Academic publications

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

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Role Conflict and Burnout among Administrators in Higher Institutions of Education in Uganda
(East African Nature and Science Organisation, 2023-10-16) Faith Mbabazi; Wilson Eduan; Mary Kagoire Ocheng
The purpose of this study was to find out the relationship between role conflict and burnout among administrators in higher education institutions in Uganda. There have been a number of studies on academicians in universities, but not much research has been done on administrators, especially in Uganda. The respondents included midlevel administrators such as deans, directors, heads of department, heads of sections, academic registrars, librarians, directors of services and human resource officers. This was a survey research design carried out on administrators in universities. The questionnaire, which was a combination of role conflict questions and Maslach burnout inventory, was administered to the administrators who had been randomly selected from universities. The findings indicated that role conflict was not a predictor of burnout dimensions of emotional exhaustion, cynicism and professional efficacy; however, coupled with demographics, the results changed, and there was a positive significant relationship, especially with age on emotional exhaustion. It was recommended that university top administrators should be interested in the mental state of their staff because, as earlier noted, emotional exhaustion was the most significant burnout dimension predicted by role conflicts
Head Teacher’s Support Role on the Quality of Inclusive Education in Secondary Schools in Iganga District
(Advances in Social Sciences and Management, 2023-12) Lastone Balyaino; Muweesi Charles; Mary Kagoire Ochieng; Isabirye Christopher; Faith Mbabazi Musinguzi
The study investigated the Head Teacher’s support Role in the Quality of Inclusive Education in Secondary Schools in the Iganga District. It examined the head teacher’s mandates in the realization of quality inclusive education in selected secondary schools. Explicitly, the study determined the influence of the head teacher's support role on the quality of inclusive education in secondary schools. This study adopted a cross-sectional survey design, drawing on quantitative and qualitative research approaches with a sample size of 83 respondents. Interview guides and questionnaires were used for data collection. SPSS software version 23 was used with a focus on descriptive statistics. The verbatim method was used for qualitative data. The study revealed that there was a moderate positive or constructive significant correlation between the head teacher's support role and achievement of quality inclusive education in selected secondary Schools (r=.514** p < 0.05). The study established that putting in place continuous professional development workshops, welfare, giving support supervision and provision of teaching aids, while other factors or issues remain constant, is most likely to better the process of inclusive education quality in secondary school. Conclusively the study revealed that the Head teacher's planning, support and motivation cannot work in isolation in the attainment of quality inclusive education. Monetary and nonmonetary ways greatly influence the quality of inclusive education. Also, the study recommends head teachers make relevant plans and increase support and motivation to uplift secondary schools' quality of inclusive education.
Records Management Practices and School Management Decisions in Selected Secondary Schools in Kibuku District, Eastern Uganda
(East African Nature and Science Organisation, 2025-06-16) Kataike, Rita; Turyahabwe, Remigio; Owomugisha, Evelyn; Mbabazi, Faith
The study examined the effect of records management practices on school management decisions in selected secondary schools in Kibuku District, Eastern Uganda. The objectives of the study included: i) to establish the effect of records management practices on academic decisions, and ii) to examine the effect of records management practices on administrative decisions in selected secondary schools. A cross-sectional survey design was used to guide this study. The study involved 113 respondents. These were purposively and simply randomly selected. The questionnaires, interview guide and focus group discussion helped in collecting the data. Quantitative data was analyzed by use of frequencies and percentages as well as SPSS, whereas, qualitative data was analyzed using thematic content analysis. The study findings revealed that records management practices have a significant effect on academic decisions in selected secondary schools in the Kibuku District (r=.686**, p=0.001). The study also revealed that records management practices have a significant effect on administrative decisions in selected secondary schools in Kibuku district (r=.342**, p=0.001). The study concluded that records management practices in administrative and financial decisions had the highest significant positive relationship on the school management decisions in secondary schools. It was concluded that records management practices play a key role in the management of academic institutions, so they should be handled seriously. The study recommended that records management practices should be improved through the introduction of computerized formats such as e-payment of fees, and digitized systems to check teachers’ lass attendance. In the same way, secondary schools should draft a records management policy to govern and regulate the management of students' academic records.
