Masters Degree Dissertations

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Performance of burnt clay hollow block slab under seismic action in Uganda
(Kyambogo University (unpublished work), 2018-09) Kiberu, Faisal
A storeyed building has different structural elements each working to complement the other in resisting seismic actions. Since most of the building mass is present at floor levels, earthquake induced inertia forces primarily develop at the floor levels due to ground vibrations from which they travel horizontally through the slabs and beams to columns and wa11s, and then to the foundations where they are dispersed to the ground. Ninety five percent (95%) of storeyed buildings in Kampala the capital city of Uganda have their slabs constructed with burnt clay ho11ow block reinforced concrete slabs. Slabs containing hollow blocks are constructed with the hollow side of blocks end to end running in one direction, with a rib between rows of blocks in which steel reinforcement is laid. This constrains the slab to act as one-way spanning. For a structure subjected to seismic loading, the requirement for a diaphragm is that the slab should have equal strength in both horizontal directions. This is because horizontal seismic action is described by two orthogonal components considered as independent and represented by the same response spectrum. According to EN 1998, (Euro Code 8), one of the guiding principles governing conceptual design against seismic hazard is the bi-directional resistance and stiffness at storey level. Seismic load is applied to the slab as a compressive load in the plane of the slab. This study determined the load capacity of hollow blocks parallel and perpendicular to the boles in the plane of the slab. Hollow block slabs measuring 750 x 800mm were produced. These were cured for 28days and loaded parallel and perpendicular to the direction of hollow blocks and ribs. Also, the hollow blocks were loaded parallel and perpendicular to the direction of holes. It was found that the load capacity of burnt clay hollow blocks when loaded parallel to holes varied from I 03.35kN - l 23.93kN giving a compressive stress of 2.3 /mm2 - 2.8N/mm2 , whereas the load capacity, perpendicular to the direction of holes ranged from 45.6kN - 47.4kN giving a compressive strength of I .ON/mm2 - l.05N/rnm2• For the slab, the failure load varied from 3 I 5kN - 375kN when loaded parallel to the rib, giving a stress of l .97N/mm2 - 2.34N/mm2 and the failure stress perpendicular to ribs varied from l.04N/nun2 - l.2N/mm2.
Influence of urbanization on performance of public utilities: a case of national water and sewerage corporation in lira municipality, Uganda
(Kyambogo University (un published work), 2018-11) Okite, George
The study sought to investigate the influence of urbanization on the pe1formance of NWSC in LMC with objectives to establish the relationship between urbanization and performance, to establish the challenges faced by NWSC as a result of urbanization, and to develop a framework for efficient delivery of services in LMC. Qualitative, quantitative approaches and interview, survey and document review methods were employed. A case study design and a model were applied to achieve the objectives. 384 participants were targeted and 381 responded. From the study findings, there was a significant positive correlation (rho = .487) between urban growth and development and Service delivery by NWSC. It is shown that the significance of the correlation (p = .000) is less than the recommended critical significance at 0.05, thus not rejected. It was also established that discriminatory urban planning with a mean of 3.50, lack of political will with a mean of 3.66, unplanned water supply with mean score of 3.46 were the most silent challenges faced by NWSC in the performance of her duties. Policy reform and water contamination fetched low mean score of 2.93 and 3.29 and constituted the least challenges that affect NWSC. The multiple regression model with all four predictors produced R2R2 =0.463, F (6, 92) = 4.176, p < 0. OOI .The research findings indicated that there was a strong positive relationship (R= 0.214) between the variables. The study also revealed that 46.3% of the NWSC performance factors can be explained by the independent variables. The municipality ought to expedite the planning process so as to ensure settlement and housing projects are setup with minimal interference on utility and other access lines which will enable service providers have a manageable operational cost. Key words: Urbanization; Performance, Public Utilities
Assessment of equipment productivity in building construction projects in Uganda
(Kyambogo University[unpublished work], 2018-12) Asaya, Andrew Peter
