Academic submissions (CAES)

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    Wildlife damage and control methods around Lake Mburo National Park, Uganda
    (Taylor & Francis, 2012) Tumusiime, David Mwesigye ; Tweheyo, Mnason ; Turyahabwe, Nelson ; Orikiriza, Lawrence ; Asiimwe, Asaph
    This study documents the different management and control measures developed and implemented by farmers to mitigate vertebrate pest attacks on crops and livestock around Lake Mburo National Park in Uganda. A semi-structured interview administered to 40 randomly selected park neighbours was supplemented with key informant interviews, a review of secondary data, and direct observations of vertebrate pest problems and their management. All participant farmers had experienced some damage from vertebrate pests. Bush pigs ranked as the most destructive to crops, while leopards were most destructive to livestock. Most damage occurred during severe dry seasons. The most common methods for combating pests were guarding, fencing, and poisoning. Physical guarding was perceived as being the most effective method; however, there were reports of pest resurgence, which varied between pest species, seasons, and methods used. Bush pigs showed the greatest resistance against control measures. Control efforts were found to be tedious and time-consuming, and they created the possibility for the transfer of infectious diseases from pests to humans. We recommend conscious efforts to augment local control methods so as to enhance both biodiversity conservation and farm production.
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    Effect of marker aided pyramiding of anthracnose and pythium root rot resistance genes on plant agronomic characters among advanced common bean genotypes
    (Canadian Center for Science and Education, 2015-11-24) Kiryowa, Moses ; Nkalubo, Stanley ; Mukankusi, Claire ; Talwana, Herbert ; Gibson, Paul ; Tukamuhabwa, Phinehas
    One of the factors that accounts for the low yields in common bean is the simultaneous occurrence of diseases on the common bean crop. Bean root rots and anthracnose are the most important common bean diseases that simultaneously occur on the bean crop in Uganda. Moreover, Colletotrichum lindemuthianum, the pathogen that causes bean anthracnose, possesses a high genetic variability which makes it easily break down single gene resistance. Pyramiding resistance genes for both diseases in commercial varieties would ensure reduction of yield losses resulting from the two diseases. However, the effect of marker assisted gene pyramiding on plant agronomic characters is not well understood. Three-way crosses were made to pyramid three anthracnose and one Pythium root rot resistance genes in four susceptible market class varieties. Sequence characterized amplified regions (SCAR) markers were used to facilitate the pyramiding scheme. Correlation analysis and Path coefficient analysis were used to assess the association between number of pyramided genes and different plant agronomic characters. Number of pyramided genes was negatively correlated with number of pods per plant (-0.32), number of seeds per plant (-0.25), number of seeds per pod (-0.18), pod length (-0.17), days to 50% flowering (-0.09) and 100-seed weight (-0.02). Path coefficient analysis showed that number of pyramided genes, plant height, days to 50% flowering, number of seeds per pod and number of pods per plant had negative direct effects on seed weight per plant. Number of seeds per plant had the highest positive direct effects (0.98) followed by 100-seed weight (0.28) while days to maturity had the least positive direct effect (0.03) on seed weight per plant. Only number of seeds per plant had its correlation coefficient (0.94) almost equal to the direct path coefficient (0.97). Number of pyramided genes had significant (P < 0.05) negative indirect effect on seed weight per plant only through number of seeds per plant (-0.25). Therefore, pyramiding higher numbers of resistance genes may cause a grain yield reduction via number of seeds per plant. Therefore, it is important for breeders to simultaneously select for number of pyramided genes with number of seeds per plant and other highly associated traits.
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    Pathogenic variation of colletotrichum lindemuthianum causing anthracnose of beans (phaseolus vulgaris) in Uganda
    (ESci Journals, 2016-01) Kiryowa, Moses ; Ebinu, Aston ; Kyaligonza, Vincent ; Nkalubo, Stanley ; Paparu, Pamela ; Mukankusi, Claire ; Tukamuhabwa, Phinehas
    Colletotrichum lindemuthianum is a highly variable pathogen of common beans that easily overcomes resistance in cultivars bred with single-gene resistance. To determine pathogenic variability of the pathogen in Uganda, samples of common bean tissues with anthracnose symptoms were collected in eight districts of Uganda, namely Kabarole, Sironko, Mbale, Oyam, Lira, Kapchorwa, Maracha and Kisoro. 51 isolates sporulated successfully on Potato Dextrose Agar and Mathur’s media and were used to inoculate 12 differential cultivars under controlled conditions. Five plants per cultivar were inoculated with each isolate and then evaluated for their reaction using the 1 – 9 severity scale. Races were classified using the binary nomenclature system proposed by Pastor Corrales (1991). Variation due to cultivar and isolate effects was significant (P≤0.001) for severity. The 51 isolates from eight districts grouped into 27 different races. Sironko district had the highest number of races followed by Mbale and Kabarole. Races 2047 and 4095 were the most frequently found, each with 10 isolates grouped under them. Race 4095 was the most virulent since it caused a susceptible (S) reaction on all 12 differential cultivars and the susceptible check. This was followed by races 2479, 2047 and 2045 respectively. Two races, 4094 and 2479, caused a susceptible reaction on the differential cultivar G2333, which nevertheless, showed the most broad spectrum resistance followed by cultivars Cornell 49-242, TU, and AB136 respectively. These cultivars are recommended for the use in breeding programs aiming at breeding for broad spectrum resistance to bean anthracnose in Uganda.
