Multidisciplinary Journal of Technical University of Mombasa

Editorial Note

Dr. Cosmas Munga — Sun, 01 Dec 2024 18:40:06 +0300

We would like to thank all our authors and co-authors who contributed to the original scientific articles for the successful release of this 1^st Issue of MJTUM Volume 3. This issue has a total of 5 original scientific research articles from a diverse array of fields ranging from chemical engineering, microbiology, mariculture, and social sciences. The content of all the articles is from dedicated research works from the authors and co-authors. MJTUM is hereby providing a platform to share the contents of these research works in contributing to knowledge dissemination to the scientific community and to all students in their quest to advance knowledge in their respective fields covered in this Volume 3 Issue 1. MJTUM will continue to give a platform for sharing of scientific findings of high quality to all our readers. It is my sincere hope that you will enjoy reading the wide coverage of these published articles covered in this issue as we prepare you for the release of Issue 2 of Volume 3 as soon as possible.

Solid-catalyzed transport limitations assessment in gas-phase conversion of ethanol to hydrogen over Ni-promoted MMT/TiO2 nano clay catalyst

William Mulewa, Titus Tunje Kadere — Sun, 01 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0300

Mass transport constraints were investigated as they relate to the conversion of ethanol to hydrogen in the gas phase over a Nickel-Montmorillonite/Titanium oxide nanoparticle catalyst. Catalyst synthesis was performed via a modified sol-gel/ impregnation method. Ethanol was dehydrated catalytically using a tube-shaped packed bed reactor while catalyst characterization was through FTIR, XRD, SEM-EDX, TGA, and BET analysis. The Weisz-Prater and Mears' criteria were analyzed theoretically, and the catalyst particle size and reactant flow rate were adjusted experimentally to determine transport limitations. The results demonstrate an absence of gas-phase and intra-particle diffusion limitations for catalyst pellet diameter . This is attributed to the high effectiveness factor for particles obtained theoretically. Besides, the high fractional conversion obtained experimentally is an indication of constant ethanol conversion because there are no limitations on mass transfer. Ni-promoted MMT/TiO2 nanoparticle catalyst offers great promise for use in ethanol steam reforming for selective and cost-effective hydrogen production, as can be deduced from the results presented here.

Development Synergy and Optimization of Growth Conditions of Chlorpyrifos Degrading Bacteria Consortium

Sun, 01 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0300

Chlorpyrifos (CPF) [O, O-diethyl O-(3, 5, 6-trichloro-2-pyridyl) phosphorothioate)] is an organophosphorous used as a house hold and agricultural pesticide in various formulations has adverse toxic effects on human health which has created an environmental concern. In the recent years, degradation studies of chlorpyrifos have greatly increased but only a few biodegradations by consortia have been reported. This study aimed to develop bacteria consortia and optimizing their growth conditions of temperature and pH for effective biodegradation of chlorpyrifos. Experimental research design was used to determine optimum temperature and pH. Five consortia were assembled based on degradation ability. Group I consisted of all of the five bacteria isolates (Brachybacterium sp. (CP1), Exiguobacterium alkaliphilum (CP2), Advenella kashmirensis (CP3), Micrococcus luteus (CP5), Pseudomonas protegens (CP6) and Lysinibacillus sphaericus CP7). Group II was composed of high degraders (CP1, CP3 and CP5), Group III are moderate degraders (CP2, CP5 and CP6), Group IV low degraders (CP5, CP6 and CP7) and Group V, a mixture of low and high degraders (CP3, CP7 and CP6). Findings of this study showed that the optimal growth conditions of the bacteria isolates were pH and temperature of 7 and 25^oC, respectively. Bacteria consortia had their optimal growth at a temperature of 25^oC and 30^oC, and pH range between 6 - 8. With Group I, III and IV with highest growth as indicated by high optical density. These results revealed the ability of these bacteria consortia (group I, III and VI) to be used in remediating chlorpyrifos contaminated environment. Further research is required to utilize these three consortia in a bioreactor in a way that is safe, affordable and environmentally friendly.

