improve land by the tenants since it does not belong to them. Land ReformsDefinitionLand reform is any organized action designed to improve the structure of land tenure and land use. Forms of Land ReformLand ConsolidationThis means bringing or putting together, into one piece; fragmented parcels or pieces of land scattered over a large area. The objective of land consolidation are :To save on time spent while moving from one piece of land to another. To facilitate effective and efficient farm planning. To create an incentive among land operators to invest on and develop land. To facilitate mechanization and improve production through efficiency. To improve level of production through effective supervision of the labour force and sound farming methods,Land Fragmentation and Sub-divisionThis is the subdividing of a large piece of land into smaller portions. Sometimes it becomes necessary to sub-divide land for the following reasons:To sell part of the land. The parent may wish to subdivide and distribute his land among the sons, daughters and other dependants. The government may decide to subdivide large farms in order to settle landless citizens. Land Adjudication and RegistrationLand adjudication involves;Establishing the legitimate ownership,Measurements to make permanent boundaries Recording of land details. Once land has been adjudicated, and any disputes concerning the same land are settled,It is then registered in the "Register of Land".


The government may decide to subdivide large farms in order to settle landless citizens. Land Adjudication and RegistrationLand adjudication involves;Establishing the legitimate ownership,Measurements to make permanent boundaries Recording of land details. Once land has been adjudicated, and any disputes concerning the same land are settled,It is then registered in the "Register of Land". And the owner is issued with a land title deed or certificate of legal ownership. Importance of land title deedThe legal owner of the land has security of tenure and hence an incentive to invest and improve productivity. A farmer can mortgage the land by offering land title certificate as a security to loaning agencies to secure capital to finance development projects. If a farmer who cannot operate the farm, he can still earn income from it by leasing it. Disputes concerning land boundaries and or land ownership no longer arise. Land Settlement and ResettlementDefinitionLand settlement means the occupation of land which was previously uninhabited. Land resettlement, on the other hand, is the transfer of people from an already densely populated area to a sparsely populated one. ObjectivesTo settle the landless citizens. To relieve population pressure in densely populated areas. To increase or promote agricultural productivity by farming on land that was previously unused or lying idle. To create self-employment thus improving the living standards. Land reclamation, especially by creating tsetse fly-barriers. Soil and Water ConservationIntroductionSoil and water are two very important natural resources in farming. They should therefore be well maintained and used without wastage to sustain continuous production. Water loss during the rainy season should be prevented and excess water conserved for use during scarcity. Soil erosion must be controlled at whatever cost if soil is to be conserved. Soil ErosionIt is the removal and carrying away of the top soil by the action of water or wind. Factors Influencing Soil ErosionAmount and intensity of rainfall. The steeper the land the higher the velocity of surface runoff. The higher the velocity of surface runoff the greater is its erosive power effect. Type of soil for example sandy soils are more easily detached and carried away than clayey soils. Soil depth;The deeper the soil, the longer it takes to be saturated with water. Land use:Overstocking leads to bareness of the land and looseness of the soil. Deforestation - indiscriminate removal of trees leads to exposure of soil to heavy rainfall and high temperatures.


Soil depth;The deeper the soil, the longer it takes to be saturated with water. Land use:Overstocking leads to bareness of the land and looseness of the soil. Deforestation - indiscriminate removal of trees leads to exposure of soil to heavy rainfall and high temperatures. Indiscriminate burning of vegetation exposes the soil to erosive agents. Clean weeding leaves the soil bare. Ploughing along the slope. Monoculture or continuous cultivation. Ground coverTrees act as windbreakers. Roots of vegetation cover hold the soil particles together. Leaf fall act as mulch which reduces erosion. Leaves of vegetation cover intercepts raindrops reducing their erosive power. Agents of ErosionWater - moving water has erosive power. Wind - wind carries away soil. Human beings - through man's activities such as cultivation and mining. Animals - through overgrazing and creating footpaths where soil erosion takes place. Types of ErosionRaindrop splash - displacement of the soil caused by raindrops. Sheet - uniform removal of soil in thin layers from flat or gently sloping areas. Rill - removal of soil from small bur well defined channels or rills. Gulley - removal of soil from channels which become progressively deeper and wider. Riverbank Erosion - removal of soil along river banks by the river water. Solifluction - gravitational flow of soil saturated with water. Land slides - mass movement of rock debris and soil down a slope,For example;Slip movement of earth or rock masses for a short distance. Debris slide - materials move at a greater speed. Debris fall - movement of materials debris along vertical cliff. Rock fall - movement of rock down a very steep slope. Rock slides - mass of rock materials that slide along a bedding plate, a joint or a fault face. Soil Erosion Control MeasuresSoil conservation measures can be classified into:Biological or cultural controlPhysical or structural controlBiological or Cultural Control MeasuresThese measures are applicable where land slope is between 2-12 . Grass strips filter strips;These are narrow uncultivated strips along the contour left between cultivated strips. Cover cropping ;The establishment of a crop that spreads out over the surface of the soil to provide it with a cover. Contour farming ;Carrying out all land operations along the contour. Mulching ;Covering of the soil with either organic or synthetic materials.


Cover cropping ;The establishment of a crop that spreads out over the surface of the soil to provide it with a cover. Contour farming ;Carrying out all land operations along the contour. Mulching ;Covering of the soil with either organic or synthetic materials. Proper cropping systems such as:Crop rotationCorrect spacingInter-croppingRidging furrowingStrip croppingControlled grazing;Proper stocking rate, rotational grazing. Strip cropping;Growing crops which give little ground cover in alternate strips with crops such as beans which have a good ground cover. Afforestation re-afforestation. Afforestation - growing of trees where non-existed. Re-afforestation - growing of trees where they have been cut down. Agroforestry - land use that involves the growing of trees in combination with crops and pastures on the same piece of land. Physical or Structural Control MeasuresThese are soil and water conservation measures which involve mechanical constructions on the earth. They are used in areas of moderate slope between 13-55 . They include:Trash or stone lines;These are rows of heaped crop' residues or stones made along the contours. Filter strips;It involves the growing of an open crop in the upper side of the slope followed by a dense crop to reduce speed of water. This increases infiltration. Terraces;Are structures constructed across a slope to reduce the length of a slope thus reducing run-off. Bench terraces;Are constructed where the slope is 35-55 . Tree crops are suitable for such areas. Importance of a Bench Terrace: -Reduces slope of the land. Conserves soil moisture. Better retention of soil fertility. Narrow based terraces Cannot allow cultivation by machines. Broad based terraces - Is wide enough to allow cultivation by machines. Graded terraces:Have a drainage channel to lead off excess water to a vegetated place. They should be about 100m in length. Level terraces:Have no outlet channels,The aim is to have water infiltrating,Hence no water can flow from the ends of the terrace. Fanya juu:A ridge made by digging a channel and throwing the soil uphill. Fanya chini:In this case the soil is heaped on the lower side of the channel. Bunds: heaps of soil earth made along the contour. Cutoff drains:An open trench with an embankment on the lower side into which water from the farm drains.


Fanya chini:In this case the soil is heaped on the lower side of the channel. Bunds: heaps of soil earth made along the contour. Cutoff drains:An open trench with an embankment on the lower side into which water from the farm drains. Water from the trench should be discharged into;Natural waterways,Artificial waterways,Rocky groundGrasslandGabion Porous dams:Galvanized wire mesh boxes filled with stones which are built across slopes and gullies. Dams and reservoirs ;Dams - barriers built across a river waterway to hold and store water. It reduces speed of runoff. Reservoirs - these are large storage tanks. Ridging - heaps of soil to reduce the speed of water,They retain the water for some time. Water Harvesting MethodsWater harvesting and storage should be done during the rainy seasons to avoid wastage. This should be done using the following methods:Roof catchment - trapping and collection of rain water from roof tops. Rock catchment - water is harvested by constructing a barrier on the lower side of a large impervious rock to trap surface runoff from the rock. Weirs and dams. Dam - a barrier constructed across a river or a dry valley so that it can hold water. Weirs - barriers constructed across a river or a stream to raise the water level and still allow water to flow over it. Ponds - water retention excavations' made to hold excess surface water. Retention ditches level terraces.-These are terraces constructed with blocked ends to retain water. Micro-CatchmentsA system of harvesting limited rainfall and storing the water in the ground for use by the planted crops. Types of Microcatchments;Triangular V-shaped Negarims;V-shaped bunds measuring 25cmAre built with soil from the excavated planting holes to direct runoff water towards the basin area around the base of each plantSemi-circular bunds;Formed around the growing plant to hold water around the plant. Trapezoidal bunds;Trapezoidal shaped bunds, which enclose a large area where the crops are grown. Contour bunds furrows ;These are furrows made along the contours between the rows of crops where agroforestry trees are intercropped with annual crops. Planting holes pits ;These are extra large planting holes made and filled with dry plant materials before filling in with soil.


Trapezoidal bunds;Trapezoidal shaped bunds, which enclose a large area where the crops are grown. Contour bunds furrows ;These are furrows made along the contours between the rows of crops where agroforestry trees are intercropped with annual crops. Planting holes pits ;These are extra large planting holes made and filled with dry plant materials before filling in with soil. Use of Micro-CatchmentsSlow down the speed of surface runoff. Used during landscaping of the compound, parks and roadside nest areas. Reclamation of land for food crop in dry areas. Water collected and stored can be used for irrigationAfforestation in dry areas. Weeds and Weed ControlIntroductionWeeds cause heavy crop losses if not controlled. Their control is important so as to maintain high quality and quantity produce. Definition:A weed is any plant growing where it is not required. And whose economic disadvantages outweigh the advantages. Harmful Effects of WeedsWeeds compete with crops for nutrients, space, light and soil moisture. Some weeds, for example, Striga spp are parasitic to cultivated crops such as maize. Some weeds lower the quality of agricultural produce for example:Mexican marigold gives undesirable flavour to milk if dairy cows feed on it. Devils horsewhip, black jack, bristly fox-tail and others get attached to sheep wool thus lowering its quality. Some weeds are poisonous to human beings and livestock for example:Thorn apple Datura stramonium Sodom apple Solanum incanum Some weeds have allelopathic effects to cultivated crops. Water weeds block irrigation channels. Aquatic weeds such as Salvinia in Lake Naivasha and water hyacinth in Lake Victoria affect fishing. Some weeds are alternate hosts for insects, pests and disease causing organisms for example:Wild oat avena fatua is an alternate host for rusts. Mallow malva verticillata is an alternate host for cotton stainers.


