Academic publications

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

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Maternal health information seeking behaviors and perceptions among Ugandan pregnant women: theory-informed study
(CrossMark, 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.
Assessing the Usability of Integrated Financial Management Information Systems (IFMS) in Uganda: Case Study of Mbale Local Government
(IST-Africa Institute and IIMC, 2024-05-07) Emmanuel Watuwa; Emmanuel Eilu
While numerous challenges are hindering the expected outcome of the Integrated Financial Management Systems (IFMS) in Uganda, one of the most notable challenges affecting IFMS is the usability challenge. Yet, little or no studies have so far examined the usability challenges of IFMS in Uganda. Hitherto, usability challenges can be a serious detriment to the successful implementation and continuous usage of IFMS. To assess the usability level of IFMS in Uganda, the Mbale Local government located in eastern Uganda was selected as a case study. The System Usability Scale SUS) was used to measure the usability of the IFMS used by the Mbale local government administration. Developed by John Brooke in 1986, the SUS is a simple, ten-item scale used to conduct usability assessments on a system. Open-ended questionnaires were also used as a follow-up tool. The average SUS score findings for the IFMS used in Mbale local government is 67.5 representing about 45 percent usability, which is poor. IFMS users recommended conducting IFMS training, regularly upgrading IFMS modules, providing appropriate user rights and access levels to local government staff, motivating IFMS users with incentives, providing adequate ICT support and assistance to local government staff, implementing robust network infrastructure and providing backup solutions, upgrading the existing infrastructure to be compatible with the IFMS, embracing user cantered design of the IFMS among others.
Mobile Digital Apps and News Production at NTV Uganda
(Palgrave Macmillan, Cham, 2023-03) Antonio Kisembo Elisha; Fred Kakooza
In the era of technological innovations, new media technologies continue to change the news production culture in media organizations. Specifically, mobile applications have created opportunities for fast delivery, packaging, and access to news on digital platforms. These have also provided ground for citizen journalism to thrive in the global south. Focusing on Uganda, this research investigates how mobile digital technologies have affected news production at NTV Uganda. The study examines how mobile apps that include NTV Go, Live U, and Octopus have affected the production of news at NTV Uganda. The study draws from the diffusion of innovations theoretical framework to interrogate the rate of adoption and use of mobile apps in the news production process to understand how technological innovations have been adopted and integrated at NTV Uganda. The study employed a case study design to assess the effect of new media technology on news production. The findings indicate that customized mobile apps at NTV Uganda have enhanced timely production and delivery of news. The findings further indicate that the public is also able to engage with the station to contribute and share their community stories through the NTV Go mobile apps. However, these changes have brought about unsettling problems of accuracy and credibility in the production of news at NTV Uganda. The study concludes that new media technologies have enabled quick and efficient production of news which is a major affordance of digital journalism.
Traditional Media and New Technologies: Facebook Radio Programming in Uganda
(Springer Nature, 2025-05) Fred Max Adii; Fred Kakooza
Digital technologies have transformed the media sector at the global level and influenced trends in Africa, particularly the broadcasting media sector in Uganda. The liberalisation of the broadcasting sector in Uganda and the rise in digital technologies, including mobile phones and the Internet, facilitates a convergence of the traditional radio medium and new media including social media. Traditional media including radio stations have adopted both digital and analogue broadcasting to remain accessible and relevant to their audience. To encourage this bond with their listeners, radio stations rely on traditional radio broadcasts, and many add-ons from other new media, including websites and Facebook live streams, as well as inviting listeners to call-in and answer quiz questions. Using the affordance perspective as the analytical framework, this chapter assesses how Facebook has been used in programming and how it has influenced programming. Through direct observation and in-depth interviews, this chapter explores the use of Facebook in radio programming in Uganda. The focus is on a commercial radio station––94.8XFM—where it was established that Facebook is critical to traditional radio programming in connecting with the audience, interact/engage with audience, identifying niche audiences, and interacting with the audience through multi-media content production. The audience now has a new user experience of producing and consuming radio content through a networked social media fan base; localised publishing of news and information on the radio station’s page. The Facebook platform is contributing to the station’s revenue base through advertising and promotion of products and services online.
