School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bioengineering (SFTNB) Collections

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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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    Antibiotic residues in fresh and roasted chicken meat sold in Mukono district
    (Makerere University, 2022-12-22) Zawedde, Vivian
    Increased demand in poultry meat has led to rear poultry in the shortest period of time with maximum output. This has resulted into increased use of antibiotics. Objectives: This study was designed to assess antibiotics residues in chicken meat sold in Mukono District with respect to food safety regulations. Methods: A survey was conducted to determine the antibiotics commonly used by farmers and also assess farmer’s knowledge and ability to correctly apply veterinary antibiotics. The study was carried out in eight sub counties in Mukono District (Wantoni, Kikko, Namawojjolo, Mbalala, Kiteete, Nabuti, Nasuuti and Ngandu) using a semi structured questionnaire. Purposive sampling was used to select farmers with at least 500 birds. Information on the used antibiotic drugs was collected from farmers, drug sellers and veterinary officers. Antibiotics were determined in 40 broilers roasted (20) and raw (20) from farmers in eight different areas. Samples collected were composed of 5 breasts, 5 wings, 5 thigh muscles and 5 livers. Antibiotic residues were determined using High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) method. Results: Results indicated that 93% of the farmers had received formal education ranging from Primary Leaving Examination (PLE) to University. Most of the farmers (55%) were females and their age varied between 23 and 57 years. Majority of the farmers (90.9%) had experience in poultry production varying from less than 1 year to 6 years. The study revealed that farmers (94.5%) used antibiotics during poultry production. Farmers (69%) had access to knowledge and aware of the veterinary antibiotics guidelines. Farmers (75.9%), did not correctly follow the instructions during administration of the antibiotics. Majority of farmers (77%) administered antibiotics orally after dilution. The remaining percentage used both oral and intramuscular (IM) administration methods. To flush out the antibiotic residues from the chicken system, farmers claimed to use Aloe Vera (Aloe Barbadensis Miller) and garlic (Allium Sativum). Tylosin, Enrofloxacin and Oxytetracycline were identified as commonly used antibiotics. The concentration levels of Oxytetracycline were 0.84 µg/kg, 3.00 µg/Kg, 5.87 µg/Kg, 0.31 µg/kg in raw chicken thighs, wings, livers and breasts respectively. Enrofloxacin residues in the raw chicken thighs, livers and breasts were 0.83µg/kg, 0.59 µg/kg, 0.0 µg/kg respectively. No Enrofloxacin was detected in the raw chicken wings. Tylosin residues in raw chicken, thighs, wings and breasts, were 10.20 µg/kg, 19.80 µg/kg, and 9.59 µg/kg respectively. Tylosin was not detected in the raw chicken liver. In roast chicken, Enrofloxacin (0.09µg/kg) and Oxytetracycline (0.01 µg/kg) were only detected in thigh samples. Tylosin was not detected in any roast chicken parts. Conclusion: Enrofloxacin, Tylosin and Oxytetracycline residues in both raw and roasted chicken meat were below regulatory limits for CAC/MRL 2017. The findings suggested that the chicken meat sold in Mukono district is within the acceptable antibiotic residues Limits.
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    Application of HACCP (Hazard Analysis of Critical Control Points) in managing common hazards in small scale groundnut paste processing industries in Uganda.
    (Makerere University, 2013) Nansereko, Sophie
    Groundnuts have been associated with many hazards, especially aflatoxins, a potent carcinogen in animals and humans. A number of strategies to reduce these hazards, especially aflatoxin have been suggested, including Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP). This study was aimed at establishing the effectiveness of HACCP in reducing hazards in small scale groundnut processing industries. Furthermore, the study investigated the level of HACCP adoption in small scale groundnut processing industries, in addition to the motivational factors and barriers to HACCP implementation. In-depth narrative interviews were carried out with eight small scale groundnut processors attempting to implement HACCP. Analysis of their interviews was carried out to identify major motivational factors and barriers to HACCP implementation in their processing industries. Four themes acting as ‘motivational factors’ were identified and these included: desire to improve product quality, maintenance of health of consumers, expansion of their markets and curiosity. Six key themes acting as ‘barriers’ to successful implementation were identified. These were lack of awareness, lack of understanding of the HACCP concept, language constraints, negative environmental factors, poor supplier selection and limited resources. Quantitative physical and microbial analysis was conducted on raw groundnuts, roasted groundnuts and groundnut paste collected from four of the eight processors, six (6) times over a period of eighteen (18) months. Two of these processors were trained in HACCP, while the other two were not trained. These samples were analyzed for physical hazards, microbial load and aflatoxins. Results indicated no significant difference in physical hazards levels, microbial load and aflatoxin content between those trained and not trained in HACCP. In addition, over 70% of groundnut paste samples recorded aflatoxin levels above 10ppb (highest limit set by UNBS). The results indicated that even with the development of a HACCP plan, HACCP implementation in small scale groundnut processing industries participating in this study was difficult. From this, essential issues to be addressed in order for successful HACCP to be achieved in small scale groundnut processing industries are put forward.
