College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES)

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    Above-ground biomass and carbon stocks of different land cover types in Mt. Elgon, Eastern Uganda
    (Makerere University, 2014) Buyinza, Joel
    This research applied selected allometric models to estimate the Total Above Ground Biomass and Carbon stocks in three land cover types in Mt. Elgon National Park. The land cover types identified for the study included the Tropical High Forest (THF)- Normal and Degraded and Grassland fields. The vegetation in each land cover type was assessed at four category levels i.e. the mature trees (dbh >10cm), poles (5<10cm dbh), saplings (collar diameter less than 5cm) and undergrowth/ herbaceous layer (height<50cm). For tree density estimation, a 10 inch increment borer was used to extract a small cylindrical sample (4-5cm) at 140cm above the ground, from all the woody species (dbh>10cm) and poles and saplings (dbh 5-10cm) in the temporary plot. Following the extraction of wood core samples, diameter (dbh), height and crown width of each sampled tree were also measured as independent variables for calculating biomass. Tree biomass was derived using three allometric equations developed by Velle, (1997), Ketterings et al., (2001) and Brown et al., (1989). The equations were selected based on their independent variables and the land cover type where the equation was developed from. Calculation of the Mean Squared Error (MSE), the Prediction Sum of Squares (PRESS) statistic and the Predicted R2 values of the three equations used was done, to establish the most appropriate equation for biomass and carbon estimation. For saplings of diameter less than 5cm, one sapling was uprooted and sub-samples of the foliage, bole and root components were collected and their fresh weight determined from the field. The sub-samples from the saplings and the undergrowths were oven dried to constant weight at 80°C to determine dry-to-wet matter ratios. These ratios were then used to convert the entire sample to oven-dry matter and for analysis of carbon. This study estimated the wood densities of 22 common tree species in Mt. Elgon in Kapchorwa district. The overall average wood density of 0.54 g cm-3 reported in this study is comparable to the reported values for trees in Africa which range between 0.58 and 0.67g cm-3. A comparison between the wood densities obtained from the wood samples collected from Mt. Elgon National park in this study and the published wood densities indicated an insignificant difference between the two data sets (P>0.05). The Brown et al., (1989) equation gave the least Mean Squared Error (MSE) and Prediction Sum of Squares (PRESS) and a high Predicted R2. Therefore, the best model for estimating biomass and carbon in all the land cover types is Y= exp {-2.4090 + 0.9522 ln (D2HS)} developed by Brown et al., (1989). The results indicate that the Total Above Ground Biomass (TAGB) was 652.15t/ha, 55.16t/ha and 41.7t/ha in the THF-Normal, THF-Degraded and Grasslands respectively. The TAGC in the THF-Normal was 293.65tCha-1, 25 tCha-1 in the THF-Degraded and 18.76 tCha-1 in the grassland fields. The choice of an allometric equation in any particular biomass and carbon study is important, as different equations can give rise to very different estimates when applied to the same forest inventory data. This study also revealed that over 90% of sequestered Carbon is lost due to land cover change from THF-Normal to THF-Degraded. This calls for policy makers to come up with interventions to address forest degradation. There is need for local community sensitization on the likely negative impacts of biomass and carbon losses arising from deforestation.
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    Above-ground biomass and carbon stocks of different land cover types in Mt. Elgon, Eastern Uganda
    (Makerere University, 2014) Buyinza, Joel
    This research applied selected allometric models to estimate the Total Above Ground Biomass and Carbon stocks in three land cover types in Mt. Elgon National Park. The land cover types identified for the study included the Tropical High Forest (THF)- Normal and Degraded and Grassland fields. The vegetation in each land cover type was assessed at four category levels i.e. the mature trees (dbh >10cm), poles (5<10cm dbh), saplings (collar diameter less than 5cm) and undergrowth/ herbaceous layer (height<50cm). For tree density estimation, a 10 inch increment borer was used to extract a small cylindrical sample (4-5cm) at 140cm above the ground, from all the woody species (dbh>10cm) and poles and saplings (dbh 5-10cm) in the temporary plot. Following the extraction of wood core samples, diameter (dbh), height and crown width of each sampled tree were also measured as independent variables for calculating biomass. Tree biomass was derived using three allometric equations developed by Velle, (1997), Ketterings et al., (2001) and Brown et al., (1989). The equations were selected based on their independent variables and the land cover type where the equation was developed from. Calculation of the Mean Squared Error (MSE), the Prediction Sum of Squares (PRESS) statistic and the Predicted R2 values of the three equations used was done, to establish the most appropriate equation for biomass and carbon estimation. For saplings of diameter less than 5cm, one sapling was uprooted and sub-samples of the foliage, bole and root components were collected and their fresh weight determined from the field. The sub-samples from the saplings and the undergrowths were oven dried to constant weight at 80°C to determine dry-to-wet matter ratios. These ratios were then used to convert the entire sample to oven-dry matter and for analysis of carbon. This study estimated the wood densities of 22 common tree species in Mt. Elgon in Kapchorwa district. The overall average wood density of 0.54 g cm-3 reported in this study is comparable to the reported values for trees in Africa which range between 0.58 and 0.67g cm-3. A comparison between the wood densities obtained from the wood samples collected from Mt. Elgon National park in this study and the published wood densities indicated an insignificant difference between the two data sets (P>0.05). The Brown et al., (1989) equation gave the least Mean Squared Error (MSE) and Prediction Sum of Squares (PRESS) and a high Predicted R2. Therefore, the