School of Business (SB)

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    Access to agricultural credit facility in Uganda: A case of Equity Bank Uganda limited
    (Makerere University, 2024-12) Manzi, Fortunate
    This study examined access to the Agricultural Credit Facility (ACF) in Uganda, focusing specifically on a case study of Equity Bank; The study was premised on three objectives; to assess factors influencing the access of ACF on the various agriculture value chains, to examine the challenges and barriers faced by farmers and agribusinesses in accessing and utilizing the ACF and to examine the strategies that can be utilized to improve accessibility and utilization of credit through the ACF for agricultural activities. The study employed a cross sectional and descriptive research with a mixed study approach which involved collecting numerical data from 351 beneficiaries of ACF and interviewing 5 key informants (officials from Equity Bank). Quantitative Data was analyzed using the SPSS version 27. The study identified several factors influencing access to Agricultural Credit Facility (ACF) loans, with agricultural risks such as weather, pests, and diseases being significant barriers to loan repayment. Membership in farmer cooperatives was found to facilitate easier access to credit, while the ACF application process and collateral requirements were manageable. However, economic stability in Uganda and price volatility were less significant concerns. Challenges such as high collateral demands, high interest rates, a complex application process, and limited access to financial information hindered farmers' ability to access and utilize ACF loans. To improve accessibility, the study recommended reducing collateral requirements, providing more training and information, leveraging farmer cooperatives, offering risk mitigation tools like insurance, and introducing flexible repayment terms. The findings suggest that addressing agricultural risks, simplifying the loan application process, and reducing collateral requirements could enhance farmers' access to ACF loans. Therefore, the study recommends strong consensus on these strategies, emphasizing their importance in enhancing credit access for smallholder farmers and agribusinesses. Therefore, the study recommends reducing agricultural risks through comprehensive risk management tools like insurance and climate resilience training to help farmers manage risks and improve loan repayment. It also suggests strengthening farmer cooperatives to provide collective guarantees and support, making credit more accessible for smallholders.
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    Access to credit by small and medium enterprises in Kampala Central Division
    (Makerere University, 2015-10) Namayanja, Hanifah
    The role of the SMEs in the development process continues to be in the fore front of policy debates not only in developing countries but also in developed countries. The advantages claimed for SMEs are various, including reducing unemployment, improving the BOT position, increased tax base; and they may well become a countervailing force against economic power of large enterprises. More generally the development of SMEs is seen as accelerating the achievement of wider socio-economic objectives, including poverty alleviation. In spite of the generally fast pace by which access to financial services for SME is being developed, significant segments of the SME sector have not yet benefited from the expansion and deepening of outreach. In attempting to gain access to financial services, SMEs continue to face many constrains. Thus this research intended to study the challenges faced by SMEs in access to finance. The findings indicated that the constraints faced by SMEs were insufficient collateral (62.9%) High risk perception (20.3%) and Poor financial management practices (16.4%). on the same note the study identified that the coping strategies used to manage challenges faced by SMEs in accessing finance include; cost cutting, use of money lenders, reliance on family and friends support, negotiating increase in supplier credit periods, reducing receivable days, invoice discounting, bank loans and overdrafts. Based on the study’s findings, it is recommended that the stakeholders should endeavor to provide financial information infrastructure, the government and financial institutions should also provide a good economic environment where SME’s are able to borrow at reasonable rates as well as friendly terms. It’s also important to train most of the entrepreneurs on simple financial management tips, to enable them make informed financial decisions.
