Master of Business Administration

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11951/803

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LEADERSHIP STYLES AND ORGANISATIONAL CITIZENSHIP BEHAVIOUR AMONG ANGLICAN-BASED PRIVATE UNIVERSITIES IN UGANDA
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-10-06) Nabwire Mercy
This study investigated the impact of directive, supportive, and participative leadership styles on organizational citizenship behavior (OCB) of lecturers in two Anglican-founded private universities in Uganda: Uganda Christian University and Ndejje University. The study also investigated organizational commitment to mediate. The data were collected using a mixed-methods approach, i.e., convergent parallel design, from 430 lecturers with structured questionnaires and from 14 department leaders with in-depth interviews. Quantitative data were calculated using SPSS, while qualitative answers were coded from content analysis and reported verbatim. Results revealed that directive leadership, as defined in terms of intensive control and close monitoring as how it is measured, had a weak but negative influence on OCB (r = -0.090, p = 0.046), which supports the argument that micromanagement discourages organizationally beneficial discretionary behavior. Supportive leadership, where employee care and guidance were focused upon, was the strongest positive predictor of OCB (r = 0.350, p = 0.000), reflecting how endorsement and support create employees who go that extra mile beyond the call of duty. Participative leadership, in which the workers are consulted in making decisions, positively but less strongly affected (r = 0.170, p = 0.001). Humanitarianism/egalitarianism did not predict OCB. Regression analysis confirmed supportive leadership as the best predictor of OCB (Beta = 0.350, p < 0.001), followed by participative leadership (Beta = 0.170, p < 0.001). Organizational commitment also positively and significantly contributed to the facilitation of OCB (Beta = 0.070, p = 0.028) and the enhancement of the positive effects of supportive and participative leadership. Commitment did not, however, reverse the negative impact of directive leadership (p = 0.183). In conclusion, the studies verify participative and supportive leadership to result in OCB induction, and directive leadership to be counter-productive.
NON-MONETARY REWARD AND EMPLOYEES PERFORMANCE IN LOCAL GOVERNMENT,A CASE STUDY OF SERERE DISTRICT LOCAL GOVERNMENT.
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-10-03) MUGABI JOSEPH
The study was conducted to analyze the relationship between non-monetary reward and employee performance in Serere District local government.The study was based on the following three specific objectives namely (1) to establish the relationship between appreciation and employee performance in Serere District local government,(11) to find out the relationship between opportunities for professional development and employee performance in Serere District local government,(111) to determine the relationship between flexible work schedule and employee performance in Serere District local government.The target population of the study consist of ninety three respondents (93) heads of departments and sector heads of Serere District local government from whom seventy two (72) respondents were selected ,the target population spread in the departments of finance education, planning, Administration,health ,production.Data collection instruments includes questionnaire and interview guide.
INDIVIDUAL ENTREPRENEURIAL ORIENTATION AND STUDENTS’ ENTREPRENEURIAL INTENTIONS: THE MODERATING ROLE OF SELF EFFICACY AMONG UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS AT UGANDA CHRISTIAN UNIVERSITY.
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-09-27) Ahimbisibwe Caleb
Many students in Uganda do not embrace entrepreneurship upon graduation. This study went out to investigate the extent to which this problem is explained by the relationship between students’ entrepreneurial orientation (EO) specifically risk-taking, innovativeness and proactiveness and how these three dimensions affect their entrepreneurial intentions (EI). The study also investigated the extent to which self-efficacy or Perceived Behavioral Control (PBC) moderates the relationship between EO and EI, in an attempt to throw more light on the above problem. This study was mainly based on the Theory of Planned Behavior using a cross-sectional research design and a convenience sample of undergraduates from Uganda Christian University (N= 200). Data analysis was done by regression and moderation analysis. The findings showed that although the relationship between EO and EI is positive in all cases, it is very low. Furthermore, PBC only significantly and positively moderates the relationship between risk-taking and EI, but not innovativeness and proactiveness. These finding mean that the low uptake of entrepreneurship upon graduation can be explained by their low level of entrepreneurial orientation and self efficacy. These findings re-enforce the fact that the students are not very entrepreneurial. This research suggests that there is need to boost the EO of these students before they finalize their studies and leave the university. Such a strategy will possibly make them consider entrepreneurship as a viable career path upon graduation.