best model for estimating biomass and carbon in all the land cover types is Y= exp {-2.4090 + 0.9522 ln (D2HS)} developed by Brown et al., (1989). The results indicate that the Total Above Ground Biomass (TAGB) was 652.15t/ha, 55.16t/ha and 41.7t/ha in the THF-Normal, THF-Degraded and Grasslands respectively. The TAGC in the THF-Normal was 293.65tCha-1, 25 tCha-1 in the THF-Degraded and 18.76 tCha-1 in the grassland fields. The choice of an allometric equation in any particular biomass and carbon study is important, as different equations can give rise to very different estimates when applied to the same forest inventory data. This study also revealed that over 90% of sequestered Carbon is lost due to land cover change from THF-Normal to THF-Degraded. This calls for policy makers to come up with interventions to address forest degradation. There is need for local community sensitization on the likely negative impacts of biomass and carbon losses arising from deforestation. 1
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    Abstracts of the 8th annual graduate workshop of the Faculty of Agriculture, Makerere University
    ( 2006-04-13) Nalukenge, Imelda ; Talwana, Herbert ; Balirwa, Elizabeth ; Musinguzi, Patrick ; Sentumbwe, Samuel ; Fungo, Robert
    An abstracts report of the Faculty of Agriculture graduate workshop conducted on the theme: “Generating demand driven technologies: the role of graduate agricultural research”
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    Abundance and diversity of tomato rhizosphere microbes in different land uses and their effect on bacterial wilt disease in Uganda
    (Makerere University, 2021-04-26) Nampamya, Doreen
    Agricultural production is associated with changes in microbial diversity. This often leads to microbial unevenness and multiplication of soil borne diseases such as wilts, which are tedious to control and trend managed through use of biocontrols. Microbiome composition and land use management have been mentioned as core factors in effectiveness of biocontrols. Therefore, this study determined the diversity and abundance of microbes in the tomato rhizosphere and its effect on severity and biocontrol of bacterial wilt disease in soils from different land uses . Tomatoes were grown in a screen house at Namulonge using unsterilized soils from cultivated, fallow and forest land use types and were inoculated with Ralstonia solanacearum (positive control) but also include a non-inoculated set (negative control). Four biocontrols were used namely; Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, Peanibacillus polymyxa and Stenotrophomonas rhizophila. Data were collected on plant growth and yield parameters, and bacterial wilt disease incidence. Rhizosphere microbiome data were obtained using amplicon sequencing. Results showed that B. subtilis and P. polymyxa increased plant height in all land use types. Biocontrols B. amyloliquefaciens and S.rhizophila resulted into the highest dry biomass in cultivated land use, B. amyloliquefaciens and P. polymyxa in fallow and P. polymyxa and B. subtilis in forest land use type. In cultivated land use, biocontrols B. amyloliquefaciens, B. subtilis and S. rhizophila reduced bacterial wilt incidence by 31 % and P. polymyxa by 28 %. Fallow land use type had the highest microbial diversity and forest land use had the highest microbial abundance. The major phyla were Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria and Acidobacteria in Forest, Fallow and cultivated land uses respectively. Bacillus and Paenibacillus bacteria were more abundant in cultivated while Stenotrophomonas bacteria were more abundant in forest land use type
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    Abundance and nutritional compositions of ruspolia differens polymorphs from Masaka District: Uganda
    (Makerere University, 2016-11) Oipio, Moses
    This study was conducted to determine the abundance and nutritional compositions of Ruspolia differens polymorphs. The objectives of the study were: 1) to compare relative abundance of different polymorphs and males and females during the first and second swarming season and; 2) to compare the nutritional values among different polymorphs and sexes. A generalized linear model of negative binomial distribution was used to test whether abundance in the different polymorphs and insect sexes were significantly different in each of the swarming seasons. One way ANOVA in SPSS was used to test whether significant differences exist in the nutritional values of (i) different polymorphs; and (ii) between sexes. Eight polymorphs were encountered in the study. Four of which were reported 46 years ago while the other four polymorphs had never been reported in Uganda. A significant difference in the relative abundance of R. differens polymorphs (P<0.05) was observed in each swarming season and not between the two swarming seasons (P>0.05). A non-significant difference in relative abundance between males and females was observed between the two swarming seasons (P>0.05). Proximate analysis showed significant differences in protein and ash (P<0.05), but not in fat, fiber, and moisture content (P>0.05) among polymorphs. Between sexes, fiber content differed significantly (P<0.05), while protein, fat, ash, and moisture content (P>0.05) did not. Ruspolia differens color and sex did not significantly influence the fatty acids detected: myristic, palmitic, palmitoleic, stearic, oleic, linoleic, and linolenic. Calcium, zinc and iron did not significantly differ among polymorphs, while sodium, potassium and phosphorous differed significantly. Between sexes, no significant difference existed among the minerals studied: calcium, zinc, iron, sodium, potassium and phosphorus. The occurrence of polymorphs detected 46 years ago demonstrates the aspect of polymorphism maintenance, while the existence of new polymorphs suggests that this insect species is undergoing the process of evolution. The non significant difference in the relative abundance of R. differens polymorphs and insect sexes between the two swarming seasons can be attributed to the permanent adaptation of this insect species to specific environmental conditions. The nutritional composition of polymorphs most likely reflects the food sources, while that of the insect sexes is possibly influenced by the morphological and physiological differences that always occur between sexes.
