Academic publications

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

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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.
Phylogenomic Analysis Uncovers a 9-year Variation of Uganda Influenza Type-a Strains From the Who-recommended Vaccines and Other Africa Strains
(Springer Nature, 2023-04) Grace Nabakooza; D. Collins Owuor; Zaydah R. de Laurent; Ronald Galiwango; Nicholas Owor; John T. Kayiwa; Daudi Jjingo; Charles N. Agoti; D. James Nokes; David P. Kateete; John M. Kitayimbwa; Simon D. W. Frost; Julius J. Lutwama
Genetic characterisation of circulating influenza viruses directs annual vaccine strain selection and mitigation of infection spread. We used next-generation sequencing to locally generate whole genomes from 116 A(H1N1)pdm09 and 118 A(H3N2) positive patient swabs collected across Uganda between 2010 and 2018. We recovered sequences from 92% (215/234) of the swabs, 90% (193/215) of which were whole genomes. The newly-generated sequences were genetically and phylogenetically compared to the WHO-recommended vaccines and other Africa strains sampled since 1994. Uganda strain hemagglutinin (n = 206), neuraminidase (n = 207), and matrix protein (MP, n = 213) sequences had 95.23–99.65%, 95.31–99.79%, and 95.46–100% amino acid similarity to the 2010–2020 season vaccines, respectively, with several mutated hemagglutinin antigenic, receptor binding, and N-linked glycosylation sites. Uganda influenza type-A virus strains sequenced before 2016 clustered uniquely while later strains mixed with other Africa and global strains. We are the first to report novel A(H1N1)pdm09 subclades 6B.1A.3, 6B.1A.5(a,b), and 6B.1A.6 (± T120A) that circulated in Eastern, Western, and Southern Africa in 2017–2019. Africa forms part of the global influenza ecology with high viral genetic diversity, progressive antigenic drift, and local transmissions. For a continent with inadequate health resources and where social distancing is unsustainable, vaccination is the best option. Hence, African stakeholders should prioritise routine genome sequencing and analysis to direct vaccine selection and virus control.
Molecular Epidemiology and Evolutionary Dynamics of Human Influenza Type-A Viruses in Africa: A Systematic Review
(MDPI, 2022-04) Grace Nabakooza; Ronald Galiwango; Simon D. W. Frost; David P. Kateete; John M. Kitayimbwa
Genomic characterization of circulating influenza type-A viruses (IAVs) directs the selection of appropriate vaccine formulations and early detection of potentially pandemic virus strains. However, longitudinal data on the genomic evolution and transmission of IAVs in Africa are scarce, limiting Africa’s benefits from potential influenza control strategies. We searched seven databases: African Journals Online, Embase, Global Health, Google Scholar, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science according to the PRISMA guidelines for studies that sequenced and/or genomically characterized Africa IAVs. Our review highlights the emergence and diversification of IAVs in Africa since 1993. Circulating strains continuously acquired new amino acid substitutions at the major antigenic and potential N-linked glycosylation sites in their hemagglutinin proteins, which dramatically affected vaccine protectiveness. Africa IAVs phylogenetically mixed with global strains forming strong temporal and geographical evolution structures. Phylogeographic analyses confirmed that viral migration into Africa from abroad, especially South Asia, Europe, and North America, and extensive local viral mixing sustained the genomic diversity, antigenic drift, and persistence of IAVs in Africa. However, the role of reassortment and zoonosis remains unknown. Interestingly, we observed substitutions and clades and persistent viral lineages unique to Africa. Therefore, Africa’s contribution to the global influenza ecology may be understated. Our results were geographically biased, with data from 63% (34/54) of African countries. Thus, there is a need to expand influenza surveillance across Africa and prioritize routine whole-genome sequencing and genomic analysis to detect new strains early for effective viral control.