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    Accessibility to long term finance: Its determinants and effect on growth of EIB-funded Small and Medium size Entreprises in Uganda's hotel industry
    (Makerere University, 2009-09) Sekyewa, Godfrey
    The purpose of the study was to examine not only the level at which SMEs in Uganda’s Hotel sector access long-term finance extended by the EIB-APEX and the factors influencing this level but also the relationship between them and the level of the SMEs’ business growth. This was as a result of the observation that most of the SMEs were achieving dismal business growth yet it was not clear whether this was due to the level of their accessibility to long-term finance. The study was conducted as a cross sectional survey involving an analytical design. Its objectives were to examine the level of business growth of the SMEs in Uganda’s Hotel industry, to investigate the level at which these SMEs access long-term finance extended by the EIB-APEX, to establish the factors influencing the level of this access, and to examine the relationship between the level of business growth of these SMEs and their level of access to long-term finance. Data was collected from SME managers using questionnaires and analyzed using the descriptive, ANOVA, factor analysis, correlation and regression methods of the SPSS programme. The findings show that the level of business growth of the SMEs in Uganda’s Hotel industry was 46.3% predicted by the level of the SMEs’ access to EIB-APEX long-term finance. SME competences were established to have the most significant influence on the level of SMEs’ access to this finance. The level of this access and that of the business growth of the SMEs were both reported as low. The study, thus, concluded by emphasizing the need to improve the level of business growth of the SMEs. To achieve this, it was recommended that SME management and lending institutions should improve the SMEs’ access to loan finance by solving the flaws in the factors influencing this access.
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    Accessing micro credit, borrowers’ characteristic and household income in rural areas: A case of Kasese District
    (Makerere University, 2009-11) Businge, Polic Fred
    Improving household income is one of the major challenges faced by developing countries. Different plans focusing on increasing household income through the use of credit institutions have been developed for example PEAP, 1997, entandikwa scheme and the prosperity for all plan (2006). While doing this they have largely ignored borrowers’ characteristics and business type the borrowers’ engage in. This study therefore examined the role micro credit access, borrowers’ characteristics, business type have towards improving household income for the poor. A sample of three institutions which included Ikongo micro finance scheme, Bukonzo joint credit institution, centenary bank and 131 beneficiaries was chosen out of a total of 32 institutions and 1004 beneficiaries. The study presents empirical findings basing on 82 beneficiaries who responded. Across sectional survey design was used to evaluate the variables above. Correlation coefficients revealed a significant positive relationship between the variables. Multiple regression analysis further revealed that 44.5% of the variance in the household income is explained by micro credit access, borrowers’ characteristics and business type. The study recommends that micro credit institutions should increase funds which borrowers’ can access. Credit institutions should always consider borrowers’ characteristics and business type the borrowers’ are to engage in before giving credit to the potential borrowers’. These factors enable the borrowers’ to use funds wisely and eventually they lead to improved household income of the poor.
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    Accountability and mobilized financial resources: A case study of Central Uganda Conference of the Seventh–Day Adventist Church
    (Makerere University, 2011-04) Jemba, William
    The study investigated Accountability and Mobilized Financial Resources in Central Uganda Conference of the Seventh-Day Adventist Church. The main objectives of the study were to examine the relationship between accountability and building public confidence as well as examining the relationship between public confidence and mobilized financial resources in the Seventh-Day Adventist Church. The study found out that there is a strong relationship between public confidence and mobilized financial resources in Central Uganda Conference. This is because when the Organization builds confidence through openness, transparency and accountability in the way they put to use the mobilized resources from members of the congregations, financial contributions increase. However, it was found out that Central Uganda Conference was performing poorly in mobilization of resources for its activities from the tithe and field advances. This was attributed to the poor accountability mechanisms used that are not transparent to its stakeholders that have led to many decreasing their contributions. In ensuring that there is public confidence, the study recommended that Central Uganda Conference need to confirm to International accounting standards by putting emphasis on openness, disclosure and legitimacy. This will not only restore and promote public confidence but also enable all the stakeholders to own the organization. This in turn will enable the stakeholders contribute more resources towards the success of their organization.