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    The abundance, distribution and community utilization of Loeseneriella apocynoides and Manilkara Obovata species in Sango Bay Forest, Rakai District
    (Makerere University, 2002-09) Namara, Justus
    The study examined the abundance, distribution and community utilization of the two woody species Loeseneriella apocynoides and Manikara obovate in Sango Bay forests. The two species are used for making fishing baskets by the people living adjacent to these forests. The objectives of the research were:- 1. To assess the abundance and the distribution of Loeseneriella apocynoides and Manikara obovate species. 2. To determine who harvests these species and their quantities. 3. To document present methods used in harvesting these species. 4. To find out the awareness of local people towards conservation of these species. The study consisted of two surveys, the village surveys and the forest surveys. The forest surveys were carried out in two forest reserves, Malabigambo and Namalala. The assessment involved use of 2 transects of length 1000m in Malabigambo and 2 transects of length 750m in Namalala. Plots of size 20 x 20m were established and in total there were 48 plots established with 28 in Malabigambo and 20 in Namalala Forest Reserves. The abundance and distribution was assessed in order to know what is available in the forest and where the location where harvesting can be done. For village surveys four villages neighbouring these forests were assessed which, are Mujanjabula, Mugamba, Nalubega and Mutegombwa using a questionnaire. In total 65 respondents were interviewed. From the forest surveys it was found out that these species are sparsely distributed and they generally increase with increase in distance from the edge of the forest a factor attributed to over harvesting at the edge of the forest. L. apocynoides was abundant in the diameter class <1 cm that are seedlings while M. obovate species was abundant in diameter class >5 cm which is the harvestable size. Malabigambo had more individuals of both species than Namalala. From village surveys it was found out that men are the only ones involved in harvesting these species and they have low levels of education. The methods of harvesting included cutting stems or branches in case of M. obovate and for L. apocynoides only stems were harvested. It was concluded that these species abundance is low and the distribution is not uniform but clumped. The methods of harvesting were not sustainable and therefore species are being depleted. It is recommended that a monitoring program should be started for these species so that the harvesting is controlled and regulated.
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    Abundance, population structure, distribution and socio-economic value of medicinal plant resources to the Tepeth community, Moroto district, Uganda
    (Makerere University., 2003-07) Mugabi, David
    The study aimed at determining the distribution, abundance, population structure and the socio-economic value of medicinal plant resources to the rural Tepeth community living in and adjacent to Mt. Moroto forest reserve. The study involved a survey of the ecological and socio-economic factors affecting the growth and sustainability of medicinal plants in the forest reserve. The ecological aspect, involved a study of the diameter size class distribution of medicinal plant species. In the socio-economic aspect. A detailed questionnaire was conducted to get information on common diseases to humans and livestock, medicinal plant species used to treat them and quantities of plant materials harvested. In the process therefore, medicinal resources from the forest reserve commonly harvested by the community and the diseases they treat were documented. Methods of harvesting were investigated and quantities harvested assessed. The economic value and use of these resources to the community were calculated. Investigated also was the awareness of the community towards conservation of resources. The results indicate that for most of the common diseases in humans and livestock, the Tepeth community relies on medicinal plant resources from Mt. Moroto forest reserve for treatment. They harvest the plant materials with pangas and iron rods. These resources are however increasingly becoming scarce. It was also found out that the community has cultivated a big sense of indigenous knowledge and cultural practices, some of which are centered on some of these resources. Interestingly, those plant species with cultural values, such as Ficus vesta and Ficus sycomorus are enjoying substantial levels of conservation from the community. Other plant species, such as Olinia usambarensis, Pappea capensis, Berberis holstii and Olea Africana have been found to be rare and yet they are harvested in substantial quantities, hence, threatened. Other species such as Terminalia brownie, while abundant, were being harvested in very large volumes, not only for medicines, but also for other uses such as building, charcoal and brick burning. The study revealed that medicinal plants are central in the life style of the Tepeth community residing in and around Mt. Moroto forest reserve, not only as a source of treatment for humans, but also for treating their livestock. The estimation of the economic value of these resources to the community, based on the value of alternatives and labour costs has been found to be about Ushs. 371 million. This and other benefits from natural resources are not captured in the National Planning and budgeting process, a factor which has tremendous implications in setting national priorities and allocation of funds for development programs.