Experiences of Mid-Level Administrators in Ugandan Universities: A Study of Multiple Role Conflicts
(East African Nature and Science Organisation, 2025-06-20) Faith Mbabazi; Wilson Eduan; Mary Kagoire Ocheng; Stella Amero Eduan
This qualitative study explores the experiences of mid-level administrators in Ugandan public universities, focusing on role conflicts arising from their multiple responsibilities. Grounded in Role Conflict Theory, the research explores time-based, strain-based, and behaviour-based conflicts among 20 administrators at Makerere and Kyambogo Universities. The study was guided by the following research questions: What are the strain-based experiences of mid-level administrators regarding their workload? How do time-based constraints affect their workplace responsibilities? What behavioural challenges arise when executing multiple roles? This qualitative study adopted a constructivist approach, focusing on participants' lived experiences (Creswell, 2014). It targeted mid-level administrators (e.g., deans, bursars, heads of sections, etc.) due to their multifaceted roles. Twenty participants were purposively selected for their expertise. Data were collected via semi-structured interviews, conducted face-to-face and online during the COVID-19 lockdown. Interviews were audio-recorded, with brief notes for follow-up. Pseudonyms ensured confidentiality. Thematic analysis categorized data into time-based, strain-based, and behavior-based themes, aligned with Role Conflict Theory. Findings reveal that extended work hours, heavy workloads, and challenges in switching roles lead to stress, burnout, and work-life imbalances. Gender, marital status, and age influence these experiences, with female and younger administrators reporting higher strain. The study recommends enhanced training and resource support to mitigate role conflicts. Implications for university administration and future research are discussed.
Head Teachers’ Team Leadership Practices’ Influence on Financial Performance in Church of Uganda Founded Secondary Schools in Namirembe Diocese
(East African Journal of Education Studies, 2024-10) Tumuhimbise, M. Jasper; Muweesi, Charles; Buluma, Alfred; Mbabazi, Faith; Ochenge, Kagoire Mary; Eryenyu, Charles; Kitayimbwa, M. John; Wanyana, Mercy
The influence of Head Teachers’ team leadership practices on financial performance is highly acknowledged. The paper aims to highlight the challenges of head teachers’ team practices and advance insights on how they can be overcome to enhance financial performance. The methodology employed was a mixed-methods approach. Quantitative data was gathered through questionnaires assessing perceptions of the above metrics. Qualitative data was collected through documentary review of reports and interviews to explore the underlying mechanisms through which the variables above interrelate. The total number of respondents were 326 sampled from eight out of twenty-three schools. Quantitative analysis revealed that it has a coefficient of 0.52 and a value of 0.004 which indicates a strong correlation and statistically significant relationship between effective team leadership and financial health. This indicated that a team leader yielded better cash flow management, alignment with financial objectives, and overall sustainability. Qualitative insights supported the above crucial role that head teachers’ have in engaging teams of CFSs in shaping financial decision-making processes. The study concludes by emphasizing the need to foster team cohesion, positive financial culture and ensuring the long-term sustainability of CFSs. Recommendations include strengthening leadership development programs that are not available currently in Church of Uganda. Further, to enhance team dynamics and aligning leadership practices with organizational goals to optimize financial performance in these settings. Keywords: Leadership, Team, Finance Performance, Church Founded School.
Techniques Used by Teachers in Teaching Literacy and Numeracy in Selected Primary Schools in Kongwa District, Tanzania
(Paradigm Academic Press, 2024-01) Zilpa Graceford Masenje; Charles Muweesi; Mary Kagoire Ochieng; Tendo Shira Namagerob; Faith Mbabazi Musinguzi
The study investigated techniques used by teachers in the teaching of literacy and numeracy in selected Primary Schools in Kongwa District. It examined the factors that contribute to pupils’ inadequate literacy and numeracy skills. A cross-sectional survey research design, with a sample size (N=95) was used. Simple Random Sampling and Census Inquiry techniques were adopted. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS and the Qualitative data were analyzed using the verbatim method. The study findings suggested that there were literacy and numeracy issues in these particular Primary Schools since most of the Teachers lacked the skills needed to impart these abilities the majority of the Teachers never used the brainstorming technique, and others never used cooperative learning to teach literacy and numeracy. Likewise, few of these teachers’ use playing games as a technique for teaching literacy and numeracy. The study concluded that the majority of the teachers never used brainstorming, cooperative learning, and the use of play games as techniques to deliver lessons to learners. The study recommends retraining Teachers, employing teachers who have qualifications and cooperative teaching.
