Academic submissions (CAES)

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    Adoption of drought tolerant maize varieties among smallholder maize farmers in Kamuli and Masindi Districts
    ( 2019-01) Kakuru, Joseph
    Drought tolerant maize varieties (DTMs) are a great contributing factor in addressing the challenge of low maize yields for most rural households who continue to suffer prolonged drought periods as a result of climate change. The overall aim of this study was to assess the status of adoption of drought tolerant maize varieties (DTMs) by smallholder farmers in Masindi and Kamuli districts. Using survey data from 190 farm households, the study sought to characterise smallholder maize farmers in the two districts, assess Drought Tolerant maize attributes preferred by smallholder maize farmers, determine the rate of adoption and factors that influence the adoption of drought tolerant maize varieties in Masindi and Kamuli districts. The results indicated that adopters and non-adopters of drought tolerant maize (DTM) varieties significantly differed in terms of marital status, main occupation, access to credit, self-sufficiency in maize production, age, income, years of schooling, land owned, area under maize, experience in maize production and quantity of maize produced. Results also showed that limitations such as high prices, limited awareness, fertilizer requirement, limited access to seed and susceptibility to pests and diseases were responsible for poor adoption of DTMs. In addition, the most highly ranked DTM variety attributes by farmers was grain yield (66.3%). Other attributes that were preferred by farmers included; drought tolerance (18.9%), early maturity (13.7%), grain-flour ratio (9.5%), pests and diseases resistance (5.3%), tolerance to poor soils (1.1%) and lodging resistance (0.5%). The key factors influencing adoption of DTM were; awareness of drought tolerant maize varieties, experience in maize farming, level of formal education, distance to the source of seed, occurrence of drought and the price per kilogram of maize seed. It is thus recommended that more emphasis be put on extension and farmer trainings to increase awareness of the available DTMs. In addition to this, government programmes involved in provision of maize seed to farmers, such as Operation Wealth Creation (OWC) and other development partners should consider procurement of DTMs for supply to drought prone areas. Drought tolerant maize breeding programmes should try to incorporate early maturity, high yielding, weight, bigger grain, more cobs per plant since they were highly ranked by smallholder.
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    Adoption of On-Farm Plantation Forestry by Smallholder Farmers in Uganda
    Kiyingi, I. ; Edriss, A. ; Buyinza, Mukadasi ; Agaba, H.
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    Analysis of Gender differences in Smallholder Farmers’ Use of Information Sources to cope with Drought in Masindi District, Uganda
    (Makerere University, 2021) Mayindi, Zirintusa Andrew
    While socio-economic and institutional determinants of use of information sources have been widely studied in various contexts, the gender dimension of information use, and in relation to coping with the adverse effects of climate change has not been dealt with satisfactorily. A study was therefore conducted to: - (i) determine the sources of information used among smallholder farmers to cope with drought; (ii) characterize these sources of information and (iii) identify the socio-economic and institutional factors influencing farmers’ use of information sources to cope with drought. Using mixed methods combining a cross sectional survey and focus group discussions, data was collected from 313 smallholder farmers (167 men and 146 women). Results show that, fellow farmers mainly men were an important source of information for both men and women farmers to cope with drought. Farmers’ organizations were an important source of information among the women, while government extension services were an important source for the men for information to cope with drought. Overall, both men and women farmers perceived fellow farmers who were sources of information to be very good at communicating, convincing others, willing to share information, having appropriate information for both men and women, and bringing information from various sources. Women however had a significantly higher positive disposition compared to men. In regards to fellow farmers’ farming experience, while both men and women perceived them as highly experienced and exemplary, men had a small but significantly higher regard of this compared to the women. Both men and women farmers characterized fellow farmers as providers of information that was useful, timely, affordable, accurate, relevant and problem solving. A significant difference existed around women farmers’ perception of fellow farmers’ information as affordable and relevant more compared to the men. With regard to information obtained from extension agencies, both men and women perceived it as useful, timely, affordable, accurate, relevant and problem solving. However, women’s perceptions of the relevance of this information were significantly and positively higher compared to men. In determining why farmers’ used fellow farmers as sources of information to cope with drought, the significant explanatory factors included; not being a member of a farmers’ group (β = −2.57, p < 0.01), farmers perceiving a fellow farmer as a good communicator (β = 3.049, p < 0.01), as having access to many extension agencies (β = .9912, p < 0.009), as a user of agro technologies (β = ̶1.54, p < 0.01); as not so educated (β= ̶0.861, p < 0.01) and contacting a farmer of the opposite sex (β = ̶1.176, p < 0.01). The factors that explained farmers’ use of extension workers for information to cope with drought included having access to radio (β = 1.214, p < 0.01), to transport (β = 2.668, p < 0.01), membership to a farmer group (β = 2.54, p < 0.01) 989 and having access to mobile phones (β = .665, p < 0.1). In conclusion, both fellow farmers and extension agencies were important sources of information to cope with drought to both men and women farmers. More women need support in maximizing these sources compared to the men. There is need to build the capacity of fellow farmers to guarantee easy access to relevant information especially for women. Extension services need to continually retool their staff to reach men and women farmers more objectively and equitably. Enhancing women’s access to extension services such as owning a radio, a mobile phone and being mobile is key for climate smart farming.