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    Acceptability of fecal sludge compost by farmers in Wakiso and Terego Districts, Uganda
    (Makerere University, 2024) Okaso, Daniel Olila
    In most parts of Africa, crop yields have been constrained by soil infertility, which has driven up the demand for soil amendments. Mineral and organic fertilizers which are commonly used, face the challenge of availability, management and cost. This has resulted in their decreased use amongst smallholder farmers in Sub-Saharan Africa. In an effort to reverse this, the use of fecal sludge compost (FSC) in farms presents an opportunity as it contains vital nutrients and can produce crop yields comparable to those grown with conventional fertilizers. However, fecal sludge compost is a relatively new development and has controversial perceptions which may limit its use. The objective of this study was to assess the acceptability of fecal sludge compost by farming households. This study was done in Wakiso and Terego districts, located in central and North-Western Uganda respectively. Data were collected from a randomly selected sample of 734 farmers. The theory of planned behavior (TPB) and technology adoption theory were adopted in this study to conceptualize it and identify the dependent and independent variables. Factor analysis was used to determine the acceptability of fecal sludge compost by farming households. Subsequently, structural equation modelling was used to show the different factors influencing acceptability. Study findings showed that the perceptions of the farmers were generally positive. Acceptability was high amongst both rural (77%) and urban (76%) farmers in Wakiso and the rural farmers in Terego (85%). Attitude, subjective norm, perceptions, household income, years spent in school and household size showed a direct significant influence on acceptability. The study recommends that attitudes of farmers be improved by carrying out awareness campaigns on the use of fecal sludge compost through farmer field schools and by engaging community leaders in the dissemination strategies of such technology
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    Acceptance and willingness to pay for potato-based cookies: a case of urban consumers in South-western Uganda.
    (Makerere University, 2023-12-11) Nantambi, Bridget
    In Uganda, potato is mainly consumed in boiled form. However, there is a huge potential for processing potato into high value products because of the growing population coupled with changes in food eating habits and increased demand for snacks especially among urban consumers. Such high-value potato products include chips, cookies, cakes, bread and waffles. Using the newly developed potato-based cookies, the study sought to address the question whether these products are accepted by consumers, and the price they are willing to pay for them. The study further investigated factors likely to influence consumer willingness to pay for the cookies. It was hypothesised that potential consumers are different in terms of cookie buying frequency, and the income they earn has an influence on their willingness to pay for the cookies. The study was conducted in South-western Uganda in Kabale, Kisoro, and Mbarara urban areas where a random sample of 613 potential consumers was interviewed. Contingent valuation method, descriptive analysis, Logit and Tobit econometric models were used to analyze the market survey data. Results indicate a high level of consumer acceptance for the potato-based cookies; about 91% accepting to buy the cookies. Taste was the most important attribute consumers considered while purchasing cookies followed by the price. Consumer’s age, income, per capita quantity and availability of related snacks significantly influenced the frequency of cookie purchases. The minimum price consumers were willing to pay was about 603 Uganda Shillings (US$ 0.63) per 100gm pack. The willingness to pay was positively and significantly (P≤0.05) influenced by income of a consumer and the proportion of their food budget, but negatively influenced by being employed and the number of dependants in the household. The processor should, therefore, produce differentiated products with assorted attributes in order to cater for the various consumer segments. The cookies should be produced using low-cost production and efficient technologies and marketed at a relatively competitive price
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    Access and coverage: Which farmers do plant clinics reach in Uganda?
    (Taylor & Francis, 2017) Karubanga, Gabriel ; Matsiko, Frank B. ; Danielsen, Solveig
    This article reports on a study that assessed farmers’ access to, and coverage of, five plant clinics operating from market places in two districts of Uganda. Despite the noticeable geographic and thematic coverage of the services, placing plant clinics at markets did not automatically ensure equitable access and high farmer attendance. Clinic users were predominantly middle-aged male farmers and overall attendance was relatively low. Uganda has taken plant clinics to scale in recent years due to their potential to strengthen the country’s responsiveness to pests and diseases. Optimising farmer reach and ensuring equity in access requires reviewing clinic placement, timing, and mobilisation strategies.