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    Accounting information system, financial decentralization and quality of financial reporting in Kampala City Council
    (Makerere University, 2011-08) Bamwira, John Richard
    The study examined the effect and relationship between Accounting information system, financial decentralization and quality of financial reporting in Kampala city council. The AIS and financial decentralization were the independent variables while quality of financial reporting was the dependent variable. The study adopted a triangulation design consisting of a correlation design which was quantitative in approach and cross sectional in nature. The study population consisted of two hundred ninety members from whom a sample of two hundred five elements was drawn using Krejcie and Morgan method. A combination of census, proportionate stratified random sampling and simple random sampling techniques were employed in selecting members from different strata into the study sample. Two data collection methods namely structured questionnaire consisting of closed questions with five point likert scale and interview guide were used in collecting primary data. Out of two hundred five questionnaires administered, one hundred ninety registered returned posing a response rate of ninety seven percent. The collected data was presented using frequency tables and charts which were analyzed by Factor analysis, Pearson correlation coefficient and Regression model using SPSS. A significant positive relationship was established between independent and dependent variable and forty five percent of the changes in quality of financial reporting in KCC are explained by the accounting information system and financial decentralization. The study also discovered that decision making, budgeting and planning constitutes fifty five percent of financial decentralization. However, decision making alone contributed forty one percent compared to fourteen and ten percent for budgeting and accounting information system respectively.
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    Adoption of human resource information systems: a case of Uganda Women’s Network
    (Makerere University, 2023-12) Nakiyemba, Angella
    This study employed a mixed-methods approach to investigate the factors that influenced the adoption of Human Resource Information Systems (HRIS) at Uganda Women’s Network (UWONET). The study was grounded in specific objectives, including the examination of factors influencing HRIS adoption, identification of barriers faced by UWONET, and assessment of the perceived effects of HRIS on organizational performance. Utilizing questionnaires and interviews, data was collected from 30 participants to explore organizational size, budget constraints, integration with IT systems, compliance with legal requirements, and data security considerations. As a result, both random probability, which involves equal chances of participants being chosen in the study, and purposive sampling methods were used to sample the participants. Findings highlighted pivotal factors and barriers such as an unstructured technological culture, lack of skills, and financial constraints. Despite challenges, the study observed a consistently positive perception of HRIS's effects on organizational performance, emphasizing streamlined processes and employee empowerment. Recommendations stemming from the findings include resource allocation for comprehensive training, technological infrastructure enhancement, financial analysis, cultural initiatives, and compliance monitoring. Collaboration with NGOs and governmental bodies was proposed for industry-specific guidelines supporting HRIS adoption in non-profit organizations.
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    Adoption of International Financial Reporting Standard for Small and Medium Entities as a Financial Reporting Framework; A case study of the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area.
    (Makerere University, 2019-08) Ssenyonga, Yasin
    The study investigated the adoption of the International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) for Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) as a financial reporting frame work. Specifically, the study aimed at establishing the level of adoption of IFRS for SMEs in Kampala Uganda, ascertaining the benefits that SMEs can derive through adoption of IFRS for SMEs and to identify challenges faced by SMEs in Uganda in adopting IFRS for SMEs. The study was guided by a descriptive survey design and adopted quantitative research methodology. A random sample of 40 respondents- SMEs was selected from the population of 137,432 small and medium size entities that operated within the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area. A sample was selected using a purposive approach and data were collected by the use of a researcher administered questionnaire which contained Likert scale questions. Data was analysed by using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 16 to get descriptive statistics which were the basis of interpretation and discussion of results. The findings of the study indicated that adoption of IFRS for SMEs was still low according to the statistics received that is to say, Fully adapted=27.5%, not fully adapted=72.5%.The main reason given for not adopting the IFRS for SMEs was found to be lack of skills (77.5%). The study revealed that IFRS for SMEs would help them get financial assistance (combined percentage was 87.5%), and adoption to have benefits like comparability and reliability of the financial statements. Respondents listed a number of avenues through which adoption could be improved and these included, having accounting professional bodies, conducting more affordable awareness workshops on the use of IFRS for SMEs and review of the IFRS for SMEs to reduce the level of complexity. IFRS for SMEs have been a challenge for non-publicly accountable entities to adopt and there are several conceptual and practical issues with IFRS for SMEs. It was established that the framework used to prepare financial statements was mainly full IFRS which was measured at 47.5% and then IFRS for SMEs established to be at 7.5% and the least was UK GAAP at 25%. On the other hand, lack of practical knowledge on converting from traditional accounting standards to IFRS for SMEs, complexity of the standard and costs involved are seen as the main obstacles to adoption of the IFRS for SMEs. In conclusion, there are significant challenges in the adoption of the standard which can be attributed to lack of knowledge of the existence of the standard and for those who are aware of the standard, they do lack the capacity to apply it. The study recommends the need to formalize business operations for SMEs, promotion of business record maintenance, separation of ownership from control of SMEs and mounting of seminars or workshops for personnel on professional development courses and for awareness purposes.