Aquatic weeds such as Salvinia in Lake Naivasha and water hyacinth in Lake Victoria affect fishing. Some weeds are alternate hosts for insects, pests and disease causing organisms for example:Wild oat avena fatua is an alternate host for rusts. Mallow malva verticillata is an alternate host for cotton stainers. Weeds lower the quality of pasture for example:Tickberry Lantana camara Nut grass Cyperus rotundus ,Manyatta grass Eleusine jaegeri Some weeds irritate workers thus reducing the efficiency in which they are controlled for example:Double thorn Oxygonum sinuatum ,Stinging nettle Urtica massaica ,Devil's horse whip Achyranthes aspera . Factors Contributing to the Competitive Ability of WeedsThey produce large quantities of seeds for example pigweed and black jack. Their seeds remain viable in the soil for a long time awaiting conducive germination conditions. They have effective seed dispersal mechanisms. Some weeds propagate by means of elaborate underground storage structures. They are efficient in utilizing little moisture, nutrients and sunlight. Some have short life cycles. They have elaborate root systems for supporting the plant and absorbing nutrients and water. Weed ClassificationIt is based on:Life cycles for example:Annuals - complete their life cycle in only one season. Biennuals - complete their life cycles in two seasons only. Perennials - complete their life cycle in more than two seasons. Morphology - leaf formation such as size, shape and venation. Broad leaved weeds for example black jack, lantana, pig weed, oxalis and others. Narrow leaved weeds for example couch grass, setaria, nut-grass, manyatta grass and others. Habitat - some weeds are terrestrial grow on land while others are aquatic grow on aquatic marine conditions . Weed IdentificationWeeds are identified by their common individual names and botanical names. They are named according to specific features or according to person who identified them. Common Name Botanical NameBlack Jack Bidens pilosaMexican marigold Tagetes minuta0xalislsorrel ..Oxalis spp.


Weed IdentificationWeeds are identified by their common individual names and botanical names. They are named according to specific features or according to person who identified them. Common Name Botanical NameBlack Jack Bidens pilosaMexican marigold Tagetes minuta0xalislsorrel ..Oxalis spp. Double thorn Oxygonum sinuatumThorn apple ..Datura stramoniumCouch grass ..Digitaria scalarumNut grass ..Cyperus rotundusWandering Jew Commelina bengalensisSow thistle Sonchus ole race usDevil's horsewhip .Achyranthes asperaMacdonald's eye Gallant soldier. Gallinsoga parvifloraSodom apple .Solanum incanumBlack night shade ..Solanum nigrumChinese lantern . Nicandra physalodesBracken fern ..Pteridium aquilliumLove grass Bristly foxtail .Setaria verticillataCleavers Gallium spuriumStinging Nettle ..Urtica massaicaFat hen Goose foot ...Chenopodium spp. Rape weed Brassica nap usWild oats ...Avena fatuaLantana Tick berry Lantana camaraWater hyacinth .Eichhornia crassipesStriga Witch weed Striga hermonthecaCreeping indigo .Indigofera spicataWeed Control MethodsThe methods of weed control determined by:The weed being controlled. Weather conditions. Capital availability. Effect on environment. METHODS OF WEED CONTROL INCLUDE:Chemical Weed Control The use of chemicals known as herbicides to control weeds. Classification of HerbicidesBased on:Formulation - the physical form of the herbicides for example:LiquidsWettable powdersEmulsionDustTime of ApplicationPre-emergence - applied before the planted crop germinates. Post emergence - applied after the planted crop germinates.


METHODS OF WEED CONTROL INCLUDE:Chemical Weed Control The use of chemicals known as herbicides to control weeds. Classification of HerbicidesBased on:Formulation - the physical form of the herbicides for example:LiquidsWettable powdersEmulsionDustTime of ApplicationPre-emergence - applied before the planted crop germinates. Post emergence - applied after the planted crop germinates. SelectivitySelective. Non selective. Mode of ActionContact - herbicides that kill only the parts of the plant which it comes into contact. Translocated systemic herbicides that will kill the whole plant even if it comes into contact with only a small part of it. Methods of Herbicide ApplicationSpraying - application of solutions. Dusting - application of dusts. Fumigation - application of fumigants into the soil. Safety Measures in the Use of ChemicalsRead manufacturer's instructions and follow them. Wear protective clothing such as overalls, breathing mask, gloves and boots. Avoid inhaling the herbicides. Wash thoroughly after handling chemicals. Do not blow or such blocked nozzles. Avoid herbicide drift to unintended crops and other plants. Avoid herbicide drift to livestock feed and water. Avoid spilling herbicides in pastures and fodder crops. Dispose off the empty containers properly for example burying them in the soil. Do not wash spraying equipment in water sources used by animals and human beings. Store chemicals in a safe place. Wash the spraying equipment thoroughly. Sink left over chemicals into the soil after the day's work. Advantages of Chemical Weed ControlIt is less laborious. Effective in the control of difficult weeds such as couch grass and sedges. It does not disturb crop roots and other underground structures. It makes the control of weeds in certain crop easier. It is efficient in both wet and dry conditions. It does not destroy soil structure. Cheaper in large scale production than the use of manual or mechanical cultivation. Disadvantages of Chemical Weed ControlIt requires skilled labour in mixing and application. Cause environmental pollution. Herbicides have long residual effects which may interfere with future crops. It is very expensive. Mechanical Weed ControlIt involves the following operations:Tillage CultivationThis is the opening and loosening up of the soil. It can be done by hand tools or tractor drawn implements. AdvantagesCheap in small scale production. Increases water and air infiltration into the soil.


It can be done by hand tools or tractor drawn implements. AdvantagesCheap in small scale production. Increases water and air infiltration into the soil. Incorporates crops residues into the soil. The earthing-up done during tillage encourages root growth. DisadvantagesIf done repeatedly it destroys soil structure. It is laborious and expensive in large scale production. It may not effectively control weeds. It may lead to soil erosion and loss of soil moisture. Damage crop roots. Slashing Mowing Mechanical removal of shoots from weeds. It is effective in the control of annual weeds. UprootingIt is done when the crops are too closeTo allow mechanical cultivation or where weeds are scattered. Cultural Weed ControlIt involves the following practices:Mulching. Cover cropping. Crop rotation. Timely planting. Use of clean seed planting materials. Proper spacing. Proper seedbed preparation. Flooding. Biological Weed ControlThe use of living organisms to control weeds. Examples are:Use of livestock to graze and control growth of weeds especially in plantations. Use of weed eating fish to control aquatic weeds. Use of moths to control cactus. Limitations: the method is not reliable. Legislative Weed Control QuarantineIt involves government laws and regulations which prevent the introduction and spread of foreign weeds in a country or an area. Done by KEPHIS. Limitations: Only samples are checked while the bulk of the materials may have some weed seeds. Crop Pests and DiseasesIntroductionCrop pests and diseases lead to high losses in crop production hence efficient control measures are needed. Proper control measures require the farmers to be able to;Identify these organisms,Know their life cycles, feeding habitsThe damage they cause to crops. Crop PestsDefinition of a Pest:It is a living organism that destroys crops trees either directly or indirectly by introducing pathogens disease causing germs . Classification of PestsPests are classified according to the following:Mode of FeedingPests with biting and chewing mouth parts - they cause physical damage and reduce the photosynthetic area of the plant. Pests with piercing and sucking mouth parts - they suck out the nutritious plant sap and in the process may introduce disease causing organisms. Crops AttackedSome crop pests attack specific crops for example, stem borers prefer cereal crops.


Classification of PestsPests are classified according to the following:Mode of FeedingPests with biting and chewing mouth parts - they cause physical damage and reduce the photosynthetic area of the plant. Pests with piercing and sucking mouth parts - they suck out the nutritious plant sap and in the process may introduce disease causing organisms. Crops AttackedSome crop pests attack specific crops for example, stem borers prefer cereal crops. Stage of Growth of Crops AttackedThere are pests of seedlings attack when the crop is young, for example cutworms. Pests of fruits - attack the crops at fruiting stage. Pests of grains attack the crops when the grains are formed. Field and Storage PestsSome pests attack the crops while in the field. Other pests attack the produce after it has been harvested and stored. Identification of Common PestsOther Crop Pests Include:Mealy bugs - coffeeThrips - coffeeBeetles - field and storage pests. Birds - field pests - cereals and fruits. Rodents - field and storage pests ,cereals and tubers. Nematodes - soil borne pests - tomatoes, potatoes, sunflower, beans. Harmful Effects of Crop PestsPests such as squirrels and rodents, unearth planted seeds, resulting in poor germination. Some pests like nematodes, termites and moles damage crop roots causing wilting and death of the crops. They lower the quality and quantity of farm produce. They increase the cost of production since farmers will incur expenses in purchasing chemicals to control them. They transmit diseases to crops for example, aphids transmit streak virus disease in maize. Chemicals used to control the pests cause pollution to the environment. They exterminate the crop by feeding on them for example eating embryo of the seed. Control of PestsIf pest population causes damage beyond tolerance then it is said to have reached economic injury level EIL hence control measures should be effected before this level. Before any control measure is effected ,the following should be considered:Know the life cycle of the pest. Correct identification of the pest. Correct assessment of the damage. The weather conditions. The value of the crop in question. The cost factor of the control method. Methods of Controlling the PestsCultural methods. Physical mechanical measuresBiological methods. Chemical methods. Integrated pest management.