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    Performance of subsurface flow constructed wetlands in domestic wastewater treatment and their potential in increasing greenhouse gas emissions at Bugolobi, Kampala
    ( 2016-12) Ddibya, Ronald
    Uganda is grappling with public health and eutrophication challenges of its water bodies, owing to persistence of microbial pathogens, excess nutrients and organic matter contents in domestic and industrial wastewater effluents. In addition, the country is also faced with emerging climate change challenges as a result of increasing greenhouse gas emissions (especially carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4) and nitrous oxide (N2O) from several sources, such as industrial activities and natural processes taking place in various ecosystems, such as wetlands. The overall objective of this study was to assess the performance of horizontal (HF) and vertical (VF) subsurface flow (SSF) constructed wetlands (CWs) (planted with Cyperus papyrus) in domestic wastewater treatment and their potential as Carbon and Nitrogen sinks in increasing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The system was operated under batch hydraulic loading in Kampala, Bugolobi. Both HF and VF CWs exhibited high efficiency for remediation of organic matter (OM), nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and faecal coliforms in effluent pollution loads. Notably, the higher percentage reduction was observed in the VF CWs, probably attributable to optimal oxygen supply within the system. Moreover, the VF CWs were most important for the removal of faecal coliforms (99.7%), 5-day biological oxygen demand (85.5%), total suspended solids (77.2%), ammonium-nitrogen (71.3%), chemical oxygen demand (67%), total nitrogen (55.9%), total phosphorus (55.9%) and ortho-phosphate (53.7%). The highest recorded mean CH4 flux (in mg CH4-C m-2 h-1) was 38.3 ± 3.3 in unplanted HF, compared to (3.3 ± 0.4), and recorded in planted VF CWs. However, CO2 fluxes (mg CO2-C m-2 h-1) were significantly higher (P < 0.05) in planted CWs, with no significant difference (P > 0.05) between the planted HF (2213.5 ± 122.4) and VF (2272.8 ± 191.0) CWs. The CO2 flux attained in the planted CWs was attributable to presence of roots and rhizomes for which their exudates in the planted beds, may have increased microbial activity which eventually could have increased CO2 emission rates. However, N2O fluxes were relatively low and their variations were insignificant (P > 0.05) in all treatments. Nevertheless, the unplanted HF mesocosms registered the highest N2O fluxes of 0.24 ± 0.07 mg N2O-N m-2 h-1 differing to the planted HF, unplanted VF and planted VF treatment systems that registered N2O fluxes of 0.19 ± 0.05, 0.07 ± 0.02 and 0.08 ± 0.02 mg N2O-N m-2 h-1 respectively. Low N2O fluxes, could be attributed to the inhibition of denitrification under aerobic conditions, which on the other hand promoted nitrification, particularly in the planted CWs. The VF systems according to the observations, have shown low CH4 and N2O emissions, therefore making them an appropriate technological option for low carbon development targets concerning sanitation and wastewater management in Uganda. On the other hand, harvesting of the above ground biomass (AGB) removed 19.6% and 17.5% N and 23.8% and 25% P of the total N and P from planted VF and HF CWs respectively. Further, this would imply that SSF CWs are significant removal routes for nutrients, i.e., nitrogen and phosphorus and indeed, significantly more removal was recorded in the VF wetland systems planted with Cyperus papyrus. Therefore, SSF CWs are recommended for adoption, as suitable and less costly technology that may be used for interventions at local levels, to increase the adaptation and resilience of receiving environments through lessening the impact of intermittent and pulse pollution loads from wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs).
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    Institutional Repositories Containing Digitized Heritage Material (Special Collections) are Making 'Lost or Hidden' Cultures Accessible: Advantages and Disadvantages of this Trend
    (IOSR Journal Of Humanities And Social Science, 2017) Mulumba, Onan ; Irenoa, Kenneth Ohis ; Kumah, Mariyama Abdulai ; Bulugu, Paskazia Patrick
    The current information and electronic publishing age has tremendously increased the demand for academic institutions and libraries to recognise the importance of Institutional Repositories. They are essential infrastructures in modern scholarship. However, the main focus in this study is the digital preservation of cultural heritage or special collection, providing access to knowledge about lost or hidden cultures. The purpose of this study was to examine the importance of the digitized heritage material, in the institutional repositories, in making accessible lost or hidden cultures. The research type was a theoretical research type, focusing on published research literature about the problem. Search terms were generated to get relevant literature about the topic from databases like; Emerald Publishing, Google Scholar, Google search, Booksc.org, portal.unesco.org, eprints.rclis.org, and SPARC. It was reported that all countries under study did not have policies to guide digital preservation of cultural heritage. Only Uganda was reported to have a project WDL (Uganda) under the National Library of Uganda, working on digital preservation of cultural heritage. Makerere University was reported to be the only institution to have a digital preservation of special collection (music archive). Access to the digital collection of the cultural heritage is very vital in many aspects of research and societal dynamics. Governments should pick interest in digital preservation of heritage material and making it easily accessible. Preservation policies should be put in place to guide the preservation processes. Academic and research institutional libraries should take a leading role in digital preservation processes on the national cultural heritage.