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    Assessing Erosion Risk and Heavy Metal Loading in Sediment from the Inner Murchison Bay Catchment
    (Makerere University, 2022-12) Ssewankambo, Gyaviira
    Lake Victoria's Inner Murchison Bay (IMB) is suffering from deteriorating water quality, with pollutants including heavy metals posing ecological and human health concerns. The information gaps on sediment from the catchment and its heavy metal content has hindered the understanding of potential ecological threats and the tailoring of mitigation and conservation measures. The aim of this research was to model erosion and quantify heavy metals embedded in sediment from the IMB catchment. Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE) was set up in GIS environment to model and predict potential erosion prone areas. Field walks along randomly predetermined transects within the catchment were used to validate the predicted soil erosion prone areas and identify other hotspots. Sediment yields from Nakivubo and Ggaba sub-catchments for ten individual storm events between March and May 2022 were modelled using the Modified Universal Soil Loss Equation (MUSLE). Eighteen suspended sediment samples from Nakivubo and Ggaba channels were analysed for contamination by eight heavy metals (Lead, Zinc, Copper, Iron, Cadmium, Manganese, Chromium and Nickel) following standard methods. RUSLE revealed croplands and hilly zones (LS-factor >20) as major erosion hotspots (>5 t∙ha−1∙yr−1), while the field walks revealed bare surfaces, murram roads and unlined drainage channels as other major erosion sources. MUSLE model was calibrated in Nakivubo sub-catchment and independently validated in Ggaba with R2 of 0.9, Nash-Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE) of 0.57 and a Percent Bias (PBIAS) of -15.5. For the 10 study storm events, the mean discharge and Suspended Sediment Concentration (SSC) were: 3.08 m3/s and 1088.9 mg/L; 0.495 m3/s and 831.2 mg/L for Nakivubo and Ggaba, respectively. Cadmium, lead, and zinc were the most prevalent heavy metals and Pollution Load Indices (PLI) revealed Nakivubo (PLI = 1.16) was more polluted than Ggaba (PLI = 0.43). Physical, biological and agronomic soil and water conservation measures, improved municipal effluent management, wetland and buffer restoration and enforcement of environmental regulations are recommended to ameliorate sediment and heavy metal pollution into Lake Victoria.
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    Assessing fortification compliance and nutrient retention: a comprehensive study on maize millers and flour in the Kampala Metropolitan Area
    (Makerere University, 2023-12) Barungi, Fred
    Adequate intakes of micronutrients are required for the immune system to function efficiently. However, a large percentage of people around the world are suffering from micronutrient deficiency, also known as ‘hidden hunger’ which term is used because the symptoms cannot easily be seen or felt. Current technology employs fortification as a means of restoring most of the lost minerals and vitamins. The Uganda Ministry of Health in collaboration with UNBS has drafted a policy that mandates manufacturers of certain foods, maize flour inclusive, to fortify their products if their installed capacity is above 20 MT. The present research surveyed to assess the level of compliance among maize flour millers with the fortification policy, fortification levels, and stability of fortificants used. Millers who had knowledge of food processing accounted for 41.45%. The majority of millers(93.1%) were not fortifying the flour, even when the installed milling capacity required fortification. The flour and porridge samples were analysed for vitamin A, zinc, and total iron. The overall percentage compliance of the maize flours with vitamin A, zinc, and total iron as per the policy was 60%.Vitamin A and zinc levels had statistically significant differences (p0.05) between the levels of total iron in the maize flour and porridge samples. The the study, showed that maize flour millers were knowledgeable about Uganda’s fortification policy, although variability in understanding of maize grain and flour quality, as well as packaging requirements. Despite the above overall compliance with vitamin A, zinc, and total iron fortification, the cooking of flour into porridge had a significant role in the loss of vitamin A and total iron with no effect on zinc. Therefore, there is need to enhance surveillance activities on maize millers to ensure fortification among those meeting the minimum required installed capacity. Furthermore, assessing the levels of other micronutrients such as vitamin B3 (nicotinamide), vitamin B9 (folic acid), vitamin B12 in the fortified samples is recommended.