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    Apple Peel Biochemical Changes after Foliar Application of Combined Boron and Calcium I. Phenolics and Physico-Chemical Attributes
    (Scientific Research Publishing, 2020-06-30) Mwije, Anthony ; Lotze, Elmi ; Hoffman, E W
    Post-full bloom foliar applications of boron in combination with calcium (B+Ca) suppress fruit sunburn-browning incidence in apples (Malusdomestica). However, the mode-of-action is not yet explained and hence, protocols to exploit this seemingly cost-effective peel physiology augmenting approach compared to usual methods (shade-netting, overhead cooling and kaolin application which attenuate excess fruit heat-load), cannot be fully developed or promoted justifiably among growers. Apple fruit sunburn-browning disorders are rampant worldwide, partly because of climate change as well as high cost and inefficacy of the established methods. However, knowledge of B+Ca effect on apple peel physiology may unravel the mode-of-action, paving the way for commercialization of this novel approach. In this study, B+Ca effect on apple peel phenolics and selected fruit physico-chemical attributes was investigated, using studies conducted at two farms for two seasons in Western Cape, South Africa. Four foliar treatments varying in B, Ca and inclusion of zinc (Zn), were applied on ‘Cripps Pink’, ‘Golden Delicious’ and ‘Granny Smith’ apples in 2014/15 (only ‘Cripps Pink’) and 2015/16 (all cultivars) in randomized complete block design experiments with five replications. Fruit peel samples for quantitative determination of total phenolics and total flavonoids analyses were collected at different fruit maturity stages. Significant (p < 0.05) interaction (treatments and fruit maturity stages) effect was observed for total phenolics (‘Golden Delicious’ and ‘Granny Smith’ only) and total flavonoids (all cultivars). Physico-chemical attributes (fruit diameter, size and total soluble solids) were only evaluated in ‘Golden Delicious’ and ‘Granny Smith’, and no significant differences among treatments occurred. Since no clear treatment differences in apple peel phenolic patterns were observed, other appropriate biochemical aspects like photosynthetic pigments should be investigated among such foliar B+Ca treatments.
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    Apple Peel Biochemical Changes after Foliar Application of Combined Boron and Calcium II. Photosynthetic Pigments, Total Peroxides and Photochemical Efficiency
    (Scientific Research Publishing, 2020-06-30) Mwije, Anthony ; Lotze, Elmi ; Hoffman, E W
    Understanding of the physiological effect of post-full-bloom foliar boron combined with calcium (B+Ca) on apple (Malus domestica) peel tissues is envisaged to give way to the unknown mode-of-action by which these mineral regimens suppress fruit sunburn-browning incidence in orchards. Promotion of this mineral approach among growers, as a certainly cheaper alternative to mitigate fruit sunburn-browning incidence in apple orchards necessitates clear elucidation of its mode-of-action. This study investigated peel photosynthetic pigments and total peroxides (as a measure of oxidative stress) in three apple cultivars, ‘Cripps Pink’, ‘Golden Delicious’ and ‘Granny Smith’ which were treated with four B+Ca treatments varying in levels of B and Ca as well as inclusion of zinc (Zn) in one treatment. Randomized complete block design experiments with five replications were conducted at commercial farms in Western Cape, South Africa. Significant (p < 0.05) treatment effect for major pigment aspects and total peroxides occurred in all cultivars, but with strong influence of cultivar and fruit age. For instance, effect of varying B, Ca and possible B+Ca duet-effect on photosynthetic pigments occurred in ‘Cripps Pink’, whereas the Zn-treatment was mainly responsible for significant treatment effects in both ‘Golden Delicious’ and ‘Granny Smith’ apples. Significant treatment effect for total peroxides occurred in ‘Cripps Pink’ and ‘Granny Smith’, yet significant interaction effect occurred with ‘Golden Delicious’, however, these significant results did not yield meaningful peel oxidative stress differences among the treatments. Foliar treatment differences in photochemical efficiency (Fv/Fm) were not significant. The study concludes with firm evidence that foliar B+Ca treatment composition has a significant effect on apple peel photosynthetic pigments depending on cultivar, and Zn is not desirable in the formulation of these treatments.
