School of Built Environment (SBE) Collections

Permanent URI for this collection

http://10.29.1.53:4000/handle/10570/179

Browse

Browsing School of Built Environment (SBE) Collections by Title

  • Item
    A comparative analysis of conventional RCC slabs and Composite Steel Deck Slabs during the construction phase.
    (Makerere University, 2025-12-09) Muzamil, Sande
    Concrete and steel are by far the most popular when it comes to construction materials in Uganda and the world at large, particularly for projects of medium and low height. In the past decades, Concrete has been used as the main composite material for build construction but recently we have witnessed an overwhelming adoption of Structural steel being used for the construction of tall buildings. This has mainly been attributed to the need to optimize costs and fast & timely delivery of project time lines which have been and are still the major challenges to construction projects This study presents a comparative analysis of Reinforced Cement Concrete (RCC) slabs and Structural Steel Decked (SSD) slabs, with a particular focus on their cost and time efficiency during the construction phase. Using the proposed Kabira Country Club Hotel extension project as a case study, the research evaluates material and labour costs, construction durations, and key structural characteristics of each slab system. Data was collected through site observations, construction records, and project documents, and analysed using both qualitative and quantitative methods. The findings indicate that SSD slabs offer notable advantages over RCC slabs, including a 20.3% reduction in total construction cost and a 43.75% decrease in construction time. Additionally, SSD systems simplify labour requirements by eliminating traditional formwork and reducing reinforcement needs. The study concludes that SSD slabs are a more efficient alternative for modern construction projects where time and cost are critical considerations. Recommendations are made for broader adoption of SSD systems, further training for construction professionals, and additional research into long-term performance and sustainability factors.
  • Item
    A Land Tenure Arrangement for Refugees on Customary Land.
    (Makerere University, 2025-12-08) Nagujja, Sophia
    Countries addressing the global refugee crisis are increasingly shifting toward integrating refugees within national systems by granting them access to community land held customarily. Uganda is lauded for its refugee policy that allocates free land to refugees, with the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) negotiating with landowners to voluntarily settle them. Although this process is intended to be formalized through Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), implementation frequently falls short, resulting in inadequate representation of the rights, restrictions, and responsibilities (RRR) of all parties and the spatial units involved. These gaps pose tenure security risks for both host communities and refugees. This challenge motivated the central research question: What kind of tenure arrangement can safeguard the rights of customary landholders while ensuring secure access for refugees? The study examined the impact of existing customary land acquisition rules and procedures on tenure security and explored improved practices. It investigated the institutional framework and developed a conceptual model for a tenure arrangement that balances the security needs of both rights holders and refugees. The study followed a single-case design with embedded multiple cases and used mixed methods, including document review, semi-structured questionnaires, key informant interviews, focus group discussions, and expert opinions. It also applied design thinking methodology and Land Administration Domain Model (LADM) specialization to develop the tenure arrangement. Findings revealed that current customary land acquisition practices significantly affect tenure security for both host communities and refugees, with more severe consequences for host communities due to deviations from the standard principles of Voluntary Land Donation (VLD). The study proposed more transparent, locally contextualized procedures that align with international VLD standards to minimize insecurity for both groups. It introduced new institutions mandated by local legal frameworks to manage communal land in collaboration with OPM, ensuring tenure security remains central. A tenure arrangement compliant with LADM that recognizes all social tenure rights for host communities and refugees was also developed. The study concluded that current acquisition practices compromise tenure security and presented a more transparent acquisition and institutional framework, along with a tenure arrangement that acknowledges all rights holders. It recommends strengthened, standardized land acquisition practices, formally recognized agreements by the relevant Ministries and OPM, and prioritizing the operationalization of land tenure arrangement for refugees
  • Item
    A report on the construction of Dormitory, one unit- three classroom block and other facilities at Kisozi Seed Secondary School – Gomba District
    (Makerere University, 2025) Mbulalina, David
    The construction of a dormitory, one unit three classroom blocks and other facilities is aimed at providing more accommodation and reducing the number of students to classroom ratio at Kisozi Seed Secondary School. Other expected outcomes are improved access to inclusive and quality education services for the surrounding communities in Gomba District, expand and equip capacity of infrastructure. The project included the following details; project name, purpose of the project, main objective of the project, the stakeholders involved, cost and estimated project duration. Management challenged identified and discussed such as employment of the non-skilled youth from the surrounding communities at the project, environmental and social safeguards, noise interferences during learning sessions. Management decisions taken, discussed and lessons learnt. Finally, conclusion drawn and appropriate recommendations made from management issues discussed. Rhen relevant document such as working drawings, BOQs, and photographs taken site to show progress.