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    Assessing levels of E-coli and heavy metals in green vegetables grown in the Nakivubo wetlands
    (Makerere University, 2021) Elema, Paul
    Provision of adequate food for the increasing population is one of the major concerns of urban areas. In the case of Kampala city, urban agriculture is increasingly practiced in wetlands. Different studies have established that a wide range of crops cultivated in the wetlands is contaminated with various heavy metals and pathogenic microorganisms. This study was therefore carried out to determine the extent of heavy metal and E. coli contamination in edible parts of green amaranth in the Nakivubo wetland. Wastewater samples were collected from Nakivubo channel and from various pollution sources in the catchment. Soil and fresh green amaranth samples were collected from the Nakivubo wetlands. These samples were analyzed for heavy metal and E.coli contaminants using standard procedures in the Ministry of Water and Environment (MWE) and the Makerere University School of Food Science microbiology laboratories respectively. Physico-chemical parameters of wastewater were also determined instantly using the automatic multi water quality checker U53 HORIBA. Except for mean lead concentration of 2.28 ± 1.10 mg/L in Nakivubo channel wastewater, laboratory results established that all mean lead, cadmium and E.coli concentrations in the catchment area wastewater, Nakivubo channel wastewater, Nakivubo wetlands and in green amaranth were above NEMA and WHO permissible limits. However, PCF values for both metals were below the WHO acceptable limit of 0.2, implying that PCF is not a reliable indicator of safety levels of crops contaminated with heavy metals. The close proximity of sampling point W1 to a former solid waste dumping site accounts for the high RI values at this point. A high proportion of H8+ at P1 (effluent of Bugolobi WWTP), confirms that much of the E.coli that gets into the treatment facility is human associated and also suggests that much of it is not removed or destroyed during the treatment process. This implies that the treatment facility may not be efficient with respect to microorganism removal. It can therefore be concluded that at the time of this study, there was considerable lead, cadmium and E.coli pollution in the sampled areas. Agricultural activities in the wetlands may have to be stopped with the authorities taking immediate steps to restore the Nakivubo wetlands to save L. Victoria from pollution. Measures need to be put in place to limit amount of pollutants reaching the cultivated parts of the wetlands. Regulatory bodies like NEMA should exercise their mandated authority of monitoring upstream activities and enforce punitive measures against potential polluters.
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    Assessing potential impact of climate change on irrigation requirement of coffee : a case study of Greater Luwero, Uganda
    (Makerere University, 2025) Bongomin, Samuel Otto
    Coffee irrigation enhances yields and contributes to the fight against poverty especially under Climate Change (CC). In Uganda, the impact of climate change on irrigation requirement of coffee is inadequately understood. This knowledge gap is critical for evidence-based policy development and the design of coffee irrigation systems. This study evaluates the impact of climate change on the irrigation requirement of coffee in the Greater Luwero between 2021 to 2080.The study objectives include; (i) to simulate climate variables for use in CropWat Model, (ii) to compute the irrigation requirement of coffee between 2021-2080 under RCP4.5 and RCP8.5, and (iii) to investigate the perception of coffee farmers to climate change. LARS-WG.6 was used to simulate climate between 2021-2080 under climate scenario RCP4.5 and RCP8.5. The simulated climate data was integrated into the CropWat.8 water balance model to analyze projected irrigation requirements. Additionally, a survey of 49 farmers was conducted to evaluate the farmers perception to climate change. Findings indicate significant changes in temperature and humidity but no significant change in rainfall and solar radiation for the study period P>0.05. Irrigation requirement under RCP4.5 increases from 668.06×104m3/ha/year to 1013.97×104m3/ha/year in Kiziba, 703.73×104m3/ha/year to 985.87×104m3/ha/year for Katugo and 755.92×104m3/ha/year to 985.5×104m3/ha/year in Wakyato for the years 1991–2080. Under the RCP 8.5 climate scenario, irrigation requirements increase from 673.06×104m3/ha/year to 1049.74×104m3/ha/year in Kiziba,867.61×104m3/ha/year to 1116.54×104m3/ha/year in Katugo and 876.73×104m3/ha/year to 1070.18×104m3/ha/year in Wakyato. Survey results agree with the simulations projecting significant increase in coffee irrigation requirement between 2021-2080 in the region. Existing irrigations systems need to be upgraded to meet future water requirements. The study recommends adoption of drip irrigation over sprinklers to optimize water use efficiency. Additionally, Government should support coffee farmers in irrigation infrastructure development through grants and subsidies. Further research on climate-smart coffee irrigation is recommended in Uganda for improved farmers livelihood.
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    Assessing Suitability of Irrigation Scheduling Decision Support Systems for Lowland Rice Farmers in Sub-Saharan Africa—A Review
    (Agricultural Sciences, 2023-02-23) Mubangizi, Aloysius ; Wanyama, Joshua ; Kiggundu, Nicholas ; Nakawuka, Prossie
    Irrigation in lowland rice production systems in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) is mainly based on traditional surface irrigation methods with continuous flooding practices. This irrigation method ends up using a lot more water that would have otherwise been used to open more land and be used in other water requiring sectors. Various studies suggest Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) as an alternative practice for water management that reduce water use without significantly affecting yield. However, this practice has not been well adopted by the farmers despite its significant benefits on reduced total water use. Improving the adoption of AWD using irrigation Decision Support Systems (DSSs) help the farmer on two fronts; to know ‘how much water to apply’ and ‘when to irrigate’, which are very critical in maximizing productivity. This paper reviews the applicability of DSSs using AWD in low-land rice production systems in Sub Saharan Africa
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    Assessing the effect of chicken manure-based fertigation for improved crop performance of tomato and cabbage
    (Makerere University, 2023-01-16) Mukulu, Diana