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    Assessing the resilience of persons with disabilities in landslide prone areas: a case of Bushika sub county, Bududa district
    (Makerere University, 2021-02) MARTIN, SSENNOGA ; Ssennoga, Martin
    The resilience of Persons with disabilities (PwDs) in landslide-prone areas is not well understood and yet this information is vital in reducing risks through building resilience in the disaster-prone areas. Resilience of PwDs is anchored on four factors that is risk exposure, socioeconomic, individual‟s functioning resilience, and the individual's housing infrastructure. This study, therefore, mapped the landslide susceptibility at PwD places of living and investigated the most affected disability. It also assessed the level of resilience and explored the mechanisms being used to build resilience among PwDs. Bushika being the hotspot for landslides and with the highest population of PwDs, a sample size of 55 households with PwDs above 18years was considered for snowball sampling. Key Informant Interviews (KII), Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) were also used to collect qualitative data. Global Positioning System (GPS) receivers and 30x30 meter SRTM DEM were used to generate the terrain factors. Descriptive and inferential statstics were computed in SPSS statistics 23 and Excel 2016. Perception-based analysis, spatial analyst tools in ArcGIS, Version 10.1, and Systems for Automated Geospatial Analysis (SAGA) version 7.7 were used in data analysis. Results showed that the majority of PwDs live in areas susceptible to landslides. There was a significant difference (Friedman‟s Test Assymp. Sig<0.05) in the level of landslide impacts. The blind and Deaf-blind were perceived as most affected by landslides with total scores of 151 and 148 all out of 160 respectively. With moderate risk exposure, the level of an individual‟s functioning and housing infrastructure were low at geometric means of 1.4 and 1.2 respectively. The socioeconomic capital was moderate at a geometric mean of 2. The overall resilience of the PwDs was low (RRI=1.57), with the majority 94% having low resilience, 3.2% lower, and 3.2% moderate resilience. Relocation, assistive devices, early warning, disaster training, participation in recovery plans, and other mechanisms such as animal keeping, constructing the protective barrier, leveling the ground before house construction were being used to cope with landslides risks. Self-help groups were distinctively perceived as most effective in building their resilience with the highest total score of 167 out of 192; stdev=42. The study recommends that more efforts should be put into groups that can be platforms for disaster trainings as well as financial support which directly stimulates infrastructural and functioning resilience of PwDs.
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    Assessing the socio-cultural determinants of adoption of biogas technology in Mpigi district, Uganda
    (Makerere University, 2021-10-11) Namirembe, Grace
    The increasing energy poverty in Uganda is seen as a limitation to sustainable development. Hence attempts are made to disseminate and promote the relevance of clean renewable energy resources such as Biogas technology in Mpigi District to fulfill the domestic energy need. However, its use and uptake is still low and likely to keep dropping year after year. This gap prompted the study to assess the socio-cultural determinants of the adoption of biogas technology in Mpigi District. The study was to assess the determinants of adoption of biogas technology in Mpigi District and to assess the feasibility of biogas technology on the households in Mpigi District. The study obtained primary data with the help of questionnaires and interview checklists. Photography was used to show the types of biogas digesters installed. Random and purposive sampling techniques were used to select the respondents. The mean, frequency and percentages described the characteristics of the households. Multiple linear regression model in SPSS was used given by equation 2. Results indicated that education level, income level, access to subsidies, proximity of the farm and cattle heads were found significant with positive and negative beta coefficient on the adoption of Biogas technology. The classification of adopters in the study was consistent with the assumptions of the Diffusion of Innovation Theory hence categories such as; innovators (17.8%), early adopters (25.7%), early majority (33.7%), late majority (15.8%) and laggards (6.9%), were identified. Cost-benefit analysis with the help of Net Present Value and Benefit Cost Ratio were used to analyze the profitability of 3 biogas digester capacities (6m3, 9m3, and 13m3). The Discount Rate of 7 % and the period of 20 years lifespan of biogas digesters were considered in the economic evaluation of each biogas digester. The 9m3 biogas digesters were found as the most profitable with the highest Benefit Cost Ratio=7.8, 6.5 for 6m3 and 2 for 13m3. Besides, 6m3 mostly dominate the area for being affordable in terms of dung and costs required. In addition, estimations indicated Mpigi Town Council with a total reduction of 182,613 kg CO2e from biogas use in a year, better than other Sub Counties. The study highlighted the need for the government to promote 9m3 biogas digester if adopters are to benefit from biogas technology and increase access to subsidies and credit to potential adopters to reduce on initial costs by the government policy makers and biogas companies. The study recommends further research on why biogas from other (human excreta and pig manure) feedstock are less utilized at the household level.