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    The emerging role of LIS professionals in combating adverse environmental effects
    (IFLA, 2017-09-29) Mulumba, Onan ; Nakazibwe, Irene
    In modern librarianship there is a lot more need for practical engagement than just fostering information literacy and dissemination. The 2030 United Nations agenda emphasizes action points for environmental sustainability, which involve reduction of pollution and waste, governing the environment, boosting the renewable energy, health ecosystems, combating climate change, improving soil and water sanitation, increasing resource efficiency, and safeguarding the oceans. These actions necessitate collective responsibility from all stakeholders including; LIS professionals, policy makers, politicians, development partners and practitioners. The aim of this paper was to establish the practical and probable measures through which LIS professionals can engage in the action of environmental restoration. The study was informed by published literature on the involvement by LIS and other professionals, locally and internationally in environmental sustainability actions. An online questionnaire, with structured and open ended questions, was used to collect data from 60 LIS professionals in Africa, of whom the majority (55%) were from Uganda, 56.7% male, and 81.7% primarily working as librarians. The study revealed that LIS professionals are aware of environmental degradation activities though only 55% are aware of the global environmental strategy of the 2030 UN Agenda. Deforestation and air pollution were reported as the most commonly known activities which destroy the environment. It was established that LIS professionals and their affiliate institutions and organizations are mostly involved in the greening campaign more than any other activity. The main challenge to environmental conservation, as reported from the study, is lack of sufficient resources to support the planned activities, however, it was suggested that LIS professionals engage more in the development, implementation, and promotion of awareness campaigns for waste reduction and environmental literacy. Finally it was recommended that LIS professionals develop a strong collaboration with other stakeholders and engage in all other possible activities to enhance environmental sustainability
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    The Horizon of Information Sharing at Makerere University: Multimedia, Audiovisual and the Linked Open Data
    (Science Publishing Group, 2017-12-15) Mulumba, Onan ; Kinengyere, Alison Annet ; Akullo, Winny Nekesa
    Makerere University has, in the recent past, climbed up the academic and research ranks, globally, and this has been supported by excellent information services, covering all available information resource formats and targeting users in the university community with varying information needs and information seeking behaviour. The metadata of such useful information resources is Machine-Readable. The major objective of this paper was to explore the level of data sharing at Makerere university library, focusing on audiovisual and multimedia collection. A semi-structured questionnaire (online and print) was administered to Library staff at Makerere University. The data were qualitatively and quantitatively analysed using simple percentages and recorded in tables and graphs. Of the 22 target respondents, a response rate of 81.8% (18) was realized. The results of the paper revealed that the majority of the librarians were not aware of the functionality of the LOD concept and the semantic web. Majority (88.9%) of the librarians were involved in data processing and entry for the general library collection, 18.8% of them are involved in data processing and entry for audiovisual and multimedia collection. It was further revealed that the data at Makerere university library is not linked to open data cloud and therefore not discoverable through the semantic web. The most prominent benefit of LOD cited by librarians was the opportunity to eliminate or reduce recreating existing descriptors already elaborated by other experts. The major challenges to linking data to open data cloud at Makerere university library were lack of skilled staff and lack of awareness about the concept of LOD.
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    Quality attributes and drying rate of Silver Cyprinid (Rastrineobola Argentea) during different processing methods
    (Makerere University, 2018) Omagor, Isaac Olila
    The proper handling and processing of the highly perishable silver cyprinid (Rastrineobola argentea) could contribute towards alleviation of food insecurity by directly acting as a food resource and through employment for income generation among vulnerable groups. Despite the many processing techniques used, the quality and value of silver cyprinid still remains low. This research was therefore carried out to establish how effective the methods used by the artisanal processors are in producing high quality silver cyprinid fished from Lake Victoria in Uganda. This was done by comparing the effect of the current artisanal processing methods on the quality attributes and the drying rate of silver cyprinid in four major landing sites (Kiyindi, Kasekulo, Katosi, and Ssenyondo) along the shores of Lake Victoria in Uganda. The quality attributes measured were proximate composition (moisture, fat, ash and protein content), lipid oxidation (FFA, PV, and TBARS), microbial counts (yeasts and molds, total plate count and total coliforms), and microbial spoilage (TMA). The drying rate was calculated and drying rate curves drawn. It was observed that drying on nets placed on the ground (most prevalent at 41.7%) and on raised racks were the two main strategies for human grade silver cyprinid. Salting was carried out mainly on silver cyprinid for export. On average salting was done at concentrations of 4g of salt per 100g of wet fish and 10g of salt per 100g of wet fish. Raised rack drying led to lower microbial counts and spoilage and a less extent of lipid oxidation than the net on ground drying. Fish from all the sites was highly nutritious as evidenced by the high protein (ranging from 62.8 ± 4.4 to 73.3 ± 10.2 % dry basis) and fat content (ranging from 11.5 ± 2.9 to 13.3 ± 1.9 % dry basis). The average moisture content, PV, FFA, total plate count, total coliforms and yeasts and molds were higher for all the sites than the standard values. The overall quality of fish by the end of processing in Kiyindi was higher than in all the other sites. The rate of drying of salted fish (6.18 ± 0.1 g water/g db, hour) was lower, under the same conditions than the rate of drying of the unsalted fish (7.93 ± 0.1 g water/g db, hour). Salt reduced the microbial load, TMA and FFA and increased the PV and TBARS of the silver cyprinid. Offshore salted samples had coliforms below detectable limits while those salted onshore and the unsalted sample had detectable coliforms. A reduction in drying rate was observed with increase in salt concentration. Salting at a concentration of four grams of salt per 100g of wet fish offshore and drying on raised racks was found to be the most effective method currently being used since it resulted in reduced microbial load while not entirely compromising on the extent of lipid peroxidation.
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    Postharvest changes along supply chains of Solanum aethiopicum (Shum) (nakati) and Amaranthus lividus (Linn) (bugga) leafy vegetables
    (Makerere University, 2018) Apolot, Mary Gorret
    Objectives: The objectives were three; document postharvest handling practices along supply chains of Solanum aethiopicum (Shum) and Amaranthus lividus (Linn) leafy vegetables; assess changes in sensory attributes of S. aethiopicum and A. lividus leafy vegetables along the supply chain and thirdly, assess the effect of postharvest practices on vitamin C and beta carotene content of the respective vegetables. Methods: A cross sectional study design was employed for the purpose of understanding the postharvest practices and their impact on sensory and nutritive quality of the leafy vegetables. The target population included supply chain actors (farmers, transporters and traders) who were selected purposively for interviews. Quantitative descriptive sensory analysis was used to profile and investigate changes in sensory attributes of vegetables with time after harvest. Beta carotene was analyzed using reverse High Performance Liquid Chromatography, vitamin C by titration method and moisture content by oven drying. Correlation and regression analyses were carried out to establish relationships amongst variables of interest (p<0.05). Results and discussion: Harvesting was mainly done in the evening hours and by hand. The main transport means used was truck (100%), commonly hired by one or more farmers. However, a key informant interview revealed that other alternative transportation means included motorcycles and bicycles. There was no proper storage and packaging observed both on farm and in the market. Moreover, inappropriate packaging and improper storage have been reported as major causes of postharvest loss in vegetables. Only 16.6% of traders sorted and graded the vegetables as compared to 83.4% who did not. There was complete lack of recommended handling, storage and packaging practices along the supply chains. Sensory profiles of eight (8) and nine (9) descriptors were developed for S. aethiopicum and A. lividus respectively. Descriptive Sensory Analysis (DSA) results showed that all 9:00hrs samples were rated highly for each attribute compared to the 12:00hrs and 15:00hrs samples. Results for S. aethiopicum showed statistically significant (p<0.05) difference for all the sensory attributes except for light green colour of leaf stalk. For A.lividus, significant (p<0.05) differences were observed for moist appearance, well spread appearance, smoothness and overall quality. This result shows that sensory attributes of S. aethiopicum deteriorate faster than those of A. lividus under same handling conditions. Correlation results showed significant (p<0.05) positive relationship among attributes, indicating that deterioration in one attribute may lead to deterioration of the other. Beta carotene had a significant (p<0.05) negative regressive association with trimming-off roots in both types of vegetables. This indicates that increase in the practice may lead to losses in beta carotene, keeping all other factors constant. However, trimming-off roots and sprinkling with water had a negative significant (p<0.05) association with vitamin C content whereas harvesting by hand had a positive significant (p<0.05) association with vitamin C for both types of vegetables. Harvesting by hand may seem to retain vitamin C in vegetables compared to other methods such as mechanical/machine given the positive association. Conclusion: Postharvest handling practices; harvesting by hand, improper storage and packaging, use of trucks for transporting vegetables to the market, lack of sorting and grading characterized the supply chains in this study. These practices are generally poor and have a negative impact on sensory attributes, beta carotene and vitamin C contents of S. aethiopicum and A. lividus leafy vegetables.