Physical mechanical measuresBiological methods. Chemical methods. Integrated pest management. Cultural Methods:These are farming practices which aim at reducing the pest population by destroying the life cycle of the pests either by exposing them to adverse conditions or denying them food. These include:Timely planting to escape pest attack. Timely harvesting. Proper tillage. Close season: this is the period when a susceptible crop is not grown in order to control a certain pest. Trap cropping: These are crops which attract pests diverting them from the main crop. The trap crop is grown together with the main crop. Crop rotation: It breaks the life cycle of the pest. Planting resistant varieties: These are plants with natural protective mechanisms against pest for example hairy cotton against jassid bugs, goose necked sorghum against birds, high tillering in sorghum against shoot fly. Field hygiene: This includes rogueing and removal of crop residues which harbour pests from field. Alterations of environmental conditions, such as, creating a microclimate which is not conducive to pests for example open pruning in coffee. Crop nutrition: application of fertilizers and manures to make the crop strong and able to escape pest attacks. Destruction of alternate hosts, for example, weeds like mallow which harbour cotton stainers. Use of clean planting materials. This helps to prevent introduction of crop pests. Proper spacing: if well spaced some pests find it difficult to move from one plant to another. Use of organic manure, for example, farmyard manure discourages eel worms nematodes . Chemical ControlChemicals used to control pests are known as pesticides. Pesticides are administered through dusting, spraying or fumigating. Classification of Pesticides:Pesticides are classified on the basis of:Mode of EntryStomach - ingested by the pest together with the crop materials. Contact - absorbed through the body tissues. Fumigants - through the breathing mechanism. Systemic - translocated to all parts. Mode of ActionRespiratory poisons - interfere with breathing mechanisms. Coagulants - cause the blood of the pest to coagulate. Neurotoxins - act on the nervous system. Protoplasmic poisons - cause the cells to disintegrate. Target PestsInsecticides - kill insect pestsMolluscicides - kill snails and slugs. Rodenticides - kill rodents.


Protoplasmic poisons - cause the cells to disintegrate. Target PestsInsecticides - kill insect pestsMolluscicides - kill snails and slugs. Rodenticides - kill rodents. Nematocides - kill nematodes. Formulation . Dusts, granules and powdersEmulsifiable concentrates. Miscible liquids. Wettable powders. Fumigants. Factors That Affect the Efficiency of PesticidesConcentration of the pesticides. Weather conditions at the time of application. Timing of application - efficiency is high if applied when the pest is most susceptible. Persistence of the pesticide having long residual effect in the soil. Resistance of the pests. Advantages of Chemical Pest ControlFasterImmediate results are achieved. Low labour requirements. Disadvantages of Chemical Pest ControlExpensive to buy. Cause pollution to the environment. Require skilled labour to apply. Some pesticides may kill beneficial organisms and predators. Some target pests may build up resistance. Mechanical Pest Control PhysicalThis involves the killing of the pests using physical methods. Or creating physical barriers to prevent pests from getting into contact with the crops . Example:Flooding irrigation; for example, moles are suffocated through flooding. Use of lethal temperatures: either too cold or too hot. Suffocation; commonly used in grain storage bins by being made air tight. Trapping and killing, for example, rats. Creation of physical barriers, such as, rat bafflers, sticky materials on tree trunks. Proper drying: this makes them too hard to be destroyed by pests. Scaring devices especially in rice plantations to control birds. Use of explosives thrown at breeding places of birds to kill or scare them away. Biological Pest ControlIt involves the use of living organisms to reduce the pest population. Predator Target PestParasitic wasp-------------------White fly in citrus, boll worms, stalk borersBirds--------------------------------- Crickets, locusts, caterpillar llars.


Use of explosives thrown at breeding places of birds to kill or scare them away. Biological Pest ControlIt involves the use of living organisms to reduce the pest population. Predator Target PestParasitic wasp-------------------White fly in citrus, boll worms, stalk borersBirds--------------------------------- Crickets, locusts, caterpillar llars. Lady Bird --------------------------AphidsTrachnid flies -------------------cotton stainerPraying mantis-----------------giant loppersMajimoto ants -----------------scalesCats ----------------------------------moles,rats,miceBrachonid wasps-------------mealy bugsChicken ---------------cotton stainer, larvae of beetles, grasshoppers, cricketsAdvantagesCheapNo environmental pollutionSaves on labour. DisadvantagesTakes too long to get the correct agentDifficult to control the pest effectively. Integrated Pest ManagementIt is a new method which involves the combination of the methods mentioned above. The aim is to have least hazards to the user and to the environment. Example, attractant-pheromones are used to attract pests to one place where they are sprayed and eradicated. Legislative Method QuarantineLegislative mearsures of pest control are effected by the Kenya Plant Health Inspectorate Service KEPHIS through seed inspection. Crop Disease And Their ControlA disease is any deviation from the normal performance or functions. A plant disease is any harmful physiological disorder in a plant caused by pathogenic agents such as virus, bacteria, fungi. The study of plant disease is called plant pathology. Economic importance of crop diseasesThey lower crop yieldThey reduce the quality of the produce thus reducing their market valueThey cause food poisoning. E.g ergot in wheat, afflatoxin in grain crops by fungus. They reduce photosynthetic area of the plant. Classification and identification of plant diseasePlant disease are classified according to their causal agents;Fungal diseases;Fungi are non-green plant-like. Some are parasitic and others are saprophytic. Parasitic fungi divided into;Obligate parasites- those that depend on other living organisms for food. Falcultative parasites-those that are able to live on both the living and dead tissues.


Some are parasitic and others are saprophytic. Parasitic fungi divided into;Obligate parasites- those that depend on other living organisms for food. Falcultative parasites-those that are able to live on both the living and dead tissues. Examples of fungal diseasePanama disease Fusarium oxysperium bananas Cigar-end rot Verticilium theobromae -bananasDie back attack the tips of shoots and rootsMildews-foliar disease of several cropsArmillaria root rot Armillaria mellea -coffee and teaDamping off-disease of seedlings in the nurseryAnthracnose Colletotrichum spp -coffee,beans,tomatoes. Fungus also cause damage to stored grains which are not properly dried or if the store is damp. Fungus cause food poisoning and lower seed viability for example Aspergillus flavus which produces a highly toxic compound called afflatoxin. Examples of fungal diseaseBacterial DiseasesBacteria are microscopic single-celled organisms which reproduce by binary fissionTransmission; Through irrigation water, seeds, fertilizers, manures, wind ,raindrop splash, insects, soil and mechanical means. Symptoms of Bacterial DiseasesWiltingCankers necrotic tissues localized necrosisGall formation in infected tissues. Examples of bacterial diseasesViral DiseasesViruses are small living organisms which can only be seen under a very powerful electronic microscope. Viruses interfere with photosynthesis, respiration, transpiration and nitrogen utilizationSymptoms of Viral InfectionLeaf chlorosis. Leaf curling. Mosaic light green or yellow patches . Malformation distortion of plant parts. Rosettes; Development of abnormally short internode. TransmissionThrough the use of infected vegetative materials and insect vectors like aphids, mealybugs and leafhoppers. Viral diseasesOther Causes of Crop DiseasesFlooding forming ammonia which is poisonous to the crops causing a burning effect on leaves. Chemicals: some may be toxic. Poor weather: Extremes of day and night temperatures. Stress: such as irregular watering as in tomato blossom end rot. Control of Crop DiseasesCultural method: This involves use ofHealthy planting materials. Practicing field hygiene. Proper seedbed preparation. Proper spacing. Heat treatment of the planting materials for example sugar cane.


Proper seedbed preparation. Proper spacing. Heat treatment of the planting materials for example sugar cane. Proper drying of cereals and pulses to 13 M.C. Growing disease resistant varieties. Legislative MethodInvolves the imposing of regulations and laws especially in case of disease outbreaks to prevent the introduction and spread of diseases. Chemical ControlUsed as a last resort. Chemical control measures include:Seed dressing before planting. Soil fumigation to control soil borne diseases. Spraying: application of fungicides. Crop Production VI Field Practices II IntroductionThere are many crops cultivated in Kenya. These crops are grown for various uses and require different ecological conditions. Definitions:Hybrids - These are crop varieties developed by crossing two pure lines. Composites - These are crop varieties developed through repeated mass selection. Cultivars - these are varieties of crops which are cultivated in a given area. MaizeMain growing areas: Trans-Nzoia, Nakuru, Uasin Gishu, Laikipia districts and others. Ecological RequirementsAltitude: Upto 2000m above sea level. Temperature: About 25 CSoils: Freely draining, fertile loam soils. Rainfall: 750-12S0rnm critical at silking and pollination stage. VarietiesHigh altitude areas: Hybrids 611, 613 and 614C. Medium altitude areas: 511,512,622 and 632. Marginal rainfall areas: Katumani composite and Makueni composite. Coast regions: Coast composite and Katumani composite. Seedbed PreparationPloughing should be deep and done during the dry season to eradicate weeds. Require medium tilth. Plant spacing 75-90cm x 20-30cm. Planting done at the onset of the rains. This helps to reduce pest attack. Dry planting in areas with inadequate rainfall is necessary. Field Maintenance:Apply phosphatic fertilizer during planting at a rate of 120kg ha P2O5Also nitrogenous fertilizers as top dress at the rate of 200kg of ASN or CAN. Control weeds by cultivation, use of appropriate herbicides, uprooting, slashing and mulching. Pest ControlMaize Stalk Borer:Nature of damage: Boring the leaves causing windowing effect, boring the stems and cobs.