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    Assessment of allocative efficiency of smallholder tea farmers: evidence from Kabale and Kanungu districts, Uganda
    (Makerere University, 2021-04) Kishaija, Noel
    Smallholder productivity and efficiency still remain a paradox especially in perennial crops with past research presenting mixed results on allocative efficiency of smallholder farmers. The purpose of the study was to determine allocative efficiency and its influencing factors among smallholder tea farmers in Kabale and Kanungu districts, Uganda. This study utilized cross-sectional survey data collected from a random sample of 170 tea farmers in the districts of Kabale and Kanungu. The study employed a Stochastic Frontier Approach (SFA) and the Value of Marginal Product Approach (VMPA) in determining the input elasticities and allocative efficiency levels respectively. Thereafter, an Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression model was used to investigate the determinants of allocative efficiency. Results from the SFA and the VMPA showed that average allocative efficiency levels for land, fertilizer, labour and herbicide were 11.17, 1.68, 3.08 and 4.43 respectively. Finally, the OLS model regression results indicated that; allocative efficiency of fertilizer was positively and significantly determined by; farm size, size of household, herbicide type and times visited by the extension staff while herbicide was positively and significantly determined by; size of household extension access, marital status of the household head, type of herbicide. While allocative efficiency for land was positively influenced by age of household head, district of the respondent being Kabale, extension access. Finally, allocative efficiency of labour was positively influenced by farm size, having a contract, and district of the respondent being Kabale.
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    An assessment of pedo-hydrological characteristics at medium sized landslide sites in Manafwa catchment, mountain Elgon.
    (Makerere University, 2021-04) Kutosi, Moses
    Landslide hazards are prevalent and continue to manifest seasonally on the slopes of Mountain Elgon, especially in the Manafwa catchment. While their occurrence has attracted several studies, limited attention has been given to pedo-hydrological characteristics underpinning these landslides. The thrust of this study was to assess pedo - hydrological characteristics at medium-sized landslide sites in the Manafwa catchment. Purposive sampling was done and an inventory of the medium-sized past landslides in the catchment was undertaken. This yielded a total of 27 scars with sizes ranging from 1,500 m2 to 37,850 m2. Four top-sized landslide scars were selected for the study. The selected scars were mapped using a Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver to capture the extent of each scar. Land use characteristics were observed or established through interviews were recorded at each section. Hydrological characteristics were conceived through the measurement of steady-state infiltration rate (IR) and saturated hydraulic conductivity (Ksat). At each site, 12 infiltration measurements representing three-segment positions i.e. head scarp position, main body position, and deposition position, and four replications were taken. In total, 48 infiltration measurements were conducted at the four sites using a double-ring infiltrometer. Composite soil samples were picked from the top (0-15 cm) and lower depth (15-30 cm) and taken for laboratory analysis to determine the content of soil texture and soil organic matter. Soil cores were also extracted to determine the Ksat and bulk density. The study revealed IR ranging from 0.03 cm min-1 to 1.22 cm min-1, averaging 0.5 cm min-1 across the studied sites. IR was slightly higher at the head scarp > the deposition > the main body section but not statistically significant. Overall, the magnitude of IR observed at the landslide scar sites is high. Ksat ranged between 230 mmh-1 and 856 mmh-1, averaging 566 mmh-1. The head scarp recorded the highest Ksat followed by deposition and main body section but not statistically significant. Overall, the magnitude of Ksat observed at the landslide scar sites is very rapid. The soil organic matter (SOM) content was below the critical value ranging from 1.5 to 3.6%, averaging 2.4% in the top (0-15 cm) and 1.0 to 3.0%, averaging 2% in the lower depth (15-30 cm). SOM variation was statistically significant across the soil depth. The clay content varied from 14.5 to 48%, averaging 35.5% in the upper section (0-15 cm) and 14.2 to 50.0%, averaging 39.8% in the lower section (15-30 cm) and the variation was statistically significant. Overall, the clay magnitude was high. Bulk density varied from 1.01 to 1.47 g/cm3, averaging to 1.26 ± 0.1 g/cm3 lower than the critical value (1.6) for clay loam soils. Although the IR was higher at sites, it was also found that the sites have a higher clay content which alters the pore water pressure contributing to slope failure. This challenge can be mitigated by strengthening the sites with indigenous trees to improve the cohesion of soil properties.