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    Impacts of upstream oil and gas activities on environment, well-being and tourism in the Albertine Region of Uganda: Local community perspectives
    (Makerere University, 2018) Nnakayima, Dianah
    Despite the notion that upstream oil and gas developments come along with externalities, the negative externalities and the overall net benefits are often not given research attention. This study aimed at examining local perspectives on socio-economic, cultural and environmental impacts of upstream oil and gas activities in the Albertine Graben of Uganda. The relationship between upstream oil and gas activities and human well-being, and the impact on tourism were also determined. Kabwoya Wildlife Reserve, Kaiso and Kyehoro villages within Hoima district were purposively selected. Information was obtained by use of household surveys, focus group discussions, key informant interviews and GIS and remote sensing techniques. The data was analyzed using chi-square tests, cross-tabulations, narrative and qualitative content analysis and multi-date post-classification comparison change detection technique using Harris ENVI 5.3 software to detect land cover/land use changes before and after upstream oil and gas activities observed the studied area. Increased businesses, land market, market for agricultural goods and rental houses were the main economic benefits whereas increase in prices of land, goods and house rent were the major economic losses. Under oil and gas development, construction of Kaiso Primary school, Kyehoro health centre and boreholes by Tullow Oil were some of the Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives to improve social service delivery in health and education in the community while changes in socio cultural systems, incidences of intermarriages, incidences of drunkardness, diminished pride in traditional values, conflicts, crime and violence were the main socio cultural losses of oil and gas developments. Noise pollution, soil erosion, wildlife habitat fragmentation and disturbance as well increased human access into the Reserve were the major environmental problems. There was a decrease in Tropical High Forest (THF) Well Stocked, woodland and grassland cover and an increase in Bush land, Subsistence and THF Low Stocked before upstream oil and gas activities. After upstream oil and gas activities, there was a decrease in THF Well Stocked, THF Low stocked, wood land and grassland and an increase in bush land, Subsistence, large scale farming and Built up areas. Construction of the Kaiso-Tonya road positively impacted human well-being through improved access to social services but also led to displacement, noise and air pollution. Increased security, access to basic materials for a good life and health were the main dimensions of human well-being that were affected. Tourists majorly go to Kabwoya wildlife Reserve to see animals and wetlands, specifically, Lake Albert. Improved access to tourist sites, reduced cost of transportation and development of accommodation and restaurant facilities were the major benefits to the tourism industry whereas increased cost of accommodation due to oil drilling crews and auxiliary activities was the major negative impact onto the tourism industry. Construction of Kaiso-Tonya road and exploration negatively affected tourism attractions lead to animal disturbance and increased access into Kabwoya Wildlife Reserve by poachers. These study findings demonstrate that upstream oil and gas activities have led to both negative and positive externalities on the environment, human well being and tourism. In order to minimize or avoid future negative externalities, there is the need to develop local expertise to take advantage of the benefits from the oil and gas sector, there should be a conscious effort by government and oil companies to develop the oil communities through the provision and maintenance of more basic infrastructure and amenities such as public toilets, boreholes, schools and health facilities and ensure environmental remediation for example through tree planting in many of the transformed sites.
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    Willingness of households in Wakiso District to pay more for improved water supply
    (Makerere University, 2018) Musitwa, Paul
    The study assessed the willingness of households in Wakiso District to pay more for improved water supply using a case study of Makindye Ssabagabo Municipality. Three specific objectives were used to guide the study and these include: 1) assessed households’ satisfaction with the existing water supply conditions; 2) determined household willingness to pay for improvements in piped water supply; and 3) determined factors that influence households’ willingness to connect and to pay for improved piped water supply services. A simple random technique was used to select a sample of 382 households and data was collected using primary instruments: – questionnaires, observations and face to face interviews. Descriptive statistics were used to examine satisfaction with the current water supply conditions. Logit and Tobit regression were used to analyse factors influencing household’s willing to pay for the improved piped water supply through STATA version 13. Five sources (water taps, water springs, and rainfall, borehole and open water bodies) were identified as the main sources of water and the main frequently used source was taps and water springs. The former was from facilities of the National Water and Sewerage Corporation and satisfaction with water supply was low with 41% of the households reporting satisfaction. The findings also reveal that 86% of the households were willing to pay more than the National Water and Sewerage Corporation set tariff of Uganda Shillings 58.8 Per twenty litres (Uganda Shillings 2940 per unit/1000 litres) of piped tap water (Value Added Tax inclusive) if piped water flow reliability is improved to 20 hours a day. It was found that willingness to connect to improved piped water supply was low among households with older household heads (p=0.009), with low level of education and with households that were more than 500 metres from a water source (p=0.030). Willingness to pay more for improvements in piped water supply however, increased among households with large family size (p=0.063) and households located between 100 metres and 500 metres (p=0.057 and 0.062) from drinking water source. In conclusion, the research shows that the people are willing to pay for improved piped water supply services. Thus, the Government of Uganda through the Ministry of Water and Environment; and National Water and Sewerage Cooperation need to improve piped water supply for the population.