Field Maintenance:Apply phosphatic fertilizer during planting at a rate of 120kg ha P2O5Also nitrogenous fertilizers as top dress at the rate of 200kg of ASN or CAN. Control weeds by cultivation, use of appropriate herbicides, uprooting, slashing and mulching. Pest ControlMaize Stalk Borer:Nature of damage: Boring the leaves causing windowing effect, boring the stems and cobs. Control: Destruction of previous years crop residue, closed season and apply chemicalsMaize Weevils:it is a storage pest. Damage: Bores holes into the maize grains, eating the contents. Control: Proper hygiene and sanitation in the stores. Use of chemicals such as Actellic Super. Disease Control:RustCause: Fungus. Symptoms: Red or brown pustules on the. Leaves. Control: Plant resistant varieties and crop rotation. SmutsCause: FungusSymptoms: Black sooty mass of spores on maize heads or cobs ear . Control: Crop rotation, growing resistant varieties and destruction of affected plant parts. Maize Streak VirusCause: VirusSymptoms: Yellow longitudinal stripes parallel to the midrib. Control: Certified seed, early planting and rogueing. HarvestingHarvest the crop 3-9 months after planting depending on variety. Maize stalks are cut and stocked in the field. Cobs removed by hand. For large scale harvesting, combined harvesters are used. Yields about 3,OOOkg and 4500kg ha. Bulrush MilletAreas where grown:Lower areas of Kirinyaga,Embu,Meru,Parts of MachakosKerio Valley. Ecological RequirementsAltitude: Does well in areas below 1200m. Rainfall: 500-600mrn per annum. Soils: Light sandy soils. Varieties: Serere 2A, 3A, 6A, 17, 16 9Seed Bed PreparationsPloughing of land during the dry season. Soil should be of fine tilth since the seeds are small. Planting:Done at the onset of the rains. Planted by broadcasting and row planting at a spacing of 60cm x 15cm. Field Maintenance:Weeding is done until tillering.


Planting:Done at the onset of the rains. Planted by broadcasting and row planting at a spacing of 60cm x 15cm. Field Maintenance:Weeding is done until tillering. Top-dressing is done by use of sulphate of ammonia. Pest ControlBirdsNature of Damage: Eats the seeds at milky stage. Control: Bird scaring devices. Disease ControlErgotCause: Fungus. Symptoms: Heads become sticky. Control: Use of certified seeds, crop rotation and destruction of affected crops. Downy MildewCause: Fungus. Symptoms: Long, whitish lines on the leaves. Control: Crop rotation and field hygiene. HarvestingDone by cutting off the heads. Drying of the heads. Threshing and winnowing of the grains. Stored under well ventilated dry conditions. Yields about 1000kg ha with good management. Finger MilletAreas where grown: Western Kenya and Uganda. Ecological RequirementsAltitude: 0-2400m above sea level. Rainfall: 900mm, drought resistant in the early stages. Soils: Free draining fertile soils. Varieties:Serere varieties developed at Serere in Uganda. Ultra lupin5.18 oats. Land PreparationsThe seedbed should be thoroughly prepared to a fine tilth due to the small size of the seeds. It also helps to control weeds. Field OperationsPlantingFinger millet should be planted as early as possible in the season. It is usually broadcasted by hand. If planted in rows, the furrows should be 30-33cm apart and the plants should be thinned to 5cm apart within the rows. Fertilizer ApplicationSulphate of ammonia at the rate of 125kg ha is recommended for topdressing finger millet. Weed ControlClean seedbed preparationUprootingPest Control:Birds are controlled through scaring. Disease ControlHead blast:Cause: FungusSymptoms: Brown spots with grey centres on the leaves and stems below the inflorescence. Control: Use of resistant varieties. HarvestingIndividual heads are cut with knives. Heads are dried, threshed and winnowed. Yields 1650kg ha with good management.


HarvestingIndividual heads are cut with knives. Heads are dried, threshed and winnowed. Yields 1650kg ha with good management. SorghumIt is grown in Western, northern, Rift Valley, Eastern and some parts of Central Province. Ecological RequirementsAltitude: 0-1500m above sea level. Rainfall: 420-630mm. It is drought resistant. Soils: Fairly fertile and well drained soils. VarietiesDobbs variety. Serena variety. Field OperationsPlantingBroadcasting the seeds on the firmly prepared seedbed. Intercropped with other crops especially maize and beans. Can be planted in pure stands at a spacing of 60cm x 15cmFertilizer ApplicationResponds well to farmyard manure FYM . Inorganic fertilizers are not commonly used in growing sorghum. Pest ControlBird pests: They are the most common sorghum pests. They includequelea,aethiopica Sudan Dioch ,weaver birds,starling birdbishop's bird. They are controlled through;killing them using explosives,poison spraying in their breeding placesuse of flame throwers. Sorghum shoot-fly controlled by early planting, closed season and application of insecticides. Stem borer - control by use of insecticides and field hygiene. Disease ControlCommon sorghum diseases include:Leaf blightAnthracnose. Sooty stripe. Loose smutHead smutSmuts are controlled by seed dressing-while the other diseases are controlled by growing resistant varieties. HarvestingSorghum is ready for harvesting 3-4 months after planting. Heads are cut off using a sharp knife after which they are sun-dried, threshed, winnowed and stored. Up to 3000kg hectare can be obtained with good management. BeansGrown in all provinces where maize is grown. Ecological RequirementsAltitude: 10.00-2100 metres above sea level. Rainfall: Average of 62Smm per annum. Soils: Well drained loamy soils rich in organic matter. VarietiesVarieties for dry beans:Rose Coco,Mwezi Moja,Canadian Wonder,Wairimu,Haricot,Mwitemania. Variety for canning: Mexican 142.


Soils: Well drained loamy soils rich in organic matter. VarietiesVarieties for dry beans:Rose Coco,Mwezi Moja,Canadian Wonder,Wairimu,Haricot,Mwitemania. Variety for canning: Mexican 142. Varieties for French Beans:Primeur,Long Tom,Saza,Master PieceMonel. Seedbed PreparationLand should be prepared early. Primary and secondary cultivation done to control perennial weeds. Seed Selection and TreatmentSelect wholesome seeds free from damage and wrinkles. Seeds are dressed against bean fly. Seeds should be inoculated with appropriate bacteria none dressed seeds PlantingPlanted at the onset of the rains. Spacing 30-45cm x 15cm. Apply phosphatic fertilizer during planting time. Plant 2-4 seeds per hole. Field MaintenanceProvide sticks for the climbing varieties. Control of weeds through shallow cultivation. Top-dress with nitrogenous fertilizer for example CAN. PestControlBean-FlyNature of damage: Feeds on the stems causing swelling at the roots. This results in wilting and death. Control: Dressing of seeds, early planting and spraying with insecticides. Bean Bruchid Storage Pest Nature of damage: Make dark circular windows on the grains. Control: Clean stores, fumigation, and seed dressing. Diseases ControlBean AnthracnoseCause' FungusSymptoms: Brown or black lesions on the underside of the leaves, pods and stems. Control: Growing resistant varieties, crop rotation, destruction of crop residues and spraying with fungicides. Bean RustCause: FungusSymptoms: Red brown pustules on the leaves. Control: Planting resistant varieties and spraying copper fungicides. HarvestingDone during the dry season for dry beans and when the pods are dry. Threshing and winnowing done. Sorting of rotten, off types and damaged ones. Sold to National Cereals and Produce Board when dry. For French beans, pick the pods when soft and green. Market immediately to avoid shrivelling. Rice ProductionAreas where grown;Mwea Tabere Irrigation SchemeAhero Pilot Scheme in Kano plains. Bunyala in Busia. Bura in Tana River. Land PreparationPlots of 0.4 hectare are made with bunds constructed around them. Plots are flooded for four days.


Bura in Tana River. Land PreparationPlots of 0.4 hectare are made with bunds constructed around them. Plots are flooded for four days. Rotavators jembes are used to work the flooded fields on the fifth day. The land is then levelled and allowed to drain. Water ControlDuring land preparation, water level should be about 7.5-10cm. During levelling water level should be 5cmWater is drained off completely for direct sowing. For transplanted rice, water level should be 5cm at transplanting. Water level should be maintained at 1 3 the height of plant until maturity. Water should be allowed to flow slowly through the fields. Old water should be changed every 2- 3 weeks if the flow of water is not possible. Water introduced should always be warm to ensure pollination. Fertilizer ApplicationS.A applied in the nursery. Rate of 25kg SA for every nursery unit of 18.5m x 18.5m. Phosphatic fertilizers broadcasted in the field. Rate of 120kg ha DSP before planting. S.A applied in the field in two splits before and after transplanting at a rate of 250kg haFlooding in RiceFlood water in rice production is important for the following reasons;It provides good conditions for growth such as high humidity. Kills soil organisms. Prevents denitrification. Weed ControlControlled through flooding. Appropriate herbicides such as propanil and butachlor are also used. Harvesting of Industrial Cropscotton, pyrethrum, sugarcane, coffee and tea. Harvesting of CottonStage of harvestingTakes 4 months to mature. Harvest when bolls are dry and fully opened. Method and ProcedureIn Kenya cotton is picked manually. Sort out grade AR safi from grade BR fifi into separate containers. PrecautionsHarvest during dry conditions to prevent dirtifying the lint. Avoid use of gunny bags to prevent contamination. Avoid picking leaves. Harvest on weekly basis. Harvesting of PyrethrumStage of harvestingTakes 3-4 months to mature. Harvest the flowers with disc florets which have assumed a horizontal position. Methods and ProcedurePyrethrum is picked manually.