Management of construction equipment in building construction projects is an important factor to run projects in a successful manner. The focus of this study was to identify the factors affecting equipment productivity, to establish how these factors impacted on equipment productivity, with the aim of improving equipment productivity in Uganda. Using a cross sectional study design, data were collected from a total of 340 respondents in different construction sites in Kampala by use of questionnaires. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse the respondents' demographic characteristics and the mean and standard deviation was used to identify factors affecting construction equipment productivity. The identified factors were subjected to regression analysis and a model was developed to improve equipment productivity. The study established that human resource factors affecting equipment productivity were; technical skills of staff, experience of the operator, and motivation of staff. It was further established that equipment factors affecting equipment productivity were; equipment break down, quality of equipment, working cycle capacity, and age of equipment. With regards to the environmental factors affecting equipment productivity, the study found that weather conditions and access, were the leading factors affecting equipment productivity. It was established that holding other factors constant, environmental factors affect equipment productivity by 6.4% and the remaining 93.6% is explained by other factors. Project managers should therefore hire experienced and well-motivated equipment operators and in order to improve equipment productivity in building construction project. Key words: Equipment Productivity, Human resource, Environment, Building construction
Assessing the impact of bitumen types on the Performance of asphalt concrete road pavement construction in Uganda
(Kyambogo University (un published work), 2018-12) Mpaata, Steven
This research was conducted to assess the impact of local asphalt binders on the performance of asphalt concrete road pavement construction in Uganda. The bitumen samples were collected from ongoing road construction projects where asphalt concrete made pan of the pavement. The sampling was done in accordance with procedures provided in BS EN 58: 2012 and BS EN 475: 2000. Testing was carried out in Central Materials Laboratory, Tan Roads. Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania to confirm binder classification and obtain performance properties. The penetration tests, fluidity and pumping tests conducted on the bitumen samples confirmed compliance with specifications. It was noted that all penetration grade bitumen samples gave softening points lower than the allowable limits implying in-service performance challenges. Most of the samples did not comply with physical property requirements when compared with the binder specifications implying that they arc susceptible to rutting and fatigue damage. Binder Temperature zoning based on Strategic Highway Research Program of asphalt grading system was completed in fourteen zones and presented on a map. Three temperature zones were confirmed incorporating Perfom1ance Grade (PG) 70+ 3 in most of the Northern, far Eastern and Kasese regions, PG 64+6 for most of Central and PG 58+3 for far Western regions bordering with Rwanda and Democratic Republic of Congo. This study introduced a robust testing regime and acceptance criteria to be used in future asphalt designation and construction in Uganda. Accordingly. value engineering was achieved based on increased time intervals of road
Assessing the effect of different mortar mixes on strength of burnt clay brick masonry wall
(Kyambogo University(Unpublished work), 2019-10) Owino, Stephen
Following the tremendous increase in population growth rate in Uganda from 12.6 million people in 1980 to 34.6 million people in 2014, there has been an increase in housing units from 2.6 million house in 1980 to 7.34 million houses in 2014. Despite of this increase in housing units, the population has surpassed the demand leading to a deficit of 200, 000 housing units annually. The National Housing and population census of 2014 revealed that the increased housing units is constructed of permanent materials at 43.7% with burnt clay bricks leading at 36.4% followed by mud and poles at 33.6% and these are materials used without the knowledge of their strength and properties. Hence, the need to assess its strength so as to protect the inhabitants against accidents and loss of lives. Research findings indicated that 100% of the structural design firms do not design masonry structures made of burnt clay bricks but instead specify them as infills. 100% survey on 102 sites established that the commonly used mortar mix ratios range between 1:7 to 1:14 far different from the perceived mortar mix ratios of 1:3 to 1:6 as a result of the use of one bag of cement to a number of wheelbarrows and these resulted into a compressive strength of 5.92N/mm2 to 1.87N/mm2 respectively far below the intended compressive strength of 17.8N/mm2 to 6.82N/mm2. Experimental tests on burnt clay bricks has established varying compressive strength with an average of 7.3N/mm2 to 2.06N/mm2 and this was attributed to water absorption, method of manufacture and the soil type. Results on burnt clay masonry walls constructed of most used mortar mix ratios established that , the compressive strength of the wall greatly reduced with increasing value of mortar mix ratios. Conclusively, the wall strength was much influenced by the strength of mortar, indicating that the weaker the strength of mortar the weaker the wall strength and vice versa however strong the brick may be, hence high mix ratios beyond 1:6 should not be used in the construction of masonry clay brick walls to avoid structural failures.