Expression of Her-2 and Ki-67 in Gastric Cancer Formalin Fixed Paraffin Embedded Tissue Blocks and Their Correlation with Histological Grades at the Uganda Cancer Institute Pathology Laboratory
(Dovepress, 2025-12-15) Wasswa, Hassan; Birungi, Abraham; Amadile, Lawrence; Kasadha, Richard; Nabaasa, Saphurah; Ninsiima, Jolly Lydia; Okecha, Tonny; Ssedyabane, Frank; Atwine, Raymond; Tibenderana, Lauben
Background: Her-2/neu, the human epidermal growth factor receptor-2, is an oncogene reported to be excessively expressed in gastric cancer. This over-expression is a criteria for treatment with trastuzumab. An antigen linked to nuclear proliferation is Ki-67, and the level of gastric cancer aggression is reflected in its expression. Objective: To determine the expression of Her-2 and Ki-67 in gastric cancer formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue blocks and their correlation with histological grades at the Uganda Cancer Institute pathology laboratory, with each block representing one gastric cancer case. Methods: A laboratory cross-sectional study was conducted among 75 endoscopic gastric cancer patient cases. Each case was assessed utilizing immunohistochemistry (IHC) for the expression of Her-2 and Ki-67. Spearman correlation coefficient was used to ascertain the expression and its correlation to histological grades. Results: The age range of gastric cancer cases was 26 to 80 years, with a mean age of 54. Poorly differentiated histology (43%) was the most profound. Her-2 over-expression was 20%. High Ki-67 expression was 56%, and the low Ki-67 expression was 7%. Her-2 overexpression correlated significantly with moderate differentiation (rs = 0.336, p = 0.003) and poor differentiation (rs = −0.229, p = 0.048). A significant correlation between moderate differentiation of gastric carcinoma with low intensity of Ki-67 staining was noted (rs = 0.255, p = 0.028). Conclusion: The aggressiveness of gastric cancer may be indicated by the over-expression of Her-2 and a high Ki-67. What This Study Adds: This study provides additional information on the relevance of Her-2 and a high Ki-67 over-expression in diagnosis, prognostic monitoring, and management of gastric cancer in Uganda.
Aids-Related Disseminated Kaposi Sarcoma with Renal Involvement: A Rare Non-Transplant Case Report
(2025-04-01) Omega, Phillip; Musoke Sharrif; Alele David; Okecha, Tonny; Mawanda Anatoli; Mwesigwa, Boaz; Adokorach, Gladys; Lukande Robert; Kalungi Sam
Kaposi’s sarcoma (KS) is a vascular malignancy associated with human herpesvirus 8 (HHV-8). In Africa, the commonest type is the AIDS-associated KS seen in immunocompromised individuals, infected with HIV. Although KS primarily affects the skin and mucosal surfaces, visceral involvement is also well-documented, with the lungs and gastrointestinal tract being the most frequently affected sites. Renal involvement in non-transplant patients remains exceptionally rare. We present a case of a 33-year-old HIV-positive woman with a history of non-adherence to highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART), who developed disseminated KS involving the oral mucosa, lungs, gastrointestinal tract, liver, and the right kidney. She presented with respiratory distress, generalized lymphadenopathy, and a hyperpigmented sublingual mass. Histopathological examination of the oral lesion confirmed KS, and post-mortem findings revealed extensive tumor infiltration of multiple organs, including the right kidney. This case highlights the aggressive nature of disseminated KS in severely immunocompromised patients and underscores the critical importance of HAART adherence in preventing disease progression. Given the exceptional rarity of non-allograft renal KS, this report adds to the limited literature on its occurrence and emphasizes the need for heightened clinical awareness when evaluating advanced KS cases.