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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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    An Assessment of the Environmental Performance of Selected Firms in the Kampala Industrial and Business Park (KIBP), Uganda
    (Makerere University, 2021-03-31) Nakibuuka, Susan
    The study sought assess the environmental management systems adopted by select firms within the KIBP, Namanve. By using the Qualitative Research Design, a cross-sectional survey was used to map and characterize the adoption of ISO 14001 Environmental Management Systems (EMS) and to assess the factors influencing the adoption of ISO 14001 by selected factories within the Kampala Industrial and Business Park, Namanve. Out of the 12 responsive factories, field results indicated that 50% of the factories within the KIBP, Namanve were ISO 14001 certified which indicated commitment of factories to protecting the environment. The ISO 14001 was hinged on the five (5) traditional management requirements particularly focusing on the Environmental Policy statement to which factories have committed to and the environmental management practices put in place. Not all factories, however, had adopted the ISO 14001 mainly because of the costly process of certification. On the other hand, the factors that significantly influenced the adoption of the ISO 14001 EMS by the factories which were certified included low production costs, influence of the media and compliance to international standards. The efforts to decouple industrial development from the environment are still very minimal however, there are attempts being made by factories in KIBP, Namanve through their environmental management practices particularly using alternative technologies in the production processes adopted which include energy saving, recycling and re-use methods.
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    Assessment of the success of active forest restoration in Mount Elgon National Park, Eastern Uganda
    (Makerere University, 2020-10) Kitimbo, Herbert
    Globally, active forest restoration involving the planting of native tree species has been used to reverse tropical forest degradation. Despite the substantial costs ($ 2500 per ha) in active forest restoration, there is limited scholarly information on the performance of active forest restoration projects world over. This study examined the performance of active forest restoration in Mount Elgon National Park, eastern Uganda. Specifically, the study assessed the following ecological attributes: (i) vegetation structure, (ii) ecosystem functions, (iii) tree species diversity, and (iv) tree species composition in 22- and 25-year old sites under active forest restoration and a reference forest. The study adopted a stratified sampling design where the survey areas were categorized into three strata (two strata in the sites under active restoration and one in the reference forest), based on similar environmental conditions such as topography, slope and aspect. Each stratum measured 12 hectares and was mapped using a GPS. A total of 10 plots of 40 x 30 m were randomly established in each stratum to measure vegetation structure, ecosystem functions, tree species diversity and tree species composition. To assess restoration success, the ecological attributes were compared among sites under active forest restoration and the reference forest using generalised linear models fitted in R version 3.3.1.The results showed that vegetation structure was less complex in sites under active forest restoration (22- and 25-year old) than in the reference forest. The ecosystem functions were lower in the sites under active forest restoration; (22- and 25-year old) than in the reference forest. Tree species diversity was lower in the sites under active forest restoration than in the reference forest. The sites under active forest restoration had different tree species compositions compared to the reference forest. Although the sites under active forest restoration have not yet recovered the vegetation structure, ecosystem functions and tree species diversity as in the reference forest, the results suggest a positive trend in the recovery of the restoration sites. The study recommends continued development and monitoring of the restoration sites by reducing or eliminating threats such as grazing and illegal pole cutting to accelerate converge to reference conditions. It recommends investigation to be done on the contribution of fauna on the speed and on the forest recovery trajectory. Further research is needed to examine the linkages between recovery of soil properties and vegetation attributes to further guide the implementation of active forest restoration.