Performance Appraisal and Employees Performance in Local Governments in Eastern Uganda, a Case of Kapchorwa District Local Government
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-09-26) Jolly Joe Ogwal
This study was carried out to assess the effect of performance appraisal on employees’ performance in organizations using a case study of Kapchorwa District Local Government. The objectives that guided the study were: to establish the effect of performance standards; to determine the effect of the performance measurement and to establish the effect of results dissemination on Employees’ Performance in KDLG. The study adopted a cross sectional design, which involved the collection of real time data from Kapchorwa District Local Government staff, using both qualitative and quantitative approaches. The study covered a population of 120 respondents comprising of Employees, Staff at senior management, and Heads of department and Staff at Middle management and a sample size of 92 respondents of which 71 participated in the study. Purposive sampling technique and Simple random sampling technique was used to select employees in various departments. Findings revealed that there is a moderately strong and statistically significant positive correlation (r=0.968) between Performance standards and Employees Performance, that there is also a moderate and statistically significant positive correlation (r= 0.975) between Performance measurement and Employees’ Performance and a moderate and statistically significant positive correlation (r= 0.916) between Result dissemination and employee performance. The study recommended that for Kapchorwa District Local Government in order to achieve high levels of Employees’ Performance, performance standards should be clear, stated well to meet expectations and deliverables of each employee. The performance standards should be specific to employee roles and responsibilities as stated from their job descriptions as the staff demanding away from having generic tasks to role specific tasks.
CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY PRACTICES AND PERCIEVED BRAND REPUTATION OF SOFT DRINK COMPANIES IN UGANDA
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-09-24) ASINGUZA FLAVIA
This research explores the effect of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) practices on the perceived brand reputation of soft drink companies in Uganda, focusing on Pepsi wholesalers in Mbarara. The study examines three key CSR practices: environmental sustainability programs, community development projects, and ethical marketing efforts, aiming to understand how these initiatives influence Pepsi Uganda's brand reputation among its wholesalers. The research was conducted using a quantitative data from 66 respondents to provide a comprehensive analysis of the relationship between CSR and brand perception. The findings revealed a significant positive correlation between environmental sustainability programs and brand reputation. With a Pearson Correlation coefficient of 0.3117 and a regression coefficient of 0.287, environmental initiatives such as plastic waste reduction and water conservation were shown to have a moderate but significant influence on brand reputation. Similarly, community development projects, such as local educational and healthcare support, were found to have the strongest impact on brand perception, with a correlation coefficient of 0.9613 and a highly significant regression coefficient of 0.812, accounting for the majority of the variance in brand reputation. These findings underscore the importance of Pepsi Uganda’s engagement in meaningful community initiatives, which contribute to both societal welfare and the company’s long-term brand equity. Community involvement strengthens the connection between the company and its stakeholders, promoting loyalty and trust. Lastly, ethical marketing practices, while theoretically vital, showed limited impact on brand reputation, with a weak correlation coefficient of 0.0613 and a non-significant regression coefficient of 0.055. Although 51.5% of respondents strongly agreed that Pepsi Uganda's advertisements are honest and transparent, the weak correlation between ethical marketing and environmental sustainability suggests a disconnect in how ethical practices are perceived in relation to the company’s broader CSR efforts. To bridge this gap, Pepsi Uganda must integrate its ethical marketing narratives more closely with its environmental and community initiatives.