Harvesting of PyrethrumStage of harvestingTakes 3-4 months to mature. Harvest the flowers with disc florets which have assumed a horizontal position. Methods and ProcedurePyrethrum is picked manually. Flowers are picked by twisting the heads so that no stem is attached. PrecautionClean harvesting should be done. Avoid picking leaves. Flowers are placed in woven baskets. Overblown flowers are picked and thrown off. Pick the flowers when the dew is dry. Harvested flowers should be taken to the factory the same day. Avoid compaction of flowers in the basket. Harvesting interval, once in two weeks during the wet season and once in a month during the dry season. Harvesting SugarcaneStage of harvesting;Take 14-20 months for the plant crop to mature and 12-16 months for the ratoon crop. Sampling of cane is done before harvesting to ascertain the correct sugar content. Methods and ProceduresCut the cane at the ground level to avoid yield loss. The green tops are removed from the canes. Harvesting matchet is used for cutting the cane. PrecautionCane should be harvested immediately at maturity to avoid lowering quality. The green tops should be removed immediately after cutting to avoid reduction of sugar content by enzyme invertase. Burnt cane should be harvested immediately after burning to prevent rapid inversion to monosaccharides. The cane should be processed within 48 hours. Harvesting of CoffeeStage of harvesting;Takes 2-4 years depending on the pruning system. Harvest only ripe berries. Methods and Procedures;Hand picking is done so that ripe berries can be selected. During picking hooked sticks can be used to bend the tall trees. PrecautionsOnly the uniformly ripe berries should be picked. Over-ripe and under-ripe berries should be dried and sold as buni. Ripe cherries should be processed on the same day they are picked. Harvesting TeaStage of harvestingIt takes 2-4 years for tea to mature depending on the method of bringing young tea into bearing. Method and ProceduresTea harvesting is known as plucking. Fine plucking - 2 leaves and a bud are removed. Coarse plucking - 3 leaves and a bud are removed. A straight fitto straight stick is used to guide the plucker on the plucking table.


Fine plucking - 2 leaves and a bud are removed. Coarse plucking - 3 leaves and a bud are removed. A straight fitto straight stick is used to guide the plucker on the plucking table. Tipping is done by cutting off shoots that appear above the fitto. PrecautionsPlucked tea is placed in woven well ventilated baskets to prevent fermenting before it reaches the factory. The plucked tea should be kept in a cool place awaiting transport. It should be processed within the same day of harvesting. Harvesting is done on a weekly basis under wet conditions and once after every two weeks under dry conditions. Forage CropsIntroductionThese are plants which either grow naturally or are cultivated by man to be used for feeding livestock. The term forage crops include pasture and fodder crops. Fodder crops are purposely grown for feeding livestock. They are cut or uprooted when readyPasture is a ground cover of grass or a mixture of grass and legumes grazed directly or cut and fed to livestock. Classification of PasturesAccording to type of stand. Either pureMixed stands. According to ecological zones . Low altitude,Medium altitude,High altitude pasturesAccording to the establishment . NaturalArtificial pastures. Examples of grassesNapier,Rhodes,Setaria,Molasses,Congo signal,kikuyu,star,Guatemala,SudanGuinea. Examples of legumes;Lucern,Clover,Desmodium,Glycine,Stylo,Centrio,Pasture EstablishmentSeedbed PreparationThis involves clearing the land, primary and secondary cultivation to a fine tilth because the seeds are small. This is done during the dry season. Selection of planting materialsSelect seeds of high germination percentage,Free from impurities or buy certified seeds. If vegetative materials are used, select from high yielding, vigorous-growing and healthy plants. Treatment of legume seedsLegume seeds are inoculated with the correct strain of bacteria which fix nitrogen for the crop. PlantingThis is done at the beginning of the rainsMethods of sowing are;Direct sowing,Under sowing,Over-sowingOversowingThis is introduction of a pasture legume in an existing grass pasture. UndersowingThe establishment of a pasture in an already existing crop which acts as a cover crop.


Treatment of legume seedsLegume seeds are inoculated with the correct strain of bacteria which fix nitrogen for the crop. PlantingThis is done at the beginning of the rainsMethods of sowing are;Direct sowing,Under sowing,Over-sowingOversowingThis is introduction of a pasture legume in an existing grass pasture. UndersowingThe establishment of a pasture in an already existing crop which acts as a cover crop. Seeds rate depend;On purity of seeds,Pasture speciesWhether pure or mixed stand. Apply phosphatic fertilizer when planting and later top-dress with nitrogenous fertilizer. Pasture managementRe-seeding or gapping; Re-seeding is done if the grass is completely denudated. But if partially, gapping can be doneControl of weeds by slashing, uprooting and mowingFertilization of pastures-done by use of manures and nitrogenous fertilizer. Topping;This is the removal of stemmy fibrous material left behind after grazing. It allows new growth after the rainsControl of pests-done by trapping of moles, use of pesticides and biological means. Pasture UtilizationPastures should be utilized at maturity when nutritive value is high. It is utilized through the following methods:Direct grazing - this can be done through rotational grazing or herding. Zero grazing - this is where the pasture is cut and fed to the animals in the stalls. Common fodder CropsEdible CanaAltitude: 1500 - 2000m above sea level. Establishment: Young tubers or bulbs are used. Spacing: 1m x 1m. Management: Does well with application of farmyard manure and requires fertile land. Utilization: Tops and tubers are sliced and fed to livestock. Conservation: Bulbs or tubers are sliced and stored. Napier GrassAltitude: 0 - 2000m above sea level. Establishment: Stem cuttings or splits. Spacing: 1 m x 50cm. Management:Apply phosphatic fertilizers during planting time. Top-dress with nitrogenous fertilizers in split application. Clean weeding when young. Cut when 6-8 weeks or 1m-1.5m in height. Utilization: Cut stem is fed to livestock. Conservation: Ensiled when in plenty.


Bale the dry materials for storage. Store under shed or shelter. Factors Determining Quality of HayStage of growth at which forage is harvested. Leaf content of the forage material. Method of handling and curing the hay. Form in which material is fed to livestock. Species of forage used. Amount of foreign materials in forage. Silage MakingThis is a feed produced by conserving forage in succulent form through the process of fermentation by anaerobic bacteria. Steps in silage making:Cut the crop and transport it to the silo,Material with a high moisture content is wilted in the sun for 4-48 hours before ensiling . Material is chopped to reasonable size pieces before filling in the silo. Spread the chopped material evenly. Check temperature if below 31 C, needs further filling; if above 31 C compaction is necessary. Filling should be complete by the end of the third or fourth day. The silo is covered with 15cm of straw, sawdust then 15cm of soil to make it air and water tight. A trench is dug round the silo to keep off surface water. Factors Affecting the Quality of SilageMaturity stage of the crop when cut. Type of crop. Moisture content of the materialAdditives such as molasses. Degree of compaction. Size of pieces ensiled. Amount of foreign materials included in the silage. Amount of leaf of the ensiled material. Standing ForageThis is forage left in the field to be used during the dry season. Livestock Health III: Diseases IntroductionLivestock diseases are classified according to causative agents as follows:Protozoan diseases -caused by protozoans. Bacterial diseases - caused by bacteria:VIral diseases - cause by virus. Nutritional diseases - brought about by nutritional disorders. Protozoan DiseasesEast coast Fever ECF . Anaplasmosis gall sickness CoccidiosisTrypanosomiasis Nagana East coast FeverAnimals attacked: CattleCause: Protozoan. Theileria parva It is a tick-borne disease transmitted by red-legged tick and brown ear tick. SymptomsRise in body temperature. Swelling of lymph glands below the ear. Difficulties in breathing. Dullness. Control and PreventionControl of vectors through dipping and fencing.


Difficulties in breathing. Dullness. Control and PreventionControl of vectors through dipping and fencing. Treatment by use of clexon in the early stages. Anaplasmosis gall sickness Animals attacked:Cattle between 2 months and 2 years. Poultry. Lambs and kids. Rabbits. Cause: Protozoan Anaplasma marginale Transmitted by the blue tickcontaminated surgical instruments and hypodermic needles. SymptomsFever rise in body temperature. Constipation or hard dung. Paleness in the gums, eyes and lips. Drop in milk production. ControlTick control. Intramuscular injection of antibiotics and iron giving injections. CoccidiosisCoccidiosis of PoultryCause: Protozoan Eimeria spp. SymptomsSudden death of chicks. Whitish, yellow and blood stained diarrhoea. Ruffled feathers. Chicks become paralysed before dying. Chicks become anaemic and dull. ControlDisinfection of chick house. Prevention of contamination of food and water with droppings. Use of prophylatic drugs for example, Coccidiostats. Trypanosomiasis Nagana Animals attacked: cattle, sheep and goats. Cause: Protozoan of the trypanosome species,Vector-tsetse flies. SymptomsFever. Dullness. Anorexia loss of appetite. Loss of body condition emaciation. Swollen lymph nodes. Lachrimation which leads to blindness. DiarrhoeaRough coat and sometimes without hair and may be cracked. Swelling in parts of the belly. Drop in milk production in lactating cows. '. Loss of hair at tail end. Anaemia. Abortion may occur in pregnant females. ControlTreating animals with trypanocidal drugs. Effective vector Tsetse flies controlConfinement of wild animals in game parks. Bacterial DiseasesFowl typhoidFoot rot. Contagious abortion. Scours. Blackquarter. Mastitis. Anthrax. Pneumonia. Fowl TyphoidAnimals attacked: All domestic birds which include chicken, turkey and ducks. Causes: Bacteria Salmonella gallinarum SymptomsDepression appearing very sick. Respiratory distress. Dullness.