Whole-genome Analysis to Determine the Rate and Patterns of Intra-subtype Reassortment Among Influenza Type-A Viruses in Africa
(Virus Evolution, 2022-01) Grace Nabakooza; Andrzej Pastusiak; David Patrick Kateete; Julius Julian Lutwama; John Mulindwa Kitayimbwa; Simon David William Frost
Influenza type-A viruses (IAVs) present a global burden of human respiratory infections and mortality. Genome reassortment is an important mechanism through which epidemiologically novel influenza viruses emerge and a core step in the safe reassortment-incompetent live-attenuated influenza vaccine development. Currently, there are no data on the rate, spatial and temporal distribution, and role of reassortment in the evolution and diversification of IAVs circulating in Africa. We aimed to detect intra-subtype reassortment among Africa pandemic H1N1pdm09 (2009-10), seasonal H1N1pdm09 (2011-20), and seasonal H3N2 viruses and characterize the genomic architecture and temporal and spatial distribution patterns of the resulting reassortants. Our study was nested within the Uganda National Influenza Surveillance Programme. Next-generation sequencing was used to generate whole genomes (WGs) from 234 H1N1pdm09 (n = 116) and H3N2 (n = 118) viruses sampled between 2010 and 2018 from seven districts in Uganda. We combined our newly generated WGs with 658 H1N1pdm09 and 1131 H3N2 WGs sampled between 1994 and 2020 across Africa and identified reassortants using an automated Graph Incompatibility Based Reassortment Finder software. Viral reassortment rates were estimated using a coalescent reassortant constant population model. Phylogenetic analysis was used to assess the effect of reassortment on viral genetic evolution. We observed a high frequency of intra-subtype reassortment events, 12 · 4 per cent (94/758) and 20 · 9 per cent (256/1,224), and reassortants, 13 · 3 per cent (101/758) and 38 · 6 per cent (472/1,224), among Africa H1N1pdm09 and H3N2 viruses, respectively. H1N1pdm09 reassorted at higher rates (0.1237-0.4255) than H3N2 viruses (0 · 00912-0.0355 events/lineage/year), a case unique to Uganda. Viral reassortants were sampled in 2009 through 2020, except in 2012. 78 · 2 per cent (79/101) of H1N1pdm09 reassortants acquired new non-structural, while 57 · 8 per cent (273/472) of the H3N2 reassortants had new hemagglutinin (H3) genes. Africa H3N2 viruses underwent more reassortment events involving larger reassortant sets than H1N1pdm09 viruses. Viruses with a specific reassortment architecture circulated for up to five consecutive years in specific countries and regions. The Eastern (Uganda and Kenya) and Western Africa harboured 84 · 2 per cent (85/101) and 55 · 9 per cent (264/472) of the continent's H1N1pdm09 and H3N2 reassortants, respectively. The frequent reassortment involving multi-genes observed among Africa IAVs showed the intracontinental viral evolution and diversification possibly sustained by viral importation from outside Africa and/or local viral genomic mixing and transmission. Novel reassortant viruses emerged every year, and some persisted in different countries and regions, thereby presenting a risk of influenza outbreaks in Africa. Our findings highlight Africa as part of the global influenza ecology and the advantage of implementing routine whole-over partial genome sequencing and analyses to monitor circulating and detect emerging viruses. Furthermore, this study provides evidence and heightens our knowledge on IAV evolution, which is integral in directing vaccine strain selection and the update of master donor viruses used in recombinant vaccine development.