TRANSFORMATIONAL LEADERSHIP AND EMPLOYEE MOTIVATION IN THE PUBLIC SECTOR: A CASE OF MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE, ANIMAL INDUSTRY AND FISHERIES, UGANDA
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-09-19) ORENA VINCENT
ABSTRACT This study was prompted by persistent motivation challenges within Uganda’s Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF) and the limited understanding of how transformational leadership influence employee motivation in the country’s public sector context. The specific objectives were to assess the influence of idealized influence, individualized consideration, and intellectual stimulation on employee motivation. A cross-sectional research design was employed, utilizing a quantitative approach. Data were collected from a sample of 230 employees using structured questionnaires and an interview guide. The sample was selected through stratified and simple random sampling techniques to ensure representation across various departments. Quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS Version 25, employing descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis to determine the relationships between the variables, whereas qualitative data was analyzed using the thematic analysis method. The findings revealed that all three dimensions of transformational leadership significantly and positively influenced employee motivation. Idealized influence (β = 0.156, t = 2.680, p = 0.008) indicated that leaders who act as role models and uphold high ethical standards inspire greater motivation among employees. Individualized consideration (β = 0.169, t = 2.509, p = 0.013) suggested that personalized attention and support from leaders enhance employee morale and commitment. Intellectual stimulation (β = 0.581, t = 8.098, p < 0.001) demonstrated that encouraging innovation and critical thinking substantially boosts employee engagement and motivation. The study concluded that transformational leadership practices positively impact employee motivation within MAAIF. From the conclusions, it was recommended that the ministry revise its leadership policies to integrate transformational leadership principles, implement targeted training programs, and establish mechanisms for continuous leadership development.
ADOPTION OF ACCOUNTING INFORMATION SYSTEM AND FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE OF UGANDA WILDLIFE AUTHORITY
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-09-23) Lukwita Michael
This research examined adoption of accounting information system and financial performance of Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). The objectives of the study were; to assess the effect of data storage on financial performance, to examine the effect of internal controls on financial performance, and to evaluate the effect of data reporting on financial performance of Uganda Wildlife Authority. A cross-sectional study design, with a sample of 70 partakers from the headquarters of the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) was adopted. Purposive sampling and simple random sampling techniques were utilized to pick the respondents and data was congregated with a properly-designed structured questionnaires and interview guide. The findings of the research indicated that data reporting has the robust effect on financial performance of Uganda Wildlife Authority (Beta = 0.266, p = 0.036). Internal control has a weak positive impact on financial performance of Uganda Wildlife Authority (Beta = 0.048, p = 0.697); and data storage has almost no effect on the financial performance of Uganda Wildlife Authority (Beta = 0.007, p = 0.955). A conclusion can be drawn that data storage has non-significant effect on the financial performance of Uganda Wildlife Authority, internal control has a relatively small effect on the financial performance of Uganda Wildlife Authority, and data reporting has a strong influence on the financial performance of Uganda Wildlife Authority. The study recommends that Uganda Wildlife Authority should focus on optimizing existing data storage systems for cost-efficiency. The research also recommends that Uganda Wildlife Authority should enhance internal control systems to improve operational efficiency. In addition, Uganda Wildlife Authority should prioritize improving data reporting systems to enhance decision-making.
Resource mobilisation and Financial Suustainability of Non government organisations
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-09-17) Namusa Kasifa Annet
Resource mobilization is essential for the financial sustainability of NGOs, as it helps diversify income streams, reduce reliance on single donors, and support long-term strategic planning. By employing effective approaches such as fundraising, grant acquisition, and strategic partnerships, NGOs can secure stable and consistent funding to carry out their missions. A strong resource mobilization strategy not only enhances financial stability but also improves program effectiveness and builds resilience against economic and funding uncertainties.
Work benefits and employee absenteeism in Christian Organization in Jinja District
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-09-16) Asana Esther
The purpose of this study was to establish the relationships between work benefits and employee absenteeism in Christian organization. A quantitative cross-sectional survey was conducted from a population of 366 Christian organizations using a sample size of 186 Christian organizations. Data was collected using self-administered questionnaires that were either hand delivered or emailed to respondents. Overall, filled questionnaires were received from 135 Christian organizations representing a response rate of 73% was attained for analysis. The analysis of data involved correlation and regression analysis for answering the research questions in accordance with the study objectives. The results revealed negative and significant relationships between; financial benefits and employee absenteeism (r = -.386**, p<.01), and non-financial benefits and employee absenteeism (r = -.355**, p<.01). From the findings, discussion, conclusions and recommendations were drawn.