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    Esia of Aeria spraying of sugarcane with Ripener and fertilizer at Kinyara Sugar Limited in Masindi District
    ( 2018) Kamusiime, Ahabwe
    Kinyara Sugar Limited has executed commercial chemical ripening of sugarcane using Fusilade Forte between 1997 and 2005 and beneficial outcomes were recorded out of processing chemically ripened cane. The previous achievements have inspired KSL to re do aerial spraying of the chemical ripener and fertilizers (Diammonium phosphate, Triple Super phosphate, Urea 46% and Muriate of Potash (MOP) onto selected fields within the nucleus estate twice a year: to a maximum of 2000 hectares/annum. KSL will execute the proposed project in tandem with the established legal and institutional framework requirements.
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    Status of cassava mosaic disease and molecular characterization of associated geminiviruses in Malawi
    ( 2018) Mtonga, Andrew Patrick
    A study was conducted to evaluate cassava mosaic disease (CMD) incidence, severity, distribution and genetic diversity of responsible viruses across the major cassava production areas of Malawi. A field survey to determine CMD incidence, severity and distribution was conducted in April 2013 in 120 cassava fields across three administrative regions of Malawi. Separate surveys were conducted in August 2013 and June 2016 to determine the genetic diversity of the responsible viruses. A total of 200 symptomatic and asymptomatic cassava leaf samples were collected from 100 fields, surveyed in 10 districts in the August 2013 survey. DNA was extracted using Dellaporta method. Universal and specific primers were used to detect cassava mosaic begomoviruses (CMBs). An aliquot of the extracted DNA was subjected to circle amplification (RCA) and subsequent virus detection using specific primers. Illumina library construction and sequencing was performed on the RCA products. In the June, 2016 survey, 116 symptomatic cassava leaf samples were collected from 112 fields, surveyed in 11 districts of the country. Total RNA was extracted using CTAB method and samples were shipped to Switzerland for small RNA library construction and next generation sequencing (NGS). Results from the April 2013 survey showed a country-wide occurrence of CMD with incidence ranging from 4 to 52% (mean 24%). CMD symptom severity scores ranged between 2.2 and 3.8 (mean 3.0). The southern and central regions of the country registered the highest and lowest disease incidence at 41% and 10%, respectively. In contrast, the southern region recorded the lowest average disease severity score (2.7) while the northern region registered the highest (3.6). Mchinji and Chitipa districts had significantly lower disease incidence (4% and 5%, respectively) yet the latter recorded the highest severity score alongside Nkhatabay (3.8). Adult whitefly abundances were generally very low across the country with an average of 0.376 whiteflies per plant. Using virus specific primers, all known species reported in Africa were detected with the exception of ACMV. On the other hand, analysis of RCA and sRNA-based NGS data revealed that three CMB species (EACMV, EACMMV and EACMZV) are associated with CMD in Malawi and that some CMB isolates from Malawi are recombinants of EACMV/EACMMV and SACMV. RCA-based NGS data further suggested the presence of a putative species - Cassava mosaic virus [MW-KK3S-2013] isolated from the central region. In addition to CMB species, Cassava virus C was also recovered from samples from Chitipa district using sRNA-derived NGS data. Findings of this study unveils an increasing threat to cassava production in Malawi from not only well-known but also recombinant CMBs and other previously unreported viruses.
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    Incidence and molecular variability of cassava brown streak disease in Rwanda
    (Makerere University, 2018) Umfuyisoni, Jeanine
    In Rwanda, despite the importance of cassava as staple food, its production is greatly limited by biotic and abiotic constrains leading to poor yields. One of the most important constraints to cassava production is the cassava brown streak disease (CBSD). Cassava Brown Streak virus Ugandan valiant (UCBSV) was the first reported to occur in Rwanda in 2009. However, the Rwandan isolates of CBSVs have not been fully characterised which is a big gap in knowledge on epidemiology and management of CBSD in Rwanda. In addition no studies have been conducted in the country to understand the potential role of non-cassava plant species acting as virus reservoirs or alternative hosts for the viruses causing CBSD. This study therefore aimed at determining the incidence and severity of CBSD in the ten major cassava producing districts located in different agriculture zones of Rwanda. It also aimed at determining the diversity of cassava brown streak viruses; and to identify the possible alternative hosts for CBSD causal agents in Rwanda. In a survey conducted in 2015, 279 cassava leaf samples were collected from 93 cassava young field (3 to 6 MAP) and 101 leaf samples from shrubs and herbs with virus-like symptoms growing in or around cassava fields, as well as from areas with no nearby cassava fields. Sampling was undertaken in the ten districts of Rwanda: Bugesera, Nyagatare, Kayonza, and Kirehe (Eastern agriculture zone), Rusizi, Nyamasheke, (Western agriculture zone), Gisagara, Nyanza, Ruhango and Kamonyi (Southern agriculture zone) that grow large acreages of cassava. The CBSD incidence was calculated as a percentage number of plants diseased relative to the total number of plants assessed, while a scale of 1 to 5 was used to determine the disease severity where 1 = no visible CBSD symptoms and 5 = severe foliar symptoms and/or defoliation and plant die. Total RNA was extracted using CTAB (cetyltrimethyl ammonium bromide) method and amplified using reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Positively amplified samples were partially sequenced using the Sanger method. Findings from this study showed that there were a significant differences (P<0.05) in the incidence of CBSD between surveyed districts. The disease was widely distributed in the surveyed areas with an average incidence of 27.39%, which is a marked increase from the 18.8% in 2012. There were no significant differences (p>0.05) in CBSD severity between the surveyed districts mean severity score was 2.4 indicating that all the districts had moderate symptoms. Based on the RT-PCR and sequencing results, this study revealed further spread of UCBSV, reports for the first time a new appearance CBSV and UCBSV- CBSV co-infections. For alternative host, no CBSV was detected in the study materials. However, five species: Asystacia gangetica (Acanthaceae), Physalis peruviana L. (Solanaceae), Carica papaya L. (Caricaceae), Sida cordifolia L. (Malvaceae) and Senna spectabilis (DC.) (Caesalpinioideae) tested positive for UCBSV. This is the first report of non-cassava plant species as hosts for UCBSV in Rwanda. The findings suggest that providing clean (virus-free) planting material alone might not offer an effective solution to management of CBSD in areas where such alternative host plants are rampant. It is therefore also advisable to create awareness on the importance of alternative host plants in the management of CBSD, with emphasis to reduce or remove the plants in cassava fields and the surrounding environments.  