    To determine the most appropriate chicken manure-based fertigation regime for improved yield and quality of tomato and cabbage, a three-replicate RCBD field experiment was set up at MUARIK (0° 27.9428' N, 32° 36.796' E) with sandy loam soils of Field Capacity of 0.33 cm³ water/cm³ soil, and Permanent Wilting Point of 0.24 cm³ water/cm³ soil. Three treatments and two controls were set up: mass compositions of 100% deep-litter manure (T1), 100% battery-cage manure (T2) and 50% battery-cage + 50% deep-litter manure (T3), rainfed without fertigation (R) and Water only (W). Liquid concentrations of the three manure treatments were extracted, characterized and applied to the crops. Weather and soil moisture conditions were monitored daily for irrigation scheduling. The fertigation schedule intended to provide the crops with their net nutrient requirements. For each crop treatment and replicate, data on crop growth parameters and yield were recorded. Proximate analysis for was done for crop physical-chemical quality parameters. A one-way ANOVA and Turkeys’ multiple comparison test conducted in R studio were used to test significance at 5% significance level. Averagely, the nutrient composition in mg/l for the treatments were N505±25.96, P368.53±25.23 and K596.98±32.20 for T1, N841±25.76, P660.98±22.23 and K661.98±31.19 for T2, and N673±24.97, P690.27±25.23 and K719.18±32.19 for T3. Nutrient composition of T1 was significantly different from T2 (p= 3.2e-06) and T3 (p= 5.3e-05). Results showed that crop growth parameters generally improved with increase in amount of nutrient in the treatments. For tomato, the highest total yield of 18.35±0.004 kg/m2 was realized with T2 followed T1, T3, W and R with 14.11±0.005 kg/m2, 13.82±0.0005 kg/m2, 11.85±0.004 kg/m2 and 9.89±0.004 kg/m2 respectively. Cabbage registered highest yield of 8.81±0.001 kg/m2 with T2 followed by T3, T1, W and R with 6.35±0.001 kg/m2, 5.88±0.001 kg/m2 3.37±0.001 kg/m2 and 1.49±0.001 kg/m2 respectively. Where available, Battery cage is the most suitable composition for increased yield of tomato and cabbage.
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    Assessing the effect of irrigation water management strategies on napier production
    (Makerere University, 202-12) Ntege, Ivan
    Complexity of crop responses to water has led to exploration of empirical crop production functions in yield estimations. There is paucity of information on Napier production response to different irrigation water management strategies. The main objective of the study was to assess the suitability of using biophysical models in predicting fodder yield responses to different irrigation water management strategies as a contribution to sustainable intensification on fodder production in Uganda. Specifically, this study aimed at assessing soil moisture variations due to different irrigation levels under Napier production. Secondly, to determine the response of Napier dry matter (DM) yields (ton/ha) to different irrigation regimes. Lastly, to predict Napier yield response under rainfed, full irrigation, and deficit irrigation using DSSAT-CANEGRO model. The study area was located at Mbarara Zonal Agricultural Research Development Institute (MbaZARDI)). Experimental data for three growth cycles on canopy cover (%), DM yields, irrigation amounts (mm) and soil characteristics were utilized in model calibration and validation. Results indicated that nearly 80% of the sensitive parameters were observed to be related to growth and the rest to phenology. PARCEMAX which accounted for about 78% of DM yield variability had the highest sensitive index. TDELAY emerged with a sensitivity index of 0.64 on canopy height. Based on calibrated model performance, predicted and measured values were in accord with a root mean square error (RMSE) of 10.314 ton/ha, coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.76 and Wilmott agreement (d-index) of 0.764. Potential Napier DM yields at harvest were underestimated in the range of 2.33 - 5.94%. Under predicted Napier DM yields ranged between 10.97 – 38.76 ton/ha whereas canopy height ranged between 1.92 –2.86 m. Under dry conditions, it is economically viable for dairy farmers to adopt ensilage of Napier at 30% DM yields (28 days after planting). Accumulated harmful nitrates during drought are also reduced through fermentation in silage. Therefore, DSSAT illustrated it’s appropriateness in pre-season decision-making on cropping patterns and irrigation management strategies.
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    Assessing the effect of sensor-based deficit drip irrigation regimes on crop performance of eggplant
    ( 2023-10) Ouma, Godfrey
    Due to climate change and the increasing challenge of water scarcity, irrigation of eggplants needs to optimize crop water use through deficit irrigation. However, determining the appropriate deficit irrigation level for optimal eggplant growth remains insufficiently understood, leading to potential over-irrigation. To guide improvement in irrigation water use efficiency (IWUE), this study investigated the effect of sensor-based deficit drip irrigation on performance of eggplant. The research was conducted at MUARIK using an RCBD field experimental setup. The study considered various treatments based on percentages of Field Capacity (FC): T1: 25% FC, T2: 50% FC, T3: 75% FC, T4: 100% FC, and a control with no irrigation (T0: 0% FC). Each treatment was replicated three times. The irrigation scheduling relied on daily readings from ML3 Thetaprobe sensor alongside the watermark sensor. Plant growth, yield, IWUE, Crop Water Use Efficiency (CWUE) and fruit quality were measured, and the performance of the watermark sensor against the ML3 Thetaprobe sensor was assessed using RMSE, MBE, and the Index of Agreement. Statistical analyses were performed using R Studio software at a significance level of 5%, and Tukey's multiple comparison test was applied to separate the means. The results demonstrated significant differences (p<0.05) in plant growth and crop quality parameters across the deficit irrigation levels. Likewise, crop yield and IWUE showed significant differences (p<0.05) among the deficit levels, with the highest yield of 39.1±1.10 ton/ha, CWUE of 74.75±1.8 kg/ha.mm, and IWUE of 86.81±1.2 kg/ha.mm recorded in T3. Conversely, T0 had the lowest yield and CWUE of 13.5±1.20 ton/ha and 46.5±4.1 kg/ha.mm respectively; while T1 exhibited the lowest IWUE of 43.95 ±7.1 kg/ha.mm. The study's findings indicate that irrigating eggplants at 75% FC maximizes both yield and water conservation in sandy clay loam soil. Furthermore, the use of factory-calibrated watermark sensors may not be suitable for irrigation under low soil moisture tension. Consequently, further research is recommended to explore the effects of deficit irrigation and fertilization regimes on eggplant crops.
