Socio-Economic Impacts of Karura Forest on Livelihoods of the Residents of Huruma Informal Settlement, Nairobi County |Book Publisher International

 

Assessing the socio-economic impacts of the Karura forest is an important aspect of measuring the benefits of the forest towards improving the livelihood of the inhabitants of Huruma informal settlement, which is among the several informal settlements bordering Karura forest. By "informal settlement," the study refers to the unplanned establishment of human dwellings. Huruma settlement has a population of 3000 people, most of whom depend on the resources from the forest for their livelihood. Therefore, this study assessed the socio-economic impacts of Karura forest on the livelihoods of residents living in the adjacent Huruma informal settlement in Nairobi City County. Specifically, the study sought to: evaluate the economic value of Karura forest to the residents of Huruma settlement; examine how the forest’s management system contributes to social behaviour change among community members of Huruma settlement; investigate the effect of participatory forest management (PFM) initiatives in enhancing Huruma community forest stewardship, and examine the role of forest ecosystem services in improving the well-being of residents of Huruma settlement. The study employed a survey research design, targeting multiple stakeholders living in or interacting with Karura forest, comprising residents of Huruma informal settlement, members of the Karura Community Forest Association (CFA), members of the Friends of Karura Forest (FKF) secretariat, and staff and management of Karura forest. The determination of the sample size was conducted using the formula proposed by Nassiuma (2001). Both random and purposive sampling techniques were used to select the respondents. Data was gathered from the participants using the questionnaire, interview schedule, and Focus Group Discussions (FGD) guide. Data was analysed using both quantitative methods for questionnaire data and qualitative methods for data gathered using the interview schedule and FGD data. Quantitative methods involved both descriptive statistics, such as frequencies, percentages, and means, and inferential statistics, such as Pearson’s correlation and multiple regression analysis. Qualitative analysis was done using thematic content analysis. Quantitative analysis was supported by SPSS version 25.0 computer software, while qualitative analysis was supported by NVivo 14.0 software. The findings affirmed that enhancing the economic value of the forest significantly boosts community well-being. Over 65% of respondents strongly agreed that forest-related activities such as eco-tourism contribute to the local economy, illustrating the forest's pivotal role in both income generation and environmental sustainability. The findings further affirm that Karura forest management has significantly influenced social behaviour change among Huruma residents through crime reduction, increased discipline, and enhanced environmental awareness. A significant proportion of respondents (55.1%) strongly agreed that the management efforts have promoted environmental awareness among Huruma residents. The study also revealed that participatory forest management significantly enhances community forest stewardship and contributes meaningfully to the well-being of residents in Huruma informal settlement. Finally, the findings demonstrated that Karura forest plays a critical role in enhancing the well-being of Huruma residents through its ecological, social, and economic services. The study, therefore, recommends that the Karura forest management authorities and policymakers should prioritise inclusive labour practices, expand income-generating programs, and institutionalise meaningful community participation in decision-making.  It is also recommended that Karura forest management adopt a participatory governance model that includes structured community engagement, equitable labour practices, and co-implementation of social programs. Further, inclusive governance should be reinforced through rotational leadership, youth representation, and strengthened oversight.  Lastly, it is recommended that Karura forest management and relevant stakeholders implement inclusive policies that improve access to ecosystem services for Huruma residents.

 

 

Author(s) Details

Kivondo Vashit Mwikali
School of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences of Kenyatta University, Kenya.

 

Please see the book here :- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/mono/978-93-47485-97-8

 

Agricultural Extension and Education in the 21𝑠𝑡 Century | Book Publisher International

 

Agriculture remains the backbone of many economies, particularly in developing nations, where it directly supports livelihoods, food security, and rural development. As the sector continues to evolve under the influence of globalisation, technological advancement, climate change, and policy reforms, the role of agricultural education and extension has become more critical than ever. These two disciplines are not merely academic pursuits but are practical pillars that bridge the gap between research, innovation, and the farming communities that sustain nations.

