Academic publications

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11951/16

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Malignant mixed mullerian tumor: a case report about a uterine tumor’s case
(Wolters Kluwer, 2022-05-20) Emmanuel D. Morgan; Tonny Okecha; James J. Yahaya; Emmanuel Othieno
Introduction: Malignant mixed Mullerian tumor (MMMT) is an exceedingly rare and aggressive tumor whichoccurs predominantly in postmenopausal women though it has been reported rarely in premenopausal women.Case presentation: A 54-year old nulliparous postmenopausal female presented with a 3-month history of vaginalbleeding, mild lower abdominal pain and weight loss. Ultrasound revealed markedly enlarged uterus with ahyper-echoic solid and cystic mass and a right adnexal complex mass. Total abdominal hysterectomy andbilateral salpingioopherectomy were done. Histopathological features were consistent with MMMT. The patientis currently stable after 6 cycles of adjuvant chemotherapy which consisted of paclitaxel and carboplatin.Clinical discussion: MMMT of the uterus is rare, high-grade neoplasms comprising only 1–2% of uterine cancersand 3–5% of all uterine malignancies. This tumor may arise in the ovaries, fallopian tubes and vagina. Histologically, MMMT is a biphasic tumor composed of both epithelial (carcinoma) elements and mesenchymal(sarcoma) elements; though, which component is responsible for the tumor’s aggressive biological behavior remains undetermined.Conclusion: MMMT is a rare and aggressive tumor which is commonly seen in postmenopausal women with highrate of recurrence therefore, Radical surgery and close follow-up is mandatory since the role of chemoradiotherapy remains unclear in the management of patients with this tumor. Both stage of the tumor andmyometrial invasion are considered as potential prognostic factors.
ALK-1 positive anaplastic large cell lymphoma in sickle cell trait: a case report and review of literature
(Journal of Case Reports and Scientific Images, 2024-01-13) Omega Phillip; Gimono Martha; Peter Wasswa; Musoke Sharrif; Tonny Okecha; Mawanda Anatoli; Asiimwe Ivan; Okello Malcom Mark; Oballim John Kennedy; Ojok Peter Boii; Wanyenze Esther; Byebei Eunice; Masumba John Dalton; Nakayemba Jolive; Kyakoonye Moses; Atuhura Ronald; Nsobya George; Boaz Mwesigwa; Lukande Robert; Bukirwa Phiona; Yekosani Mitala; Gladys Adokorach; Achola Caroline; Wabinga Henry; dida Micheal; Kalungi Sam
Anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) is a rare subtype of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, with ALK-1 positive ALCL exhibiting an aggressive clinical course. However, it remains potentially curable if diagnosed in a timely manner. We present the case of a 13-year-old boy with coexisting sickle cell trait and ALK-1 positive ALCL, who presented with recurrent fever, progressive weight loss, generalized lymphadenopathy, and severe anemia. Despite aggressive supportive therapy, he succumbed within 32 hours of admission. Postmortem examination revealed extensive lymph node infiltration by tumor cells and widespread multi-organ involvement. This case underscores the diagnostic challenges associated with ALK-1 positive ALCL, particularly in pediatric patients with underlying hematologic conditions, and raises the possibility of a potential association between ALK-1 positive ALCL and sickle cell trait.