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    Assessment of aflatoxin exposure among mothers (15-49 years) and children (6-59 months) in Rubaga and Nakawa Divisions of Kampala Capital City
    (Makerere University, 2021) Mutebi, Ronald
    Aflatoxins are food contaminants that affect mostly cereals and legumes that are poorly handled and stored at high temperature and humidity. Aflatoxins are highly potent group 1 hepatocarcinogenic, teratogenic, mutagenic, immuno-toxic and neurological agents. Out of an estimated global population of 7.5 billion people, over 4.5 billion rely on diets that are contaminated with aflatoxins. Kampala Capital City (KCC) is among the fastest growing cities in Africa with an annual growth rate of 5.6% and is home to over 1.65 million residents many of whom are low income earners and depend on low cost cereals and legumes. The major foods consumed by peri-urban dwellers in KCC are purchased from retail shops and poorly structured open markets making them prone to aflatoxin contamination. Due to limited incomes, a preference for low cost cereals and legumes with little thought of food safety is inevitable among the population living in peri-urban areas of KCC. It was therefore hypothesized that a large proportion of the peri urban dwellers in KCC was exposed to high dietary aflatoxins. The study was conducted in two divisions of Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) from which 372 households were randomly selected to assess the aflatoxins food contamination, aflatoxin exposure and aflatoxin risk characterization among mothers (15-49years) and children (6-59 months). Total aflatoxins were quantified in foods using ELISA Ridascreen® (R-Biopharm, Darmstadt, Germany). Total aflatoxin exposure was estimated probabilistically based on a triangular distribution and 10,000 simulations using @Risk Software (Palisade, Ithaca, USA) while risk characterization was done using the JEFCA Margin of Exposure and Population Cancer risk models. The results show presence of total aflatoxins, that included AFB1, AFB2, AFG1, and AFG2 in 100, 39, 37 and 7 samples respectively and the levels varied from 0.04 to 452.05 μg/kg. The highest mean of total aflatoxins at 219.91 μg/kg was detected in porridge mix, followed by the average of 197.43 μg/kg of total aflatoxins in cassava flour. The results indicate high total aflatoxin exposure levels for both mothers (15-49 years) and children (6-59 months) with a range of 0.1-1.1(μg/kgBW/day). The estimated margin of exposure from consumption of aflatoxin contaminated foods was 73.69 and 63.14 for children (6-59 months) and mothers (15-49 years) respectively. The risk of primary liver cancer for children and mothers was 5.4 and 7.59 per 100,000 persons per year respectively. The results indicated that there is a high risk of developing primary liver cancer among the people of KCC resulting from consumption of aflatoxin contaminated cereals and legumes. There is a need to put in place measures to reduce community exposure to aflatoxins. Such measures may include; sensitization of all value chain actors on the health risks associated with consumption aflatoxin contaminated staples and management strategies, enhancing the enforcement of existing aflatoxin standards and dietary diversification.