Quantitative expression of estrogen, progesterone and human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 and their correlation with immunohistochemistry in breast cancer at Uganda Cancer Institute
(PLOS ONE, 2025-01-03) Wannume, Henry; Niyonzima, Nixon; Kalungi, Sam; Okuni, Julius Boniface; Okecha, Tonny; Kakungulu, Edward; Mpungu, Steven Kiwuwa; Waiswa, Geoffrey; Kadhumbula, Sylvester; Namayanja, Monica; Nabwana, Martin; Orem, Jackson
The detection of Estrogen Receptor (ER), Progesterone Receptor (PR), and Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER-2) is important for the stratification of breast cancer and the selection of therapeutic modalities. This study aimed to determine the quantitative expression of ER, PR and HER-2 using Immunohistochemistry and their correlation with quantitative baseline Ct values measured using Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). This study also assessed the use of fresh breast tissue biopsies preserved in RNAlater solution in the quantitative detection of these receptors using PCR technique. The study evaluated 20 matched formalin fixed paraffin embedded and RNAlater preserved samples for ER, PR, and HER-2 using IHC and quantitative PCR technique. One portion of the breast tissue biopsy was fixed immediately in 10% neutral buffered formalin and another was preserved in RNAlater. After the histological confirmation of breast cancer by the H&E technique, formalin fixed paraffin embedded tissues (FFPE)—positive cases were matched with their corresponding RNAlater samples for IHC and qPCR. The extracted RNA was quantified using Nanodrop technology, resulting into complementary DNA. ER and PR using IHC were expressed in 60% (n = 12) of the study samples and were negative in 40% (n = 8) of samples. HER-2 was negative in 70% (n = 14) of study samples, 25% (n = 5) positive, and 5% (n = 1) equivocal. With the quantitative expression of ER, PR, and HER-2 being reported in the IHC triple—negative breast cancer cases. The mean Ct values for the hormonal receptors correlated with what has been previously studied with ER at 19.631, PR at 25.410 and HER-2 at 25.695. There was no statistically significant difference between the mean Ct values of RNAlater and FFPE with their P-values being 0.9919, 0.0896 and < 0.0001 for ER, PR, and HER-2 respectively. P-values; 0.9919 and 0.0896 for ER and PR respectively being greater than 0.05 it’s a borderline significance although HER-2 had a statistical significance. With a concordance in the detection of these breast cancer hormonal receptors, qPCR can be used in our setting considering the delays that may be associated in following the samples through IHC processing.
Bladder extra-gastrointestinal stromal tumor in an elderly patient in Uganda: a case report
(Edorium Journals, 2025-06-14) Okecha, Tonny; Bakenga, Alex; Waiswa, Ali; Mawanda, Anatoli; Nyakato, Veronica; Niyonzima, Nixon
Introduction: Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are the most common mesenchymal neoplasms of the gastrointestinal tract (GI). They arise from the interstitial cells of Cajal or similar cells. Gastrointestinal stromal tumors that occur primarily outside the GI tract are termed extra-gastrointestinal stromal tumor (EGIST). These tumors are extremely rare and very few cases have been reported to date. Case Report: We report a case of a 75-year-old male who presented with a bladder mass. The patient presented with hematuria and lower urinary tract symptoms of dribbling, straining and incomplete voiding of urine. Pelvic computed tomography scan showed a well-defined homogenous mass in the urinary bladder. The tumor was partially surgically resected, and histology revealed a spindle-shaped tumor that was initially reported as fibrosarcoma. However, a histology review was done and immunohistochemistry staining was positive for CKIT, CD34, and DOG-1. A diagnosis of EGIST was made. There has not been any case of EGIST reported in Uganda to the best of our knowledge. Conclusion: This case highlights the rarity of EGISTs, emphasizing the need for accurate diagnosis through immunohistochemistry and increased awareness for clinical management.
Managing Burnout among Teaching Staff at Private Universities in Uganda A Case Study
(International Journal of Educational Development in Africa, 2022-08-01) Joel Yawe Masagazi
The focus of this study was to examine the causes of burnout among teaching staff and, based on the findings, to suggest a framework to manage burnout among teaching staff at private universities in Uganda. A qualitative research approach with a multiple case study design was adopted in the study. Individual and focus group interviews as well as document analysis aided data collection from 50 lecturers, 40 senior lecturers, 20 faculty deans and five registrars across five chartered private universities in the Central Region in Uganda. Empirical data revealed that burnout was mainly due to institutional causes specifically from their workplaces such as conflicting directives, teaching staff’s need to accomplish tasks by a known deadline, delays in the issuance of teaching staff contracts, job insecurity, teaching staff’s incompetence due to skills gaps, limited teaching staff support, students’ disruptive behaviour, and workload. In a second classification, interpersonal causes such as unresolved family challenges, being overly ambitious, failing to progress academically, financial obligations and limited resources also caused burnout among teaching staff. The recommendations that were made include mandatory workouts to boost morale and mood through continuous aerobic exercises, mandatory rest and repair of the lost resources through a paid annual leave, identification of alternative sources of income to supplement salaries, open communication channels, and employee assistance programmes, among others. The study suggests a framework to manage burnout among teaching staff at private universities in Uganda.