Quality of packaged drinking water along its production and distribution chain: a case of central and eastern Uganda
(Kyambogo University (un published work), 2019-10) Agonza, Deogratious
Access to safe and affordable drinking water is one of core targets under Sustainable Development Goals: 6. Bottled water is a path way for such safe access as from 1990, with currently more than 40 registered brands amidst the high demand for it, mainly at functions and events in spite of the varying consumer perception. This study aimed at assessing packaged drinking water quality along its production and distribution chain. The study focused on; assessing consumer perception on bottled water quality, its quality during production processes and on local markets in Central and Eastern Regions of Uganda. Findings from the study showed that majority of the respondents from the consumer perception survey, 86% agreed to bottled water being tasty, 42% agreed that it has odour and 13% agreed that it has colour. Furthermore, during sample testing, evident results of appearance, aroma, texture and taste confirmed were recorded and guided selection of study case factories of the study. All the tested 24 samples from production and 60 samples from market for the 3 bottled water brands tested met National Drinking Water Standards. However, they all showed differences in key parameters in the four towns. The parameters also showed degree of changes depending on storage facilities. The difference mainly differed by; location; market avenue; storage all attributed to probably, travel distance, temperature difference and expiry dates. Bottled water is; safe for consumption, not coloured but bears taste and odour as related to consumer’s perception. Key words; Bottled water, Taste, Odour, Colour, parameter, quality.
Developing a model for cost performance improvement of road maintenance projects in northern Uganda – case study of Uganda National Roads Authority
(Kyambogo University (un published work), 2019-11) Abonga, Alfred Alexis
Government has put in place plans for road development and maintenance and has improved on its budget allocations, in order to boost tourism, agriculture and mining, among others. However, road maintenance remains a challenge due to cost deviations, inflation of unit costs by contractors and delays in maintenance interventions. This has resulted into maintainable sections of the networks to slip into rehabilitation realm, therefore increasing maintenance backlog. This study examined Cost Performance Improvement of road maintenance projects in Northern Uganda considering Uganda National Roads Authority. The main objective of the study was to develop a model to improve cost performance in road maintenance projects. The study was conducted in four UNRA stations in Northern Uganda, namely Arua, Gulu, Kitgum and Moyo Stations using a simple random selection. Both qualitative and quantitative data were collected, using survey questionnaires and documentary reviews from a sample size of 60 elements. Data was analyzed using correlations, regression analysis and descriptive analysis. Wearing course & shoulder works experienced 64.3% negative cost deviations while drainage improvements experienced 21.4%. Material price fluctuations, with 80.9% of respondents, and equipment availability and failures, with 81% of respondents, were key factors, believed to have influence on cost deviations. A Cost Performance Improvement model, developed using a multivariate regression analysis of budgeted cost elements, is proposed to address inaccurate costing of the budget elements. The study concluded that road maintenance projects experience negative cost deviations due to problems related to Clients’ Project management & contract administration, labor management, financial management, contractor’s site management and design & documentation factors. The research recommends a study into the effect of different management styles on project cost deviations since it varies from one contract manager to another.
Assessment of impacts of land use changes on water resources of river Mpanga catchment
(Kyambogo University, 2019-11) Turyahabwe, Catherine
Mpanga Catchment has in recent decades been exposed to changes in land use/cover (LULC). This could have been due to intensive agricultural activities to sustain the needs of the increasing population. Transition in land use/cover tends to impact on the hydrology of a given catchment. This study assessed the impacts of land use changes on water resources of Mpanga catchment. The study was three-fold. Firstly, land use changes were identified and analysed. In the second step, the question of whether land use changes impacted on water resources was answered through hydrological modelling using Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT). SWAT was automatically calibrated and validated using daily data from 2003 to 2013. Thirdly, the model was applied to conduct scenario analysis. Major land use/covers included cropland, forest, pasture, wetland, water body and settlement. Cultivated area increased by 31.79% while grassland and forests decreased by 31.79% and 11.38%, respectively. Hydrological model performance evaluation yielded Nash-Sutcliffe model efficiency (NSE) 0.86 and 0.77 during calibration and validation periods, respectively. Changes in the land uses between 2000 and 2014 increased stream flow ratios from 0.49 to 0.54, surface runoff from 0.26 to 0.33 and evapotranspiration ratios reduced from 0.49 to 0.44. Scenario analysis showed that the catchment was more influenced by the land use changes with respect to dry than wet conditions. Thus, control measures like agroforestry, deep tillage and banding should be adopted to minimize run off and facilitate infiltration and ground water recharge. Key words: Catchment, land use/cover, water resources, scenarios, hydrological modelling
Abating the effects of different land use activities on eutrophication of Kabaka’s lake Kampala - Uganda
(Kyambogo University, 2019-11) Mutyaba, Abel