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    Assessment of dietary intake and nutritional status of children (under five years) who are HIV positive attending The Aids Support Organization (TASO) Entebbe
    (Makerere University, 2010-11) Jama, Ali Duale
    BACKGROUND: HIV/AIDS still remains a challenging pandemic worldwide, with Sub-Saharan African being the most affected region. In Uganda, the impact of the disease at household, community and national level has been enormous. A large proportion of HIV positive children less than five years of age are malnourished. HIV infection in children less than five years of age increases energy requirements and affects nutritional status through increase in resting energy expenditure, reduction in food intake, nutrient malabsorption and loss, and complex metabolic alterations that culminate in weight loss and wasting which is common in AIDS. Exclusive breastfeeding during the first 6 months of life has been recommended. Exclusive breastfeeding is more protective than mixed feeding for infant’s survival and development followed by complementary foods in addition to breastfeeding for 24 months. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to assess the dietary intake and nutritional status of children under five years who were HIV positive. Specifically the study sought to determine factors affecting children’s nutritional status, the effect of the caretakers’ knowledge attitudes and practices on dietary patterns and establish the health related problems associated with HIV/AIDS that may hinder food intake. METHODS: The total number of children under study was 245. 50.2% were males while 49.8% were females. The methodology undertaken was a cross-sectional study employing both qualitative and quantitative methods. Data was collected using a questionnaire covering background information of the caretakers and children, social economic status, and food consumption patterns/ habits of the children, 24-hr dietary intake, and nutrition knowledge, access to health, and nutrition information. Nutritional status of the children was determined using anthropometric measurements. Epi-Info 2003 statistical package was used to compute Weight-for- age (WAZ), Height-for-age (HAZ), and Weight-for-height (WHZ) z-scores. SPSS version 12.0 was used to present descriptive statistics (Mean, Std. Deviation, and Frequencies). Statistical significance was set at 95% Confidence Interval. RESULTS: The results revealed that exclusive breastfeeding was positively correlated with nutritional status (r2 = 0.624, P= 0.004). In the study, immunization had a positive impact on HIV/AIDS positive children, where 60.4% completed their immunization. The most frequent illness the children got within the past 30 days prior to the research was nausea (14.4%) and the least was difficult in swallowing/Candida esophagus (6.3%). Majority of the children (72.7%) got side effects from the use of ARV drugs including reduced appetite (27.3%), headaches (18.4%), abdominal pain (15.1%), and heartburn (12.7%). The result also revealed that the total number of children who consumed 3 to 4 meals per day was 77.9% while only 12.7% could afford more than 4 meals per day as recommended by MOH (2003). From the results on nutritional information, 63.3% of the caretakers received information on nutrition and care on HIV positive children from health workers in TASO Entebbe Centre. The information included foods good for the patients, foods that should not be given the patients e.g. alcohol, and consequences of poor or/ and bad feeding, improving children’s nutritional status at household level, hygiene and proper sanitation. The survey also revealed that 13.5% of the children were underweight, 11.3% were stunted and 12.1% were wasted while 63.1% were normal. CONCLUSION: From the study it was observed that the children did not meet their requirements for zinc, iron and vitamin A and therefore were at high risk of becoming deficient in these micronutrients
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    Assessment of food safety management systems of restaurants in Kawempe and Kampala Central Divisions of Kampala District
    (Makerere University, 2023-12) Nabaggala, Lillian
    Food borne disease outbreaks are caused by the consumption of contaminated foods that maybe linked to improper food handling practices at food serving establishments. In Uganda, the greatest factors contributing to food borne illnesses relate to low levels of awareness and poor practices in thehandling of food during production, processing, storage, transportation, and retailing. This study assessed the performance of food safety management systems (FSMS) of restaurants withinKampala. Specifically, it evaluated the context riskiness, core control, and assurance activities of an implemented FSMS in Kampala, Uganda. It also evaluated the microbial load of food sold in the restaurants in Kawempe and Kampala Central Divisions of Kampala. Additionally, it identified the challenges food service establishments in Kampala face in implementing FSMS. Using the stratified random method, qualitative data were collected from 42 restaurants using a semi-structured questionnaire and an observation checklist. Food samples (n = 126) were analyzed for Total Plate Counts, Salmonellaspp., Staphylococcusaureus, total coliforms, and Escherichia coli following standard methods. Descriptive statistics were carried out to get the means and frequency of qualitative data, which were then transformed into assigned scores to obtain the first indication of FSMS performance. Hierarchical cluster analysis with the furthest neighbor method and squared Euclidean distance was also used to get an insight into the differences in the classes of the food service establishments. Further analysis of data was carried out using analysis of variance and posthoc Scheffe tests to analyze the level of contamination according to the type of food. Results showed that the context riskiness, core control and assurance activities of implemented FSMS in Kampala ranged from moderate to high-risk performance. No differences(p<0.05) were observed in the microbial loads except Staphylococcusaureus in all the restaurants and Escherichia coli in high-class restaurants in the Central Division of Kampala. Salmonella spp. was not detected in any samples. The barriers to the implementation of FSMS included inadequate knowledge/lack of awareness of FSMS requirements and its benefits, lack of top management commitment, time for food safety issues, and the high costs associated with installing FSMS.
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    Assessment of Water Availability using Water Evaluation and Planning (WEAP) model in Namatala River Catchment.
    (Makerere University, 2023-12) Namakhola, Rajab
    Trends in global population growth coupled with effects of climate change are a threat to water availability as experienced in Namatala River Catchment (NRC), Mbale, Uganda. This study was conducted to quantify and characterize water availability and demand using the Water Evaluation and Planning (WEAP) model over a 20-year period to guide water resources management in NRC. WEAP model was used to perform quantification and characterization of water availability under the following scenarios: I) reference or current conditions of climate, population and land-use/land cover, II) increased population of 3.0% year-1 and climate change (increased mean temperature of 8.5% and rainfall of 9.8%), III) land-use/land-cover changes (converting 10% agricultural land into agroforestry). WEAP model sensitivity analysis and calibration were performed using hydrometeorological data of 2016-2018 and validated using data of 2019. WEAP was sensitive to crop coefficient (Kc) and runoff resistance factors (RRF) out of nine parameters. The model’s performance during validation produced Nash-Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE) value of 0.7, Normalized Roof Mean Square Error (nRMSE) of 0.6%, and Percent Bias (PBIAS) of 7.4%. Model scenario analysis showed that: under reference scenario I, NRC yields 247 MCM year-1; under scenario II, NRC yields 200 MCM year-1; and under scenario III, NRC yields 257 MCM year-1. Model scenario analysis results showed that NRC has sufficient water resources of 284 million m3 year-1 available to satisfy an average water demand 92 million m3 year-1 over the study period of 2020 to 2040. However, fluctuations in quantities of available water, lack of water reservoirs and inadequate abstraction capacity result in low water demand satisfaction of 36.6%. Therefore, this study recommends that the potential of runoff storage should be explored together with improvement in water supply system capacity to enhance access to the available water. To mitigate the threat of water stress, a supply prioritisation should be done such that domestic and industrial water supply are allocated water before providing water for agriculture. In addition, catchment management to increase ground water storage is vital to improve water availability for socio-economic and environmental wellbeing of the catchment.