Employing Phylogenetic Tree Shape Statistics to Resolve the Underlying Host Population Structure
(BMC Bioinformatics, 2021-11) Hassan W Kayondo; Alfred Ssekagiri; Grace Nabakooza; Nicholas Bbosa; Deogratius Ssemwanga; Pontiano Kaleebu; Samuel Mwalili; John M Mango; Andrew J Leigh Brown; Roberto A Saenz; Ronald Galiwango; John M Kitayimbwa
Background: Host population structure is a key determinant of pathogen and infectious disease transmission patterns. Pathogen phylogenetic trees are useful tools to reveal the population structure underlying an epidemic. Determining whether a population is structured or not is useful in informing the type of phylogenetic methods to be used in a given study. We employ tree statistics derived from phylogenetic trees and machine learning classification techniques to reveal an underlying population structure. Results: In this paper, we simulate phylogenetic trees from both structured and non-structured host populations. We compute eight statistics for the simulated trees, which are: the number of cherries; Sackin, Colless and total cophenetic indices; ladder length; maximum depth; maximum width, and width-to-depth ratio. Based on the estimated tree statistics, we classify the simulated trees as from either a non-structured or a structured population using the decision tree (DT), K-nearest neighbor (KNN) and support vector machine (SVM). We incorporate the basic reproductive number ([Formula: see text]) in our tree simulation procedure. Sensitivity analysis is done to investigate whether the classifiers are robust to different choice of model parameters and to size of trees. Cross-validated results for area under the curve (AUC) for receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves yield mean values of over 0.9 for most of the classification models. Conclusions: Our classification procedure distinguishes well between trees from structured and non-structured populations using the classifiers, the two-sample Kolmogorov-Smirnov, Cucconi and Podgor-Gastwirth tests and the box plots. SVM models were more robust to changes in model parameters and tree size compared to KNN and DT classifiers. Our classification procedure was applied to real -world data and the structured population was revealed with high accuracy of [Formula: see text] using SVM-polynomial classifier.
Phylogenetic Networks and Parameters Inferred from HIV Nucleotide Sequences of High-Risk and General Population Groups in Uganda: Implications for Epidemic Control
(MDPI, 2021-05) Nicholas Bbosa; Deogratius Ssemwanga; Rebecca N Nsubuga; Noah Kiwanuka; Bernard S Bagaya; John M Kitayimbwa; Alfred Ssekagiri; Gonzalo Yebra; Pontiano Kaleebu; Andrew Leigh-Brown
Phylogenetic inference is useful in characterising HIV transmission networks and assessing where prevention is likely to have the greatest impact. However, estimating parameters that influence the network structure is still scarce, but important in evaluating determinants of HIV spread. We analyzed 2017 HIV pol sequences (728 Lake Victoria fisherfolk communities (FFCs), 592 female sex workers (FSWs) and 697 general population (GP)) to identify transmission networks on Maximum Likelihood (ML) phylogenetic trees and refined them using time-resolved phylogenies. Network generative models were fitted to the observed degree distributions and network parameters, and corrected Akaike Information Criteria and Bayesian Information Criteria values were estimated. 347 (17.2%) HIV sequences were linked on ML trees (maximum genetic distance ≤4.5%, ≥95% bootstrap support) and, of these, 303 (86.7%) that consisted of pure A1 (n = 168) and D (n = 135) subtypes were analyzed in BEAST v1.8.4. The majority of networks (at least 40%) were found at a time depth of ≤5 years. The waring and yule models fitted best networks of FFCs and FSWs respectively while the negative binomial model fitted best networks in the GP. The network structure in the HIV-hyperendemic FFCs is likely to be scale-free and shaped by preferential attachment, in contrast to the GP. The findings support the targeting of interventions for FFCs in a timely manner for effective epidemic control. Interventions ought to be tailored according to the dynamics of the HIV epidemic in the target population and understanding the network structure is critical in ensuring the success of HIV prevention programs.
Educational Resource Dynamics and Instructional Adaptability as Determinants of Competency-Based Curriculum Implementation Fidelity in Uganda’s Lower Secondary Education
(East African Journal of Education Studies, 2026) Tonny Muzaale; John Kitayimbwa; Wilson Eduan
This study investigated Instructional Resource Dynamics and Instructional Adaptability as Determinants of Competency-Based Curriculum Implementation Fidelity in Uganda’s Lower Secondary Education. The specific objective was to determine how human, digital/printed, and physical infrastructural resources affect curriculum implementation and to assess the mediating role of instructional adaptability. An explanatory sequential mixed methods design was employed, beginning with a quantitative phase using structured surveys administered to 972 lower secondary school teachers, followed by qualitative interviews to contextualise statistical findings. Quantitative data were analysed using SPSS Version 25, employing descriptive statistics, correlation, hierarchical multiple regression, and mediation analysis through path coefficients and Sobel testing. Results indicated that educational resources significantly predicted curriculum implementation, with human resources having the strongest effect, followed by digital/printed materials, while physical infrastructure showed a smaller, non-significant contribution. Instructional adaptability partially mediated the relationship between educational resources and curriculum implementation, suggesting that resource availability enhances teachers’ adaptive teaching capacities, which in turn improves curriculum fidelity. These findings align with Constructivist and Fidelity of Implementation theories, emphasising that teacher competence and flexibility bridge the gap between policy intentions and classroom realities. The study concludes that the success of CBC implementation depends not only on the adequacy of resources but also on teachers’ ability to adapt instruction to diverse contexts. It recommends that the Ministry of Education increase teacher recruitment and professional development, expand equitable access to digital and printed learning resources, and improve infrastructure standards through collaboration with county governments and school boards. Strengthening teacher adaptability through continuous professional learning and targeted policy support is essential for sustaining effective, learner-centred curriculum implementation across Uganda’s education system.