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    Accuracy of pastoralists’ memory-based kinship assignment of Ankole cattle: a microsatellite DNA analysis
    (Wiley-Blackwell, 2011-06) Kugonza, D.R. ; Kiwuwa, G.H. ; Mpairwe, D. ; Jianlin, H. ; Nabasirye, M. ; Okeyo, A.M. ; Hanotte, O.
    This study aimed to estimate the level of relatedness within Ankole cattle herds using autosomal microsatellite markers and to assess the accuracy of relationship assignment based on farmers’ memory. Eight cattle populations (four from each of two counties in Mbarara district in Uganda) were studied. Cattle in each population shared varying degrees of relatedness (first-, second- and third-degree relatives and unrelated individuals). Only memory-based kinship assignments which farmers knew with some confidence were tested in this experiment. DNA isolated from the blood of a subsample of 304 animals was analysed using 19 microsatellite markers. Average within population relatedness coeffi- cients ranged from 0.010 ± 0.005 (Nshaara) to 0.067 ± 0.004 (Tayebwa). An exclusion probability of 99.9% was observed for both sire–offspring and dam–offspring relationships using the entire panel of 19 markers. Confidence from likelihood tests performed on 292 dyads showed that first-degree relatives were more easily correctly assigned by farmers than second-degree ones (p < 0.01), which were also easier to assign than third-degree relatives (p < 0.01). Accuracy of kinship assignment by the farmers was 91.9% ± 5.0 for dam–offspring dyads, 85.5% ± 3.4 for sire–offspring dyads, 75.6% ± 12.3 for half-sib and 60.0% ± 5.0 for grand dam–grand offspring dyads. Herd size, number of dyads assigned and length of time spent by the herder with their cattle population did not correlate with error in memorizing relationships. However, herd size strongly correlated with number of dyads assigned by the herder (r = 0.967, p < 0.001). Overall, we conclude that memorized records of pastoralists can be used to trace relationships and for pedigree reconstruction within Ankole cattle populations, but with the awareness that herd size constrains the number of kinship assignments remembered by the farmer.
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    Adaptation and genetic analysis of earliness and yield component traits of yam bean (Pachyrhizus Spp.) in Rwanda
    (Makerere University, 2019-10) Ndirigue, Jean
    The yam bean (Pachyrizhus spp) is a high yielding storage root legume, rich in protein and micronutrients. The crop is constituted by three species, P. ahipa, P. erosus and P. tuberosus that are in cultivation but remain orphaned in research. The yam bean was recently introduced into Rwanda to determine its adaptability, adoption and improvement potential for integration into the diverse farming agro-ecologies and improvement of diets of root crop dependent communities. Field evaluation of 22 yam bean accessions was done across three experimental sites (Karama, Musanze and Rubona) representing the major root crop growing regions of Rwanda. The study involved crossing three yam bean accessions of early maturing P. ahipa and three late maturing P. tuberosus which were crossed using North Carolina II mating design followed by field evaluation of F1 and their parents to determine genetic control for earliness. Seven F2 progenies were further evaluated at Rubona research station located in southern province of Rwanda and assessed for genetic variability, heritability and genetic advance for yield traits to determine potential for yam bean improvement. A randomized completed block design (RCBD) with 3 replications was used and data collected on yield and yield components of the progenies. The GGE bi-plot revealed that EC209018 was high yielding but unstable. However, genotypes, AC209034, AC209035 and EC209046, were outstanding in terms of adaptation and relative stability across the 3 locations, suggesting consistent root yields irrespective of location and environmental conditions. The GGE scatter plot showed that all environments formed one mega-environment for storage root yield and two mega-environments for biomass suggesting that yam bean is adapted in the Rwandan environment and can easily be integrated into the farming systems of Rwanda to supplement diets of communities with root crop rich in protein, zinc and iron. The crosses were significantly (P<0.01) different for key earliness traits, days to emergence, days to start flowering, days to 50% flowering and days to maturity in addition to storage root yield, plant height, number of clusters, and seed yield. High and significant General Combining Ability (GCA) and Specific Combining Ability (SCA) were observed for several traits, with a predictability ratio (σ2gca / σ2sca) being higher than unity for all earliness traits, indicating predominance of additive gene actions. These findings suggested that earliness traits could be improved through selection during early generation phase which would effectively lead to selection of lines with short time to 50% flowering, and days to maturity. Cultivars with high GCA can be used to transfer suitable genes of earliness into yam bean genotypes as our effective breeding strategy for earliness in new lines. The results demonstrated highly significant (p<0.01) genetic variability for yield and yield traits; plant vigor (PV), weight of pods (WOP), plant height (PHT), 100 seed weight (100SW), total biomass yield (TBY), storage root yield (SRY), dry matter content (DMC), and starch content (STA). High genetic and phenotypic variances and genotypic coefficients of variation (GCV> 25%) were observed for WOP, PHT, 100SW, TBY, DMC, and STA. Estimates of heritability were greater than 0.5 for all traits except seed yield, number of roots and number of pods. The genetic advance as percentage of the mean (GAM%) was high for PV (91.39%), WOP (133.88%), PHT (73.56%), 100SW (17.78), TBY (25.15%) and DMC (33.95%). Correlational analysis revealed positive and significant (p<0.05) associations between PV and PHT, protein content (PRO), 100SW, TBY, SRY, and DMC while DMC had positive and significant (p<0.01) correlations with STA. These results indicated presence of high genetic variability, heritability and expected genetic gain and confirmed potential for genetic improvement of plant vigor, weight of pods, plant height, 100 seed weight, total biomass yield, storage root fresh yield, dry matter content and starch content of yam beans in Rwanda. The high yielding and well adapted genotypes that were identified in this study viz, AC 209033, AC 209035 and EC209018 should be assessed through participatory farmer’s selection for quick adoption. In medium term, several crosses should be initiated using the few parental germplasm to form base populations for recurrent selection of yam bean for earliness and high yield. A breeding program should be initiated targeting the development of high yielding and early maturing yam bean accessions by utilizing the high genetic variability and predominance of additive genetic effects that were found to control these traits.