Health Financing and Policies in the Transition to Universal Health Coverage–Uganda as a Spotlight
(SSRN, 2024-05-20) Otieno, Emmanuel; Yaya, Togo; Namyalo, Josephine; Alira, Racheal
The problem of the uninsured has been a major focus of health policy debate for decades all over the World. The call for drastic change in the health sector has never been so urgent today than ever before. Humanity faces enormous crises and health related challenges. Before the pandemic the global economy was staggering and fragile; the consequent recovery has increased inequalities in access to health needs. Consequently, creating societies that may be unproductive and unsustainable. This requires transformative health reforms based on health financing and policy aspects. Yet the sector’s mainstream persists in doing business as usual, with no meaningful impact to global aspirations set out in the 2030 Agenda for Universal Health Coverage. The purpose of this perspective is to lay out a framework for policymakers to think about how policy reforms might fit to context of universal health coverage in low- and middle-income countries. The future of health insurance and the pursuit of innovative health financing approaches that we need to know to achieve implementation of National Health Insurance Scheme in Uganda.
Perinatal Mortality and Its Predictors in Beni City, Democratic Republic of Congo a Cross-sectional Study
(BMC, 2023) Kahiririaa, Mathe Julien; Namyalo, Josephine; Otieno, Emmanuel; Mubarak, Nasur
Background: Globally, perinatal mortality rates have decreased considerably in the last 30 years. However, in sub-Saharan African countries perinatal mortality remains a public health burden. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the Perinatal Mortality Rate and the factors associated with perinatal mortality in Beni City, Northeastern Democratic Republic of Congo. Methods: A hospital-based retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted among 1394 deliveries that were documented in Beni General Referral Hospital from 2 January to May 31, 2022. The study was done in the conflictridden Beni city of the North Kivu Province. Analysis was done using Open Epi and SPSS version 22. Binary and Multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed. Odds ratio with 95% confidence interval was used to measure strength of association. Results: Findings indicate that 60.7% of 1394 participants were below the age of 21 years, and 95.1% (1325) Beni residents. The Perinatal Mortality Rate was 42.3 per 1000 live births. Majority (51) of the postpartum women who experienced perinatal mortality didn`t have a history of perinatal mortality as compared to their counterparts. Multivariable analysis revealed that birth weight (AoR = 0.082, 95% CI 0.014–0.449, p < 0.05) and Apgar score in the 10th minute (AoR = 0.082, 95% CI 0.000- 0.043, p < 0.05) were significantly associated with Perinatal mortality. Conclusion: The high perinatal mortality rate in Beni General Referral Hospital, approximately four in every 100 births remains a disturbing public health concern of which is attributable to low birth weight and Apgar score. This study may help policymakers and healthcare providers to design preventive interventions.