An unusual case of mesenteric schistosomiasis presenting as bowel obstruction in a child
(ARC Journals, 2025-04-07) Omega Phillip; Musoke Sharrif; Tonny Okecha; Mawanda Anatoli; Boaz Mwesigwa; Asiimwe Ivan; Okello Malcom Mark; Gladys Adokorach; Oballim John Kennedy; Ojok Peter Boii; Wanyenze Esther; Byebei Eunice; Masumba John Dalton; Nakayemba Jolive; Kyakoonye Moses; Atuhura Ronald; Nsobya George; Lukande Robert; Bukirwa Phiona; Tumukunde Allan; Yekosani Mitala; Nabukalu Sandra; aratwebirwe Oseber; Odida Micheal; Kalungi Sam
Mesenteric schistosomiasis is a rare but significant cause of intestinal obstruction, particularly in endemic regions. We report a case of a 12-year-old boy from Masese Landing Site, Uganda, who presented with progressive abdominal distension, vomiting, and constipation—symptoms indicative of bowel obstruction. Surgical exploration revealed extensive adhesions and nodular lesions, necessitating biopsies. Histopathological examination confirmed intestinal schistosomiasis caused by Schistosoma mansoni. This case highlights the need for heightened clinical awareness, early diagnosis, and prompt intervention in endemic areas to prevent complications of chronic schistosomiasis
The Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) insurgency in Uganda
(Routledge, 2024-09) David Andrew Omona; Scott N. Romaniuk
Uganda, a member of the East African community, has endured conflict within its borders for decades. Although there have been conflicts prior to contact with foreign powers, the postcolonial conflicts so far have exceeded what the country could contain within its borders. While the earlier conflicts pitted neighbouring communities against each other over space and power, the colonial and postcolonial conflicts have taken on different shades. During the expansion of British colonial rule, for example, a lot of resistance emerged in different parts. However, once they got hold of the different regions of present-day Uganda, they were able to suppress most of the conflicts. When the British passed the baton of leadership to Ugandans, the country took off in a positive direction. According to Patrick Rubaihayo (2005), soon after independence, the government embarked on transforming Ugandan society from colonial vestiges to a productive and free society. Social services, infrastructure, trade, and commerce were developed following the Uganda Peoples’ Congress (UPC) manifesto to fight ignorance, disease, and poverty.
Ugandan realities on human sexuality: Religious, historical, social, political, legal, and cultural influences
(William Carey Publishing, 2026) David Andrew Omona
[The chapter, "Ugandan Realities on Human Sexuality: Religious, Historical, Social, Political, Legal, and Cultural Influences" by Andrew David Omona, is not primarily a study of human sexuality itself, but rather an explanation of why Uganda has adopted its current position on homosexuality and LGBTQ+ issues. The author explicitly states that human sexuality is used as a lens through which to understand the country's broader religious, historical, political, legal, social, and cultural realities.]
Comparative analysis of nutrients in frequently consumed Indigenous African vegetables: implications for geriatric nutrition
(Taylor and Francis Group, 2026-01-27) Martin Mutambuka; Mildred Nakanwagi; Rosemary Bulyaba; Isaac Onziga Bramadri; Gerald Tumusiime; Elizabeth Balyejusa Kizito
The promotion and consumption of african indigenous Vegetables (aiVs) offers potential to improve diet quality and reduce the burden of non-communicable diseases among older persons. however, limited information exists on the minerals, vitamins and phytochemicals that contribute to these benefits. This study assessed the nutritional composition of three genotypes of each of four commonly consumed aiVs in Uganda: Solanum aethiopicum Shum (e16, e15, and e11), Solanum aethiopicum gilo (G4, G9, and G6), Amaranthus sp. (Var. 008, Var. 025, and Var. 007), and Vigna unguiculata l. Walp (UcU cow 1, aseremoya, and acc23). The vegetables were analysed for minerals (Fe, Zn, ca, Mg, K), dietary fibre, phytochemicals (anthocyanins, tannins, catechins, polyphenols, chlorogenic acid, gallic acid, ferulic acid, flavonoids), and vitamins (α-tocopherol and β-carotene) using standard procedures and means were separated using one-Way anoVa. Significant differences (p < 0.05) were observed across aiVs. S. aethiopicum Shum e16 exhibited the highest mineral levels, while V. unguiculata genotypes showed he lowest Mg, Fe, and K content. iron was highest in S. aethiopicum gilo g4 (8.83 mg/100 g). leafy vegetables contained greater quantities of phytochemicals, dietary fibre, β-carotene, and α-tocopherol than fruit vegetables. Principal component analysis segregated genotypes based on nutrient profiles: phytochemicals and fibre strongly influenced V. unguiculata clustering, minerals influenced Solanum spp, and tocopherol and gallic acid distinguished Amaranthus genotypes. These findings highlight distinct nutritional advantages across aiV species. V. unguiculata exhibited particularly high phytochemical and vitamin content, suggesting its value as a nutrient-dense component of diets aimed at supporting healthy ageing.