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    Adaptation to climate change amongst small holder crop farmers in Wanale sub county – Mbale district
    (Makerere university, 2022-10-20) Nakayenze, Anna
    Adaptation to climate change is a prerequisite for agricultural production to be a reliable source of livelihoods. This study examined the influence of climate change on crop-based livelihood activities and the adaptation practices among small holder farmers in Wanale Sub county, Mbale district. A cross sectional survey using a closed structured questionnaire was used to collect data from 331 respondents. Using the Weighted average index, crop growing livestock keeping and farm labor were the most important livelihood activities. A PCA on the results revealed three major livelihood typologies thus Cluster (PC1) categorized as on farm, off farm and non-farm livelihood typology explained 30.38% of the households. Cluster (PC2) labeled as the on farm and non-farm livelihoods typology accounted for 16.54% of the households while cluster (PC3) explained 12.98% of the households and was categorized as the non-farm livelihoods typology. Crops considered important for livelihood support were bananas, beans, coffee and onions. The main influence of climate change on crop livelihoods pointed to increased pest and disease prevalence (78.1%), premature ripening of fruits (66.7%), increased post-harvest losses (55.9%), food scarcity (55.3%) and reduced crop yields (55%). Application of PCA generated three impact clusters thus cluster (PC1) labeled influence of climate change on crops for consumption and sale accounted for 20.02% of the households. Cluster (PC2) named influence on food availability explained 15.1% of the households and cluster (CP3) classified as influence on crops for sale explained 11.9% of the households. The main adaptation measures practiced were soil and water conservation (98.2%), mixed cropping (67.3%) agroforestry (51.7%) and fertilizer and chemical application (51.1%). A PCA on the results generated five adaptation typologies thus cluster (PC1) named crop water management practices explained 18.6% of the households. Cluster (PC2) labeled sustainable farming practices explained 15.1% of the households. Cluster (CP3) named as technological improvements explained 13.4% of the households. Cluster (CP4) labeled sustainable crop management explained 11.2% of the households then Cluster (CP5) categorized soil and water conservation explained 10.8% of the households. Climate adaptation typologies generated can be used to guide interventions aimed at increasing the adaptive capacity of the smallholder farmers in Wanale Sub county
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    Adaptation to climate change in agro-based livelihood systems in Katakwi District, Uganda
    ( 2014-08-06) Chono, Jane
    Climate change is one of the most serious global problems affecting many sectors in recent decades. In particular, the agriculture sector is most at risk to climate change impact more than ever. The impact is even stronger in Africa where agriculture is truly important for the daily subsistence and where adaptive capacity is low. The main objective of this research study was to examine the impact and adaptation to climate change in agro-based livelihood systems. A cross-sectional survey design was used, employing both qualitative and quantitative data collection methods. Furthermore, a multistage sampling strategy was used to purposively select the Sub-County for the research investigation. Three villages were selected to participate in the study. A total of 90 households were selected and studied. Data from the household was obtained using a questionnaire with both closed and open ended questions. The study also used structured interviews to obtain information from key informants and focus group discussions to obtain information on coping and adaptation to climate change. The results of the study show that extreme weather events including high rainfall variability, extended droughts and unexpected heavy rainfall causing floods have become more persistent over time. These have impacted on crop yields and livestock production which are the major sources of household livelihood. On coping and adaptation strategies to the effects of climate change, the study reveals that agro-based households have responded to climate change stress by changing emphasis on crops cultivated over time. Specifically, farmers shift emphasis to crop verities that show resilience in terms of yield and reduce their interest in those that register failing yields. Coping mechanisms used by farmers include changes in crop varieties, adjusting planting dates and mixed cropping, walking long distances in search for water for livestock and substitution of water demanding animals with small ruminants. In conclusion, the study notes that the impact of climate change on agro-based livelihood is enormous as evidenced by factors such as the decline in crop production due to rainfall variability. The study concludes that more emphasis should be put in setting up coping and adaptation strategies such as the growing of early maturing and high yielding crops and constructing small reservoirs based on trapping water at household levels. Key words: Adaptation, Agro-based, climate change, drought, floods, Katakwi District, livelihood systems.