THE ROLE OF DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY ADOPTION ON THE PERFORMANCE OF SMES IN JUBA CITY, SOUTH SUDAN
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-09-15) ZINDO, APAI PAUL
The study explored the role of digital technology adoption on the performance of small and medium-scale enterprises in Juba City, South Sudan. This emerged because many SMEs in South Sudan, particularly in Juba city, have limited access to digital technologies due to cost, lack of infrastructure, or knowledge gaps, and yet studying the role of digital technology adoption can help identify these barriers and offer solutions to increase uptake. The objectives of the study were: to assess the role of the perceived usefulness of digital technology on SME performances in Juba City, South Sudan; to explain the role of perceived attitudes toward digital technology on SME performance in Juba City, South Sudan; to analyze the role of perceived ease of use of digital technology towards SME performance in Juba. The study adopted a non- experimental cross-sectional research design. The study findings reveal that a significant majority of respondents strongly agreed that many businesses perceive digital technology as a key driver for improving performance. Many SMEs are increasingly recognizing the importance of digital technology in staying competitive, especially in the post-pandemic era where technology has been key to resilience. The respondents' attitudes towards technology adoption are generally favorable among SMEs due to their perceived benefits, though there may still be some hesitation related to cost or unfamiliarity. The research findings reveal that many SMEs find digital technology relatively easy to use, a significant portion may still struggle with usability due to a lack of technical infrastructure or digital literacy. Digital tools are perceived as beneficial, but the complexity of integrating them into various business processes (finance, marketing, ICT, etc.) can pose challenges for some SMEs, particularly those lacking technical expertise SMEs should invest in digital literacy programs for both management and staff. Policymakers should focus on enhancing digital infrastructure in Juba City, such as improving internet access, mobile network coverage, and the availability of affordable digital devices.
INTERNAL AUDIT AND FINANCIAL SUSTAINABILITY OF COMMERCIAL BANKS IN KAMPALA: A CASE OF EQUITY BANK-KAMPALA
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-09) KAREKYE VICTOR FRIDAH
The study examined the influence of internal audit on the financial sustainability of commercial banks in Kampala: a case of Equity Bank-Kampala. It specifically focused on; demonstrating the relationship between financial planning and financial sustainability, examining the relationship between financial execution and financial sustainability, and assessing the relationship between financial reporting and financial sustainability. The study was carried out using a cross sectional survey research design where both quantitative and qualitative research approaches were also used. The data was collected using questionnaires and interviews and during data collection; both purposive and simple random sampling methods were used. A sample size of 52 respondents who are management and employees of Equity Bank, Kampala was also used in the study.
ANALYSING THE LOAN APPRAISAL PROCESS, LOAN TERMS, MONITORING, AND TECHNICAL SUPPORT AS DETERMINANTS OF LOAN PERFORMANCE AMONG SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES IN UGANDA: A CASE STUDY OF BORROWERS AT THE MICROFINANCE SUPPORT CENTRE
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-07-11) Tumuhimbise Remigio
The financial performance of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) remains critical for economic growth and poverty reduction in Uganda. Despite their significance, many SMEs continue to face challenges in sustaining satisfactory loan repayment performance. This study examined the determinants of loan performance among SMEs in Uganda, focusing on borrowers from The Microfinance Support Centre Limited (MSC). Specifically, the study assessed the influence of the loan appraisal process, loan terms, and monitoring and technical support on SME loan performance. A cross-sectional research design was adopted, employing both quantitative and qualitative approaches. Data were collected from 108 SME borrowers using structured questionnaires and from eight MSC management staff through key informant interviews. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and simple linear regression to examine relationships between variables. Qualitative data were subjected to thematic analysis to provide contextual interpretation of the quantitative findings. The results revealed that the loan appraisal process had a statistically significant and positive influence on SME loan performance (r = .479, p < .01), explaining 43.4 percent of the variance. Key factors included the thoroughness of financial analysis, accuracy in risk assessment, and transparency in credit evaluation. Loan terms also showed a strong positive relationship with loan performance (r = .639, p < .01), accounting for 58.4 percent of the variance, with interest rates, loan tenure, and repayment flexibility emerging as significant contributors. Furthermore, monitoring and technical support exhibited a moderate positive effect (r = .413, p < .01), explaining 35.9 percent of the variation in SME loan performance, with regular follow-ups and targeted business support identified as critical drivers. The study concludes that enhancing loan appraisal rigour, tailoring loan terms to SME financial realities, and strengthening monitoring and technical support mechanisms are essential for improving SME loan performance. It recommends targeted capacity-building for credit staff, improved loan restructuring processes, adoption of digital monitoring tools, and the development of sector-specific technical support packages for SMEs.