Causes: Bacteria Salmonella gallinarum SymptomsDepression appearing very sick. Respiratory distress. Dullness. Drooping wings. Sleepy eyes. Anaemia resulting in pale and shrunkencombs and wattles. Greenish yellow diarrhoea. ControlKilling all affected birds and proper disposal of the carcasses. Maintaining hygiene in the poultry house. Ensuring that the house is dry and well ventilated. Obtaining chicks from reliable sources. Treatment using sulphur drugs which are mixed in drinking water or mash. For example: application of Furazolidone Furazol at the rate of 0.04 in mash for 10 continuous days treats the disease effectively. Foot RotIt is also referred to as foul-in-the foot. Animals attacked: cattle, sheep and goats. However, it is most serious in sheep. Cause: Bacteria Fusiformis necrophorus and Fusiformis nodosus . SymptomsAnimal's foot becomes swollen. Lameness is observed. Pus and rotten smell come out of the hoof. Sheep are found kneeling while grazing when the front feet are affected. Animals spend most of their time lying down when the hind feet are affected. Emaciation due to lack of feeding. ControlHygiene in the living places. Regular foot examination and hoof trimming. Use of a foot bath of copper sulphate solution at 5-10 solution or formalin at 2-5 solution. Treating wounds on the feet with antiseptics. Affected animals should be given antibiotic injections. Isolation of sick animals from healthy ones. Avoid dampness and muddy conditions. Contagious Abortion Brucellosis Bang's Disease Animals attacked: cattle, sheep, goats and pigs. It also affects man. Cause: BacteriaBrucella abortus in cattle,Brucella suis in pigsBrucella malitensis in goats and sheep. SymptomsSpontaneous abortion or premature birth. Retained placenta if abortion occurs during the later stages of pregnancy. Infertility in cows while bulls have low libido and inflamed testis also known as orchitis. A yellowish brown, slimy, odourless discharge from the vulva may occur after the abortion. ControlUse of artificial insemination. Slaughtering affected animals followed by proper disposal of their carcasses.


A yellowish brown, slimy, odourless discharge from the vulva may occur after the abortion. ControlUse of artificial insemination. Slaughtering affected animals followed by proper disposal of their carcasses. The attendant to the animals should avoid contact with the aborted foetus. A blood test should be carried out for all breeding animals to detect the infected ones. Hygiene in the animals' houses. Scours white Scours Animals atacked: calves, piglets, lambs and kids. Cause: A bacterium which attacks young animals in the first week of life. SymptomsWhite or yellowish diarrhoea. Pungent smelling faeces. Fever. Anorexia loss of appetite. Listlessness. Sunken eyes. Undigested milk and mucus with blood spots observed in the faeces. Faecal matter sticks to the hind quarters. Sudden death if no treatment is given. ControlMaintaining hygiene in the young animal housing units. Avoiding dampness on the floor of the house. Fingers of the attendant training calves to drink milk from a bucket must be disinfected. Calving should be carried out in a clean area. Have separate attendants for the infected calves to prevent disease spread. Replacing milk with warm water mixture. Treating affected animals with antibiotics. Black QuarterIt is also known as black leg. Animals attacked: All ruminants aged between 8 - 18 months. Cause: Bacteria Clostridium chauvei and Chauvei septicum SymptomsLameness. Fever. Fast and heavy breathing. Cracking on the swollen parts if touched. Swelling of the affected parts usually the hindquarters, shoulders and chest or back. Dullness. Anorexia. Grunting and grinding of teeth. Animal stops chewing cud. ControlTreating with recommended antibiotics. Vaccinating using black quarter vaccine known as blanthax. Burying the carcass deep or burning it completely. MastitisIs an inflammation of the udder. Animals attacked: Goats, cows, pigs and human beings. Cause: Bacteria Streptococcus spp. Or Staphylococcus spp. Pre-disposing Factors:Incomplete milking. Injuries on the udder and teats. Weak sphincter muscles of the teats allowing free flow of milk.


Or Staphylococcus spp. Pre-disposing Factors:Incomplete milking. Injuries on the udder and teats. Weak sphincter muscles of the teats allowing free flow of milk. SymptomsMilk is watery, blood stained or clotted. Swollen udderControlProper milking techniques. Treatment by use of antibiotics. Culling of animals which are often attacked. AnthraxAttacks all domestic animals. Cause: Bacteria Bacillus anthracis SymptomsSudden death. High fever. Grinding of the teeth. PneumoniaIt is an inflammation of the lungs. Animals attacked: Calves, kids, lambs, piglets and poultry. Cause:Bacteria Mycoplasma mycoides dustworms in the lungs. SymptomsDullness. Anorexia loss of appetite. Staring coat. Emaciation. Breathing rapidly. Abnormal lung sounds when breathing. Coughing if the chest is pressed. Fluctuating body temperature. Nasal discharge. ControlKeeping young animals in warm pens. Proper sanitation. Isolation of the affected animals. Treating using antibiotics. Viral DiseasesRinderpest. Foot and mouth disease FMD . New CastleFowl poxGumboroAfrican swine feverRinderpestAnimal attacked: Cattle and wild game. Cause: virus. SymptomsHarsh staring coat. Rise in temperature. Eye discharge Lachrimation Diarrhoea and dysentery. Ulcers in the mouth. Foot and Mouth DiseaseAnimals attacked: Cattle, sheep, goats and pigs. Cause: Virus . SymptomsSharp rise in temperature. Blisters in the mouth, hooves, udder and teats. Loss of appetite. ControlVaccination. Quarantinenursing wounds with disinfectant. New CastleAnimals attacked: Poultry. Cause: Virus. SymptomsDifficulties in breathing. Beaks remain wide open and necks are strained. Birds become dull. The birds stand with eyes closed all the time. Anorexia loss of appetite. Nasal discharges which force the birds to shake their heads to clear it. Birds walk with a staggering motion. Paralysis of wings and legs may occur.


Nasal discharges which force the birds to shake their heads to clear it. Birds walk with a staggering motion. Paralysis of wings and legs may occur. Birds have their beaks and wings down. Birds produce watery greenish diarrhoea. Birds lay soft shelled eggs. ControlKilling all birds and burning them followed by cleaning and disinfecting the houses before bringing in new stock. Vaccination should be done during the first 6 weeks and then 2-3 months later. Quarantine. FowlPoxAnimals affected: Poultry. Cause: A virus known as avian fox. SymptomsTwo types of fowl pox with different symptoms. Cutaneous typeDiptheritic typeThe cutaneous type affects the skin and has the following signs:Injuries on the combs and wattles, legs, vent and under the wings. Loss appetite. The diptheritic type affects internal membranes and has the following symptoms:Injuries in the inside of the throat and mouth membranes resulting in difficult breathing and swallowing. Eyes and nose produces a watery liquid. Loss of appetite. Dullness. Emaciation. ControlKilling all affected birds followed by proper disposal of their carcasses. Vaccinating remaining healthy birds. GumboroIt is also referred to as poultry AIDS. Animals attacked: Poultry. Cause: A virus known as Birma virus. SymptomsThe glands above the vent bursa become swollen. Drop in egg production. Birds develop respiratory distress. Loss of appetite. Low water intake by birds. Loss of immunity making the birds more susceptible to opportunistic diseases. ControlVaccination. Administering vitamins and especially B12. African Swine FeverAnimals attacked: All domesticated pigs. Cause: A virus known as Irido virus. SymptomsFever. Loss of appetite. Depression dullness. Emaciation. Coughing. Nasal discharge. Diarrhoea in serious conditions. ControlVaccination. Quarantine. Killing all affected animals and proper disposal of their carcasses. Double fencing to keep wild animals away. Nutritional Diseases DisordersMilk FeverIt is a non-infectious disease brought about by calcium deficiency in animals which have recently given birth. Animals attacked: Cows, goats and pigs that have recently given birth.


Double fencing to keep wild animals away. Nutritional Diseases DisordersMilk FeverIt is a non-infectious disease brought about by calcium deficiency in animals which have recently given birth. Animals attacked: Cows, goats and pigs that have recently given birth. Causes:Due to low calcium levels in the blood. Which leads to an increase in the magnesium and sugar level in the blood. Mostly occurs in high producing cows in the first few months of lactation. This is because these animals loose more calcium through milk secretion than they are getting from the diet. SymptomsDullness. Muscular twitching causing the animal to tremble. Staggering as the animals move. Animal falls down ands becomes unconscious. The animal lies down on its side and the whole body stiffens. Body functions such as urination, defecation and milk secretion stops. Stomach contents are drawn into the mouth which later cause lung fever when breathing in. Loss of appetite. TreatmentIntravenous injection of soluble calcium salt in form of calcium boro-gluconate ,60gms dissolved in 500cc of water. Keeping the animal in a comfortable position on its sternum. Giving fresh water. Note: The animals suffering from milk fever should not be given medicine orally for the following reasons:It will not be able to swallow medicine. The medicine may get into the lungs thereby promoting lung fever. ControlPartial milking for the first 10 days. High yielding cows should be given rations containing phosphorus and calcium. Giving high doses of Vitamin D.BloatAnimals attacked: Cattle and sheep. Cause: Accumulation of gases as a result of fermentation in the rumen. SymptomsThe left side is blown up. Sudden death. ControlRelieve by use of trocar and cannula. Chasing the animal around if noticed early. Drenching by use of stop bloat. Feeding ruminants with dry roughages during the wet season before grazing on lush pastures.