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    Attitudes of communities towards wetland conservation programmes: A case of Lutembe Bay Wetland, Wakiso District, Uganda
    (Makerere University, 2018-11) Muwanguzi, Ibrahim
    This study was conducted on the basis that understanding the attitudes of communities towards the conservation of Lutembe bay wetland is important in designing and implementing successful wetland conservation programmes. The wetland is an important habitat for globally vulnerable, threatened species of animals and birds and a main migration stop-over for various bird species from different countries. Despite being a Ramsar site and an Important Bird Area, the wetland system is threatened by human activities. The overall objective of the study was to assess attitudes of communities towards the conservation of Lutembe Bay wetland. Specifically the study assessed local use of the wetland; communities’ knowledge of local conservation programmes and attitudes towards them; local participation in the conservation programmes; and the nature of conflicts surrounding the conservation of the wetland. Semi-structured interviews, key informant interviews, focus group discussions and direct observations were used to collect the data. A total of 240 respondents from areas within a radius of 5 km from the wetland were involved in the household questionnaire survey. Results of the study indicated that people surrounding Lutembe Bay wetland were directly involved in its use mostly for cultivation purposes, and their awareness about the conservation programmes of the wetland was low with only 44% of the respondents aware. A small percentage (47%) of the respondents participated in the conservation programmes of the wetland while practicing of activities prohibited in Lutembe Bay wetland was the major cause of the conflicts associated with its conservation and use. Regression results revealed that use of the wetland was significantly (P< 0.004) higher among male headed households while awareness of conservation programmes significantly improved with older respondents (P< 0.003), and respondents who attained higher level of formal education were significantly (P< 0.002) more likely to be aware of the conservation programmes. Respondents who owned land were significantly (P< 0.1) more willing to participate in the conservation of the wetland, while respondents further away (in the distance of 5km) from the wetland were significantly (P< 0.05) less willing to participate in the conservation of the wetland. Therefore successful conservation of the wetland will depend on integration of conservation programmes in the school curriculum right from primary to increase awareness on all relevant information and local support for conservation and management of the wetland and also the need to introduce by-laws to eliminate unlawful use of the wetland.
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    Baseline assessment of water quality along Nakulabye stream
    (Makerere University, 2019-11) Mensah-Kumah, Philip
    Nakulabye stream, a natural resource within the Nakulabye catchment, serves as a habitat for some aquatic organisms. It also serves as a source of drinking water for livestock and used for agricultural purposes such as irrigation. As a result of increase in human settlements and economic activities along the stream and constant discharge of effluents into the stream, the variation of water quality along the stream was assessed. Also, the land use activities in Nakulabye stream catchment were documented. Water samples were collected from 5 sampling sites; site 1 (upstream and control), site 2 (upstream), site 3 (midstream and a major tributary), site 4 (midstream and a major tributary), site 5(downstream and outlet) and analysed for pH, electrical conductivity (EC), temperature, total dissolved salts (TDS), total nitrogen (TN), total phosphorus (TP) and chemical oxygen demand (COD). Electrical conductivity (EC) was highest at site 2 with a mean value of 7.8±0.3 ms/cm and lowest at site 3 with a mean value of 4.4±0.1 ms/cm. Total dissolved solids (TDS) concentration was highest at site 2 with a mean value of 3.9±0.3 mg/l and lowest at site 3 with a mean value of 2.2±0.1 mg/l. pH was highest at site 2 with a mean value of 7.8±1.5 and lowest at site 1 with mean value of 5.8±1.2. Temperature was highest at site 2 with a mean value of 26.5±1.6 oC and lowest at site 1 with mean value of 25.2±1.2 oC. Total phosphorus (TP) concentration was highest at site 2 with a mean value of 1.8±0.3 mg/l and lowest at site 1 with a mean value of 0.4±0.1 mg/l. Total nitrogen (TN) was highest at site 2 with a mean value of 16.7±0.8 mg/l and lowest in site 1 with a mean value of 2.7±0.6 mg/l. Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) was highest at site 2 with a mean value of 82.7±0.3 mg/l and lowest at site 1 with a mean value of 16.3±0.1 mg/l. This study showed that water quality parameters such as COD (p=0.00), TDS (p=0.00) and EC (p=0.00) varied significantly along the stream. In general higher values were recorded at site 2 (upstream) and the lower values were recorded at site 3 (midstream). Land use activities at site 2, that might be contributing to the observed pollution are garages, farmlands, schools, churches, hostels, dumping sites and washing bays. From the findings of this study, it is highly recommended that further studies be carried out on the minor tributaries such as water channels from houses and restaurants, along Nakulabye stream to assess their impact on the stream, since this study focused mainly on the major tributaries