Applying Resource Dependence Theory to Examine Curriculum Implementation Fidelity in Uganda’s Lower Secondary Schools
(East African Journal of Education Studies, 2026) Tonny Muzaale; John Kitayimbwa; Wilson Eduan
This study investigated how instructional efficacy mediates the relationship between resource capacity and competency-based curriculum (CBC) implementation fidelity in Uganda’s lower secondary schools. Firmly grounded in the RTD framework, which theorises that educational resource capacity exerts its influence on curriculum outcomes through proximal teacher-level response mechanisms, particularly instructional efficacy, and guided by systems and instructional effectiveness perspectives, the study examined the extent to which school resources enhance teacher instructional efficacy, which in turn influences faithful implementation of learner-centred CBC practices. An explanatory sequential mixed-methods design was employed, collecting quantitative data from 972 teachers, administrators, and NCDC staff, alongside qualitative data from 11 (eleven) in-depth interviews. Quantitative analysis utilised hierarchical multiple regression with bootstrapped mediation to estimate indirect effects, a regression-based approach sometimes referred to as PROCESS-style mediation analysis. Results revealed that resource capacity significantly predicts instructional efficacy, which partially mediates the effect of resources on CBC implementation fidelity. Teachers with higher instructional efficacy reported stronger engagement with students, greater adaptability, and more consistent adherence to curriculum objectives. While resources directly support curriculum implementation, their impact is substantially amplified when teachers perceive themselves as capable and confident in their instructional practices. Qualitative findings further contextualised these results, highlighting the importance of supportive leadership, collaborative school environments, and structured professional development in translating resources into effective teaching practices. The study concludes that enhancing CBC implementation requires coordinated investment in resources and teacher capacity development, coupled with strengthened school-level leadership. It recommends institutionalised professional development programs, strategic allocation of school resources, and ongoing monitoring and support to sustain high levels of instructional efficacy and curriculum fidelity across Uganda’s lower secondary schools.
School Change, Education Receptivity, and Resource Capacity as Predictors of Curriculum Implementation Fidelity
(African Journal of Empirical Research, 2026-01) Tonny Muzaale; John Kitayimbwa; Wilson Eduan
This study was conducted with the aim of examining the role of school change receptivity and resource capacity as predictors of CBC implementation fidelity in lower secondary schools in Uganda. Using a system and change management perspective, the study sought to examine the role of change receptivity and resource capacity in predicting CBC implementation fidelity in lower secondary schools in Uganda. The researcher has used the resource-based theory and fidelity of implementation theory as a basis for the review. An explanatory sequential mixed-methods design was used to examine the relationship between change receptivity and CBC implementation fidelity and how resource capacity influences CBC implementation fidelity with a sample of 972 participants from the National Curriculum Development Centre, comprising teachers, school administrators, and other staff from public and private schools in Wakiso District, Uganda, and 71 participants from in-depth interviews with teachers and school administrators from selected schools. Quantitative data analysis was conducted using IBM SPSS Statistics Version 25, and qualitative data analysis was conducted using Braun and Clarke’s framework for thematic analysis to explain and contextualize the findings from the quantitative data analysis. The results revealed that school change receptivity and resource capacity co-acted to predict CBC implementation fidelity. Human resource capacity was a dominant predictor of fidelity in that schools with trained, supported, and confident teachers recorded high levels of instruction consistency and student-centeredness. However, the lack of refresher courses and professional support hindered change receptivity. Physical resource capacity was a moderate predictor in those schools with equipped and functioning physical facilities, which recorded high levels of fidelity despite the lack of physical resources in some schools. Instructional digital and print materials recordeda low but positive effect on fidelity in that they were hindered by the lack of ICT facilities and digital materials. In conclusion, this study argues that in order to enhance CBC fidelity of implementation, there is a need to enhance schools’ change receptivity and resource capacity. It is recommended that schools be provided with professional development opportunities to enhance change receptivity and resource capacity in order to enhance fidelity in CBC implementation.