  • Item
    A review of the Housing resettlement of the Maasai from Ngorongoro to Msomera-Handeni-Tanga.
    (Makerere University, 2025-12-04) Kivuyo, Moses L.
    This research reviewed the process of housing provisions during the resettlement of the Maasai from Ngorongoro to Msomera-Tanga. Despite housing being crucial for human sustainability, it poses significant challenges for the Maasai community in Tanzania during the resettlement from one area to another. Current housing policies and programs fail to effectively address the socio-cultural aspects of sustainability and often overlook the community's unique needs. These initiatives focus on the quantity of housing units delivered rather than the broader system, neglecting the socio-cultural aspirations of beneficiaries and resulting in cultural disconnection and social fragmentation. The research adopted a mixed-methods approach, incorporating in-depth interviews, participatory observation, focus group discussions, site surveys, and document reviews to explore housing challenges. It also utilized ArcGIS Pro software to analyse land use patterns from 2013 to 2023, identifying changes in vegetation, water features, and bare land that may impact the pastoral lifestyle. While many studies have explored housing delivery challenges based on specific community needs, these challenges differ significantly across contexts. This research aimed to address this gap by providing an overview of housing provisions and the obstacles to sustainable housing in MsomeraTanga. Findings indicate that the despite the concerted efforts provided by the government and Maasai adaptation to new environment, the relocation still pose challenges in terms of their cultural values which results in disruption of cultural identity. This research holds practical significance for policymakers, implementers, and researchers focused on achieving successful and sustainable resettlement out-comes. The research recommends the use of participatory design approach as it actively involves the Maasai community in the design process, ensuring that housing solutions reflect their voices, cultural values, and specific needs, ultimately enhancing their well-being and cultural identity.
  • Item
    Accessing the Sewer Infrastructure Susceptible to damage due to Flooding in Kampala Area
    (Makerere University, 2023-06-22) Namuli, Pauline
    Sustained periods of heavy rain can be more problematic than a few puddles, flooding is becoming an issue in several areas of Uganda. The changes in climate are causing increased storm surges and, as a result, an increase in the number of yearly floods. The amount of stormwater is also increasing in many geographical areas. These floods are gradually becoming a threat to the sewer infrastructure including sewer pipes and manholes. Sewer overflows are on the increase same applies to broken and damaged manholes and sewer pipes. This project embarked on determining the flood susceptible areas of Kampala area and after which determine the sewer infrastructure within these flood zones that is prone to damage due to flooding. The infrastructure at risk was obtained by multiplying the Hazard, Exposure and Vulnerability Factors. The Multi-criteria analysis method used six parameters of Slope, Flow Accumulation, Geology, Elevation, Rainfall, and Land use/Land Cover to determine the flood susceptible areas of the Kampala area. This was considered the Hazard factor The Sewer infrastructure was then obtained and a density map showing its location concentration geographically generated after normalization, this becomes the Exposure factor. The Vulnerability of the sewer network was obtained by considering the pipe size and pipe material. The project found out that the sewer infrastructure that is at risk of damage is in the areas of - Makerere Kavule - Lugogo by-pass - Kyambogo- along Kyambogo road - Kibuli- along Albert cook road - Kibuye- along kayemba road The project recommended frequent de-silting of the stormwater and open drainages to reduce the vulnerability of the sewer infrastructure. Improvement of the attribute data of the sewer infrastructure to include age and condition will eventually lead to a better analysis of the sewer vulnerability for future studies.
  • Item
    Adoption of labour-based approaches in construction of low-cost seal roads: experience from Ajena Road in Soroti City
    (Makerere University, 2024-07) Oranit, Samuel
    This study examines the implementation of low-cost sealed road infrastructure through labour-based techniques in Soroti City, focusing on Ajena Road. Soroti City adopted Low-Cost Seal (LCS) Technology to address gravel road maintenance costs and resource depletion issues. The research analyzes challenges, assesses social benefits, evaluates environmental impact, and measures project cost, time, and quality impacts using Excel, SPSS, Likert scale, and descriptive statistics. Key findings reveal challenges such as inadequate funds for utility relocation and incomplete drainage works due to underestimated quantities in Bills of Quantities. Despite interruptions from rain, the project concluded a month ahead without cost overruns, meeting specifications. Recommendations include including utility relocation costs in future Bills of Quantities, allocating ample resources for drainage works, engaging communities throughout project phases, planning projects for dry seasons, and organizing training for local communities on low-cost sealing techniques. These measures aim to improve project planning, sustainability, and community involvement in urban infrastructure development.