Social Capital and Performance of Women Owned Enterprises in South Sudan: A case of Bentiu IDP Camp
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-09-22) NAKYOLE NORAH
This study investigates the influence of social capital on the performance of women-owned enterprises within the Bentiu Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) Camp in South Sudan. Grounded in Network Theory and the Systems Theory Input-Output Model, the research explores three dimensions of social capital—bonding, bridging, and linkages—and their respective impacts on entrepreneurial success. Using a quantitative cross-sectional design, data were collected from 144 women entrepreneurs through structured questionnaires. Findings reveal that all three forms of social capital significantly enhance business performance, with linkages having the strongest predictive power, followed by bridging and bonding. Bonding social capital provides emotional and financial support through close relationships, while bridging capital facilitates access to diverse networks and resources. Linkages, involving professional contacts and institutional relationships, offer critical access to finance, mentorship, and market opportunities. Regression analysis confirms that social capital explains 70.9% of the variance in business performance. The study concludes that strengthening social networks is vital for improving the sustainability and growth of women-owned enterprises in fragile contexts. Recommendations include targeted interventions by NGOs and policymakers to foster inclusive networking, mentorship, and financial access for displaced women entrepreneurs.
THE EFFECT OF INTRINSIC MOTIVATION ON EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE USING ORGANIZATIONAL POLICY AS A MODERATING VARIABLE: A CASE OF KAWACOM LIMITED, KAPCHORWA DISTRICT
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-09-22) LABU SHARON
This study investigates the effect of intrinsic motivation, specifically autonomy, mastery, and purpose on employee performance at Kawacom Limited, Kapchorwa District, with a focus on the moderating role of organizational policy. Using a cross-sectional quantitative design, data were collected from 103 employees through structured questionnaires. A linear regression analysis was used for analysis. Results revealed that organizational policy moderated the effect of autonomy (r = 0.236, p = 0.128), mastery r = 0.299, p = 0.025), and purpose (r = 0.311, p = 0.018) on employee performance with mastery and purpose indicating a significant effect. These findings underscore the nuanced role that internal motivation and institutional frameworks play in shaping performance outcomes in agricultural enterprises and can similarly be adopted in other sectors. The study contributes to motivation theory in emerging market contexts and offers practical insights for HR practitioners seeking to enhance productivity in resource-constrained environments. The findings speak to policymakers by offering evidence on how motivation strategies enhance work performance thereby informing policies that support workforce development across companies.
LEVERAGING MARKET SEGMENTATION FOR SUSTAINABLE COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE OF SERVICE FIRMS: A CASE OF VEHICLE HIRE COMPANIES IN KAMPALA UGANDA.
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-09-21) WANYENYA SHAFIGA
In highly competitive markets, achieving sustainable competitive advantage is vital for the survival and growth of service firms. This study examined the relationship between market segmentation—focusing on psychographic and behavioral dimensions—and sustainable competitive advantage among vehicle hire companies in Kampala, Uganda. Guided by the Market-Based View (MBV) and Resource-Based View (RBV) theories, the study employed a cross-sectional quantitative design. Data were collected from managers and directors of 36 vehicle hire companies using structured questionnaires, and analyzed using correlation and regression techniques. The findings reveal a significant positive relationship between market segmentation and sustainable competitive advantage (r = 0.840, p < 0.05). Psychographic segmentation showed a moderate but significant effect (β = 0.333, p = 0.008), indicating that aligning services with customer lifestyles, values, and preferences enhances differentiation and cost advantages. Behavioral segmentation exhibited a stronger effect (β = 0.548, p = 0.000), underscoring the critical role of customer loyalty, booking patterns, and readiness to buy in sustaining competitiveness. Both hypotheses were therefore rejected, confirming that segmentation strategies significantly influence competitive advantage in the vehicle hire sector. The study contributes theoretically by extending the application of MBV and RBV to Uganda’s vehicle hire industry and empirically by providing context-specific evidence from an under-researched sector. Managerially, it recommends adoption of customer relationship management systems, loyalty programs, and targeted psychographic strategies to strengthen market positioning. At the policy level, it highlights the need for supportive frameworks that encourage SME adoption of data analytics, customer protection, and fair pricing practices. Overall, the study demonstrates that leveraging psychographic and behavioral segmentation enables vehicle hire companies in Kampala to enhance differentiation, achieve cost advantages, and maintain sustainable competitive advantage.