Maternal health information seeking behaviors and perceptions among Ugandan pregnant women: theory-informed study
(Gonabad University of Medical Sciences (GMU), Iran, 2026-01-01) Namyalo, Josephine; Kiva, S. Joseph; Otieno, Emmanuel
Background: Although the maternal mortality ratio has declined in Uganda, but it remains a public health threat, constraining the achievement of maternal mortality targets. Research suggests that health information-seeking behavior is significant for understanding different maternal health outcomes. This study aimed to understand the underlying factors affecting health information-seeking behaviors among pregnant women in selected hospitals in Mukono and Kampala Districts, Uganda. Methods: Utilizing a qualitative design, 24 pregnant women aged 16-24 years who were seeking antenatal care (ANC) from Mukono, Nagalama, and Naguru Hospitals were recruited through purposive sampling. Focus group discussions (FGDs) and key informant interviews (KIIs) were conducted. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Results: Data analysis identified 20 codes that generated three themes: reasons for seeking information, challenges faced in seeking information, and behavioral change communication strategies. Conclusion: Findings showed pregnant women accessed information from health workers. The main barrier to receiving information was different reporting times for ANC. There is a need to develop a centralized, standardized health information repository and to provide continuous professional development to providers. Future research should examine interventions to improve health-seeking information behavior across various cultural contexts.
Prevalence and correlates of intimate partner sexual violence among pregnant women in Lamwo district – Northern Uganda
(Global Health Institute, 2026-04-17) Lanyero, Joan; Otieno, Emmanuel; Nsubuga, Mushin; Kobusingye, Jackline; Namyalo, Josephine
Background and Aims: Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) is a silent pandemic, associated with 10% of all violent deaths and 290,000 years lost to morbidity. Intimate partner violence has been explicitly associated with not only health consequences of gynaecological and psychological nature among women but also deaths. The sexual form of intimate partner violence which increases in intensity during pregnancy is associated with higher risk of morbidity. The purpose of this study was to assess the prevalence and correlates of intimate partner sexual violence during pregnancy among pregnant women in Lamwo district, Northern Uganda. Methods: A cross-sectional study was done at 6 facilities in Lamwo district from January-February 2022. Stratified and simple random sampling were used to sample 260 pregnant women out of a pregnant women population size of 810 women who sought antenatal care on a monthly basis from health facilities. The structured interviews were used for data collection. Data was entered in Epi Info version 7.0 and analysed in SPSS version 25 using the log-binomial model. A multivariate analysis was done. Statistical significance was set at p<0.05. Results: The results showed a 24% prevalence of IPSV with 73% of pregnant women denying the use of measures to protect them from sexually transmitted infections. Pregnant women who were carrying their first, second, and third pregnancies were more likely to experience IPSV than women with more than 3 pregnancies (aPR 5.307 [CI = 1.965 -14.335], p = 0.001). In addition, women whose spouses had a habit of engaging in fights, had ever physically abused them, and had a preference for the gender of children demonstrated an increased prevalence of IPSV. Conclusion: Out of every 10 pregnant women in the sample, two of them were sexually violated. The lower the gravidity and parity, the more likely to experience IPSV. Gravidity correlated more with IPSV than any other IPSV factor. The findings from this study may inform health interventions aimed at reducing intimate partner sexual violence.
Perceptions and experiences of willingness to pay for community based health insurance: a qualitative study
(Academic Research and Publishing, 2025-03-31) Otieno, Emmanuel; Mukasa, Norman; Odoch, Florence Ajok; Ddamulira, Christopher; Nuwagaba, Ddezi; Namyalo, Josepine; Walimbwa, Aliyi; Basaza, Robert K.
The study objective was to explore perceptions and experiences of willingness to pay for community-based health insurance and factors that affect their willingness to pay among farming households in Uganda. A qualitative study was done among 33 participants in Uganda. An explorative study design with the phenomenological approach was employed. Both purposive and snowball sampling techniques were used. Isingiro District was selected because it is geographically serviced by community-based health insurance schemes in a region with the largest proportion of members at 57%. Consequently, there is augmented availability of data and generalized results. Key informant interviews and focus group discussions were conducted via semi-structured questionnaires. A univariate and inductive thematic analysis were done. Findings show low level of awareness, perception of low income, high amount of premium, good perception of health status are the barriers to pay and indicate the elderly population are unwilling to pay for the community-based health insurance scheme. Yet, the scheme is designed to ameliorate healthcare encounters of such vulnerable groups. This study provides timely evidence and impetus for strategies that address the increasing burden of healthcare. In conclusion, there has been low level of awareness about community-based health insurance. This study proposes to expand universal health coverage of informal sector workers through increased sensitization and capacity to pay premium. Also, the age factor highlights the need to customize premium for membership based on demographic landscape of the communities. To effectively address the future of community-based health schemes, it is critical to develop effective community evidence-based policy options for a sustainable scheme model. This intervention could engender access to a holistic healthcare service by the informal sector. Thus, it may fast-track the achievement of universal health coverage agenda by 2030.