Financial Resource Mobilisation and Academic Program Viability in Private Universities: Evidence from Fort Portal City
(East African Journal of Interdisciplinary Studies, 2026-03-04) Stephen Agonzibwa; Joel Yawe Masagazi; Stephen Kyakulumbye
This study examined how resource mobilization practices influence the viability of academic programs in private universities located in resource-constrained regional contexts, using evidence from Fort Portal City, Uganda. While private universities play a critical role in expanding access to higher education, empirical evidence on how governance- and relationship-based resource strategies sustain academic programs at the sub-national level remains limited. Grounded in Resource Dependence Theory, Resource Governance Theory, and the Institutional Capacity Model, the study assessed the influence of stakeholder engagement, partnership effectiveness, and financial resource mobilization on academic program viability. defined in terms of sustainability, relevance, quality assurance, staffing continuity, and curriculum resilience. An exploratory sequential mixed-methods design was employed, involving qualitative interviews with senior university leaders and managers, followed by a survey of academic and administrative staff across the two private universities operating in Fort Portal City. Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis, while qualitative data was analyzed thematically. The findings indicate that partnership effectiveness is the strongest predictor of academic program viability (β = 0.437, p < 0.001), followed by stakeholder engagement (β = 0.259, p = 0.006) and financial resource mobilization (β = 0.230, p = 0.002). Together, these factors explain 25.2% of the variance in academic program viability. Qualitative evidence reinforces these results, revealing heavy dependence on tuition fees, governance rigidities, and the central role of external partnerships in sustaining specialized and practice-oriented academic programs. The study concludes that academic program viability in regional private universities is shaped less by the volume of financial resources and more by governance quality, partnership functionality, and institutional capacity to deploy resources strategically. Practically, the findings underscore the need for formalized partnerships, decentralized resource governance, and capacity-building strategies tailored to the realities of private universities operating outside major metropolitan centers.
Forms of Social Support Received by Family Caregivers of Patients With Schizophrenia in Sub-saharan African Urban Settings: An Integrative Review of Literature
(Routledge, 2023) Winfred Naamara; Justus Twesigye; Wilson Winstons Muhwezi; Sherphard Chidarikire
An integrative review was conducted to identify and describe forms of social support received by family caregivers of patients with schizophrenia in Sub-Saharan African urban settings. Sub- Saharan African region comprises of 49 countries and covers the area of the African continent that lies south of the Sahara. A search was performed in data bases of PubMed, EMBASE, PsycINFO, and CINAHL, and resulted in a total of 1,155 articles which were screened for inclusion, and 20 articles remained for review. Findings revealed that family caregivers received social support of different forms with emotional social support being the most frequently received. Findings provide essential insights that can be used by mental health practitioners and policy makers for strengthening social support networks for family caregivers in urban settings.