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    Adapting cutting and tissue culture techniques to clonal propagation of the shea tree (vitellaria paradoxa) in Uganda
    (Makerere University, 2017-01) Okao, Moses
    A study to adapt tissue culture and stem cutting techniques to vegetative propagation of Vitellaria paradoxa (Shea tree) was conducted between March and July, 2014. The specific objectives of the study were to: determine appropriate culture media composition for in vitro regeneration of V. paradoxa, evaluate the influence of cutting type on the rooting success of V. paradoxa stem cuttings, and assess the effects of mode of application of rooting hormones (IBA) on adventitious root formation of V. paradoxa stem cuttings. To achieve these objectives, four media compositions were evaluated for in vitro regeneration of V. paradoxa shoot tips; four modes of auxin (IBA) application at three different levels of concentration were evaluated with respect to adventitious root formation of Shea cuttings, and a third experiment was set to determine the effect(s) of cutting types on rooting success of V. paradoxa stem cuttings. A total of 2,556 Shea stem cuttings and 360 explants were evaluated in the study. Data were then entered in Ms Excel and analyzed using R-system software. Data on tissue culture regeneration were collected on survival rate, callus development, root and shoot formation. For the stem cutting experiments, data were collected on; number of rooted cuttings, quantity and length of developed roots including evidence of auxiliary bud break. Frequencies were derived to determine the extent, to which explants survived, rooted, callused or remained dormant. One way ANOVA was conducted to investigate the quality of rooting success between the four modes of auxin application. Where treatments were found to be significantly different, the Tukey‘s Honestly Significant Difference (HSD) was used to make pair wise comparisons. The linear relationship between rooting success and bud break was investigated using correlation and regression analysis. The highest level of callus formation was observed in media containing MS+BAP (27.3±1.00%) and lowest (16.7±0.58%) in the one composed of MS+BAP+GA3. Root formation (11.1±0.58%) was observed only for the treatment (MS+BAP + NAA). Basal cuttings dipped for 24hr at 80ppm showed the highest rooting percentage (69.0±3.61%) compared to the other application methods. The basal cuttings also recorded comparatively better rooting percentage (38.1±4.00 to 69.0±3.61%) than the tip cuttings (35.7±3.61 to 57.1±6.66%). Results also revealed that bud break was generally lower in basal cuttings and that bud break and root number were positively correlated (r=0.577). It was therefore recommended that further experimentation needs to be conducted on tissue culture using more media compositions and explants so as to enhance survival rate and generate V. paradoxa plantlets. Also, a thorough study should be carried out on the potential for foliar application of IBA, such that if adapted well, it can be incorporated for mass production of V. paradoxa subsp. nilotica. For now the 24hr long soak method at 80ppm is recommended for large scale
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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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    Adoptive design and construction of a of a manual paddy rice transplanter
    (Makerere University, 2018-07) Komakech, George Bush
    Rice is a crop of growing importance in Uganda with about 75,000 Ha under rice cultivation. In Uganda, rice production has increased rapidly in the past 10 years while the yield has been stagnant. This can partly be attributed to hand methods of seedling transplanting that result in low seedling placement, spacing inefficiencies and drudgery for the farmer which limits the size of field that can be planted. The farmers cannot however turn to imported transplanters due to high import cost prices. To that effect therefore, a manual lowland rice transplanter was designed, fabricated and tested. The working mechanism of the rice transplanter is that seedlings are kept on the tray and allowed to flow down under gravity while 2 planting arms attached to a shaft pick up the seedlings off the seed tray and place them in the ground at the desired spacing, depth and angle of place. The motion of the shaft is given by the ground wheel using chain and sprocket arrangement. The seedlings are planted into the land by a simple four bar mechanism. The planter shall reduce the time taken to transplant seedlings compared to hand transplanting thus allowing more time for harvest. It will as well improve inter-row and intra-row spacing of rice plants to allow for more room to grow, allow plants to get more sunshine and air and produce more tillers unlike when planted randomly. According to the tests done, the transplanter places seedlings at 30cm by 25cm planting distances at a rate of 4 seedlings per second, hence a planting capacity of 0.75 acres per hour. The transplanter was fabricated at Tree shed Engineering Limited. This report also includes a clear methodology indicating the steps taken to design the transplanter and finally the test protocol for performance and efficiency. In conclusion the designed transplanter will be able to reduce drudgery, improve timeliness and improve row spacing of rice plants.