Understanding meaning in graphic design: a semiotic exploration of visual communication in Uganda
(International Journal of Innovation Scientific Research and Review, 2025-12-30) Mwesiga, Dickson
Introduction: Graphic design plays a crucial role in shaping the processes through which meaning is produced, communicated, and understood in contemporary societies. By employing elements such as images, symbols, colours, typography, and layout, graphic design functions as a visual language that articulates cultural values, identities, ideologies, and social messages. The discipline of semiotics, which studies signs and their meanings, provides a valuable theoretical framework for understanding how graphic design communicates beyond mere visual appeal. This research explores the construction and interpretation of meaning within graphic design practices in Uganda from a semiotic perspective. Methods: The research employed a cross-sectional design utilising a qualitative method. Data were gathered from active graphic designers, art educators, advertising professionals, and members of the general populace. A total of 70 respondents were chosen through stratified random sampling. The data collection was conducted via structured questionnaires and subsequently analysed using descriptive statistical techniques. The data were analyzed thematically, guided by semiotic categories and emergent meanings derived from participant narratives and visual materials. Results: The research indicated that colours, symbols, images, and typography serve as essential semiotic instruments within Ugandan graphic design, utilised to convey cultural identity, social values, and commercial messages. Respondents noted that indigenous symbols and colours are predominantly employed to elicit cultural familiarity, whereas contemporary layouts and typography are influenced by Western design principles. Conclusions: The study establishes that graphic design in Uganda operates as a semiotic system in which meaning is negotiated among designers, cultural context, and audiences. Although global design trends influence practice, local cultural symbols remain significant in the process of meaning-making. Enhancing semiotic awareness among designers may improve the effectiveness and cultural sensitivity of visual communication.
Patterns and determinants of youth employment in Uganda, 2013–2023: statistical evidence and policy implications for African business
(Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia, 2025-12) Owor, Joseph Jakisa
This study examines the patterns and determinants of youth employment in Uganda from 2013 to 2023, using nationally representative data from the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) and macroeconomic indicators from the World Bank, African Development Bank (AfDB), and the Bank of Uganda (BoU). The findings indicate that although youth labor force participation remains high, averaging above 70%, structural transformation in the labor market has been limited. Over 60% of youth remain engaged in low-productivity agriculture, with only marginal shifts toward industry and services. Employment absorption in the industrial and service sectors increased by less than 10% over the decade, constrained by skills mismatches, widespread informality, and limited private-sector growth. Gender disparities persist, with female youth less likely to access wage employment and experiencing wage gaps of 15–20%. Spatial inequalities are also evident, as urban youth are nearly three times more likely to secure formal employment than rural youth. Using logistic regression, multinomial regression, and Oaxaca–Blinder decomposition, the study identifies education, household wealth, urban residence, and gender as key determinants of employment outcomes. The results suggest that policy interventions, such as the Youth Livelihood Program, have had limited structural impact due to weak alignment with private-sector demand. The study highlights the need for inclusive industrialization, strengthened vocational training, gender-responsive labor policies, and enhanced public–private partnerships to improve youth employment outcomes and support sustainable economic transformation.
Exploring the feasibility of solar mini-grids for island communities in Uganda: a case of Koome and Damba islands
(Scientific Research Publishing, 2026-04) Agunyo, Miria Frances; Hoeck, Inken; Kizito, Elizabeth Balyejusa; Kyakulumbye, Stephen ; Steurer, Elmar; Waiswa, Jeremy
This study assessed the feasibility of installing solar-diesel hybrid mini-grid systems on Koome Main and Damba Island (Uganda), to bridge the energy access gap in off-grid communities. Despite being economically active, these islands face significant challenges in accessing essential services such as healthcare, education and business infrastructure due to the lack of electricity. A mixed-methods approach including surveys, interviews, focus group discussions and technical modelling using STATA, Excel and Homer Pro was used to assess the technical, economic/financial feasibility as well as affordability aspects of the project. The results indicate that the installation of solar-diesel hybrid mini-grids of 650 - 950 kW and 300 - 470 kW for Koome and Damba islands respectively were feasible. The economic assessment shows favorable financial indicators, including internal rate of return (IRR) ranging between 14% - 19% and PBP between 4 - 7 years. In terms of affordability of electricity from mini-grids, a 50% subsidy would be necessary to make electricity affordable for domestic and institutional category spending between UGX10,000 - 30,000. Also, net present cost (NPC) between 1.58 million € and 2.24 million €, LCOE ranging between 0.24 - 0.27 €/kWh which was still less than 0.3 €/kWh for both islands was obtained, further highlighting attractiveness of the solar-diesel hybrid systems for Koome and Damba Islands.