The Paradox of the Ugandan Health Insurance System: Challenges and Opportunities for Health Reform: Challenges and Opportunities for Health Reform
(The Korean Society for Preventive Medicine, 2023-12-12) Otieno, Emmanuel; Namyalo, Josephine
For nearly four decades, Ugandans have experienced a period marked by hope, conflict, and resilience across various aspects of health care reform. The health insurance system in Uganda lacks a legal framework and does not extend benefits to the entire population. In Uganda, community-based health insurance is common among those in the informal sector, while private medical insurance is typically provided to employees by their workplaces and agencies. The National Health Insurance Scheme Bill, introduced in 2019, was passed in 2021. If the President of Uganda gives his assent to the National Health Insurance Bill, it will become a significant policy driving health and universal health coverage. However, this bill is not without its shortcomings. In this perspective, we aim to explore the complex interplay of challenges and opportunities facing Uganda’s health sector
Lived Experiences of Women Following a Stillbirth Delivery in Mityana Hospital Mityana Hospital
(IISTE, 2021-08-21) Ahmed, Kasule; Namyalo, Josephine; Kambigu, Caroline; Nabasirye, P. Nakalega; Kobusingye, Jacqueline
Background: The World Health Organization (WHO) defines a stillbirth as a baby born with no signs of life at or after 28 weeks' gestation. In high income countries, it is evident that a new-born will survive after 25 weeks’ gestation, compared to 28-32 weeks’ gestation in low resource countries. The global stillbirth rate is estimated to be 13.9 still births per 1000 total births. In Africa, the still birth rate is 10 times that of the developed countries, indicating 29 births Vs 3 per 1000 live births. This paper recounts women’s experiences following the delivery of a Stillbirth. Materials and Methods: The study used a Phenomenological study design to describe the essence of the women’s experiences following the delivery of a Stillbirth. The study focused on 16 women aged 17-35, who had experienced stillbirths both macerated and fresh, these were the primary sources of information for the study. The in-depth interviews held with participants revealed that the stillbirth Phenomenon has a major negative impact on the reproductive health lives of women and the magnitude of grief and the associated mysteries surrounding stillbirth make the whole experience unbearable. The paper looks at the short and long term experiences of birthing a silent baby and the different strategies used by women to cope with the experience. Findings: The Stillbirth Phenomenon has a major negative impact on the reproduction lives of women. The magnitude of grief and the associated mysteries surrounding stillbirth make the whole experience unbearable. Women experience untold grief from the loss, coping with the sad memory of loss for all their life and at time with little or no support. Conclusion: Although they always come up with self-coping mechanisms, there is a need to provide psychological and social support to these mothers who have experienced a still birth. The findings from this study show the physical, social and psychological challenges women endure during the occurrence of the stillbirth phenomenon. These findings can be used to inform efforts aimed at providing support to women who fall victim of stillbirth so as to make the experience less painful. The findings will also pave way for more research on experiences of women following Stillbirths events and other silent tragedies impacting maternal health in the country and the world at large.
Factors Influencing Access to Sexual and Reproductive Health Information among Adolescents Aged 12-19 Years in Mukono Municipality Schools: A Cross-Sectional Study
(ShahidSadoughi University of Medical Sciences, 2024-06-12) Namyalo, Josephine; Sentumbwe, Dissan; Nakalega, Annet Patience; Kobusingye, Jacqueline; Otieno, Emmanuel
Background: Adolescent sexual and reproductive health is one of the essential health care services that promote a adolescent’s health. Complications of unwanted pregnancies lead to school dropouts’, disability and mortality. However, many adolescents 12-19 years face barriers to reproductive health information about their health and rights. And are unable to access services needed to protect their health. This study aimed to assess factors influencing access to Sexual and Reproductive Health Information among adolescents aged 12-19 years in Mukono municipality schools, Uganda. Methods: Analytical cross-sectional survey and simple random sampling were used to select 384 participants between July and December 2022 in Mukono municipality. A Self-administered structured was used to collect data. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square test, and a modified Poisson regression model. Results: Findings showed the mean age of participants was 16.1 (S.D + 2) years. The proportion of access to information was 80.27%. Significant factors strongly associated with access to sexual and reproductive health information were being Moslem (OR: 0.284 (0.089-0.912)], going to hospital [OR: 2.350 (1.143-4.828)], distance 3-5 Kms from home to nearest health facility [OR: 0.41 (0.176-0.912)]. Conclusion: Two of every ten participants had access to Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights information. Significant determinants were radio media and print newspapers. Stakeholders should advocate for adolescents’ increased access to healthcare information to avert the upsurge in related diseases. Policy makers should review and monitor new guidelines for Adolescent and School health inclusive of sexuality and reproductive health. Thus, improve health equity for all.