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    The adoption of mobile banking in Uganda, a case study of Bank of Baroda (U) Ltd.
    ( 2018-11) Nassali, Rachel Josephine
    The major aim of his study was to empirically explore the adoption of mobile banking in Uganda using a case study of Bank of Baroda (U) Ltd. The study used primary data collected by the researcher from the customers of Bank of Baroda, RSB. The data was collected using a structured questionnaire self-administered 248 respondents. The researcher generated various statistics such as frequency, percentages and regression analysis models using SPSS Version 11. The dimension of the dependent variable of the study is the extent of adoption of mobile banking services among bank customers of commercial banks in Uganda. The independent variables include social, economical and technological factors which affect mobile banking adoption. The findings of the study indicate that customers’ characteristics such as age, gender, education levels and income levels have an effect on the adoption levels of mobile banking. The results also showed that customers mostly used mobile banking to transfer funds from their bank accounts to mobile money and to purchase airtime which accounts for onward transfer to other people as intended. It was found out that among the factors identified as influencing or affecting mobile banking, convenience (F1) was rated as the most important factor with 69.9 percent of the respondents rating it as very important, followed by knowledge of the services (F7) and handset operability (F6). These were established by frequencies and percentages. This study has unveiled important information regarding adoption of mobile banking services, the services which customers feel add value to them, those which they feel are not important and the challenges they face when using or when making the decision to sign up for mobile banking. Basing on the findings of the study, the researcher recommends that banks and other service providers re-evaluate the mobile banking services and embark on a fact finding mission to find out from their customers the services which they would like to access through mobile banking. The researcher also recommends that further research could be carried out on how mobile banking contributes to paperless and branchless banking.
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    Adoption of mobile banking, a case of Guaranty Trust Bank Uganda
    (Makerere University, 2021-04) Oligo, Allan
    The world has undergone a major shift with the technological development impacting life of a common man. Information technology has also changed the way of doing business. Business has already evolved from traditional business to online business and now shifting towards mobile operated business. This study is an attempt to review the articles published on mobile banking adoption during 2010 to 2018 by using keywords like m-banking, mobile banking, m-banking adoption, etcetera, from different reputable publishers and journals and present comprehensive knowledge on mobile banking adoption studies. Findings of the study reveal that performance expectancy and price value are the major factors that influence mobile banking adoption. Respondents stated bank account to mobile wallet transfers and wallet to bank transfers as the major reasons for the adoption of mobile banking. This study theoretically adds to the existing body of knowledge in the area of mobile banking adoption in specific and mobile commerce in general and helps future researchers, banks, marketers and other practitioners while providing useful insights for directed decisions. This study presents crux of mobile banking adoption literature within a decade. This study provides overview of reviewed literature, key variables, objectives, findings, limitations, and future research suggestions in tabular form. The insights of the study will be fruitful in promoting, designing, customizing and successfully implementing mobile banking technologies in the new markets. Keywords: Mobile banking, Guaranty Trust Bank Uganda
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    The adoption of mobile money services and behavior intention of SMEs in Uganda
    (Makerere University, 2013-09) Nantale, Hanifah
    The purpose of the study was to examine the adoption of mobile money services and behavioral intention of SMEs in Uganda. It was guided by three study objectives which included examine the drivers for adoption of mobile money service by SMEs in Uganda, to examine the determinants for behavioral intention of SMEs towards mobile money service and to examine the relationship between adoption of mobile money transfer service and behavioral intention by SMEs in Uganda. A cross-sectional survey design was employed to collect primary data using self-administered questionnaires. Data was gathered using a structured questionnaire from respondents in 79 SMEs in Kampala district. The data was analyzed using descriptive and correlation analysis techniques. Findings indicated that the adoption of Mobile money services has led to increase in profits, that is time saving, mobile money services can be easily integrated into the daily business activities. It was also found out that the use of Mobile money services boosts business and that there are minimal steps required to make business transactions, also that there is assurance of information confidentiality. However it was noted that the mobile money network is not reliable. The Pearson’s correlation coefficient for adoption of mobile money transfer service and behavioral intention by SMEs is (r=0.431, p<0.05). It is concluded that the adoption of Mobile money services is very beneficial to SME owners in terms of increased profits among other benefits however their network is not always dependable due to the unreliability of the network. It was recommended that MTN and warid pesa should improve on their network coverage in order to ensure that a customer can access his account at any time he feels like withdrawing or sending money and SMS messages should be frequently sent to the customer notifying him the of transactions he has made, among other recommendations.