DIGITAL MARKETING TECHNOLOGIES AND CUSTOMER RETENTION AMONG UPPER-STAR HOTELS IN KAMPALA CAPITAL CITY AUTHORITY
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-09-22) ATUKUNDA PRAISE
Customer retention is a substantial problem all over the world in all industries. The problem is further impairing to the performance service intensive sectors such as upscale hotels. This study explored the relationship between Digital Marketing Technologies constructs namely; Customer Relationship Management systems(CRM), Social Marketing, Email marketing, and Artificial Intelligence marketing tools (AI) on Customer retention in upscale (4- and 5-star) hotels within the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA). A quantitative research design was employed, with structured questionnaires distributed to a sample of 140 hotel employees from the 13 upscale hotels in KCCA, selected via a combination of purposive and snowball sampling technique. Data was analyzed using statistical methods to examine the relationship between the dimensions of digital marketing technologies and customer retention. Finings revealed a significant positive correlation between digital marketing technologies and customer retention, with email marketing, and Customer Relationship Management systems exerting the most substantial positive effects on increasing customer retention. Social Marketing showed a moderate positive impact and AI tools showed a positive and non-significant effect on customer retention . The study concludes that integrating advanced digital marketing technologies is crucial for enhancing customer retention in Kampala’s upscale hotel sector. Recommendations include targeted investments in digital training for staff, platform optimizations, and data-driven campaigns to strengthen guest relationships and competitive positioning in the upscale hotel market in Kampala Capital City Authority.
WORKING CAPITAL MANAGEMENT AND FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE OF HARDWARE BASED SMEs IN MUKONO MUNICIPALITY, UGANDA
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-09-22) TUSASIRWE APOVIA
This study investigates the critical relationship between working capital management (WCM) and the financial performance of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) in the hardware retail sector of Mukono Municipality, Uganda. SMEs are a vital component of the Ugandan economy, contributing significantly to employment and GDP. However, a high failure rate, particularly within the first five years of operation, is often attributed to poor financial management practices, with ineffective WCM being a primary contributor. The research focuses specifically on hardware stores, a sector characterized by unique financial imperatives such as high inventory carrying costs, reliance on vendor credit, and seasonal demand fluctuations. These factors make efficient management of cash, accounts receivable, and inventory absolutely essential for liquidity, profitability, and overall sustainability. Despite the acknowledged importance of WCM in corporate finance literature, a significant gap exists in understanding its specific impact on hardware SMEs in peri-urban Ugandan contexts. This study aims to fill this gap by analyzing how the various components of WCM—cash management, accounts receivable management, and inventory management—affect the financial performance, measured in terms of profitability, of these firms. The findings are expected to provide crucial evidence-based insights for hardware SME owners to improve their financial decision-making, for policymakers to design targeted support interventions, and for financial institutions to develop more tailored products. Ultimately, this research seeks to contribute to enhanced business practices, improved sustainability, and the continued growth of this critical sector within the Ugandan economy.
TOTAL QUALITY MANAGEMENT PRACTICES AND PERFORMANCE OF SMALL AND MEDIUM MANUFACTURING COMPANIES IN WAKISO DISTRICT
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-09-22) ALLAN LUBINGA KATO
This study investigated the influence of Total Quality Management (TQM) practices on the performance of small and medium-sized manufacturing enterprises (SMEs) in Wakiso District, Uganda. Despite the proven benefits of TQM in improving efficiency and competitiveness, its adoption among Ugandan SMEs remains low, with only 28% of firms having implemented formal TQM frameworks (UBOS, 2023). Focusing on three core practices process standardization, continuous improvement, and customer-focused approaches the research aims to understand their contribution to enhancing operational effectiveness and organizational performance. A descriptive cross-sectional research design was employed, integrating qualitative and quantitative methods. Data was collected from a purposive sample of 50 SMEs using structured questionnaires. Statistical analyses, including Pearson correlation and multiple regression, were conducted to assess the relationship between TQM practices and firm performance. Results reveal that process standardization significantly improves performance (β = 0.271, p = 0.001) by ensuring consistency in product quality and compliance with industry regulations. Continuous improvement emerged as the most influential predictor of performance (β = 0.392, p < 0.001), with SMEs engaging in structured problem-solving and employee training reporting enhanced productivity and cost efficiency. Similarly, adopting a customer-focused approach positively impacted performance (β = 0.312, p < 0.001), particularly through leveraging customer feedback and strengthening complaint-handling mechanisms. Based on these findings, the study concludes that systematic adoption of TQM practices can substantially enhance the competitiveness and sustainability of manufacturing SMEs in Wakiso District. It recommends that SMEs invest in structured quality management systems, employee capacity-building, and stronger customer relationship frameworks. Policymakers are encouraged to develop targeted support programs to accelerate TQM adoption among local enterprises. Future studies could employ longitudinal designs to capture the long-term effects of TQM implementation and examine sector-specific challenges. By fostering a culture of quality, SMEs in Wakiso District can achieve improved performance, customer satisfaction, and sustainable growth. Keywords: Total Quality Management, Process Standardization, Continuous Improvement, Customer Focus, SME Performance, Wakiso District.