Family Caregivers’ Perceptions of Schizophrenia and Community Members’ Attitudes Toward Patients and Their Family Caregivers
(Routledge, 2025-01-09) Winfred Naamara; Justus Twesigye; Byamah Brian Mutamba; Wilson Winstons Muhwezi
Schizophrenia is a complex disorder with no known single cause which makes family caregivers of patients to develop their own perceptions and interpretations of the condition. We aimed to find out family caregivers’ perceptions and how they influence their treatment seeking behavior as well as attitudes of community members toward family caregivers and their patients. Qualitative data were collected from 24 family caregivers, of patients with schizophrenia who were residents of Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area. Findings indicated that family caregivers accepted schizophrenia as a chronic medical condition that could only be treated in a hospital. Community members got used to seeing patients with schizophrenia and accepted them with their family caregivers as part of their community. Study findings provide important information that could be used by social workers, other mental health workers and policy-makers to strengthen service delivery and mobilization of social support for family caregivers and their patients with schizophrenia.
Factors Associated With Alcohol Dependence Among Adult Male Clients in Butabika Hospital, Uganda
(Routledge, 2014-08-21) Winfred Naamara; Wilson Winston Muhwezi
Alcohol dependence is among the leading causes of psychiatric morbidity the world over, and it is estimated that there are more than 63 million males with alcohol-dependence-related disorders (World Health Organization, 2004). In sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), alcohol dependence is known to be related to risky sexual behaviors and depressive disorders in males (Institute of Medicine, 2010; Pitso & Obot, 2011). In Uganda, a country of more than 32 million people, alcohol dependence is among the main causes of psychiatric morbidity (Ministry of Health in Uganda, 2005). Historically, alcoholic beverages such as beer have often been used to bind different Ugandan cultures together and during celebrations of important events such as marriages (Wolf, Busza, Bufumbo, & Witworth, 2006). Uganda not only lacks a clear national alcohol policy, but has weak and poorly enforced laws, thereby providing a fertile ground foran increase in the availability and accessibility of alcohol (Uganda Youth Development Link, 2008). Many households are involved in informal alcohol production for income purposes, resulting in alcohol being easily available at the household level (Holmila, Makela, & Osterberg, 2011).
Environmental Financial Reporting Adoption Lag: The Case of Uganda
(IGI Global Scientific Publishing, 2022) Mary Maurice Nalwoga Mukokoma; Vincent Kisenyi; Peter Masaba Nangayi; George Kasule
Financial reporting without integration of environmental issues is not sustainable. The purpose of this chapter is to discuss the need for financial environmental reporting and also to provide empirical evidence for environmental financial reporting disclosure (EFRD) of listed companies in Uganda. Historical, theoretical, and contextual issues of environmental financial reporting are analyzed. Empirical results on the environmental financial reporting disclosure levels in Uganda are presented, and the implications of the current disclosure levels are discussed. The chapter concludes that a low EFRD level demonstrates the lag in the adoption of environmental financial reporting. It is suggested that certain actions are required by the entities to publish environmental financial information and to reduce the lag.
Silent Struggles: Menstrual Hygiene Challenges Faced by Female University Students in Uganda
(Texila International Journal of Academic Research, 2026-01-30) Josephine Namyalo; Mukooza Edward; Faith Musinguzi; Emmanuel Otieno; Robert Basaza
Menstruating individuals face barriers in managing their periods safely and with dignity, especially in low-and middle–income countries like Uganda. Menstrual health interventions have focused on schoolgirls, assuming university students have fewer challenges. However, female university students in Uganda face significant challenges. Thus, the objective of this study was to explore challenges faced by female university students in Central and Southwestern Uganda through a socio-ecological perspective. A phenomenological design was used. A sample of 88 participants was purposively selected using a two-stage stratified sampling technique. Four focus group discussions and 16 key informant interviews were conducted to collect data. Interviews were transcribed and analysed thematically using NVivo 12 software. These were complemented by structured observations of WASH facilities. The socioecological model (SEM) is a public health framework that describes how health is impacted at multiple levels including individual, interpersonal, community, organizational and policy levels. Key themes were identified, and challenges contributing to menstrual hygiene were categorized as per the SEM. The findings showed that female students experienced physical pains and missed classes hindering their education. Also, linking menstruation to sorcery led to fears related with disposal of menstrual absorbents and inadequate WASH infrastructure, which contributed to poor menstrual hygiene management reflecting systemic failures at universities. Many female students had knowledge gaps about menstrual hygiene management based on biases of cultural taboos and practices. They lacked confidence in managing their menstruation while at university, highlighting the need for universities to establish programs and policies that promote their well-being and academic success.