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    Adoption of online banking in commercial banks in Uganda : case of Centenary Bank
    (Makerere University, 2023) Walugembe, Sabuuti
    This study aimed at examining online banking adoption in commercial banks reference to centenary bank Uganda. The study was premised on three objectives: to examine the factors that influence online banking in Uganda, to analyze the challenges that affect online adoption in the banking industry of Uganda and to assess the strategies that can be used to increase online banking uptake in Uganda. The study employed a cross-sectional and descriptive research with a quantitative study approach which involved collecting numerical data from 174 respondents out of a sample of 201 centenary bank customers, using a survey questionnaire. Data were analyzed using the statistical package for social science (SSPS Version 23). On the factors influencing online banking adoption, the study identified improving customers' job performance, online banking being ease to, online banking providing helpful guidance in performing a task or transaction, being easier to become skillful at using online banking as indicated, being convenient, faster and time saving in making transaction and that online banking helping in accessing e-government services, which makes it easier for customers to do their job. Among the challenges, affecting online banking adoption at Centenary Bank Uganda, study identified through a questionnaire survey, poor network connection, fear by the bank customers that they might tap the wrong information while using online banking for example e-payments, fear of electronic fraud while using online banking and that the new technology is too complicated making some customers to ignore online banking. Therefore, the study recommends that commercial banks to improve on security through regulatory technology to control online fraud, that commercial banks increasing privacy when customers are using online baking platforms and that commercial banks sensitize their customers regularly about the advantages of online banking. Furthermore, the study recommends that commercial banks extend their internet infrastructure to other parts of the country in order increase online banking adoption and that commercial banks motivate their customers with incentives so that they can adopt online banking.
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    Advertising and consumer purchasing behavior : A case of Mukwano Group of Companies
    (Makerere University, 2019-01) Higenyi, Paul
    In a highly competitive environment, creating awareness among customers has become a universal practice by firms aimed at increasing their market share. Although some research indicates that advertising increases purchasing behavior, other studies disagree and instead conclude that advertisements have less effect on the audience. Using the case study of Mukwano, this study seeks to find out whether advertisements impact the consumers’ attitudes towards the advertised product, their purchase decision process and actual purchasing behaviour for the products of Mukwano group of companies. The research followed a cross sectional design in collecting primary data from 145 respondents in Kampala central using a questionnaire. The main statistical procedures used in testing the hypotheses included an independent samples t-test and ANOVA test. The study’s findings show that attitude formation of consumers is significantly (p<0.05) influenced by frequency of exposure to an advert. It is also noted that consumers’ purchase intention is significantly (p<0.05) associated with the number of times a person is exposed to an advert. In addition, actual purchasing behavior of consumers is significantly (p<0.05) associated with exposure to the adverts. The findings provide some insights and feedback for the industry and media in drafting various advertising strategies on how to increase the favorable consumers’ attitude towards advertising, intention to purchase and actual purchasing behaviour.