SET BOOKS STUDY GUIDE NOTESBETRAYAL IN THE CITYTHE CAUCASIAN CHALK CIRCLETHE RIVER BETWEENCOPYRIGHT: www.teachers4teacherskenya.bravehost.com Keep visiting for other materials and for updated versions of these notes YOU MAY USE THESE NOTES FOR PERSONAL STUDY OR FORTEACHING PURPOSES BUT THOU SHALT NOT REDISTRIBUTE THEMOR RESELL THEM IN ANY FORMAT. YOU MAY ALSO EDIT THEM FOR THE SAME PURPOSES. GOD BLESS YOU AND THANKS FOR YOUR SUPPORT! BETRAYAL IN THE CITY BY FRANCIS IMBUGATHE AUTHORFrancis David Imbuga 1947- November 2013 was one of the greatest literary giants. For three decades, he taught at Kenyatta University where he was the Director of quality Assurance, Chairman of the Department of Literature and the Dean of the Faculty of Arts. Francis Imbuga studied at Alliance High School in the 1960 s where he wrote and acted a play, which won the National Beat Actor s Award. Professor Imbuga published several plays including Betrayal in the City 1976, The Successor1979, Man of Kafira 1984, Aminata 1988, and The Return of Mgofu 2011. He has also authored two novels, Shrine of Tears, 1993 and Miracle of Remera 2005. In his works he addresses the problems of independent and post colonial African states, family relations, tradition, religion, change among other issues affecting our society today. Imbuga passed on in the year 2013. THE TITLEThe title, Betrayal in the City, fits the events of the play as this is what the people of Kafira have to live with daily. Betrayal in the City reflects the political, cultural and personal betrayal witnessed in the fictitious state of Kafira. Boss the head of state works alongside other strong cronies and sycophants like Mulili, Tumbo, Kabito, and Nicodemo to let down their citizens through ;abuse of power, negligence of duty, senseless killings, and inefficiency to create a nation of hopelessness, corruption and disregard to the local citizens hence betrayal in the nation ofKafira.


THE TITLEThe title, Betrayal in the City, fits the events of the play as this is what the people of Kafira have to live with daily. Betrayal in the City reflects the political, cultural and personal betrayal witnessed in the fictitious state of Kafira. Boss the head of state works alongside other strong cronies and sycophants like Mulili, Tumbo, Kabito, and Nicodemo to let down their citizens through ;abuse of power, negligence of duty, senseless killings, and inefficiency to create a nation of hopelessness, corruption and disregard to the local citizens hence betrayal in the nation ofKafira. The government is run by scandalous and corrupt leaders and under whose leadership the hopes of independence for the people of Kafira are dashed. Betrayal in the City is characterized by all sorts of ills in society,namely: murder, misrule, tribalism, Nepotism, corruption, highhandedness, inefficiency, incompetence and a general atmosphere of rebellion and defiance. As the title suggests, betrayal breeds suspicion and intolerance and this creates a highly unstable environment for decent and safe living. One cannot safely determine who to trust with information hence the general feeling of betrayal among the people. THE SETTINGBetrayal in the City was first published in 1976 at a time when African states had attained their independence and were undergoing serious problems in adjusting to self-rule. The play set in the fictional country of Kafira, ruled by Boss, who surrounds himself with kinsmen like Mulili and the sharing-the-pie government officials, Tumbo, Kabito and Nicodemo. Betrayal in the city is a perfect example of many failed states in the third world, and especially in Africa. SYNOPSISBetrayal in the City is a political play. The writer examines the problems of independence and freedom in post-colonial states in Africa. The play talks about military regimes that were common on the African continent after independence. Many of such regimes were later overthrown by coup de tats. Francis Imbuga s major concern is betrayal at two levels, both at a personal and government level. Betrayal in the City shows a decay in morals, greed for power. Doga and Nina lament as they mourn their dead son, Adika and wishes to perform a ritual for their dead son.


Many of such regimes were later overthrown by coup de tats. Francis Imbuga s major concern is betrayal at two levels, both at a personal and government level. Betrayal in the City shows a decay in morals, greed for power. Doga and Nina lament as they mourn their dead son, Adika and wishes to perform a ritual for their dead son. This effort is hampered by express directions from the government brought by Mulili and Jere claiming that the ritual should not go on in the interest of peace; but Doga and Nina are adamant. Their only remaining son, Jusper, is imprisoned. This showsus what is happening in Kafira - the corruption, injustice and oppression of the people. Critics of the government are not tolerated. Jere and Mosese are henceforth put into prison over false charges. They both suffer the pain of the government s betrayal. Government officials make use of any opportunity to make money through unfair means. Tumbo for instance declares Jusper the winner of the play writing competition and awards him the winner s prize money. One third of the six hundred pounds to------- finance the playwriting competition is given to Jusper and his girl friend, Regina; and the remaining two thirds to put records straight emphasizing that everything is being done in strict confidence. Despite all this Jusper vows to revenge someday even if it means going it alone since he knows that a University student is not a very welcome person in Kafira and is looked at as anuisance. Government officials first think of what they are going to benefit before deliberating on matters of state. What first preoccupies their mind is how much they are going to gain. Being a relative to Boss gives Mulili a chance to despise his colleagues in service. Mulili falsely accuses Kabito knowing that Boss will believe what he says since he has been made to be his eyes and ears on the ground as he puts it. He is also favoured by Boss in many ways. The semi-illiterate Mulili sometimes completely misunderstands and distorts what is said to him and yet threatens to act basing on the strength of that misunderstanding. Boss trust of those who advise him especially Mulili makes him give unbearable directives to silence those presumably against his government including the simple old couple who were innocent. Boss also tries to take advantage of Regina forcefully. Such scandals speak unfavorably of the Head of State.


Boss trust of those who advise him especially Mulili makes him give unbearable directives to silence those presumably against his government including the simple old couple who were innocent. Boss also tries to take advantage of Regina forcefully. Such scandals speak unfavorably of the Head of State. Nicodemo and Tumbo discuss the state of affairs and how people are being killed: We have no choice. Like caged animals, we move, but only inside the cage. It has become infectious-the desire to eliminate others This clearly implies that there are serious consequences of criticizing the government s plans. The play within the play, Betrayal in the City, brings about the desired change that everybody has been waiting for. The rehearsal for the play intended to entertain the visiting Head of state becomes a real confrontation arrived at effortlessly by Jusper, Mosese, and Jere; takingeveryone by surprise. ACT SUMMARIESACT ONESCENE ONEThe scene is at grave surrounded by dry thorny branches. It is early morning. Doga and Nina are next to the grave of their late son, Adika who was murdered. Doga suspects that their son s murderer still lives among them. His suspicion arises from the smell of petrol at the site and the fact that the grave has a crack, an indicationthat the murderer s intention was to burn Adika s body to rid himself of Adika s ghost hunting him in future. Their only, living son, Jusper, was to guard the grave but this morning he cannot be traced. Nina is fearful for her son, who, according to them is not of sound mind. Her fears are heightened when she is made to notice that there seems to have been a struggle at the grave. Doga wants to cover up the crack on the grave so that the shaving ceremony planned to take place later in the day goes on but Nina will hear none of this. After much persuasion from the husband, she gives in and goes for soil to cover up the crack. From Doga s speech, we hear that Adika was shot four times during a demonstration by Kafira University students who were protesting that most of the Kafira university lectures are expatriates. During Adika s burial, his brother, Jusper, was taken away by government agents for being a threat to peace-loving people and after returning three months later, he is never the same. Jusper enters, dressed in a red gown. He is obviously disturbed by his brother s death.


5. What are we told about Jusper s condition and why is it so? 6. Who killed Adika and what is his relationship with the sub chief? 7. What led to the death of Adika and how was he killed? 8. According to Jusper what is the difference between the sun Jupiter and Jusper and what does it represent9. Jusper tells Nina that he is going to address the rally, which rally is he talking about and what does he want to tell them. 10. Why does Mulili and Jere come to the grave side and what is their mission11. Mulili speaks poor non-standard English , what does this tell us about him12. What does Mulili and Jere reveal to Doga and Nina about Jusper13. Why does Jere support the old couple s continuing with the ceremony14. Mulili had allowed Mustafa to escape, what does this tell us about justice in Kafira. 15. Identify at least two character traits of Mulili, Doga, Nina, Jere and Jusper f rom this scene. 16. Identify the aspects of style used in this scene: identify the proverbs, instances of irony, use of cross purpose, monologue, and puns among others. 17. What are some of the themes brought out in this scene? 18. Identify the instances of Betrayal brought out in this sceneSCENE TWOACTION TAKES PLACE IN A PRISON CELLJere is pushed by an askari into a cell where he finds Mosese. Askari is fed up with Jere s inquisitive nature. He tells him that he is mad and that his inquisitive nature will not beentertained in prison and that it would make his life unbearable in prison. Jere is later informed that all inmates have to go through rehabilitation in order to be re-integrated in the society. He does not have any mental illness that would make him need any rehabilitation therefore he sarcastically tells askari that he is truly grateful and that he didn t know they took such pains. It is apparent that Mosese has decided to remain silent because silence can as well be a weapon but should he be so, the prisons authorities will demand an explanation as to what is he keeping quiet about. It is not surprising that the prison authorities do not entertain prisoners asking questions.