  • Item
    Alwi dry corridor water supply project in Nyarwodo, Nebbi District
    (Makerere University, 2018) Nabbuma, Mariam
    This report is about the ALWI DRY CORRIDOR WATER SUPPLY PROJECT, in NYARWODO which was an initiative by The Ministry of Water and Environment to supply water to the people of Nebbi and ensure sanitation in the area. Chapter one mainly talks about the project itself thus, the contractors, who were Vambeco Ent Ltd, the consultants, Alliance Consultants Limited, the contract commencement, finish date, and the overall cost of the project. Chapter two follows with the project works, thus, construction of water treatment plant and all the activities involved like, concrete works, pipe work and the procedures and methodologies adapted at each stage to ensure quality. Chapter three gives a brief description of the project management issues, thus, cost, time and quality and how each was achieved on this project. Lastly the lessons learnt, recommendations and the conclusions come in the fourth chapter. In a nut shell the project had an efficient project management team, proper information flow, and communication, compliance to the contractual obligations by all the parties and thus there were limited cost overruns, good quality works and a few delays, therefore, for any project to be successful, it should have a good project manager.
  • Item
    An assessment of land use/land cover changes and their impact on the urban heat island effect dynamics : a case of Kampala City
    (Makerere University, 2025) Buule, Ibrah
    Urbanization in African cities poses significant environmental challenges, including Urban Heat Island (UHI) effects. The accumulation of anthropogenic heat in cities exacerbates this issue, posing serious health risks to the public. This study investigates the UHI trends associated with LULC changes at a local scale, residents’ heat perceptions, and coping strategies to guide planning interventions for improved UHI mitigation and adaptation. The study employed a mixed-method research design. Quantitatively, Kampala’s landscape was classified into homogenous LULC zones based on thermal properties. The UHI trends were analyzed using LST data from Landsat imagery for the years 2005, 2014, and 2023, while LULC changes were assessed through change detection analysis. The relationship between UHI and LULC was examined using the ANOVA tests, boxplots, and grid analyses. Furthermore, local perceptions and behavioral responses were assessed through face-to-face interviews using closed-ended questionnaires and key informant interviews. Findings revealed an expansion of UHI-affected areas from 58% of Kampala city’s landscape in 2005 to 72% in 2023, driven by the observed increase in built-up areas and a decline in natural cover. The built-up LULC zones were associated with the highest UHI values, while natural cover zones had the lowest. The increase in UHI was significantly correlated with urban expansion, densification, and vertical enhancement. Compact high/mid-rise, compact low-rise, lightweight low-rise, and large low-rise zones experienced the highest UHI effects. Nakivubo I, Nakulabye I, Kamwokya II, and the civic center were selected for the heat perception and behavioral response survey. Most respondents (82%) perceived urban heat as increasing and greatly impacting their daily lives, but lacked awareness of its causes. Coping strategies included staying hydrated (81%) and using electric fans/air conditioners (21%), alongside opening windows, wearing light clothes, frequent bathing, and shading. Challenges encountered included increased electricity and water bills, water scarcity in the informal settlements, exposure to water-borne diseases, and limited space for greening. Based on the LULC zone, heat perceptions, and expert recommendations, the study proposes planning strategies for enhanced UHI adaptation and mitigation. Short-term strategies include public awareness campaigns and planning for cooling centers, while long-term measures focus on urban greening, increasing city albedo, and innovative building designs. These findings provide insights for urban planners, policy makers, and public health officials to foster a more resilient and sustainable Kampala city.
  • Item
    An assessment of property rates as an alternative local revenue generation : a case study of Kawempe Division, Kampala City
    (Makerere University, 2025) Epieu, Emmanuel
    Kawempe Division lies right within the heart of Kampala City and yet revenue collections from property rates is always lagging below other divisions. Property rates has a very big potential of eccelerating revenue potential of the division. Its in the background of this that the auther set out to establish the magic potential of property rates as an alternative revenue generation source for Kawempe Divition.