 

This book provides a comprehensive and timely exploration of the concepts, philosophies, methods, and evolving trends that define agricultural education and extension today. From tracing their historical foundations to examining modern digital approaches, it offers learners, practitioners, and policymakers a well-rounded resource that emphasises both theory and practice. The inclusion of practical examples, contemporary challenges, and strategies for the future makes this work highly relevant in addressing real-world agricultural needs.

 

One of the most valuable contributions of this text is its focus on contextualising global knowledge to the African and Kenyan experience, while also drawing comparative insights that resonate universally. By highlighting participatory approaches, e-extension tools, and the integration of sustainability, the book underscores the importance of inclusive, adaptive, and forward-looking systems of agricultural knowledge transfer.

 

For students, this book will serve as a foundational guide. For extension workers and development practitioners, it will be a practical reference to inform their day-to-day work. For policymakers and researchers, it provides insights into the role of education and extension in achieving food security, poverty reduction, and the Sustainable Development Goals.

 

It is my sincere hope that this book inspires its readers to appreciate the transformative power of agricultural education and extension in shaping resilient farming communities and sustainable rural economies. Indeed, the future of agriculture lies not only in new technologies but also in the effective dissemination of knowledge and the empowerment of people.

 

Author(s) Details

Dr. Samson Manono Makone
School of Agricultural, Natural Resources and Management, Department of Agricultural Education and Extension, Kisii University, Kenya.

 

Please see the book here :- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/mono/978-93-47485-89-3

 

Technophobia in the Use of ICT among Secondary School Teachers: An Investigation | Book Publisher International

 

Based on the findings, it can be concluded that teachers in secondary schools exhibit the highest level of technophobia towards the use of ICT, primarily due to their anxiety about using technology in the classroom. This fear stems from their lack of familiarity with digital tools and a strong belief that technology cannot replace the role of a teacher in education. In addition to their anxiety, teachers also display significant technophobia towards the use of ICT, particularly concerning their beliefs about the impact of technology in the classroom. Many teachers have developed an aversion to ICT tools, fearing that their use may lead to job reductions or health issues. This fear has led to a higher level of resistance to integrating ICT into their teaching practices. Finally, teachers also express considerable technophobia regarding their access to ICT tools. The lack of access to necessary technology, such as computers, internet facilities, and other devices, contributes to negative feelings toward its use in the classroom. When teachers do not have adequate access to these resources, they feel unable to incorporate technology into their teaching effectively, further increasing their technophobia. This lack of access reinforces their resistance to using ICT tools in secondary schools.

 

This study explores the technophobia exhibited by teachers towards the use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in secondary schools, specifically focusing on those with high acceptance scores (80% and above) across various dimensions of technophobia. The research examines the profile of teachers who demonstrate technophobic tendencies, analysing their attitudes, beliefs, and experiences regarding the integration of ICT into the educational environment. By identifying patterns within these teachers' responses and categorising them according to different components of technophobia, the study provides insight into the underlying factors that contribute to resistance to ICT adoption. The findings highlight critical areas for intervention, offering recommendations for addressing and overcoming technophobia in secondary school educators to enhance ICT integration in teaching practices.

 

This study investigates the technophobia among secondary school teachers towards the use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT), focusing on high acceptance scores (80% and above) in various dimensions of technophobia. The research addresses three key aspects: teachers' anxiety towards ICT, their access to ICT tools, and their beliefs regarding the use of these tools in education. Regarding anxiety, the study finds that teachers are generally fearful of using technology in the classroom, struggle with computer terminology, and feel nervous about making digital transactions or using bank ATMs. Additionally, teachers express the belief that modern technologies cannot replace a teacher in the classroom. On the dimension of ICT tool access, the findings indicate that teachers lack essential ICT resources, such as computers and internet access in their schools. Furthermore, teachers report that they did not receive sufficient training on ICT use during their teacher education programs. Finally, teachers' beliefs about ICT tools reveal that they find them difficult to use, fear that computers are replacing jobs, believe there is too much emphasis on computer education in society, and are concerned about potential future health problems due to prolonged computer use. These insights provide a comprehensive profile of teachers' technophobic tendencies, highlighting areas where intervention is needed to improve ICT adoption and integration in secondary schools.