Various land uses resulting from urbanization in Kampala the capital city of Uganda, have reduced the natural pollutant filtration value of the wetlands. This has in turn led to a decline in the water quality and gradual eutrophication of available water bodies such as Kabaka’s lake, characterised with green colored water, foul smells, and tastes. The aim of this study was to assess eutrophication management strategies for abatement of the effects of the different land use activities on natural water quality of Kabaka’s lake. The study focused on; classification of downloaded Landsat imagery for the last 25 years, mapping of pollution hotspots and nutrient distribution with GIS, and assessment of both external (constructed wetland) and internal (dredging) eutrophication extenuation measures. Following the research showed that Kabaka’s lake catchment land use has been significantly (p<0.005) been redistributed, with buildup area increasing by 78.5%, vegetated area reducing by 37.2% and water reducing by 1.8%. This has not only significantly reduced the lakes receiving wetland footprint by 92.2% (p=0.000003) but also increased the nutrient load in the catchment mainly from; garage oil spillages, car washing bays wastewater, and sewerage. The 80,596 m2 Lake’s light attenuation is currently algae dominate, limited by nitrogen and classified under oligotrophic class of lakes (Trophic State Index<40) with a threat of eutrophication in an estimate of 25 years. Construction of a wetland in the remaining 1.34 acres of natural wetland will significant reduce Total Phosphorus by 35% and Total Nitrate by 45% (p = 0.05), whereas dredging the lake will reduce both by 80% (p = 0.0005). Watershed and proper land use management, establishment of riparian buffer vegetation and a diversion channel and community sensitization were some of the study recommendations. Key words; Land use, Nutrient concentration, Eutrophication
Applicability of public private partnerships in development of infrastructure in higher institutions of learning in Uganda
(Kyambogo University (un published work), 2019-11) Mabonga, Sylvia Namakoye
Public Private Partnership system is considered an innovative finance strategy which offers good prospects for global construction industry. Yet, since the adoption of the system in Uganda, the benefits have not been fully realized. This research, therefore aimed at establishing the extent of use of the Public Private Partnerships, the question of continuity or and starting to use it, inspirations and barriers affecting its applicability in higher institutions of learning in Uganda. The study adopted a cross sectional survey research design, with both quantitative and qualitative approaches. With a sample size of 138 respondents that were purposively selected, regression and correlation analyses were performed to establish the significance of the bio-data and inspirations to show the determination to continuation of the PPP system. The survey results show that PPPs have only been embraced to a minimal extent of 4% in higher institutions of learning in Uganda. Further analysis showed there was interest to continue or start using PPPs. Inspirations were established as; availability of funds for development, completed within stipulated time, cost and transfer of all risk to the contracting party in fig. 4.12. Barriers were found as; PPPs projects are feared to be complex and risky, lack of expertise on establishing and managing projects, lack of legislation or compatibility with the existing procurement ordinances and lack of political support. This research can be impactful to policymakers to adopt when implementing future projects by use of a developed framework in fig. 4.15 that would offer solutions to the identified barriers. Key words: Barriers, Continuity, Development, Infrastructure, Inspirations, Public Private Partnerships.
Application of value analysis concept on construction cost of low volume roads in Uganda
(Kyambogo University (un published work), 2019-11) Okello, Emmanuel
The success of implementation of highway infrastructure projects is usually measured against three parameters; quality, time and cost. However, some of these projects do not achieve expected project goals in terms of quality. Secondly, project delivery is not within a reasonable amount of time, and finally, costs are not in line with their budget limits. This study applied Value Analysis (VA) methodology in the construction of Low Volume Roads (LVRs) in Uganda, to mitigate the aspects of time and cost but still ensuring that the functionality and quality aspects are not jeopardized, through the generation of innovative alternatives. The methodology included document review and cost analysis of LVR projects previously implemented in ten districts in Northern and Eastern Uganda. In this study VA technique involved the employment of a composite or mixed method of work, incorporating both mechanization and manual labour during the Road Formation Phase (RFP), as opposed to the existing labour based methods. The VA technique was applied to two construction projects, that is: the construction of 800 meters of LVR in Financial Year (FY) 2017/18 in Kole District which project was undertaken by the researcher and during the construction of a 1,200 meter LVR in Bukedea District in the same year. Comparison of the cost when the VA is used, with the current cost through hypothesis testing was done, and the alternative hypothesis that the cost reduces on application of the mixed method VA technique during the Road Formation Phase (RFP) was upheld at 95% confidence level. It was established that average cost per metre of LVR when using the conventional labour methods was UGX. 250,000, while an average cost per metre of UGX. 228,157 was achieved when the mixed method approach was used, thereby realizing an 8.7% reduction in the average cost per metre of the construction of LVRs. The researcher thus concluded that the cost of LVR construction significantly reduces when VA is applied during the RFP. The researcher recommended the use of the mixed method VA technique for the ongoing and future LVR construction projects under the Low Cost Seal (LCS) Program and proposed that further research should be done to apply VA on the sealing phase of LVR construction. Key Words: Value Analysis, Cost per Metre, Mixed Method, Road Formation Phase, Low Volume Roads, Low Cost Seal.