He does not have any mental illness that would make him need any rehabilitation therefore he sarcastically tells askari that he is truly grateful and that he didn t know they took such pains. It is apparent that Mosese has decided to remain silent because silence can as well be a weapon but should he be so, the prisons authorities will demand an explanation as to what is he keeping quiet about. It is not surprising that the prison authorities do not entertain prisoners asking questions. Askari informs Mosese that Jusper has been released from jail but has nothing to go back to since his parents were found dead in their hut. When Jere and Mosese are left alone, Jere informs Mosese of the events of the previous night where he and his cellmate decided to playPilate and Jesus. According to Jere, Pilate had humiliated Jesus by stripping him and caning him on the buttocks. Jere s co-actor cried out after receiving the canes, alerting the prison authorities who moved Jere to the cell where Mosese was after stripping him and caning him. The two cellmates Jere and Mosese take time to know each other. Mosese tells Jere how he ended up in prison. He had attended Adika s funeral where he saw firsthand the oppression by the political elite. He couldn t keep quiet, so after telling the politicians his mind, he was arrested and charged with trumped up charges of possessingdrugs. He changes his name because the person who implicated him with the drugs shared a name with him. We learn of the regime s way of silencing dissenting voices, through the experiences of inmates. Mosese has been informed by askari to cooperate in the performance of a play organized for a visiting head of state and in return he might be among the six hundred prisoners who are to be released. He doesn t want to do this as acting in the play means kneeling in front of boss andpleading for mercy yet he is not guilty. Prisoners are also denied foodand only the ones who show signs of cooperating with prison authorities are allowed privileges. This is evident when askari brings a mug of tea. The citizens of Kafira had been waiting for the kingdom for years and at last they were told it had come. According to Mosese, it was an illusion. He wonders how many people had seen the kingdom and what colour it is. Mosese is disillusioned.


According to Mosese, it was an illusion. He wonders how many people had seen the kingdom and what colour it is. Mosese is disillusioned. He says they have killed their past and were busy killing the future. He laments about the oppressive nature of boss regime. For instance, soldiers had beaten up Regina and had forced her to give false evidence against her brother, Mosese. Mosese violently wriggles and as if in a trance rises and addresses the imaginary audience. His words portray his confused state of mind. On one hand he is faced with the choice of participating in the play, a sacrificial act that will lead to the release of 600 prisoners or on the other hand hold on to his principles and reject the request to participate inthe play. REVISION QUESTIONS FOR THE SCENESCENE TWO1. Where do the events of this scene take place? 2. Why do you think Jere has been brought into the cell? 3. How would you describe the treatment by the askari on Jere4. Jere says that the outside of this cell may well be the inside of another what does this tell about the situation in Kafira5. Link Pilate s situation to Jere like he puts it on page 236. Why does Mosese keep staring at the wall even when Jere and the askari are talking7. Give the reasons why Mosese is in prison8. Mosese says words have lost meaning to him and asks for the meaning of Africanisation what does this tell about the people s situation in the country9. To what level has the askari learnt and why is he doing such a job10. Why is Jusper being released and hat has just happened to his parents? 11. Why did Jere carry a bible to the cells and how does it bring him trouble12. Apart from being a police officer, which are the other two professions that Jere was in before? 13. Which is item number three in the development plan and what is ironical about it? 14. Mosese says he saw betrayal in Regina s eyes why is this so15. Why is the foreign dignitary visiting and why are the prisoners supposed to perform a play for him16. The askari talks of selective breeding and says you need a tall relative to get anything in the country what does this tell about Kafira17. Mosese says it was better while we waited.


Why is the foreign dignitary visiting and why are the prisoners supposed to perform a play for him16. The askari talks of selective breeding and says you need a tall relative to get anything in the country what does this tell about Kafira17. Mosese says it was better while we waited. Now we have nothing to look forward to what were they waiting for that they don t have and why has he lost hope? 18. Mosese sleeps and talks and in his dream. What does this tell about him and what message do we get from his conversation with an imaginary person. 19. Jere says when the madness of an entire nation enters a solitary mind then its not enough to say that person is mad what does Jere mean by this20. Identify the character traits of ;Jere, Askari and Mosese in this scene21. Identify the themes brought out in this scene22. Identify and illustrate the stylistic devices used in this scene23. Identify the elements of betrayal in this sceneSCENE THREEJusper stealthily enters Regina s room without her notice and scares her. He is in his red academic gown and this heightens Regina s anger at him. She requests him to rest but he sayshe can t rest because the death of his whole family is in his mind. Apart from Adika, Nina and Doga were murdered in exchange for Jusper s release. He says that he will get his revenge someday. Jusper was among the university students who protested on the streets andas they did this, people shouted abusive words at them in addition to telling that they were wasting time with the protests, it is also apparent that the government will not allow Adika s photograph to be printed in the newspapers. Regina would be happy if Jusper was to keep off from trouble with the authorities. She tells him that she has only him and Mosese left in the world and if anything went wrong, they would all be wiped out. Jusper insists that they have to talk of the masses that have no voices. Regina tells Jusper of the scheduled visits to Kafira by a certain head of state. If this is to happen, then, there will be three days holiday for all in addition to the prisoners being released to mark the occasion. She has a letter from Tumbo, who is boss right-hand man.


Regina tells Jusper of the scheduled visits to Kafira by a certain head of state. If this is to happen, then, there will be three days holiday for all in addition to the prisoners being released to mark the occasion. She has a letter from Tumbo, who is boss right-hand man. In it, boss has promised to facilitate the release of Mosese. This does not go down well with Jusper who can read mischief in the act but who nevertheless promises to beat him at his own game. Tumbo, a fat, overconfident man, enters the house. He notices through Jusper s dressing that he is among the university students who were being known for rioting. Tumbo is already familiar with Jusper s name which was signed against a student s prayer that was all aboutasking God to help them drop their Christian names. Tumbo warns him that if the prayer by any chances suggested changing names, Jusper would be behind bars. Jusper sarcastically wonders why this would be the case yet since change of names was item number three in thenew development plan. Furthermore, boss himself has substituted his Christian name to something that no one could pronounce. Tumbo defends boss by saying that a leader requiresa mysterious name that the common tongues will bleed trying to pronounce. This is pointer to Tumbo s sycophantic nature. Tumbo revisits the issue of the visit by a certain head of state to Kafira. He learns from Regina that Jusper writes plays and since they require a one-act play for the entertainment, he concludes that Jusper can write one for the occasion. Tumbo says that he would have written one himself, but being a socialist, he thought of extending the opportunity to others to show them light, to eat and let eat : from their talk, we learn that boss is a fearful and insecure man who has let advisers rule Kafira while pretending to be tough, he is hated by his own guards who will not talk about it. The worst of his advisers is his cousin Mulili who has been rewarded with a large farm for his services to the nation Boss is said to be of short temperand has a weakness for women.


He learns from Regina that Jusper writes plays and since they require a one-act play for the entertainment, he concludes that Jusper can write one for the occasion. Tumbo says that he would have written one himself, but being a socialist, he thought of extending the opportunity to others to show them light, to eat and let eat : from their talk, we learn that boss is a fearful and insecure man who has let advisers rule Kafira while pretending to be tough, he is hated by his own guards who will not talk about it. The worst of his advisers is his cousin Mulili who has been rewarded with a large farm for his services to the nation Boss is said to be of short temperand has a weakness for women. When Jusper is back from buying drinks, the three talked about the idea of writing a play for the entertainment of the visiting head of state, Tumbo would be glad if Jusper wrote the intended play that would highlight the achievements the country has made. Money has beenset aside for a play-writing competition, now that he knows what play ought to be organized. He declares Jusper the winner of that competition and informs him that he and his sister would be given a third of the money that was to finance the competition and that Jusper would be given his prize money once the results of the competition are made public. Jusper is to write the play and ensure that the words progress and achievements appear on every other page. After Tumbo and Regina leave, Jusper reminds the audience what he holds, the fruits of independence. We get them second hand. REVISION QUESTIONS FOR THE SCENESCENE THREE1. Where is this scene set? 2. Why does Jusper imitate the ricocheting of guns as he enters? 3. Why is Regina uneasy about Jusper s dressing in the red gown? 4. What does the red gown symbolise5. For what does Jusper criticize Regina and even the beggars in the streets? 6. For what does Jusper criticize the media? 7. According to Jusper why was Adika killed and why is Mosese and Jere in prison8. Why is Regina critical about people voicing their concerns against the government? 9. What do we deduce learn from Jusper and Reginas conversation about the intended visit by the foreign head of state10.


Why is Regina critical about people voicing their concerns against the government? 9. What do we deduce learn from Jusper and Reginas conversation about the intended visit by the foreign head of state10. Why does Jusper pretend to be Regina s cousin when Tumbo calls in? 11. Jusper asks Regina are you sure this is not a trick-some sort of a trap? Why is Jusper critical about Tumbo s helping her and what do you think the trap is? 12. Whats wrong with Christian names and why does Jusper criticize them13. Why does Tumbo call the university students red guards? 14. Jusper is said to have written an interesting prayer, what was it about? 15. Tumbo says a leader should have a mysterious name that the common people will bleed trying to pronounce. What does this tell about the kind of leaders in Kafira16. When asked about his university days Tumbo mumble, rumbles and stutters almost confusing himself, what do we deduce from this behavior17. Tumbo says that education doesn t matter and that there are opportunities only that they do not come on a silver platter. What does this reveal about Kafira18. Regina reveals to Tumbo that Jusper can write plays; why is Tumbo happy about thisand says that there is a good potato in it. What does ths mean19. How much money has been allocated for the play and how much will Jusper remain with. What happens to the remaining amount20. What aspects does Tumbo insist that shoud be covered in the play21. Why does Tumbo want Regina to visit Boss and what is the visit about22. Why have many publishers rejected Jusper s works? What does this say about them? 23. How does Tumbo plan to cover up not having conducted a play writing competition? 24. Identify the main themes brought out in this scene25. Identify the aspects of style in this scene26. What do we learn about the character traits of Jusper, Regina and Tumbo from this scene27. Identify the elements of betrayal in this sceneACT TWO:SCENE ONEThe scene begins with two members of a committee formed to plan for the entertainment of a visiting head of state are conversing.