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    Resistance to rice yellow mottle virus and performance of selected improved rice genotypes in Central Uganda
    (Makerere University, 2018) Ndikuryayo, Cyprien
    Rice yellow mottle virus (RYMV) causes yield losses up to 100 % although yield losses of 19% have been recorded in selected areas of northern Uganda yet resistant rice varieties with farmer and consumer preferences are not available to farmers. The aim of this study was to contribute towards development of RYMV resistant rice genotypes for Uganda through: (i) Identifying new sources of resistance to RYMV among improved genotypes and (ii) Assessing performance of RYMV resistant genotypes. One hundred twelve genotypes were screened for RYMV resistance in an alpha lattice design with two replicates, using 3 isolates of the virus in screen houses of NaCRRI-Namulonge during two rounds in 2017. These isolates were collected from Iganga, Lira and Namulonge. RYMV disease severity was assessed using a scale of 1-9, with 1 being highly resistant and 9 being highly susceptible. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) revealed highly significant differences for RYMV severity among genotypes. Relative area under disease progress stairs, plant height reduction, delay of days to flowering, reduction in chlorophyll content and the reduction of grain weight were positively correlated and their heritability was high (H2 ≥ 0.65). Findings revealed 17 resistant genotypes, among which six were highly resistant [ARS126-3-B-1-2 (11), ARC36-2-P-2 (2), ARC39-145-P-2 (5), Gigante, IRL 2 (GP 54) and IRL 4 (69 GP 54)] and could be used as sources of RYMV resistance genes. RYMV resistant genotypes, together with ten checks, were evaluated for their performance in field trials for two seasons at NaCRRI-Namulonge using an alpha lattice design. Data were collected on diseases, yield, yield components and agronomic traits at different growth stages using a standard evaluation system of IRRI. ANOVA revealed high diversity among genotypes for RYMV disease incidence and severity, bacterial leaf streak, brown spot, narrow brown leaf spot, gall midge, number of tillers per plant, days to 50 % flowering, culm strength, plant height, leaf senescence, flag leaf length and width, panicle exertion, maturity period, tillering efficiency, panicle length, number of panicles per m2, spikelet fertility, panicle threshability, weight of 1000 filled grains and grain yield. Heritability was low (H2 = 0.48) for traits influenced by environment such as yield. Correlation and principal components analysis helped to determine traits to use in calculation of selection index. Genotypes IRL 53 (GP 54) and Namche 2 had high selection indices (SI = 27.75 and 25.99 respectively) suggesting that they performed better in most of traits. However, the most yielding genotypes were IRL 2 (GP 54) and IRL 4 (69 GP 54). These genotypes should be screened further for other traits of interest for use in the rice breeding program in Uganda. Multi-locational evaluation should also be done to identify the most promising genotypes for development of improved varieties with farmer-preferred traits.
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    An assessment of smallholder dairy farmer innovations in Malawi
    (Makerere University, 2018-04-22) Chindime, Sylvia Clarisa Collina
    The smallholder farmer dominated dairy industry in Malawi has undergone tremendous transformation in the past two decades. Access to markets and ever- changing market demands trigger innovations in the dairy value chain as the actors strive to take advantage of emerging opportunities. The smallholder dairy farmers are central actors in the dairy value chain and are affected by any innovation in the value chain. Invariably, they are compelled to continue innovating in response to the shocks and opportunities in the dairy value chain amidst other actors with unequal power relations and influence. How the smallholder farmers innovate and manage to sustain their livelihoods in a competitive and globalised market economy is the central focus of this study. Specifically, the study analyses the historical trends and patterns to position the smallholder farmers within the landscape of dairy innovations. It attempts to identify the factors that influence innovation in the dairy industry in Malawi while describing the institutional framework within which the smallholder farmers operate for sustainable enterprises. The study was conducted in four milk bulking groups situated in Lilongwe and Blantyre milk-shed areas of Malawi. A mixed concurrent research design was used combining case studies and cross sectional survey to generate qualitative and quantitative data respectively. Case studies were conducted focusing on in-depth insights into the historical and institutional aspects of the dairy industry permitting a holistically capturing of experiences and events as emerged over the years. The cross sectional survey involved 193 smallholder dairy farmers randomly sampled from Lilongwe and Blantyre milk-shed areas. Key informant interviews, utilising focus group discussions and semi-structured interview were used to collect qualitative data.. Qualitative data were analysed using Nvivo software version 11 for windows and content analysis to generate patterns, trends and relationships among the actors in the dairy value chain, while SPSS software version 19 was used to analyse the quantitative data where the Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) for multiple regression determined factors that influences innovation performance of the smallholder farmers. A trend analysis reveals a progressive increase in the number of actors engaged in the dairy value chain to innovate. Consequently, this leads to greater complexity of relationships between the actors with diverse interests. Amidst these complex relationships, the smallholder