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    Agency banking adoption in Uganda : barriers and strategies
    (Makerere University, 2022) Ssennono, Brian
    The financial sector has experienced significant changes due to innovation. The introduction of wireless devices such as mobile phones to commercial banks' clientele has changed how business is conducted (Lule, Omwansa, & Mwololo, 2012). Commercial banks have had an opportunity to mitigate the challenges being experienced due to less stability in the financial sector by adopting effective strategies that focus on meeting customer expectations through competitive products and services geared towards meeting customer demands and minimizing costs (Shanmugham & Sohail). The Ugandan business environment has changed and it has been characterized by stiff competition among the players and the banking industry is no exception. Competition amongst the commercial banks as well as entry of mobile phone operators in the money transfer business has pushed banks towards becoming more innovative. The growth of agency banking has opened a new frontier to study the financial benefits or losses to the banks operating agency banking as well as those aspiring to operate this model. In January 2016, the Ugandan Parliament passed an amendment to the Financial Institutions Act of 2004. This act allowed banks to offer agency banking services in the country. New entrants and banks with lower footprint need not invest in slow-to-scale brick and mortar branch networks. Instead, they can focus on capturing market share based on better products, customer experience and price, while leveraging the (operationally) lower-cost agent networks. World over, agency banking has been adopted and may carry variant names. In Brazil agency banking arrangements refer to bank partnerships with non-banks, typically retail commercial outlets (Kumar, Nair, Parsons, & Urdapilleta, 2006). Most of the major banks in Colombia are using bank-based agent banking channels to deliver services and reach new clients. However, the users of these financial services are not the poorest segments of the population and the adoption of the agent model has been slower than in other countries in Latin America, most notably Brazil (CGAP, 2010). Having been influenced by the success of the agency model in developed nations, the agency model is gaining ground in Africa. The first version of the agency banking model in South Africa was introduced in 2005 (Bold, 2011). It was later implemented by commercial banks with freedom to use third-party providers (Kiura, 2014). In Ghana, the model was launched in the year 2008 (Flaming, McKay, & Pickens, 2011). Nonetheless, the model failed to gain traction due to a complex regulatory affiliation between telcos and banks. In light of this, the Bank of Ghana was forced to regulate the industry. In Tanzania, a commercial bank or financial institution having a license and wishing to conduct business through an agent must first obtain written permission from the Bank of Tanzania. After approval, a compliance and due diligence process is in place, which is followed by audits and regular spot checks just to safeguard the financial industry (McKay & Peter, 2014). Despite the opportunities brought about by agency banking for both the customers and commercial banks, only a few have adopted this innovation due to problems such as inability to transact huge transactions, transaction limits and insecurity. Many people find that agents lack capacity to handle large transactions of cash and under-spend on security measures, thus, negating potential clients’ confidence in them. (Kiragu, 2011). Many people still prefer to queue in commercial banks banking halls despite the fact that many outlets of agency banking being opened in the country. This formed a key point which led the current study to investigate the adoption of agency banking in Uganda.