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    Bean stem maggot resistance in root rot resistant and drought tolerant breeding lines
    ( 2018-12-30) Kyomugisha, Prossy
    Bean stem maggot (Ophiomyia spp., Diptera, Agromyzidae) is a major field insect pest limiting common bean production in Uganda. The damage caused by bean stem maggot (BSM) is more severe under drought and the pest usually co-occurs with root rot pathogens and provides entry points for them. Due to the interaction between BSM, root rot causing pathogens and drought, varieties with multiple resistances to BSM, drought and root rots are probably the best option under farmer’s field conditions. Even though, some BSM resistant lines exist, the resistance is not effective in the presence of root rots and drought stress. Similarly, sources of root rots resistance and drought tolerance do exist but information on their levels of resistance to BSM and gene action in these back grounds is lacking. This research was therefore carried out to identify sources of BSM resistance among drought tolerant and root rot resistant lines and determine the gene action governing BSM resistance. To identify sources of resistance, one hundred genotypes were screened under natural field infestation and in the screen house for BSM and root rots resistance respectively. Results showed that variability in BSM and root rots severity due to genotype was highly significant for all the traits measured. Regarding BSM resistance, most lines (96%) performed better than the susceptible check but only seven outperformed the resistant check, G21212. Thirty-seven lines had dual resistance to Fusarium and Pythium root rots. Among the drought tolerant and root rot resistant lines evaluated in this study, eight lines were identified as good sources of BSM resistance. To determine the nature of gene action controlling BSM resistance, three BSM susceptible lines with resistance to root rots and tolerant to drought and three BSM resistant parents were crossed in a 6 x 6 half-diallel mating design. The resultant F2 progeny was screened for reaction to BSM in the field under natural infestation. Data on plant emergence, plant mortality, stem damage; number of larvae and pupae in the stems was collected. Both general combining ability (GCA) and specific combining ability (SCA) were insignificant for all traits studied. Basing on the GCA and SCA estimates, there was a strong environmental effect and an involvement of both the additive and non-additive in conferring resistance to BSM. Low general predictability ratios (0.00 - 0.26) were noted for all the traits apart from plant mortality. Narrow sense heritability estimates were low for all the traits whereas broad sense heritability estimates were low for the number of pupae, moderate for stem damage and plant mortality and high for the number of larvae. Therefore, Heritability of BSM resistance is low basing on stem damage, number of larvae and pupae in the stems however a high heritability based on plant mortality was noted. Results of this study revealed that lines 232, 164, BFS14, G14, G79, G60, ALB8 and G21212 are resistant to BSM. Plant mortality as a basis of selection and methods that involve selection for BSM resistance in later generations are highly recommended to plant breeders.
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    Belowground carbon allocation in an African forest with a history of different management practices
    (Makerere University, 2018-09) Eryenyu, David
    Belowground carbon allocation (BCA) is one of the most important and dynamic components of the forest carbon cycle, but remains the least studied, especially in African secondary and primary forests. This study investigated BCA elements (standing root crop biomass and fine root productivity) in two forest structures (logged and unlogged, and consequently secondary and primary forest structures respectively) of Budongo Central Forest Reserve, using the ingrowth core method in the top 30 cm of soil. The secondary forest structure allocated proportionally more standing root crop biomass to coarse roots than the primary forest structure. Standing root biomass did not significantly differ in the primary and secondary forest structure across the fine, coarse and total standing root crop biomass. For the three years of observation, over 96% of the productivity was allocated to fine roots in both forest structures. Fine root annual net primary productivity was 1.94±0.60 and 1.32±0.31 Mg C ha-1 yr-1 for the primary and secondary forest structures respectively, and significantly higher in the primary than in the secondary forest structure. Overall, there was no difference in fineroot quarterly productivity between the two forest structures. There was a significant seasonal shift, and an interaction between seasons and forest structure. Fine root productivity in both forest structures declined in the dry season and was higher in the wet season, but a much higher increase was found in the primary forest structure. A tendency for increased fine root productivity after a dry season is seen in both structures, with the highest quarterly mean productivity seen in the dry season for the secondary forest structure. The overall pattern of annual productivity had a cyclic tendency, suggesting circadian control, but with this pattern probably disrupted by moisture deficiency. It is postulated that the secondary forest structure productivity could be limited by competition, based on its structural characteristics, relative to the primary forest structure.