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    African indigenous leafy vegetables as a potential source of β-carotene for under five year old children.
    (Makerere University, 2014) Atero, Angella Atwaru
    This study was designed to assess the adequacy of African indigenous leafy vegetables in meeting vitamin A needs of children below the age of five years in Iganga and Luuka districts. East Central Uganda where Iganga and Luuka districts are located, recorded the second highest VAD levels in the whole country at 39.7% (UBOS & Macro International 2011. These districts though characterized by a rich plant biodiversity which includes indigenous green leafy vegetables have not benefited from these vegetables. Whereas the vegetables are the most available source of pro-vitamin A for the poor populations of the developing world, Luuka and Iganga districts were recorded as vitamin A deficient populations. Hence establishing the role leafy vegetables contribute towards vitamin A intake for vulnerable groups is an effort to reducing VAD. Data was collected from 363 children in July 2008 in the wet season. Consumption and dietary information on the children was collected using Gibson’s 24 Hour Dietary recall, qualitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) and level β-carotene in the leafy vegetables was determined using High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). Anthropometric data on the children was also collected. Data was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) at p<0.05 level of significance and Nutri-survey was used to quantify energy and nutrient intakes of foods consumed 24 hours preceding the survey. Of the 21 species of indigenous leafy vegetables in the area, only four were commonly consumed and these included; Amaranthus dubious (booga)(93.7%), Cucurbita maxima Lam (eisunsa) (83.2%)), Colocasia esculenta (timpa)(72.5%), and Cleome gynandra (eiyobyo)(66.3%). These vegetables were analyzed for β-carotene content. The β-carotene in Colocassia esculenta and Cleome gynandra was on average 13.48 and 14.25 mg/100g dry wt. respectively. These two vegetables contained higher amounts of β-carotene compared to other vegetables analyzed. Compared to other food groups leafy vegetables and other vitamin A rich foods were among the least consumed (27%). Much as vitamin A levels in these commonly consumed leafy vegetables averaged at 1032 µg and therefore adequate to significantly contribute to the vitamin A needs of the children, the children were still malnourished. Therefore indigenous leafy vegetables have not been adequate in meeting the Vitamin A needs of children 6-59 months because of their low consumption even though their Vitamin A levels are high enough. Therefore increased consumption of indigenous leafy vegetables coupled with vitamin A supplementation, biofortification/fortifying staples and diversifying food intake may effectively address the problem of VAD.
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    Agricultural modernisation interventions, livelihoods and sustainable land management in Nakisunga Sub-County, Mukono District
    (Makerere University, 2021-09-25) Kazibwe, Joseph
    Agricultural modernization has been identified as a key driver of socio-economic development in Uganda that has seen several interventions implemented to that effect. However, these have not been evaluated in respect to their role in improving livelihoods and land management. This study therefore, examined the contribution of agricultural modernization through the NAADS and OWC programs to livelihoods and sustainable land management in Nakisunga Sub-County, Mukono District. The specific objectives were to; (i) establish the nature of agriculture in Nakisunga Sub-County, (ii) establish the agricultural modernization strategies that NAADS and OWC have applied and (iii) evaluate the contribution of NAADS and OWC to livelihoods and sustainable land management in Nakisunga Sub-County, Mukono District. A cross-section survey design was adopted with a mixed research approach where both qualitative and quantitative methodologies were employed. Data were collected from 198 farmers and 10 key informants using self-administered structured questionnaires, key informant interviews supplemented by review of secondary data and field observation. Data processing and analysis was done using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) and subjected to the Pearson correlation coefficient. Results indicate that agriculture in the area is dominated by mixed farming, largely carried out on small-scale using family labour, traditional tools and equipment. A comparison of the two programs with regards to agricultural modernization strategies reveals that OWC has performed better than NAADS in applying these strategies in the area except training of the farmers. However, NAADS contributed more than OWC to the improvement of livelihoods and land management practices in the area through increasing the farmers’ physical, social, human, financial and natural capital assets. In view of the above findings, the following have been recommended: OWC should consider providing quick and high yielding inputs to enable the farmers increase their productivity even with on a small scale. Moreover, there is need for OWC to provide targeted training to the farmers in better farming and land management practices. OWC also ought to consistently provide enough and good quality seeds and seedlings so as to improve livelihoods of the farmers through increased food security and income. This should be accompanied by a suitability analysis of the local soil and climatic conditions so as to enable OWC supply inputs that can thrive in area. Additional effort is needed for OWC to increase access to marketing opportunities and financial credit for the farmers. There is also need for OWC to procure more processing equipment to add value on the farmers’ produce as well as reducing post-harvest losses.