Fredrick Ogolla O.

KEY RESEARCH PROJECTS
1. Prevalence and Characterization of Foliar Fungal Diseases of Tomato and
Their Biocontrol Using Rhizospheric Streptomyces in Kirinyanga County, Kenya
2. Cultural, Morphological Characterization and incidence of Exserohilum turcicum (Pass.) Leo. and Suggs
Causing Sorghum Leaf Blight and the Effect of Temperature and Media on its Pathogenicity’ in Tharaka
Nithi County, Kenya.
3. Effect of forest Segmentation on Wild rodent Endoparasite and Exoparasite load. Case Study of Kirimiri
Forest, Kenya
SCHOLARLY PUBLICATIONS
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RESEARCH INTERESTS
Plant Pathology and Disease Management
My interest is in identifying, characterizing, and managing phytopathogens (fungal and bacterial diseases) in crops like tomatoes and sorghum, with the aim of developing sustainable disease management solutions. Integrating both phenotypic and molecular characterization techniques ensures comprehensive disease identification and management. This approach enhances our understanding of crop diseases and enables the development of effective management strategies to improve crop yield and ensure food security.

Microbial Ecology and Biotechnology
In my research, I focus on exploring microbial interactions within agricultural ecosystems to harness their potential for sustainable agriculture. Specifically, I study beneficial microbes such as rhizospheric Streptomyces, aiming to suppress plant diseases through Biological control agents (BCAs), enhance soil health, and improve crop performance. Additionally, I investigate the biotechnological applications of microbial metabolites, including antibiotics, to mitigate environmental challenges and promote sustainable agricultural practices. By reducing reliance on synthetic pesticides and enhancing soil health, my work contributes to sustainable agriculture.

Agroecosystem Health and Sustainability
I focus on evaluating agroecosystem health and sustainability, particularly the effects of agricultural practices on soil microbial communities and biodiversity, primarily due to pesticide usage. My research zeroes in on practices such as tillage, crop rotation, and organic amendments, assessing their impacts on disease prevalence, soil health, and ecosystem resilience. By scrutinizing these practices, I aim to identify sustainable solutions while mitigating environmental impacts. Through advocating for reduced or judicious use of synthetic pesticides, my goal is to enhance the long-term sustainability of food production systems, bolster crop resilience, and tackle environmental challenges linked to conventional agricultural practices.

Crop Protection and Integrated Pest Management
I focus on developing and testing integrated pest management (IPM) strategies tailored to local agricultural conditions. By combining cultural, biological, and chemical methods, these strategies effectively manage pests and diseases while minimizing environmental risks. For example, I investigate the use of trap crops, natural enemies, and botanical extracts alongside judicious pesticide application. Collaborating with local farmers and extension services, I aim to demonstrate the practical applications of these strategies, emphasizing their effectiveness in reducing environmental risks and ensuring long-term crop protection.

Community Engagement and Extension Services
I provide tailored training programs and extension services for local farmers, covering pest and disease identification, precise pesticide application, and adoption of sustainable agricultural practices such as using disease-free seeds. Through workshops, field demonstrations, and collaborative research initiatives, my goal is to address agricultural challenges, enhance rural livelihoods, and foster partnerships among academia, government agencies, NGOs, and local stakeholders. By directly addressing the needs of farmers and stakeholders, I aim to empower them with skills to manage pests and diseases effectively while promoting sustainable practices. This hands-on approach not only enhances farming communities’ resilience but also contributes to the long-term sustainability of agriculture.