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    Climate Risk and Food Security among Indigenous Communities of Kanungu District, South western Uganda
    (Makerere University, 2021-01) Ainembabazi, Triphine
    Majority of Uganda’s population depends on rain-fed agriculture for sustenance. Despite this, approximately 30% of Uganda’s population is still food insecure. Unfortunately, the indigenous Batwa communities are not an exception. The Batwa were evicted from their ancestral homelands to gazette Bwindi impenetrable as a World Heritage Site in 1991. They were forced to adapt to agricultural livelihoods despite their inadequate skills, poverty and limited land which has left them at a competitive disadvantage in terms of access to livelihood basics and ultimately their capacity to adapt. The Batwa have been identified to be sternly food insecure and vulnerable to climate variations and associated risks. Understanding weather changes particularly, at a local scale very critical to manage climate-related risks to humans, ecosystems, and infrastructure and develop resilience through adaptation strategies. This study examines how climate risk and non climatic factors influence food security through food production among an impoverished, marginalized, and self-identifying indigenous group. Coefficient of Variation (CV), Precipitation Concentration Index (PCI) to test the variability of rainfall and temperature and the risk model to calculate the climate risk index. Multi linear regression analysis was done to determine the most predictor variables. Seasonal rainfall variation was more pronounced than annual variation with the March-April-May rainfall season being more variable (24.2%) than the September-October November season (19.6%). The changes in minimum, mean and maximum temperature showed no significant changes (p= 0.94, p=0.73 at α=0.05). The climate risk index was 11.4% and a susceptibility index 30.8%. Land, labor and rainfall were the key driving factors of food production. The prevalence of food insecurity was significant in communities that had limited land and those that did not carry out cultivation. Food production is a key determinant of food security among Batwa communities. While this is true, there could be other factors that influence food security among the Batwa. Therefore, further research examining climate variability for a longer period coupled with other socio-economic factors could help identify priority areas for adaptation and be addressed more holistically to ensure sustainable food production among the indigenous Batwa communities and others facing similar challenges in Uganda and elsewhere.
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    Complementary food handling practices associated with food safety, health and nutritional status of children in Adyel division, Lira district
    (Makerere University, 2020-11) Atim, Elizabeth
    Efforts to reduce illnesses and undernutrition among children in developing countries are partly hampered by a continual existence of childhood infections. The objective of this study was to identify the complementary food and water handling practices affecting the safety of food and contributing to the poor nutritional status of children (6 to 23 months) in Adyel division, Lira district. The study population comprised of caretaker-child pairs selected by multistage sampling from the semi-urban and sub-urban areas of Adyel Division in Lira district. This was a cross-sectional study that was largely descriptive and quantitative in nature and was conducted in 2 phases. Phase 1 comprised of collecting quantitative data, which was obtained from the 127 caretaker-child pairs to determine children’s dietary patterns, nutritional (anthropometrical) status, and their risk of diarrheal infections. Phase 2 focused on microbial analyses of food and water obtained from a sub-sample of 30 households to determine the relationship between food handling practices and children’s risk of diarrhea. The results indicated that the majority (over 95%) of caretakers were following recommended WHO child-feeding guidelines with regards to feeding frequency and meal diversity. However, handling practices of complementary food deviated from the IYCF and WHO recommendations. Three quarters of the caretakers did not treat their drinking water at the point of use, 84% did not wash children’s hands before eating, while 85% used food carried over from the previous meal (commonly referred to as leftovers) to feed their children. Analyses of food samples revealed that freshly cooked food was contaminated with fecal coliforms (4.88±1.87 log cfu/g); and the levels of fecal coliforms in stored food increased with prolonged storage period (5.49b±1.86 log cfu/g). Drinking water too was contaminated with E.coli (2.86 log cfu/ml). Water in storage containers had total coliform counts of up to 3.14 log cfu/ml. In over half of the households (56.7%), the microbial counts in household drinking water containers (4.48E+03cfu E.coli) were more than those found at the respective water sources (4.46E+02cfu E.coli). Water treatment accounted for 25% of the variation (p=0.005) in E.coli counts in drinking water that was found in water storage containers. About 32.5% of the frequency or recurrence of diarrhea episodes in a two weeks’ time period among children was explained for by the presence of fecal coliforms in freshly cooked complementary food (p=0.001). Overall, diarrheal infections (p=0.030), inappropriate child-feeding practices (p=0.048), and poor hand-washing (p=0.011) played a significant role in influencing child health. Generally, feeding practices were adequate with regards to the FCS and CFI, although handling practices of complementary food deviated from the recommended IYCF and WHO recommendations. The children in Adyel division were eating unsafe food (as it had fecal coliforms which is an indicator of fecal contamination). This was associated with water treatment method, water source used for cooking, and the duration utensils were shelved before use. Diarrhea frequency was associated with consumption of contaminated freshly cooked complementary food. This study found that both diet and infections played a role in influencing the nutritional status of the children, hence the need to address both concurrently in health and nutrition education interventions to achieve better child health and development outcomes.
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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.