Seasonal Dynamics and Optimal Control Analysis of Fowlpox Disease
(Springer Nature, 2025-02) Cosmas Muhumuza; Joseph Y. T. Mugisha; Fred Mayambala; John Kitayimbwa
Fowlpox is a highly contagious viral disease that primarily affects chickens and turkeys, though it can infect various bird species. The disease spreads rapidly through vectors, contaminated environments, and infected hosts, and is challenging to control due to seasonal variations influencing its dynamics. In this study, a deterministic model incorporating periodic mosquito growth and virus decay rates is formulated and analysed to assess the impact of seasonality in the disease dynamics. The model is further modified by incorporating time-dependent control parameters and analysed to evaluate the effect of insecticide spraying and environmental decontamination on the disease management. Optimal control theory is applied to determine the effectiveness of these interventions. The basic reproduction number, , is computed using the time-averaging method and the linear operator approach, and the results are analysed. The trajectories derived from the time-averaging method alternately overestimate and underestimate the disease risk as the amplitude of seasonal oscillations increases. In contrast, the linear operator approach consistently shows that regardless of the virus decay rate. Optimal results demonstrated that environmental decontamination is more effective than the insecticide spraying though relying on one strategy does not completely eliminate fowl pox disease in the chicken. However, combining both control measures yields significantly better outcomes.
Mathematical Modeling of the role of IL-23/Th17 in Asthma Pathogenesis
(Bulletin of Mathematical Biology, 2025-12) Betty K Nabiyonga Kirenga; John M Kitayimbwa; Joseph Y T Mugisha
AsthmapathogenesisinvolvesactivitiesofotherThelper(Th)cells,suchasTh17cells, apart from the known Th1-Th2 cell interaction due to its severity. Pro-inflammatory cytokines, Interleukin (IL)-23/IL-1 mainly produced by macrophages, are considered essential for differentiating Th17 cells, which mediate neutrophilic inflammation (a major inflammatory characteristic of severe asthma, and resistant to available therapy). Variations in allergen exposure can induce distinct inflammatory phenotypes: an eosinophilic phenotype mediated by Th2 cells, a neutrophilic phenotype mediated by Th17 cells, or a mixed phenotype in severe asthma. We developed a mathematical model describing the regulation of Th2 cells, Th17 cells, and macrophages, incorporating IL-23/IL-1 cytokines under varying allergen exposure levels to predict potential therapeutic intervention conditions. The model exhibited two steady-state scenarios corresponding to the absence and presence of allergen, characterized by a transcritical forward bifurcation and mono-, bi-stability with hysteresis reflecting asthma severity, respectively. Bifurcation analysis predicted that the secretion rate of IL-23/IL-1 cytokines, together with the leaving rate of macrophages, are significant factors influencing neutrophilic inflammation. These findings suggest that modulating these parameters may offer effective therapeutic strategies to control asthma severity and shift the system further towards a healthier outcome.
Modelling Asthma Development in a Population With Genetic Risk and Polluted Environment
(Vilnius University Press, 2023-02) Betty K. Nabiyonga Kirenga; John M. Kitayimbwa; Joseph Y.T. Mugisha
Environmental pollutant continues to pose a great threat to public health, leading to development of chronic diseases. In this study, a nonlinear mathematical model is formulated and analysed to study the effect of genetic risk, environmental pollutant, public health education/awareness on asthma development. Conditions for the existence of the unique positive steady state and permanence of the system are assessed. Using Lyapunov function analysis, the unique positive steady state is locally and globally asymptotically stable. Results reveal that genetic risk, pollutant emission rate, effective exposure rate of population to polluted environment and recurrence rate contribute to asthma prevalence. However, sufficiently effective pollutant reduction strategies, improvement in compliance to public health education/awareness together with human dependent environmental pollutant depletion lead to a marked reduction in disease prevalence.

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