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    Agency banking and customer satisfaction in commercial banks in Uganda: a case study of Centenary Bank
    (Makerere University, 2023-09) Nakanwagi, Cissy
    The purpose of the study was to examine the impact of agency banking on customer satisfaction by customers of Centenary bank. The study was guided by three specific objectives which included; to establish the uptake rate of agency banking at Centenary Bank, to establish the level of customer satisfaction about agency banking at Centenary Bank; and to establish a relationship between customer satisfaction and agency banking and be able to measure the impact of agency banking on customer satisfaction at Centenary Bank. The study adopted a cross sectional research design that involved the use of both qualitative and quantitative research methods. Qualitative research involves the study of cases and makes little numerical data or statistics but relies heavily on verbal data and subjective analysis. Quantitative research involves the use of both numerical data and discrete variables to get the respondents level of understanding about the topic under study. The preference for a cross-sectional research design is because it collects information from a random sample that has been drawn from different categories of the population at a point in time. This was applied to a sample size of 246 for agents and customers and 55 for bank staff using questionnaires. Additionally, interviews were carried out on 3 bank Managers and 5 of the bank’s top Agents by transaction value from the central region. It was established that agency banking has significantly impacted the financial landscape, especially in extending banking services to previously underserved or remote areas. By allowing third-party agents to offer basic banking services on behalf of banks, agency banking has increased accessibility to financial services for a broader segment of the population. Agency banking has provided a convenient way for customers to access basic banking services without the need to travel to a traditional bank branch. Furthermore, agency banking has provided customers with a solution to the long bank queues by availing faster services, without queues. This has likely contributed to an overall improvement in customer satisfaction. The ability to perform transactions closer to home through agency banking has likely led to higher customer satisfaction levels. People can perform tasks like cash deposits, withdrawals, and balance inquiries more easily, saving them time and effort. Agency banking has potentially reduced these wait times, leading to increased satisfaction among customers who prefer quicker service. Although, it is important to note that challenges such as network connectivity issues, and potential security concerns might have affected customer satisfaction in some cases. For example, where the network was unstable, and customers could not access any service and also early closure of agent out-lets i.e., by 6:00pm due to fear off robbers consequently affecting convenience. Therefore, agency banking has the potential to enhance customer satisfaction in Uganda by improving accessibility and convenience. However, its success relies on addressing the highlighted challenges effectively and continually improving the customer experience. Monitoring customer feedback, adapting services based on customer needs, and maintaining a strong agent-customer relationship are all important factors in ensuring high levels of customer satisfaction in the context of agency banking. The study recommends that ensuring that customers fully understand how agency banking works and the services offered is crucial for maintaining high levels of customer satisfaction. Adequate education can prevent misunderstandings and frustrations for both the banks and the customers.
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    Agency banking in Uganda: a case of Equity Bank Uganda; opportunities and challenges, a case of Equity Bank, Wandegeya Branch.
    (Makerere University, 2024-06) Muhimbise, Aggrey
    This study examined the opportunities and challenges of Agency banking in reference to Equity Bank Uganda Limited. The study was premised on three objectives; to examine the opportunities provided by agency banking to customers of Equity Bank Uganda Limited, to assess the challenges faced by the banking agents at Equity Bank Uganda Limited, and to recommend strategies that can improve Agency Banking at Equity Bank Uganda Limited. The study employed a cross-sectional and descriptive research with a mixed study approach which involved collecting numerical data from 70 customers and interviewing 8 key informants. Quantitative Data was analyzed using the statistical package for social science (SSPS Version 27) while qualitative Data was analyzed using Atlas ti. The study found that the agency banking reduces queuing for branch services, makes banking activities easier, increases accessibility, enhances electronic transactions, contributes to financial inclusion, and encourages savings. However, challenges include uncertainties about reliability, low internet access, security concerns, network instability, technical issues, and lack of legal frameworks. Customers also disagree with the high fees and charges associated with agency banking services. To improve adoption, the study recommends collaborating with local businesses and community organizations, providing awareness campaigns, robust security measures, increasing outlets, offering incentives, user-friendly interfaces, dedicated customer support services, and lowering fees. These strategies are effective in enhancing customer experience and satisfaction. Key words; Agent Banking, Relevance, opportunities, challenges
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    Agency banking in Uganda: Opportunities and challenges a case study of selected banks in Uganda
    (Makerere University, 2016) Kambugu, Herman Joseph
    The study focus was to examine the Opportunities and Challenges of Agency banking in Uganda. This was driven by the fact that agency banking is an innovative strategy of financial inclusion which is recommended by entrepreneurs in banking industry, scholars and researchers. The study was guided by three research objectives which include: to identify the critical factors to consider before implementing Agency Banking in Uganda, to establish the opportunities and challenges of implementing Agency Banking in Uganda, and to recommend ways of maximizing the opportunities and countering possible challenges of Agency Banking in Uganda. The research study adopted quantitative and qualitative cross-sectional design which was non-experimental in nature. Primary data was collected by questionnaire method for quantitative data and interview guides for qualitative data. Quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS to generate descriptive statistic that is frequency tables, mean and standard deviation while qualitative data was coded in explanatory way to supplement the numerical results from the questionnaire. Results from the study revealed that Agency banking regulations, customers and agents’ sensitization and willingness by financial intermediaries to venture into Agency banking were key to the implementations of Agency banking. However, reduction in operating costs, ability to reach remote areas that were previous unbanked, increase in revenues and overall financial inclusion are the main opportunities of Agency banking amidst of pervasive challenges including risk of customer data leakage, system failures, fraud, agents’ liquidity issues and security. The study recommends enactment of Agency Banking regulations that are airtight yet flexible enough to encourage banks and agents to venture into Agency Banking so they can benefit from the available opportunities by engaging in awareness drives and establishment of effective financial data security controls to boost the operations of agency banking.