farmers are the most connected in terms of interaction, but at the same time, they are the least influential to other actors in the dairy innovation system. The inability to influence is associated with limited empowerment to bargain, lobby and advocate for change in their favour. Overall, Actors in the dairy innovation system have weak connections in their operations. The dairy innovation system in Malawi is reliant on the resilience of the smallholder farmer to continue producing in changing environmental context including the climate change phenomenon. This resilience can be enhanced by empowerment through producer associations to influence and bargain for incentives that support their innovations. The computed smallholder dairy farmer innovation index was 0.37 translating to 37%. The innovation index is a measure of innovativeness and performance of smallholder dairy farmers in the innovation system. Access to inputs, access to knowledge, networking ability, and participation in specific types of innovations are the factors that significantly influence the performance of smallholder farmers in the dairy innovation system. The cost of innovations and old age constrain farmer innovativeness and performance. This implies that sustainability of the dairy innovation system calls for attracting the youth in dairy farming as well as government interventions to lower the costs of production. A form of input subsidy is worth considering guaranteeing dairy based livelihoods and increasing contribution of the dairy industry to national economy. Changes in the institutional ecosystem of the dairy sector lead to maturity of three innovation functions: entrepreneurship activities, market formulation, and demand for search services. The limited availability of competent human resources, flow of financial resources, knowledge development, infrastructure and facilitated interaction and collaboration among actors are the main blocking factors to building a favourable institutional arrangement for smallholder farmers dominated dairy system in Malawi. A fair and rewarding dairy innovation system to all the actors is possible when there are regulated relationships among actors to avoid over-exploitation of some actors. These relationships create space for joint learning, mutual collaborations between the actors, and thereby building a dynamic supportive institutional ecosystem for a functional dairy innovation system. Whereas over-regulation can constrain innovations, judicious regulation is protective to all actors and incentivises creativity and better utilisation of resources including knowledge and skills. Strengthening farmer associations is the platform for their empowerment to effectively participate in partnerships and influence in sustainable dairy innovations in Malawi.
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    Composition and physico-chemical properties of grain flour and leaves of different amaranth accessions
    (Makerere University, 2018-07) Gafabusa, George
    Grain amaranth is widely consumed in the world as grain and vegetable. However, there is limited information on the variation in properties of different grain amaranth accessions. The aim of this study was to determine the nutritional composition of grain amaranth flours and total carotenes of amaranth leaves from different amaranth accessions. The nutritional characteristics determined for grain included crude protein, crude fat, total carbohydrate, moisture, ash, iron, calcium. The functional properties determined included; water absorption, water solubility index, viscosity and pasting properties. For leaves total carotenoids content was determined. Sensory acceptability was determined on the porridges. Statistical analysis was carried out using Statistix 9 statistical package. The data were subjected to Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and differences between means were determined using Tukey HSD test at 5 % (p = 0.05). The crude protein content ranged from 14.79 - 17.98%. There were significant differences (p< 0.05) in the protein content among the 35 amaranth accessions, accessions PI 633596, PI 482049, PI 477915, PI 604669, PI 558499, PI Golden, PI 477913 and PI 608661 recorded the highest protein content. The crude fat content ranged from 3.81 – 6.49 %, carbohydrate content ranged from 22.88 – 76.47 %, moisture content ranged from 9.74 – 12.84 %, ash content ranged from 1.96 – 3.19 %, calcium content ranged from 2106.2 – 4209.7 ppm and iron content ranged from 75.1 – 1455.6 ppm. There were significant differences (p<0.05) in the crude fat, carbohydrate, moisture, ash, calcium and iron in all amaranth accessions studied. The variations indicate differences in genetic factors because production of different accession was done under same conditions. The high protein content in all the accessions (14.79 – 17.98 %) indicates that amaranth is a good source of proteins. Total carotenoid content of grain amaranth leaves ranged between 20 – 47mg/100 g for all accessions. The high levels of total carotene in these accessions indicate the potential of grain amaranth leaves to prevent Vitamin A deficiency which is a public health concern in Uganda. Pasting properties results indicate significant differences (p<0.05) observed in all the accessions evaluated. For most of the accessions peak viscosity (PV) ranged between 7,916.3 cP for accession PI608018 to 1,892.3 cP for accession PI 642737. Pasting temperature (PT) ranged between 73.43°C for accession PI 553073 to 91.20°C for accession PI 642737. Peak time (PT) ranged between 4.17 minutes for accession PI 553073 to 6.97 minutes for accession PI 642737. The variation in pasting properties among accessions indicates differences in amylose content and other constituents like proteins. The high pasting temperature indicate high resistance to disintegration of starches molecules, therefore more cooking required and energy consumed.