  • Item
    An evaluation of time and cost overruns during the design and build of the Masindi (Kisanja) and the Tangi junction – Paara – Buliisa Road
    (Makerere University, 2025) Ausio, Jessica
    This report provides an assessment of the Masindi (Kisanja) – Park Junction and Tangi Junction – Paraa – Buliisa road project in Uganda, which was a design and build contract undertaken to expedite the delivery of critical oil infrastructure, yet it encountered significant time and cost management challenges. This study evaluates the extent of time and cost overruns during the project’s implementation and identifies their underlying causes. A case study approach was employed, analysing project records, contract documents, and progress reports to compare planned timelines and budgets against actual outcomes. The findings reveal that the project experienced substantial schedule slippage. The initial completion target of April 2021 had to be extended multiple times, with final completion not achieved until September 2024 – about three and a half years beyond schedule and the completion report submitted to UNRA on the 30th December 2024, thus more than doubling the planned duration. Several factors contributed to these delays, including exceptional rainfall events, the incorporation of additional works (such as Uganda Wildlife Authority and other access roads added mid-project), operational constraints from working within Murchison Falls National Park, and disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. On the cost front, the base contract price was largely maintained through allocated contingencies and formal variation orders for the extra scope, keeping the final contract sum close to the original value. However, significant inflationary pressures during the extended project period led to cost escalations that exceeded the contract’s price adjustment provisions, indicating an implicit cost overrun beyond the initial budget. Furthermore, the prolonged project timeline necessitated an extension of the design and supervision services beyond their initially contracted period. Overall, the evaluation highlights that even with a Design and Build procurement strategy intended to mitigate delays, unforeseen environmental, scope, and external factors can bring about major schedule extensions and associated cost implications in large-scale road projects.
  • Item
    An investigation into the impact of super plasticiser dosage on the compressive strength of cement concrete
    (Makerere University, 2025) Kato, Peter
    Polycarboxylate ether (PCE) has long been used as a superplasticiser (SP) in the production of high-strength concrete. However, new SP products are frequently released into the market with various compositions, leading to different dosage requirements and concrete properties. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of SP dosages of 0.1,0.2,0.3,0.4, 0.5,0.6,0.7,0.8,0.9, and 1 litre per 50kg of cement on concrete performance. The study assessed the material properties of cement concrete ingredients, created mix designs for 20MPa, 25MPa, and 30MPa, and produced 297 concrete cubes using varying superplasticiser dosages to investigate the impact of Master Glenium 3889 superplasticiser on concrete compressive strength. Using a plasticiser in the mix reduced the required quantity of cement, thereby reducing the overall cost of the constituent materials by an average of 8%. Laboratory experiments on fresh and hardened concrete properties were conducted and compared to a control normal concrete using the slump test and compressive strength. A thorough analysis was performed in MATLAB R2024a, using the best slump values and compressive strength without concrete defects as the criteria for determining the optimal dosage. The results showed that, with a constant water-cement ratio, increasing the SP dosage resulted in increased workability and compressive strength for the various concrete grades when compared to normal mixes. From the experimental results obtained, it has been found that the optimal SP dosages for G20, G25, and G30 were between 0.6 litres and 0.8 litres. This is because these dosages resulted in the highest attainable compressive strength while also providing the best workability. The results showed a significant improvement in the properties of concrete after using superplasticisers to achieve the highest compressive strength while maintaining high workability.