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    Alternative energy infrastructure for Uganda
    (Makerere University, 2015-06) Byangire, Paul Rusoke
    The study sought to examine Uganda’s power infrastructure and the country’s preparedness for nuclear power production as an alternative source. The study was guided by the following objectives; to examine the history of Uganda’s power production; generation/demand growth; to examine regulatory framework of Uganda’s power sector and its conduciveness on investments in the sector; and to assess Uganda’s infrastructure for nuclear energy as an alternative power source. Data was collected using self-administered questionnaires and it was analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Scientists (V18) which was used to generate tabulations of frequencies, item means and standard deviations. The findings validate that there was a growing power production in the country as a result of several dams being commissioned. This also contributed to the increased generation of power so as to meet the high demand for power in the country. This implied that emphasis on exploiting other types of energy such as nuclear energy was paramount in enhancing power production and generation in the country. According to the findings on the regulatory framework of Uganda’s power sector and its conduciveness on investments in the sector, it was revealed that there were still gaps in the development of the required policies such as those for nuclear energy which undermined effective regulation of the sector and its consequent development. The findings established that Uganda’s infrastructure for nuclear energy as an alternative power source was still in its infancy stage and therefore countered several challenges in regard to training, costs and regulation. The recommends that measures should be put in place to conserve the current energy that is being produced and generated as away of promoting efficiency in the sector. Similarly, there should be formation Public Private Partnerships away of pooling resources to promote infrastructural development in the sector.
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    Analysing management of pumps in water supply systems for town councils in Uganda: a case of Wakiso District
    (Makerere University, 2022-01) Byamugisha, Gilbert
    This study analysed the management of water pump supply systems in Wakiso District. The study was guided by four study objectives which included assessing the current state of water pumps, examining the management practices of pumps for Water supply systems, establishing the limitations for managing water pumps in Wakiso District. The study used cross sectional research design while considering both quantitative and qualitative research approaches. It targeted sample size of 49 respondents, however, 46 respondents managed to respond back. Data was collected using both questionnaires and interview guide. The study revealed that the current state of the water pumps in Wakiso district is averagely good. The water pumps were reliable, accessible and user friendly. It was also established that water pump management practices in place were lacking. Despite some water pumps being fenced with a security personnel, having enough knowledge on the functionality and management of the water pumps, having technical personnel being always available, it was revealed that repairs are not properly and often done in time, water user fees charges from the community is not enough, spare parts of water pumps are difficult to access and they are very expensive. Among the limitations included pumps being expensive in operation and maintenance (fuel and electricity, spares and lubricants), fuels and fumes posing health risks, lack of enough funds and some spare parts of pumps not readily available on market which limits the effectiveness of water pumps in Wakiso district. To overcome such limitation, the study revealed that there is need for routine pump maintenance and proper operation, government increasing the budget for water pump project, urging community water users to pay their water bills, routine capacity building of water committees and engaging electricity service providers (UMEME) to provide clean loads through their transformers and installing voltage power stabilisers to reduce power fluctuations