Macroalgae Diet Indicates Potential in Mariculture Production of Shoemaker Spinefoot Rabbitfish

Najda Athman Bacha, Cosmas Munga, David Mirera — Sun, 01 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0300

Worldwide, fish feed is known to be costly in aquaculture production majorly contributed by the cost of fish meal which is widely used as a protein ingredient in fish diet causing a great problem for the development and growth of the aquaculture sector. Therefore, seeking other sources that will be satisfactory, such as alternative protein for fish feed and providing nutritional benefits at a lower price is very important. This study aimed to explore the nutritional profile of the most preferred naturally occurring marine macroalgae species commonly utilized as bait for the basket trap fishery targeting rabbitfish. Data was collected through random administration of questionnaires to 62 fishers from Mkunguni, Kibuyuni, and Kijiweni fish landing sites in South Coast Kenya. A total of 6 species of rabbitfish were identified as targets for basket trap fishers. These were: Siganus stellatus, Siganus sutor, Siganus luridus, Siganus canaliculatus, Siganus argenteus and Siganus rivulatus. Results showed that fishers mostly preferred three species of marine macroalgae as bait for Rabbitfish including Chondrophycus papillosus, Fischerella sp, and Chaetomorphus crassa. The most preferred marine macroalgae were taken to the laboratory for proximate composition analysis. In terms of nutritional profile, all species were rich in carbohydrates > 21.60 ± 0.07 (g/100g) and energy > 245.65 ± 0.58 (g/100g) levels. Total fat content was the least 0.48 ± 0.01 (g/100g) whereas no significant difference > 0.05 was observed in moisture content. Fischerella sp accounted for the highest protein content levels 33.88 ± 0.02 (g/100g) compared to other species.

Effects of Funeral Rituals on Social Development of the Giriama Community in Kilifi County, Kenya

Ngalla Kitsao Mwavuo, Madiha Salim Khamis, Samuel Kiti Lewa — Sun, 01 Dec 2024 20:14:19 +0300

The study was looked at from a global perspective in the United Kingdom, South Africa at a regional perspective, Uganda at East Africa perspective and down to the Kenyan perspective. The research was designed to evaluate whether funeral rituals affect social development amongst the Giriama community in Kilifi County.Data was collected from 136 respondents to fill questionnaires in the wards of Ganda, Kakuyuni and Jilore all in Kilifi County. These wards were selected due to their rural set up where cultures are presumed to exist in such areas.The research used the cultural relativism theory and social mobility theory which were identified due to their relevance to the study. The study made use of existing relevant sources of literature so as to identify gaps that existed. This study employed a quantitative research method where both correlational and exploratory research designs were used. Quantitative data was analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20. The findings of this study showed that funeral rituals negatively affected social development across the three selected wards of Kilifi County. The recommendations of this study include; a need for policy framework to address the negative effects of the cultural practice, authorities to come up with development projects that are people centred and the community should be actively and directly be involved when formulating policies to encourage complete adherence.

Emerging Trends Shaping Growth of Informal Settlements at Kwa-Bulo, Nyali Sub-County, Mombasa County

Rahab Owinyi Mukolwe, Fathima Azmiya Badurdeen, Madiha Salim Khamis — Sun, 01 Dec 2024 20:23:35 +0300

Globally, urban dwellers living in informal settlements constructed by the residents’ efforts which are often devalued, unrecognized, labelled unlawful and stigmatized as though the settlements are not part of the mega cities. This study explores the vital problem of Kwa-Bulo's informal settlements in Nyali Sub-County, Mombasa County, Kenya against the global backdrop of urbanization and the growing difficulties associated with impoverished residential regions. These informal settlements pose a big problem in Kenya and Africa at large since they need more basic facilities and infrastructure. Cross sectional study design was used as its guiding framework. Qualitative and quantitative data were collected and analyzed. Findings indicates that despite numerous negative stereotypes linked with residents of informal settlements and a multitude of obstacles they encounter, inhabitants of informal settlements make substantial contributions to the economic and urban development of Mombasa County. The study recommends that local and national governments should consider industrialization level when formulating effective strategies for reducing the growth of informal settlements and improving housing conditions in the community.