  • Item
    Analyses of spatio–temporal dynamics of wetland cover in Kampala
    ( 2021-05-05) Wanyama, Wilberforce
    Globally, wetland cover is declining due to the fragile nature of these ecosystems and unplanned land consumption practices. Kampala has undergone tremendous transformation in its landuse/landcover due to rapid urbanization. It has therefore become important for environmental planners to extract, detect, monitor and predict wetland cover changes. The objective of this research was to evaluate the spatio-temporal dynamics of wetlands in Kampala using GIS, RS techniques and Land change modeler between the years 1986 to 2016 so as to forward and encourage development interventions. To estimate the land cover change in Kampala, Landsat ETM ETM+ for 1986,1996,2006 and 2016 respectively were analyzed using ArcGIS10.0 and IDRISI Selva. After processing the imagery/land use/land cover, (LULC) images were classified, analyzed and used to predict the future wetland cover of 2040 using Land Change Modeller (LCM) of TerrSet software. The data for road network, and population data for Kampala, were used as ancillary data to run the modeller. The study adapted the Kappa index for assessing accuracy of the landuse/cover maps generated from the analysis to improve the accuracy of results. An accuracy level of 89.2% was achieved. The results reveal an overall significant increase in built-up area and other landuses at the expense of wetlands from 30.6% in 1986 to 6.1% in 2016. Wetlands lost 3,535 ha to built and woodlots 1,200 ha and a minor proportion to open water. Woodlots and built-up constituted more than half of the total area of Kampala with 4,523.3 ha (23.3%) and 12,117.1 ha (62.3%) respectively. The remaining portion of the area is covered by open water with 1,621.7 ha (8.3%). The study projects a further decline of wetland cover by 428 ha (or by 2.2%), built up covering 15,643.7 ha ( 80.4%) and woodlots with 1,759 ha (9.0%) in 2040 if steps are not instituted to control the rate of decline. These results provide new insights for predicting future changes of wetland vegetation influenced by the on-going threats from climate change and human activities, and form a foundation for sustainable wetland management in Kampala. The study further recommends more research on wetland valuation (including indirect and non-use values) in Kampala should be conducted. This may assist in assessing trade-offs between maintenance of intact wetland against its conversion into other uses.
  • Item
    Analysis of delayed payments to contractors in public construction projects: a case study of the construction of the Sembabule Community Justice Centre
    (Makerere University, 2024-05) Odong, Brian Francis
    In Uganda, delayed payments to contractors in public construction projects have been a common issue that affects the smooth execution and timely completion of such projects. This study analyzes these delayed payments to identify the factors contributing to the delayed payments and their effect on contractors in public construction projects using the construction of the Sembabule Community Justice Centre in Uganda as a case study. Through analyzing literature and project documents, the research identifies clients’ budget constraints, approval delays, delay in the valuation of work done, inaccuracies in contractors' claims, changes in policy of handling variations, and unforeseen circumstances like the COVID-19 pandemic as causes of delayed payments. These factors negatively affect the project timeline, and budget. The analysis also identifies the negative effects of delayed payments which include financial difficulties to the contractor, project delays, strained relationships with suppliers and workers, slow down and suspension of works, and loss of new opportunities. This research proposes remedies such as including contract provisions that allow contractors to receive extensions without penalty if payments are delayed, including contract provisions that specify the timeframe within which a project manager should approve the contractors’ submitted valuation of works done, contract flexibility to adapt to unforeseen circumstances with provisions for renegotiation of terms, and contractors providing all necessary accurate documentation for their claims. The findings of this research emphasize the importance of addressing delayed payments for effective public construction project management.
  • Item
    Analysis of Phenological and Growing season dynamics in Savannah ecosystem of Karamoja sub-region, Uganda.
    ( 2019-11-20) Magaya, John Paul
    Vegetation phenology is an important control on the global fluxes of energy, water, and carbon from terrestrial ecosystems and is a useful indicator of ecosystem response to climate variability and change. However, few studies have focused on the phenology dynamics of different savannah vegetation types and associated fluxes as indicators for length of growing season. This study i) identified savannah phenological characteristics, ii) determined the effect of rainfall on savanna phenology and, iii) determined the length of growing season in Karamoja sub-region. The Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectro-radiometer’s Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (MODIS NDVI) imagery (MOD13Q1) was used. Rainfall data obtained from the National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP) with a daily temporal resolution and gridded resolution of 0.2 x 0.2 degrees was used. Phenological attributes from four major savannah vegetation types (bushland, grassland, thickets and woodland) with eight savannah phenological characteristics (Time of onset of greenness ,Time of end of greenness, Duration of greenness ,Time of maximum NDVI, Value of onset of greenness, Value of end of greenness, Value of maximum NDVI, Range of NDVI which were categorized as Temporal NDVI metrics and NDVIvalue metrics) and rainfall effect on phenological dynamics and length of growing season were analyzed in R and TIMESAT analytical software. Phenological characteristics results revealed that thickets had the earliest onset of greenness (85th day) and earliest end of greenness time (244th day) with maximum greenness, onset NDVI value, and end NDVI value of 0.68, 0.42 and 0.57 respectively. In addition, woodland revealed the highest Max NDVI value, Onset NDVI value, End of greenness NDVI value and least Range of NDVI value of 0.73, 0.56, 0.67 and 0.18 respectively. Rainfall as a driver of phenological change had a positive and significant effect over the 18 year period of analysis on bushland, grassland, thickets and woodland with correlation coefficient of 0.704, 0.722, 0.701, and 0.65 respectively. On average, the start, end and length of growing season were found to occur in pentad 23 (April 19th - 20th), pentad 47 (August 22rd - 23rd) and 123 days respectively. These results reveal that green up of savannah vegetation has positive relationship with rainfall but the start and end of green up is less influenced by the start and end of the rains. Therefore, it is recommended that there is need to couple other drivers such as fires with rainfall for a comprehensive monitoring of savannah vegetation phenological dynamics in Karamoja sub-region.