Exploring Student Teachers’ Perspectives of School Administrators Support During School Practice in Uganda
(East African Nature & Science Organization, 2024) Annet Musiimenta; Wilson Eduan; Mary Ocheng Kagoire
This study investigates the collaborative potential between universities and schools in enhancing teacher training, focusing specifically on student teachers’ perceptions of support from school managers during school practice (SP). The purpose of this research was to assess how various forms of support from school managers impact student teachers’ experiences and perceptions during practical training. Utilizing a qualitative case study design, the research involved a sample of 24 student teachers in the third and final year of study. Data collection tools included semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions, which provided in-depth insights into the participants’ experiences. Thematic analysis of the data revealed that student teachers perceived significant support from school managers in areas such as induction processes, equitable load distribution, managerial guidance, professional development opportunities, and motivational practices. However, a notable concern emerged regarding the negative perceptions arising from the absence of practicing teachers during SP. The findings suggest that while overall support from school managers was viewed positively, there are areas for improvement. The study recommends that universities should actively strengthen collaboration with placement schools by establishing formal partnerships, thereby enhancing the support system for student teachers during school practice experiences.
Headteachers' Transformational Leadership and Its Influence on Academic Performance: A Case of Public Secondary Schools in Uganda
(East African Nature & Science Organization, 2024) David Sengendo; Wilson Eduan
Leadership style is an important aspect of students' academic performance in schools. Transformational leadership style is associated with students' academic achievement in Uganda's public secondary schools. The aim of this paper was to examine the influence of transformational leadership attributes on academic performance in public secondary schools in Uganda. Specifically, the study investigated the influence of transformational leadership attributes on academic performance at UCE and UACE in public secondary schools. The research was underpinned by the transformational leadership theory pioneered by James McGregor Burns and supported by Bass. The study was anchored on the positivism philosophy and guided by a correlation survey design with a quantitative research method. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to select 163 public secondary schools from a total sample of 253 public secondary schools, registered with the Ministry of Education and Sports in Uganda's central region. Primary data was collected using structured questionnaires. Data was analysed through descriptive and inferential statistics. Hypothesis testing was done at 5% significance level using the multiple linear regression model. The study established that transformational leadership is a significant predictor of academic performance both at Uganda Certificate Education (Ordinary level) and Uganda Advanced Certificate Education (Advanced level) through idealised influence, intellectual stimulation, individualised consideration, and the control variables. The study concludes that transformational leadership has a significant influence on academic performance. The study recommends that policymakers and strategists in Uganda's Education Ministry should closely monitor the school's alignment with the transformational leadership practices of head teachers for sustainable academic performance in public secondary schools.
Planning for the Accelerated Education Programme for Refugee Learners In Uganda: Stakeholders Experiences
(East African Nature & Science Organization, 2024) Grace Kiiria; Wilson Eduan; Stella Eduan
This study focused on Accelerated Education Programme (AEP) to develop planning and coordination models tailored to this kind of programme. The specific objective of the study was: To explore stakeholder’s experiences in planning for AEP to enhance transition of refugee learners to secondary education. The study sought to explore how stakeholders experience planning and how planning influences transition of refugees learners to secondary education based on grounded theory design. Data collection was done through in-depth interviews and constant comparison analysis were done. The findings indicate that planning for AEPs was based on the four major aspects: planning for programme support, the beneficiaries, stakeholder engagement and harmonizing the curriculum. However, there is a gap in how planning is done which negatively influences transition of AEP learners to secondary education. The above factors need to be taken into consideration right from the initial stages of the programme. A Community-Focused Planning Model was developed from the study- a model which upholds the significance of community focused planning with emphasis on taking into consideration the socio-ecological environment/community in which the child lives while planning for AEP. The study therefore contributes to improved planning of AEPs while taking into consideration the needs of refugee learners, the environment in which they live and collaboratively engaging communities in the design of AEP. Thus, leading to improved learning outcomes and transition of refugee children to secondary education.

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