Visual arts practices, needs, and challenges in the implementation of competence-based education in selected schools in Mbarara city, Uganda
(East African Journal of Education Studies, 2026) Mwesiga, Dickson
Competence-Based Education has emerged as a transformative framework within Uganda’s educational landscape, emphasising practical skills, critical thinking, and learner-centred pedagogies. This research investigated the practices, requirements, and challenges associated with implementing competence-based education in Visual Arts across selected secondary schools in Mbarara City, Uganda. Anchored in Constructivist Learning Theory and the Taba Curriculum Model, the study employed a descriptive cross-sectional design. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 12 Visual Arts educators, 6 school administrators, and 2 curriculum coordinators from secondary schools in Mbarara City, Southwestern Uganda. Braun and Clarke’s (2006) framework for thematic analysis was employed to investigate classroom, institutional, and curriculum perspectives concerning the implementation of Competence-Based Education (CBE) in Visual Arts. This methodology offered a comprehensive overview of the efforts and experiences of the participants. The findings revealed that although teachers frequently implement project-based and experiential learning strategies aligned with CBE principles, significant gaps persist in professional training, instructional resources, and institutional support. Major challenges identified included insufficient teaching materials, limited opportunities for professional development, large class sizes, and inadequate integration of CBE-aligned assessment strategies. The study concludes that the successful implementation of CBE in Visual Arts education necessitates continuous teacher training, improved resource allocation, and strong policy support. Recommendations entail targeted capacity-building initiatives, the provision of specialised instructional materials, and the establishment of institutional frameworks to monitor and promote the consistent adoption of CBE practices within Visual Arts classrooms.
Does gender matter in conspiracy beliefs vaccination hesitancy? Evidence from Covid-19 vaccination in Uganda
(Sustainable Development, Culture, Traditions (SDCT) Journal, 2026) Bacwayo, Kukunda Elizabeth; Sebaggala, Richard; Maractho, Emilly; Amaniyo, Mercy; Mwije, Solomon; Kemigisha, Evas; Kobusingye, Jacqueline; Cheremoi, Clare
Whereas countries have made strides in getting citizens vaccinated, many still face the challenge of vaccination hesitancy. Evidence indicates that conspiracy beliefs among citizens influence hesitancy and that these beliefs are contextual; thus differing among individuals. Studies have examined the gender aspect and COVID-19 conspiracy beliefs but research is still limited on contextualizing the conspiracy beliefs among the genders and on whether such variations affect vaccination hesitancy differently. This paper examines whether gender is a significant moderating factor between conspiracy theory beliefs and vaccination hesitancy in Uganda, using COVID-19 Vaccination as a case. The study findings on which the article is based are part of a larger study on conspiracy theory and covid-19 vaccination hesitancy. This was an explanatory sequential mixed methods study that included a cross-sectional survey and in-depth interviews. To establish the relationship between conspiracy belief and vaccination hesitancy across gender, Pearson Chi-square analysis was used to explore the gender differences in intentions regarding COVID-19 vaccination and conspiracy beliefs and mentality. There were 1201 participants in the study and 53% of these were females. The findings show that women with strong beliefs in conspiracy theories were more likely to be undecided and unlikely to take up COVID-19 vaccine compared to men with similar beliefs. Men with similar beliefs were already vaccinated. Similarly, females with strong conspiracy mentality were less likely to take up COVID-19 vaccine compared to men with similar mentality. This implies that interventions to improve COVID-19 vaccination should be contextual and consider the gendered differences especially among women who are undecided and unlikely to take the vaccines due to conspiracy mentality.