  • Item
    Analysis of spatial-temporal patterns of African swine fever in Uganda
    ( 2022-03-17) Rubongoya, Edward
    African Swine Fever (ASF) is a viral disease of both domestic pigs and wild boars, with no cure or vaccine, causing economic devastations to farmers. Previous studies in Uganda have not fully addressed the spatial dimension in the epidemiology of the disease. Attempts using traditional methods do provide some spatial insights at district or regional level. However, they are limited in provision of precise spatial patterns and relationships where the disease manifests, hence limiting the full understanding of the spatial diffusion of the disease. To this effect, spatial analysis was conducted using Average Nearest Neighbour (ANN), Moran’s I and Hot spot analysis to characterize the spatial distribution of ASF in Uganda from 2013-2019. A retrospective space-time permutation scan statistic was then used to assess the spatiotemporal clustering of ASF. The socio-environmental and demographic factors such as land use land cover, human population density, density of roads, rivers and water bodies were incorporated to assess the likely causes of clustering. ANN index of 0.45 was less than 1 thus revealing a clustering pattern in the distribution of ASF cases. Moran’s index of 0.52 was greater than 0 thus revealing a positive spatial relationship where-by, ASF cases of similar values were closer to one another than ASF cases with dissimilar values. Hot spot analysis revealed maximum spatial clustering distance of 11.4km (p<0.01). Spatial clustering of high infection rates (hot spots) was mostly observed in Tororo, Busia and Manafwa districts, and spatial clustering of low infection rates (cold spots) was mostly observed in Kole, Omoro and Otuke districts. Space-time clusters highlighting the center of infection, period and size of ASF outbreaks were observed across the study area. The most likely space-time cluster was observed in Alebtong district represented by a log likelihood ratio with the highest value of 1745 (p<0.001) among others. Temporal clustering was observed throughout the whole year; with most outbreak trends increasing from January to April and October to November. A combination of socio-environmental and demographic factors was associated with clustering pattern of ASF observed in various areas. The study concludes that the spatial processes describing clustering of ASF (e.g., animal movements and trade related activities) with high infection rates occur within a maximum distance of 11.4km. January to April and October to November are high prevalent periods. Spatial analysis offers a more informative approach to define the difference or relationship between cases in close proximity and those far-away from each other –which is useful in decision making for better management of epidemics. It is therefore recommended that targeted intervention be adopted; in high prevalent periods like January to April and October to November. Secondly, a buffer zone of not more than 11.4km be established in hot spot areas –during surveillance and imposing quarantines as opposed to quarantining the whole district.
  • Item
    Analysis of successive rainfall water on urban flooding in Kigali-Rwanda for designing a spatially based flood management model using geospatial techniques
    (Makerere University, 2023-01) Zagabe, Thierry
    Floods are the most catastrophic and dangerous disasters that usually inhibit the development of countries at a sustainable rate, and these include a strong rainfall that affects urban areas where Rainfall directed from high elevations to lowlands results in strong floods that destroy lives and property in urban areas of Kigali city. Kigali has an altitude of 1400-2000 m, resulting in a steep slope, and the urban area has grown, with more floods destroying infrastructure and damaging businesses. Geospatial techniques were used to come up with maps for flood management. Despite the fact that there is a persistent problem of flooding in Kigali that has resulted in the destruction of infrastructure, damaged crops, and restricted movement, there’s no existing formal flood management system to mitigate these recurring problems. The study aimed at analyzing the successive urban flooding of Kigali City resulting from heavy rainfall that causes strong storm water to be directed into urban areas and, hence, determining the location of the drainage in Kigali that can mitigate flood risks through analysis using geospatial techniques. The first method used was to make statistics that show how rainfall in Kigali has been increasing from 2000 to 2018. The results show that from 2017 to 2018, a strong rainfall in urban areas brought more floods. The second method, DEM, is used to generate slope, flows of water and watershed, and the change in elevation (contours), where the comparison between wetland places and cadastral survey data from 2018 results in showing a number of parcels in risk areas where 165,223,152 km2 is a wetland with 56,244 residential plots in a risk area. Thirdly, the overlay between the slope, rainfall, wetland, and topographic maps of Kigali shows 5 areas where flood risk is high and where flood management should focus in order to slow down floods by using drainages that can follow a vertical interval of 100 meters. As the altitude of Kigali is between 1400-2000 m, a vertical interval of 100 m in elevation is quite significant, implying that five areas for drainage must be built while causing no disruption to existing infrastructure. Because rainfall in Kigali ranged between 462 and 1193 mm from 2000 to 2018, the city should be able to save a lot of water by utilizing drainages that can direct floods into artificial lakes that can be used for various activities such as fishing culture or to distribute water for water conservation. This study found that 22% of the settlement areas were affected by floods on the cadastral data in Kigali, which caused plot values to decrease and slowed down agriculture projects. This study recommended that they change the design of household reservoirs for rainwater as a flood control measure by creating drainage at 100-meter vertical intervals in the five areas identified in our research. This would help reduce the amount of storm water flow directed into urban areas
  • Item
    Analysis of the contribution made by the clinker cement manufacturing process to greenhouse gas emissions in Uganda.