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    Association between feeding practices and the nutritional status of children 0- 24 months: a casestudy in Luweero District, Central Uganda
    (Makerere University, 2012-11) Nankumbi, Joyce
    Background: Childhood malnutrition is a significant health problem in developing countries and it has lifelong and irreversible effects especially if it occurs during the early stages of infancy. Care giving and infant and young child feeding practices are critical for child health and development. This study sought to determine the association between infant and young child feeding practices and the nutritional status of children 0-24 months and to identify barriers and supports to appropriate Infant and Young Child Feeding Practices (IYCF). Methodology: The study was cross-sectional survey of 230 households with children 0-24 months in Luweero district, central Uganda. Both qualitative and quantitative methods were employed to collect data on IYCF practices, children’s nutritional status, and barriers and supports to child feeding practices. A sample size of 230 households with children 0-24 months were visited and interviewed as determined by ENA for SMART. SPSS software (version 15) was used for data entry and analysis. Complementary feeding was characterized by the timing of introduction of complementary foods, age appropriateness of feeds, adequacy of feeding and quality of the complementary feeds. Results: The proportion of caregivers that were exclusive breastfeeding was very low (33.7%) and median duration of breastfeeding was 12.9 months. Despite early initiation of breastfeeding, caregivers still introduced other feeds before the recommended time. Infant and Young Child Feeding Practices were inadequate as reflected by the child feeding index what was the mean score. IYCF practices were significantly related to the stunting among children (χ2=0.526; p=0.029). Insufficient knowledge about infant and young child feeding and cultural practices were the major barriers to caregivers’ IYCF practices. Messages and practical support on IYCF practices often do not reach mothers. Recommendations: It is important to improve a communications strategy aimed at ensuring that all women have equitable access to accurate, clear, and consistent messages about age appropriate IYCF practices.
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    Association between socio-economic factors and micronutrient intake (Iron, Zinc and Vitamin A) among children aged 6-59 months in Uganda.
    (Makerere University, 2014) Afidra, Olema Ronald
    Background: Three million and five hundred thousand children under five years old die each year as a result of malnutrition. Nearly 150 million children under the age of five in the developing world are under weight for their age. Two thirds of these children live in Asia and just over one quarter live in Africa. In Uganda, micronutrient malnutrition, especially of iron and vitamin A are major public health problems of which 38% of the children aged 6-59 months have vitamin A deficiency, while 50% are anemic. The objective of the study was to determine the association between socio-economic factors and micronutrient intake (vitamin A, zinc and iron) among children aged 6-59 months in Uganda. Methodology: Secondary analysis of a 24 hour recall sub-sample data collected from three regions of Uganda was done. The socio-economic factors of age, location, region and sex of the children, the type of work, education level, job (income status), and wealth quintile factors of the mothers/care takers were tested for significance (p≤0.005) using SPSS software. Backward regression analysis was carried out to determine the strength of relationship of nutrient intakes with socio-economic factors. Nutrient inadequacy was calculated using the cut-off method of 77% of required nutrient intake of the children. Results: The median nutrient intakes for children were 2,249.5IU and 739.8IU for vitamin A; 5.8mg and 6.9mg for iron; 3.1mg and 4.0mg for zinc in the rural and urban locations, respectively. There was significant association (P<0.05) of nutrient intake of vitamin A with the type of work, location, region, job and wealth quintiles. Iron intakes were significantly associated (p<0.05) with location, region, job and wealth quintiles. Zinc intake was significantly associated with location and region (p<0.05). Iron intake was strongly affected by region and location (urban and rural) with beta -170 and -0.282 respectively at (p-value of 0.001). Vitamin A intake in the rural was more significant than the urban at beta 0.246 (p-value 0.001). The zinc intake was strongly related with urban location and region (p<0.05) beta -0.239(p-value of 0.001). Iron and zinc intake inadequacy by region was highest in the Western (33.3%, 61.1%), Northern (23.7%, 50%) and Central (20.6%, 35.5%) Central region. Vitamin A intake inadequacy was highest for Central region (20.6%), followed by Northern (7.9%) and Western (5.6%) region. Children aged 24-49 months had inadequacy of 77% and 69.3% respectively for rural and urban location. Conclusions/Recommendations: Results showed that micronutrient intake of iron, zinc and vitamin A micronutrients is inadequate especially among children aged 24-49 months. The socio-economic factors of location (rural and urban) and region were the strongest predictors of children micronutrient intake. The findings therefore call for further strengthening of micronutrient interventions that target under five years of old children population within rural-urban Uganda in order to increase their nutrient intakes. Further research is needed to determine the usual nutrient intake among the children population within Uganda.