Perceptions of Student Enrollment Factors in Uganda Christian University
(East African Nature & Science Organization, 2026-04) Halima Nassanga; Mary Jakisa Owor; Joseph Jakisa Owor; Ronald Kyagulanyi
This study investigated perceptions of factors influencing student enrollment at Uganda Christian University (UCU), with specific attention to institutional, academic-related, and financial-related determinants. Anchored in Human Capital Theory and Student Choice Theory, the study sought to explain how prospective and current students evaluate universities in an increasingly competitive higher education environment. A descriptive cross-sectional design was adopted, using a mixed-methods approach that combined questionnaire surveys and semi-structured interviews. Quantitative data were collected from undergraduate and prospective students, while qualitative insights were obtained from admissions, marketing, and public relations staff. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, multiple linear regression, and content analysis. The findings revealed very strong positive correlations between student enrollment and financial factors (r = 0.991), academic factors (r = 0.993), and institutional factors (r = 0.992), suggesting that enrollment decisions are shaped by multiple interrelated dimensions. However, regression analysis showed that academic-related factors (β = 0.465, p = .008) and institutional factors (β = 0.426, p < .001) were the strongest significant predictors of enrollment, while financial factors (β = 0.105, p = .475) were not statistically significant when the other variables were controlled. Qualitative findings reinforced these results by highlighting the importance of program relevance, lecturer competence, graduate employability, institutional reputation, campus facilities, and alumni success in influencing enrollment decisions. The study concludes that private universities can strengthen enrollment by prioritising academic quality, institutional credibility, infrastructure improvement, and supportive financial access mechanisms.
Digital Capability, Knowledge Capital, and Governance in East African SACCOs: A Systematic Review of Drivers of Financial Inclusion
(East African Nature & Science Organization, 2026-03) Joseph Jakisa Owor; Sandra Namisango; Ronald Kyagulanyi
Savings and Credit Cooperative Organisations (SACCOs) remain central to financial inclusion in East Africa, particularly for rural and low-income populations excluded from commercial banking. However, despite their growth, SACCO performance across Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania remains uneven due to technological, governance, and knowledge constraints. This study undertakes a theory-driven systematic review of SACCO performance between 2020 and 2025 to examine how digital capability, financial knowledge, governance quality, and community embeddedness shape inclusion outcomes. Grounded in Institutional Theory, Resource-Based View, Agency Theory, and Technology Adoption frameworks, the study synthesises peer-reviewed literature, regulatory reports (Kenya Sacco Societies Regulatory Authority (SASRA), Tanzania Cooperative Development Commission (TCDC), Uganda Microfinance Regulatory Authority (UMRA)), and global datasets (Global Findex, GSMA, WOCCU). Using structured thematic coding supported by qualitative synthesis procedures, the review identifies four interdependent drivers of SACCO sustainability: digital integration capacity, member financial literacy, governance and oversight quality, and social capital density. Findings indicate that digital adoption improves outreach and transaction efficiency, but its impact depends critically on member knowledge and regulatory capacity. Weak governance and agency problems remain primary predictors of SACCO failure, particularly in poorly supervised environments. Community networks enhance repayment discipline and savings culture, but cannot substitute for institutional accountability. The study contributes by integrating fragmented SACCO literature into a coherent systems framework and proposing a SACCO Institutional–Digital Capability Model for future empirical testing. Policy implications emphasise coordinated investments in digital infrastructure, governance reform, financial capability development, and predictive oversight systems.
Assessment of the Socio-cultural Viability of Integrated Waste-to-energy Systems for Uganda
(International Journal of Renewable Energy Technology, 2020-12) Miria Frances Agunyo; Kukunda Elizabeth Bacwayo; Sarah Kizza-Nkambwe
Application of waste-to-energy systems could be the solution for urban areas in countries like Uganda where municipal solid waste is composed of atleast 70% organic matter and sewage and faecal sludge management is limited to about 20 treatment plants. Projected increase in urbanisation to 50% in 2050 will only constrain the existing sanitation facilities, resulting in public health issues and competition for land use. This study investigates application of integrated waste-to-energy systems consisting of a combination of anaerobic digestion, incineration and composting to treat organic waste streams from urban areas. Despite the benefits of such systems related to resource recovery in form of biogas and organic fertiliser, little is known about their socio-cultural viability. A survey carried out at Uganda Christian University showed respondent`s beliefs and cultural backgrounds influenced their attitude towards utilising resources recovered. Also, sensitisation and quality assurance of resources recovered boosted system acceptability.