    (Makerere University, 2023-07-24) Asiimwe, Lindah
    The cement industry is a major contributor to global warming and climate change. Cement raw materials produce emissions. The manufacturing operations are also extremely energy intensive, requiring a lot of fuel and ultimately resulting in emissions. The cement industry produces tons of carbon dioxide (CO2), sulphur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen dioxide (NOX), carbon monoxide (CO) total organic carbon (TOC), and nitric Oxide (NO) each year. This research provides an analysis of cement operations and emissions produced in a developing country like Uganda where intense construction activities are being undertaken. This research aimed to determine the major indirect and direct greenhouse gas emissions produced during the clinker production stage of cement production in Uganda. The second aim of the research was to analyze the factors that largely influence the GHG emissions while the third aim of this research was to determine the optimum level for producing less greenhouse gas emissions. Emissions were identified at the clinker production stage by taking daily recordings using data sheets. For the indirect emissions, electricity data in kWh consumed by running factory machinery per day was recorded. This was multiplied by an emission factor for grid electricity in Africa to get the carbon dioxide produced per day. The direct emissions were recorded daily on data sheets for a period of 8 weeks. These readings were recorded from the continuous emission monitoring system (CEMS) machine. CO2 was produced indirectly by the electricity consumed to run the machines with a minimum of 29 kg/t and a maximum of 274 kg/t. The direct GHG emissions produced during the clinker stage include CO and NOX producing 1053mg/Nm3, and 576mg/Nm3 respectively as the highest emissions to answer objective one. Furthermore, with a 95% confidence level, raw materials (kiln feed) used significantly affects TOC, CO2, and CO. Biomass significantly affects TOC, CO2, and CO. Heavy fuel oil significantly affects TOC, CO2, and SO2, Coal significantly affects TOC, CO2, SO2, and CO. The number of kiln operating hours and the level of clinker production significantly affect CO2 an indirect emission. The results also pointed to the production of more clinker leads to less GHG emissions emitted direct and indirect emissions except for total organic carbon which increases greatly as the clinker being produced increases.
  • Item
    Analysis of the reliability of time schedule forecasts adopted at road project tendering in Uganda
    (Makerere University, 2024) Odoch, Simon Peter
    This study takes a close look at the accuracy of time schedule forecasts used in road construction projects across Uganda, focusing on seven key projects. It explores the common discrepancies between the estimated timelines at the tender stage and the actual time it takes to complete the projects. In Uganda’s infrastructure sector, precise scheduling is critical to managing resources effectively and keeping costs under control. However, time overruns, increased expenses, and delays in delivering planned projects are frequent challenges. These issues point to a deeper problem in how projects are planned and scheduled during tendering. The study uses a mixed-methods approach, blending quantitative analysis of scheduling deviations with qualitative insights from project documentation including tender schedules, progress reports, and completion certificates. The quantitative analysis shows that some projects took two to four times longer to complete than originally forecasted. Qualitative insights helped to identify the root causes of these delays. Key internal factors affecting project timelines included contractor capacity, resource limitations, and restricted access to credit. External factors also played a role, such as delays in relocating utilities, challenges with land acquisition, unexpected ground conditions, and delayed utility relocations. Together, these issues created significant hurdles in meeting the projected timelines. For each of the seven case study projects, the original Time Schedule Forecasts at the tender stage were reviewed. All the projects had used Microsoft Project for scheduling, along with the Critical Path Method (CPM). The analysis revealed that while the forecasts were accurate and reliable for the construction phase, they had however, underestimated the time needed for preconstruction activities. On this basis, the study proceeded to estimate reliable durations for preconstruction activities based on the project documents for the seven case study projects. Based on data from the seven case study projects; the study proceeded to determine the major causes of delay that Project Managers and various Stakeholders need to plan against; to ensure timely project execution. The research aims to enhance our understanding of infrastructure development in Uganda, offering insights for policymakers, contractors, and project managers. By addressing some of the root issues in scheduling practices, the study advocates for improved efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and satisfaction among all stakeholders involved in Uganda’s road construction projects, helping the country meet its infrastructure goals for the future.