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    Awareness,occurrence and regulation of iron filings in different maize flour grades in Kampala capital city.
    (Makerere University, 2023-11) Kusuro, Esther
    In this study, an assessment of awareness, occurrence, and regulation of iron filings contaminants in the different maize flour grades produced in KCC was undertaken. The study objective was to assess the knowledge, attitudes, practices, and occurrence of iron filings contaminants in the different grades of maize flour produced in KCC. Cross-sectional survey design was used to assess community knowledge, attitudes, and practices. Data was collected from 120 maize millers and 284 maize flour consumers using questionnaires and 5 key informant interviews. Quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS version 20 while qualitative data was analyzed with NVivo software (version 12.2) using a thematic analysis technique. A total of 75 maize flour samples (grade one, one and a half, and two) were bought from maize mills in KCC, iron filings were isolated using a bar magnet and levels were measured using a digital weighing scale and recorded. Quantitative data obtained was analyzed using Microsoft Excel and SPSS and average iron filings levels were computed for the different flour grades. A qualitative descriptive research design was used to assess the policy and regulatory framework for iron filings contaminants in Uganda. Data was collected from 10 key informant interviews and documents reviewed. Data was analyzed using thematic analysis with the help of Delve software (V1.21.0). Findings indicated low levels of community knowledge and poor attitudes among maize flour millers and consumers with only 26.7% of maize millers and 32.2% of maize flour consumers having adequate knowledge, 23.3% millers, and 21.1% consumers having adequate/positive attitudes. All maize flour grades had average iron filings levels above the WHO/FAO recommended limits of 15 mg/kg (grade one= 128.1 mg/kg, grade 1.5= 79.7 mg/kg, and grade 2= 46.8 mg/kg). A one-way ANOVA showed significant differences in the levels of iron filings between the different maize flour grades (P<0.001). The study showed that the levels of to iron filings contaminants is highly dependent on the grade of maize flour consumed, the policies, laws, and standards addressing iron filings contaminants in maize flour are largely deficient and there is low awareness about the issue of iron filings contaminants. The study recommends awareness creation across the stakeholder divide and strengthening the policy and regulatory environment for iron filings contaminants in maize flour produced in Uganda. Key words: Iron filings, maize flour, knowledge, attitudes, policy
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    Biopreservation of brycinus nurse fish (Onangananga) using beeswax and thyme essential oil with complementary packaging
    (Makerere University, 2024-12) Mannakhe, Moreen Dianah
    Bio-coatings maintain food quality by minimizing exchange of oxygen, light and moisture across the food matrix, hence inhibiting microbial proliferation. Including essential oils in the bio-coatings enhances flavor, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties thereby extending shelf life. This study aimed to evaluate the preservation effectiveness of beeswax and thyme essential oil coatings on sun-dried Brycinus nurse fish (Onangnanga) obtained from Panyimur market, Pakwach district, Uganda. Sun-dried B.nurse samples were stored under ambient conditions in open (box), vacuum, and container packaging for six weeks. Analyses were conducted weekly to assess microbial quality (Salmonella, Pseudomonas, E. coli, Staphylococcus, and total plate counts (TPC)) and, biochemical properties (pH, moisture content, total volatile basic nitrogen (TVBN), and Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS)). Sun-dried B.nurse exhibited low microbial quality with TPC of 7 log CFU/g, detectable levels of Salmonella spp, E.coli spp. ranged from 3.56 to 3.74 log CFU/g and Staphylococcus spp from 1.11 to 6.9 log CFU/g. Moisture content significantly (p < 0.05) increased from 15.06% during storage as follows: Container packaging to 28.81%, vacuum package to 16.26%, beeswax coating to 26.1% and thyme with beeswax coating to 21.80%. TVBN levels significantly increased (p< 0.05) from 24.12 mgN/100g to 35.61 mgN/100g, with the different treatments as follows: container packaging (34.39 mgN/100g), vacuum packaging (35.61 mgN/100g) beeswax coating (32.08 mgN/100g) and thyme with beeswax coating (30.83 mgN/100g). TBARS values increased significantly (p<0.05) from 4.03 mgMDA/kg to 18.25 mgMDA/kg, with container packaging (11.81 mgMDA/kg), vacuum packaging (15.14 mgMDA/kg), beeswax coating (12.46 mgMDA/kg) and thyme with beeswax coating (9.92 mgMDA/kg). The pH values remained stable regardless. Both packaging types and coatings significantly (p<0.05) influenced the quality of sun-dried B. nurse. This study showed that beeswax and thyme essential oil coatings combined with suitable packaging preserved the quality of sun-dried Brycinus nurse , hence effectively extending its shelf life by 21 days.