 

Author(s) Details

Dr. Aruna Reddi
Department of Education, Andhra University, Visakhapatnam-530003, Andhra Pradesh, India.

 

Dr. T. Sharon Raju
Department of Education, Andhra University, Visakhapatnam-530003, Andhra Pradesh, India.

 

Please see the book here :- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/mono/978-93-47485-10-7

Integrated Assessment on Coastal Flooding Impacts to the Community Vulnerability in Muaragembong, Indonesia | Chapter 8 | Current Research on Geography, Earth Science and Environment Vol. 4

Aims: This study investigates the ecological degradation and socioeconomic vulnerability causing household-level economic losses caused by frequent coastal flooding in the Muaragembong District, Bekasi, Indonesia.

 

Study Design: This study employed a compound method to assess the physical, ecological, and socioeconomic impacts of tidal-induced coastal flooding in Muaragembong District.

 

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in Muaragembong District, Bekasi, West Java Province, during the dry season in July 2019.

 

Methodology: Datasets were collected through onsite observations, interviews, and secondary datasets. Field activities included visual assessments of coastal housing and geomorphology, and structured interviews with 101 respondents drawn from community leaders, fishermen, shrimp farmers, traders, local officials, and fishery housewives. Respondents were selected using stratified random sampling from 200 households distributed across three distance zones: ≤100 m (35 households), 100–150 m (31 households), and >150 m (134 households). Secondary data included the 30 m Digital Elevation Model Nasional (DEMNAS) topography, tidal levels derived from eight major tidal constituents from the Tide Model Driver (TMD) model, and demographic statistics from the Central Bureau of Statistics (BPS-Indonesia). Flood inundation was mapped in ArcGIS by superimposing the high water level on the DEM, excluding eroded areas below 0 m and permanent water bodies. Socioeconomic vulnerability was assessed using the Structural Analysis Method (SAM) and MICMAC analysis which is based on the Indonesian government’s statistical database. Economic losses were estimated from the results of interviews using the Averting Behaviour Method and Human Capital Method.

 

Results: The results indicate that tidal flooding in Muaragembong affects approximately 2,683 ha of coastal land, primarily aquaculture areas and mangroves. The flooding imposes substantial annual household losses exceeding US$1M (IDR 15 billion), resulting from 38% of respondents with damage to houses and appliances, 43% respondents who need medical treatments, and 35% respondents experiencing income loss. The hazard also accelerates mangrove dieback, pollution accumulation, and saltwater intrusion, further decreasing local resilience.

 

Conclusion: These findings highlight that the coastal flooding in Muaragembong is not only an environmental issue but also an economic and social crisis. Integrated solutions that combine ecosystem restoration, infrastructure improvements, and community-based adaptation are crucial to reducing future risks and enhancing resilience.

 

 

Author(s) Details

Johan Risandi
Research Center for Oceanology, National Research and Innovation Agency, South Tangerang, Indonesia.

 

Ulung Jantama Wisha
Research Center for Oceanology, National Research and Innovation Agency, South Tangerang, Indonesia.

 

Terry L. Kepel
Research Center for Oceanology, National Research and Innovation Agency, South Tangerang, Indonesia.

 

Endro Soeyanto
Research Center for Oceanology, National Research and Innovation Agency, South Tangerang, Indonesia.

 

Dini Purbani
Research Center for Biota System, National Research and Innovation Agency, Cibinong, Indonesia.

 

Karlina Triana
Research Center for Oceanology, National Research and Innovation Agency, South Tangerang, Indonesia.

 

Dwi Hindarti
Research Center for Oceanology, National Research and Innovation Agency, South Tangerang, Indonesia.

 

Husen Rifai
Research Center for Industrial Economy, Services, and Trade, National Research and Innovation Agency, Jakarta, Indonesia and School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Princes Highway, Warrnambool VIC 3280, Australia.

 

Mira
The Center for Behavioral and Circular Economics, National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN), Indonesia.

 

Yeti Darmayati
Research Center for Biosystematic and Evolution, National Research and Innovation Agency, Cibinong, Indonesia.