THE IMPACT OF INTERNAL CONTROLS ON THE FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE OF SACCOS IN MUKONO MUNICIPALITY, UGANDA.
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-09-22) NKWASIIBWE BRONIA
This study investigates the impact of internal controls on the financial performance of Savings and Credit Cooperative Societies (SACCOS) in Mukono Municipality, Uganda. Specifically, it examines the effects of three key internal control components: control environment, control activities, and risk assessment, on SACCO profitability. Guided by Agency Theory, the research adopts a quantitative, cross-sectional descriptive design. Data were collected through structured questionnaires from a stratified sample of 203 employees across six SACCO branches. Descriptive and inferential statistics, including Spearman’s correlation and ordinal regression analysis, were employed to analyze relationships between internal controls and financial performance, measured primarily by profitability indicators. The findings reveal strong, statistically significant positive correlations between each internal control component and SACCO financial performance, with control activities showing the highest predictive effect. Regression results confirm that control environment (p=0.003), control activities (p=0.000), and risk assessment (p=0.000) all have significant positive impacts on profitability. These outcomes emphasize the critical role of ethical leadership, operational safeguards, and proactive risk management in enhancing financial sustainability. The study underscores the importance of strengthening internal control systems within SACCOs to improve financial outcomes. Recommendations include enhancing governance practices, institutionalizing rigorous control activities, and integrating risk assessment into strategic planning for sustainable SACCO growth.
THE EFFECT OF PERFORMANCE APPRAISAL METHODS ON EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE, A CASE STUDY OF NATIONAL WATER AND SEWERAGE CORPORATION IN THE TESO SUB-REGION.
(Uganda Christian University, 2025-09-22) ALUPO SYLIVIA
This study examined the effects of performance appraisal methods on employee performance at NWSC in the Teso sub-region. The objectives of the study were to examine the impact of 360-degree appraisal method on employee performance at NWSC in the Teso sub-region, the impact of management by objectives appraisal method on employee performance at NWSC in the Teso sub-region, and the effect of Behavioral Anchored Rating Scale appraisal method on employee performance at NWSC in the Teso sub-region. The study employed a mixed-methods design, combining both quantitative and qualitative approaches. Structured questionnaires were administered to collect quantitative data, and interview guides were used to gather qualitative data. A sample of 98 respondents was obtained from the targeted population of 130 respondents using Krejcie and Morgan table of population sample determination. This sample population was selected using random sampling and purposive sampling techniques. The data collected were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), and descriptive statistics were generated. Based on the findings, the results revealed a positive and significant impact of the 360-degree appraisal method on employee performance (b = 0.206, p = 0.001, Partial R² = 0.11). Furthermore, the MBO appraisal method had a positive and significant impact on employee performance (b = 0.441, p < 0.000, Partial R² = 0.37). Lastly, the BARS appraisal method had a positive and significant impact on employee performance (b = 0.549, p = 0.001, Partial R² = 0.10). The descriptive and qualitative results indicated a positive and significant impact of these performance appraisal methods on employee performance. The study recommended that further research be conducted on the effects of performance appraisal on employee performance in other contexts, beyond NWSC and regions beyond the Teso sub-region.

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