  • Item
    Analyzing contributing factors to construction claims on water projects in Uganda using multivariate regression modelling
    (Makerere University, 2023-09-19) Ddumba, Derrick Arthur
    Globally organizations continue to grapple with construction claims, which have contributed to the cost escalation on projects estimated at 28%. Construction claims on water projects in Uganda account for an average of 14.56% of the initial contract sum where in extreme cases the cost overrun due to these claims can exceed 40% of the contract amount. This phenomenon has affected the implementation of the core projects of the National Development Plan (NDPIII) in terms of their financial performance where large sums of money have been re-directed to settlement of claims. In earlier studies, 78% of engineering construction companies believed that project risks were increasing. This created a need to model and understand the behavior of claims. There is need to analyze the underlying factors leading to the construction claims, identify the contributing factors and thereafter develop a model to predict their impact on the overall claim amount. A total of eight claim areas were identified as based on FIDIC red book which was consistent with most of the construction contracts executed on water projects in Uganda and from literature. A questionnaire survey was conducted involving professionals from National Water and Sewerage Corporation, contracting firms and consultancy firms where feedback from 88 respondents on frequency and impact of the contributing factors was rated using a five-point Likert scale. Complete data were gathered on 16 completed water projects in Uganda and the contributing factors ranked basing on importance index (II). The five highest ranked contributing factors were identified and a regression model for predicting the claim amount was developed using MS excel. The five factors ranked basing on their significance on the claim amount in the model were; variations, right of access to site, unforeseen physical conditions, extension of time for completion and delays by authorities. The data revealed that the five major contributing factors to claims accounted for 13.99% cost overrun due to claims and 96.08% of the entire claim amounts raised. Variations had the biggest impact on claim amount with 32.97% on average whereas delays by authorities had the least impact with 7.55% on average. The predictive model for construction claims on water projects was developed with a coefficient of determination (R-square) of 0.996 where 99.6% of the claim amount could be predicted by the model. It was concluded that lack of clarity on contract clauses and poorly designed scope as well as scope alterations led to variations which was the leading contributing factor to claims. Clear contract clauses on claims and prevention of scope creep will limit the development of claims.
  • Item
    Analyzing the impact of structural system modifications from steel to cast-in-situ concrete on project cost and timeline: a case study of the main load dispatch centre expansion project in Lugogo
    (Makerere University, 2025) Nanywa, Winnie
    This study investigates the cost and timeline implications of modifying the structural system from structural steel to cast-in-situ concrete during the refurbishment of the Load Dispatch Centre at Uganda Electricity Transmission Company Limited (UETCL) Control Center in Lugogo. The original design proposed a steel frame to support an additional level on an existing structure without impacting any load on it; however, this was revised to a cast-in-situ concrete frame due to unavailability of the specified steel sections on the local market. The research employed a case study methodology, using project records, design documents, construction logs, and site observations. The analysis focused on timeline deviations, cost implications, workmanship quality, design integrity, and coordination challenges. Findings reveal that the structural system change had cascading effects—most significantly a threefold increase in the project duration, from six months to twenty. Delays were to foundation redesign, procurement constraints, and local labor capacity issues in implementing specialised components such as the suspended floor system. Despite these setbacks, the project highlighted the importance of flexible architectural design, coordination under pressure, and adaptive project management strategies. The study concludes by recommending proactive supplier engagement, context-specific structural decisions, and a more integrated design-and-build approach. These lessons contribute valuable insights to construction management practice in refurbishment scenarios.