Experiences of Using the Toll-free Telephone Line to Access Maternal and Newborn Health Services in Central Uganda: A Qualitative Study
(Elsevier, 2019-09-20) Mwase, H. Ivan; Hutchins, M.; Cameron, A.; Ware, M.; Nakanwaji, J.F.; Nakabembe, Eve; Mutabazi, G. Miriam; Chamberlain, Jean; Barageine, Justus Kafunjo
Objectives: Save the mothers (STM) operates the toll-free telephone line (TFL) service in nine health facilities in Uganda. The TFL is influential in addressing the first and second delays in seeking care as it connects vulnerable mothers to health facilities at no cost. This study aimed at exploring the experiences of health workers and community members in using the TFL to access maternal and newborn health services in four health facilities in central Uganda. Study design: This phenomenological/qualitative study used focus group discussions (FGDs) to collect data in four health facilities. Methods: A total of 10 FGDs were conducted; two with health workers, four with women, and another four with both men and women. Each session lasted 45e60 min and had a moderator, observer, and note taker. All discussions were audio-recorded after obtaining consent from the participants. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and translated to English from audio recordings. Data analysis was performed using the thematic analysis using QDA DATA Miner software. Results: The TFL service was pivotal in improving health worker and community relations, relaying timely health advice, ensuring prompt response to obstetric emergencies and facilitated timely referrals. However, the service faced several obstacles: unanswered calls, language differences, poor connectivity/network, and misuse/abuse. Conclusion: This study demonstrates the potential of the TFL service in addressing the first and second delay as it allows for timely linkage of vulnerable mothers to health facilities. The TFL enhanced health worker and community relations and facilitated timely referrals and relaying of health advice. Addressing maternal mortality in low-income settings necessitates increased investment and scale up of such high impact mHealth interventions. © 2019 The Royal Society for Public Health. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Coping Into Self-censorship: Exploring Copying Strategies of Journalists Working in South Sudan
(Routledge, 2024) John Gai Alier; Samuel Kazibwe; Fred Kakooza
Local journalists in South Sudan have faced enormous threats from security groups, politicians and powerful individuals in the country. These threats have made the work of the press difficult. Despite the precarious security situation, some journalists have had the courage to continue working in South Sudan but in a manner that minimises risks. While studies have been carried out on war and conflict reporting around the world, little attention has been paid to coping strategies for local journalists in South Sudan. This study sought to investigate threats, coping strategies and motivational factors for local journalists working in the private media houses in the country. A qualitative approach with emphatic in-depth interviews was purposively used to obtain data from 21 respondents including reporters and editors from seven media houses in Juba. The findings show that journalists face threats including arbitrary arrests, intimidation and incarceration. Others have been beaten, tortured and in some cases murdered. To continue doing their professional jobs, journalists in private media institutions have applied well-planned coping strategies as a means of protection. These strategies include self-censorship, publishing of threats via mass media channels, use of institutional rules, self-consciousness and avoidance of sensitive stories, among others. The analysis of the data clearly demonstrated that motivational factors played a crucial role in the coping process at both institutional and individual levels because the journalists relied on journalistic principles as their basis to create context-relevant coping strategies.
Digital Safety: Perspectives from Women Journalists in Uganda
(Emerald Publishing Limited, 2025) Fred Kakooza; Samuel Kazibwe
The Internet has been recognised as a tool or space for universal access to information that fosters diversity and plurality of voices. Yet in this space, journalists have been a regular target of online attacks, intimidation, and bullying that threaten the diversity of voices and information. Women journalists face a double burden of risk based on their gender, such that the safety and security of women journalists require a paradigm shift from focusing on physical harm alone to considering digital and online security as well. This chapter explores Ugandan women journalists’ safety and security experiences in online environments and how women journalists negotiate their online media environments to deliver journalistic work. Discussed through the media affordance and objectification theoretical perspectives, the findings indicate that women journalists use digital spaces as an enabler to their profession but are challenged with threats, violations, and harassment online. We emphasise continuous training of women journalists on digital safety and security, including rallying media organisations to ensure online safety for women journalists.
Regulation, Self-censorship and Journalism Practice in Uganda: A Focus on 2013-2023
(African Journal of Communication, 2024-10-21) Samuel Kazibwe
The purpose of the study was to examine how media laws can potentially contribute to self-censorship among journalists in Uganda. Document analysis and in-depth interviews were employed to achieve the purpose of the research. In addition to the methods, coping theory was chosen to guide the study. Although there are many laws relating to the practice of journalism, the findings identified five major pieces of legislation as having the greatest effect on the profession. They include the Uganda Constitution (Uganda, 1995), Press and Journalist (Amendment) Act (Uganda, 2000), Penal Code (Amendment) Act (Uganda, 2007), Computer Misuse (Amendment) Act (Uganda, 2022) and Uganda Communications Commission (Amendment) Act, (Uganda, 2013). The findings revealed that the state and its agents have effectively employed these laws to instil fear among journalists in the period under study. It is evident that while some of the laws are direct in entrenching self-censorship, others are ambiguous enough to allow state actors to use them in creating an environment that forces journalists to censor themselves.

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