The Changing Role of Higher Education Institutions on Research and Innovation in Africa: A Systematic Review
(International Journal for Innovation Education and Research, 2022) Shallon Atuhaire; Frankline Higenyi; Elizabeth Bacwayo; Annet Mugisha; Christine Mwebesa; Rachel Nambuya
Research and innovation are crucial in the process of achieving sustainable development goals. Given the significant role Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) play in research. Africa is still grappling with both the changing higher education global landscape and fostering of a research culture that addresses its own societal needs. This study explored the changing role of HEIs on research and innovation and the bottlenecks to its’ realisation in Africa. E-literature was searched from online databases mainly Google Scholar, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Embase and African Journals Online. The search strategy considered relevant content on the subject by use of keywords, purpose of the study and year of publication (2010 to 2021). Overall, the search yielded 889,264 results. From Google Scholar, 805,000 were found, ScienceDirect; 9196, PubMed; 1168, Embase; 63100, and African Journals Online; 10800. The Cochrane review protocol and the PRISMA flowchart were used to assess the relevance of these articles. Eventually, 107 full articles were critically analysed for legibility resulting in 16 studies, which were included. Research and innovation as well as the role of HEIs to the two are keywords of the time. This role has been changing to meet up with globalization demands and increase in population. While their indigenous role was co-creation of knowledge and transfer, they have of recent past surged to create innovation ecosystems, transfer technologies, promotion innovation and research and its’ management. They have gained an ascendancy in sustainability debates as engines of innovation most especially in science, technology, and human progress. This changing role has been compounded by shortcomings such as inadequate competences in the use of emerging ICTs, inadequate funding, curriculum content that does not clearly spell out practical life skills, innovation opportunities, and corporate social responsibility that is still very low. The changing role of HEIs in research in Africa is evidently clear and has been from creation of new knowledge and its transfer to one that is need-driven, entrepreneurial, transformational, and able to reconfigure the status of innovation systems for regional socio-economic transformation. The limitations to its realization could be mitigated through institutional collaboration, funding and customization of research.
Enhancing Adoption of Agroforestry in the Eastern Agro-ecological Zone of Uganda
(International Journal of Ecological Science and Environmental Engineering, 2016) Twaha Ali Basamba; Clement Mayanja; Barnabas Kiiza; Bob Nakileza; Frank Matsiko; Paul Nyende; Elizabeth Bacwayo Kukunda; Ann Tumushabe; Kassim Ssekabira
Widespread deforestation and increasingly intensive use of land to sustain a growing population has increased soil erosion, lowered soil fertility and reduced agricultural productivity in Uganda. This has raised concern over sustainability of farming systems in the Eastern Agro-ecological zone of Uganda. There is growing evidence that agroforestry can be a potential solution to these problems. However, enhancement of adoption of agroforestry as a viable alternative for farmers in diverse ecological and socio-economic conditions has remained low. The objective of this study was to identify the factors influencing the enhancement of adoption of agroforestry by smallholder farmers. Primary data on household, farm and technology characteristics was collected from 153 farming households. Results show that boundary planting, scattered tree planting, row planting and homestead gardening were the most commonly adopted agroforestry technologies in the study area. The Tobit model showed that sex, age, household size, education level, group membership, access to credit and extension visits had significantly positive effects on enhancing adoption of agroforestry. Mobilizing farmers to join groups, improving the quality and coverage of extension services, consideration of gender issues and intensifying agroforestry training among farmers with low levels of education were suggested as avenues to further enhance adoption of agroforestry in the Eastern agro-ecological zone of Uganda.
Linking Markets to Smallholder Agro-forestry Farmers As a Strategy for Poverty Alleviation in the Tropics
(Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology, 2012-03-20) Twaha Ali Basamba; Barnabas Kiiza; Clement Mayanja; Bob Nakileza; Frank Matsiko; Paul Nyende; Elizabeth Bacwayo Kukunda
The objective of the study was to assess factors affecting market participation of agro-forestry smallholder farmers in Uganda. Primary data on household, farm and marketing characteristics were collected from 153 farming households using a semi-structured, pre-tested questionnaire. The determinants of market participation were assessed using the Probit model. Descriptive statistics showed that a combination of crop, livestock and tree products were marketed by farmers. The main products included maize, cassava and coffee (crops); firewood and poles (tree products); and birds and goats (livestock products). Results from the Probit model showed that farm size, household size, education level, access to credit and extension visits had positive and statistically significant effects on market participation of farmers in agro-forestry products’ markets. Age of farmer had a negative and statistically significant effect on the participation. Emphasis on improving the quality and coverage of extension services, extending credit facilities to farmers and intensifying agro-forestry training among farmers are suggested as avenues to enhance participation of farmers in agro-forestry products’ markets.

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