 

Agus Setiawan
Research Center for Climate and Atmosphere, National Research and Innovation Agency, South Tangerang, Indonesia.

 

Agus Dendi Rochendi
Research Center for Oceanology, National Research and Innovation Agency, South Tangerang, Indonesia.

 

Andi Egon
Oceanography, Faculty of Earth Science and Technology, Bandung Institute of Technology, Bandung, Indonesia.

 

Yessi Nirwana Kurniadi
Civil Engineering, Faculty of Civil Engineering and Planning, National Institute of Technology, Bandung, Indonesia.

 

Dian Noor Handiani
Geodetic Engineering, Faculty of Civil Engineering and Planning, National Institute of Technology, Bandung, Indonesia.

 

Muhammad Hikmat Jayawiguna
Directorate for Marine and Fisheries Training, Maritime and Fisheries Extension and Human Resources Development Agency, Ministry of Marine Affairs and Fisheries, Jakarta, Indonesia.

 

Munawar Sahabuddin
Research Center for Industrial Economy, Services, and Trade, National Research and Innovation Agency, Jakarta, Indonesia.

 

Please see the book here :- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/crgese/v4/6763

Spatial and Seasonal Variation in the Taxonomic Diversity of Soft-Bottom Fish Communities in San Ignacio Lagoon, Baja Caifornia Sur, Mesxico | Chapter 7 | Current Research on Geography, Earth Science and Environment Vol. 4

 

San Ignacio Lagoon, located in northwestern Baja California Sur, is an important site for commercial fisheries; however, studies specifically addressing the taxonomic diversity of its fish communities remain scarce. To fill this gap, we assessed the diversity of fish associated with soft-bottom habitats across 11 sites from spring 1998 to winter 1999, using alpha, beta, gamma, and taxonomic distinctness indices (Δ* and Δ+). A total of 1,361 specimens representing 44 species and 35 genera were recorded. Seasonal analysis revealed the highest alpha diversity in summer, while beta diversity peaked in spring. Gamma diversity was greatest in spring and summer, with 27 species each. Spatial analysis showed significant differences in Δ+, whereas temporal variation was not significant. These findings highlight the ecological importance of San Ignacio Lagoon and provide baseline data for future monitoring and conservation.

 

 

Author(s) Details

Barjau-González, Emelio
Departamento Académico de Ciencias Marinas y Costeras, Universidad Autónoma de Baja California Sur (UABCS), Apdo. Postal 19-B, La Paz, C.P. 23080, BCS, México.

 

Lopez-Vivas, Juan Manuel
Departamento Académico de Ciencias Marinas y Costeras, Universidad Autónoma de Baja California Sur (UABCS), Apdo. Postal 19-B, La Paz, C.P. 23080, BCS, México.

 

Romo-Piñera, Abril K.
Departamento Académico de Ciencias Marinas y Costeras, Universidad Autónoma de Baja California Sur (UABCS), Apdo. Postal 19-B, La Paz, C.P. 23080, BCS, México.

 

Juaristi-Videgaray, Diego
Departamento Académico de Ciencias Marinas y Costeras, Universidad Autónoma de Baja California Sur (UABCS), Apdo. Postal 19-B, La Paz, C.P. 23080, BCS, México.

 

Bernal Espinoza, Dariana G.
Departamento Académico de Ciencias Marinas y Costeras, Universidad Autónoma de Baja California Sur (UABCS), Apdo. Postal 19-B, La Paz, C.P. 23080, BCS, México.