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    Wastewater treatment practices by tanneries: Case of Skyfat Tannery and Leather Industries of Uganda Tanneries, Jinja, Uganda
    ( 2018-07-16) Semanda, Kassim
    The Leather industry in Uganda is of economic importance in terms of providing employment opportunities and revenue. However, leather manufacturing is a water intensive process and generates a significant volume of wastewater mainly characterized by high salinity, high organic loading and pollutants. Therefore, the main objective of this study was to assess the existing wastewater management practices in the leather industry of Uganda focusing on two tanneries (Skyfat tannery (SFT) and Leather Industries of Uganda tannery (LIU) so as to determine their efficiency and effectiveness in addressing potential pollution incidents. The study employed both qualitative and quantitative research methods of data collection. Selected physico-chemical parameters namely; BOD, COD, Electrical Conductivity (EC), pH, Sulphides, TSS, Chromium (Cr) and Sulphates characteristics of the wastewater were determined. Review of relevant literature was performed and one-to-one semi-structured interviews were held with key informants in the two tanneries and the District and Municipal Environment Officers of Jinja district. Wastewater treatment efficiency was determined and the pollution load estimated for both tanneries. Analysis results of all selected parameters from Skyfat tannery at the final effluent discharge point into the environment revealed high concentrations above the National Environment Standards for Discharge of Effluent into Water or on Land for BOD, Sulphides COD, TSS, pH and Total Chromium, whereas, analysis results for all the selected parameters (BOD, Sulphides COD, TSS, pH, EC, Sulphates and Total Chromium) from Leather Industries of Uganda tannery at the final effluent discharge point into the National sewer line revealed that all the parameters complied with the National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) standards for discharge of effluent into public sewers. Determination of efficiency of treatment plants in the two tanneries indicated high removal for chromium above 99%, followed by<70% for the rest of the parameters. The removal efficiency of chromium at Skyfat tannery was above 99%, even though the final concentration in the effluent was beyond the acceptable discharge standards. SFT releases a total pollution load of 833.28 kg/day for all the selected parameters and LIU releases a total pollution load of 235.28 kg/day. SFT discharges an average of 1243.30 m3/day of effluent and LIU discharges 177.28 m3/day of effluent. Both tanneries use the activated sludge process (ASP) for the treatment of their effluents. However the ASP process in both tanneries was incomplete because they did not have clarifiers to ensure effective removal of sludge and the aeration system for SFT was inadequate compared to the volume of effluent generated hence could not enable complete oxidation of sulphides. The effluent discharged by SFT (semi-finished leather processing tannery) was not complying with the national discharge standards. The effluent treatment plant had lower pollutant removal efficiency and the tannery discharged a higher pollution load as compared to LIU (finished leather processing tannery). Therefore, it is recommended that SFT should improve on both primary and secondary treatment of its effluent through expansion of the sedimentation ponds to allow ample effluent retention time, install a diffused aeration system to attain complete oxidation of sulphides and as well install a chromium recovery plant to avoid generation of chrome sludge that poses disposal challenges. Both tanneries are recommended to install clarifiers so as to attain complete removal of organic matter from the effluent, expand the aeration ponds and implement cleaner production measures in order to reduce consumption of chemical tanning inputs and production of excessive wastewater .
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    Optimization of numerical models for operational weather forecasting in Uganda
    ( 2018-08-21) Mugume, Isaac
    The major focus of this study was on improving the predictability of precipitation, in the form of rainfall, which is one of the major weather and climatic elements of interest in the tropics, using numerical weather prediction (NWP) models. Globally, increasing frequencies and severity of the extreme weather events and associated negative impacts on the lives and infrastructure have been reported. However, the non-linear atmospheric processes, sparse observation network and the uncertainty in initial conditions compound to make quantitative rainfall prediction a challenge. NWP models are one of the tools to objectively guide quantitative rainfall prediction and have been used in this study with the following objectives: (i) to compare the performance of the Consortium for Small-scale modeling (COSMO) model and the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model; (ii) to assess the performance of the convective parameterization schemes; and (iii) to examine the performance of ensemble methods. This study first compared the rainfall prediction skill by the NWP models namely the COSMO model and the WRF model using the rainfall data observed at 21 Ugandan weather stations for the period 21st April to 10th May 2013 using the root mean square error (RMSE), mean error (ME) and scores obtained from the contingency table namely the probability of detection and the false alarm ratio. This period was chosen because it experienced heavy rainfall over different areas in Uganda. The models were initialized using lateral boundary conditions from the National Centers for Environmental Prediction Final Analysis and the Germany weather Service for running the WRF model and the COSMO model respectively. This study found the WRF model performing comparatively better than the COSMO model) over Uganda in simulating extreme rainfall events at 5% significance level. For the light rainfall events, the COSMO model presented a comparatively smaller magnitude of error than the WRF model but in spite of this COSMO performance, the study considered extreme rainfall events as being of greater concern and therefore decided to adopt the WRF model in further analyses. The study then assessed the performance of six convective parameterization schemes under the WRF model in simulating rainfall namely: the Kain-Fritsch (KF) scheme; the Betts–Miller–Janjić (BMJ) scheme; the Grell–Freitas (GF) scheme; the Grell 3D ensemble (G3) scheme; the New–Tiedtke (NT) scheme and the Grell–Devenyi (GD) scheme in simulating rainfall over Uganda for an extended period, the rainy period from 1 st March to 31 st May 2013. It further examined the performance of the ensemble rainfall prediction methods (ensemble mean, analogue ensemble mean and multi-member analogue ensemble mean) and compared their performance to the performance of the convective parameterization schemes using the Student’s t-test. The root mean square error results of the WRF convective parameterization schemes (KF = 23.96; BMJ = 26.04; GF = 25.85; G3 = 24.07; NT = 29.13 and GD = 26.27) and the mean error results (KF = -0.82; BMJ = -2.05; GF = -1.98; G3 = -1.84; NT = -2.75 and GD= -2.07) showed that all the schemes generally presented a negative bias due to under-prediction of the extreme rainfall events. The comparison of the performance of ensemble methods and that of the three best convective parameterization schemes (KF, GF and G3 schemes) showed that the ensemble mean presented a significant improvement in quantitative rainfall prediction compared to the individual convective parameterization schemes (KF: t = 4.73, p<0.001; GF: t = 5.14, p < 0.001 and G3: t =5.41, p < 0.001). The ensemble mean analogue also presented better performance compared to the individual convective schemes (KF: t = 4.94, p < 0.001; GF: t = 5.38, p < 0.001 and G3: t = 5.66, p < 0.001) and the multi-member analogue ensemble mean presented the best performance compared to all the ensemble methods studied (KF: t = 5.00, p < 0.001; GF: t = 5.44, p < 0.001 and G3: t = 5.73, p < 0.001). This study, therefore, recommends the WRF model for operational weather prediction over Uganda using the KF parameterization scheme for deterministic quantitative rainfall prediction. It also recommends the multi-member analogue ensemble mean for ensemble quantitative rainfall prediction. Due to the high temporal and spatial rainfall variability, the study further recommends the assimilation of the observational weather data to improve deterministic rainfall prediction especially the mesoscale convective systems. Since the models generally under-predicted the extreme rainfall events, the study further investigation of the sources of the great bias in simulating such events.