 

Please see the book here :- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/crgese/v4/6766

Challenges to Entrenching a Sustainable Building Regulatory Framework at Rural Communities in Enugu State of Nigeria |Chapter 6 | Current Research on Geography, Earth Science and Environment Vol. 4

 

The implementation of building regulations in rural Nigerian communities is uniquely challenged by socio-economic, cultural, and logistical factors. Effective building standards are critical for reducing risks associated with unsafe construction, as an estimated 40% of structures in rural Nigeria face structural issues or hazards due to non-compliance. This study investigates the barriers to implementing building regulations in Nigeria's rural communities, where such regulations are vital for ensuring structural safety, environmental sustainability, and adherence to planning standards. This research is centred in Enugu State, comprising 17 rural Local Government Areas (LGAs) located in southeastern Nigeria. Using a mixed-method approach involving a structured survey with architects, town planners, and community leaders, as the three critical stakeholder groups. This is a quantitative study. A purposive sampling technique was employed. The census sample size for the survey was 253. Descriptive statistics, including frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations, were used to summarise the data. The study revealed the key challenges that include limited awareness of regulations, inadequate enforcement mechanisms, socio-economic constraints, cultural resistance, and lack of technical and financial resources. The survey findings revealed that 61.2 % of respondents express a high level of awareness of campaigns and training programs for local artisans (53.1%), indicating a positive inclination towards embracing new approaches. Moreover, logistical impediments, such as inadequate infrastructure (48%) and insufficient personnel or transportation (35%), exacerbate these challenges, reflecting the structural hurdles faced by regulatory bodies in rural areas. The findings underscore the need for targeted strategies to enhance regulatory awareness, improve inter-stakeholder cooperation, and address resource shortages. This research proposes actionable recommendations aimed at creating a more adaptive regulatory framework that aligns with rural realities, promoting safer and more sustainable building practices across Nigeria’s rural communities.

 

 

Author(s) Details

Ozigbo, Ikechukwu William-Johnson
Department of Estate Management, Faculty of Environmental Studies, University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, Nigeria.

 

Ozigbo, Chinelo Adline
Department of Estate Management, Faculty of Environmental Studies, University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, Nigeria.

 

Mba, Emeka Joseph
Department of Architecture, Faculty of Environmental Studies, University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, Nigeria.

 

Please see the book here :- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/crgese/v4/6408

Assessing Community Awareness of Water Infrastructure Encroachment Risks in Makause Informal Settlement, City of Ekurhuleni | Chapter 5 | Current Research on Geography, Earth Science and Environment Vol. 4

 

The management of the bulk water infrastructure is a critical aspect of urban resilience, particularly as cities expand and informal settlements increasingly encroach upon essential services. Encroachment presents significant threats to water supply systems, elevating the risks of infrastructural damage, contamination, and service disruptions. This study examines the risk of informal settlement encroachment on critical water infrastructure in the Makause informal settlement. It aims to identify the key factors influencing encroachment and to develop predictive models that support proactive, community-based infrastructure protection. A mixed quantitative–computational approach was employed, using survey data from 105 residents. Descriptive statistics and one-way ANOVA were applied to evaluate differences across categorical responses (“Yes”, “No”, “Unsure”). The ReliefF algorithm was used to rank variable importance in predicting encroachment risk. Key predictors were then used to train, validate, and test an artificial neural network (ANN) model to assess its suitability for risk forecasting. The ANN achieved high predictive accuracy, with correlation coefficients exceeding 0.95 and low mean squared error values across all modelling phases. ANOVA results confirmed statistically significant differences among selected variables. ReliefF identified community awareness, settlement proximity, and resource access as the most influential predictors. Model validation showed strong agreement between predicted and actual outcomes (p > 0.900), confirming robustness and reliability. This study proposes a novel, data-driven framework that integrates machine learning and statistical analysis for infrastructure risk assessment in informal settlements. It demonstrates how community-generated data can be combined with computational techniques to strengthen urban infrastructure management. The framework offers municipalities and water utilities a practical tool for engaging communities, prioritising interventions, and improving protection of critical infrastructure in rapidly urbanising environments. Results are based on a single case study in Makause and may reflect self-reporting bias. A broader application would require additional case studies and expanded datasets.

 

 

Author(s) Details

Mpondomise Nkosinathi Ndawo
Management College of Southern Africa, MANCOSA, Research Directorate, 26 Samora Machel Street, Durban 4001, South Africa.

 

Stephen Loh Tangwe
Central University of Technology, Resources and Operations Division, Bloemfontein 9301, Free State Province, South Africa.

 

Please see the book here :- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/crgese/v4/6697