A comparative analysis of foundations using prescriptive design and static loading test methods:(case study: the Karuma interconnection power project in Uganda)
(Kyambogo University., 2019-11) Acidri, Samuel
Foundations for overhead transmission line lattice towers are subjected to overturning loads imposed by winds and impact. Hence, they are designed to resist uplift, compression, lateral and interconnection cable line-tension forces. However, due to the non-linear nature of the load-displacement response for typical transmission line foundations, uncertainties in subsoil behavior and design models, variations in soil strata, limits of site explorations, and diversity in construction methodologies, the performance of the full scale foundation model was analyzed using the reliability-based Static loading test methods. The researcher used prescriptive design methods in geotechnical investigations, insitu and laboratory tests, geotechnical and structural designs using the load and resistance factor design approach, computer aided design tools, and static load test methods of static axial tensile, static axial compressive, and lateral load tests, to replicate and validate the foundation’s insitu long-term sustained load capacity and subsequent displacements. The findings showed moderately aggressive chemical and environmental conditions, fine-grained soils with low swell potential and medium-dense to hard soil consistencies under 0.3-10m ground water table levels. The static load test results showed a 20% increase in design efficiency, 15-35% cost savings, and 80% reduced displacement overdesigns based on the insitu displacement values of less than 20% of the prescriptive design values. Although this research has advanced the understanding about transmission line foundation designs using prescriptive design and static loading test methods, further research must be done in quantifying the influence of ambient temperature, weather variations, and rate of insitu backfill-soil compaction on static load test results. Key words: Foundations, Prescriptive design, Static load test, Transmission Towers
Impact of design flaws on cost overruns in road Construction projects in Uganda
(Kyambogo University (un published work), 2019-11) Kirenzi, Asuman
The inability to complete projects within time and budget continues to be a chronic problem worldwide and it is worsening. Cost overruns have therefore remained a major setback in implementation of road construction projects. In Uganda, some projects have had cost overruns to a tune of 100% and are partly attributed to design flaws. There exists a need to understand the extent to which design flaws affect cost overruns. This research focused on identifying design flaws encountered during the construction phase of paved road projects and developed a model for predicting their impact on cost overruns. A total of thirty-seven (37) design flaws encountered during construction were identified from literature. A questionnaire survey was conducted involving 120 professionals purposively selected from Uganda National Roads Authority, consulting firms and contractors and were requested to rate the design flaws frequency of occurrence and impact on cost using a five-point Likert scale basing on their experience. Using data from 16 completed paved road construction projects in Uganda, the effect of four of the major design flaws ranked according to importance index (II) was established. Using MS Excel, a regression model for predicting the contribution of the design flaws to cost overruns was developed. Results indicted the major design flaws to be: provision of less number of drainage culverts, inadequate quarries and earthen materials investigations, inadequate geotechnical investigations for road subgrade, under estimation of quantities of rock fill and provision of less volumes of cut and fill. The contribution of the major design flaws to cost overrun on projects was established to be 33.3% on average. Increase in quantity of rock fill had the biggest effect on cost overruns with an average of 11.0% while increase in number of drainage culverts had the least effect with an average of 6.7%. The model for predicting impact of the major design flaws on cost overruns in paved road construction projects was developed and was found to explain the total variations in cost overruns by 82.4%. It was concluded that most of the design flaws which greatly affect cost overruns are attributed to non-comprehensive geotechnical and hydrological studies. Key words: Design Flaws, Cost overruns, Regression Model, Paved Road projects
Assessment of factors influencing performance of road construction projects in Uganda: a case study of ministry of works and transport
(Kyambogo University, 2020-02) Seninde, Stephen
The road construction projects in Uganda suffer from many problems and complex issues in performance such as; cost, time, scope and quality. The aim of this study was to assess the factors influencing performance of road construction projects in Uganda. The study adopted a descriptive research design and data were collected using questionnaires from 147 purposively selected respondents from Local construction companies, consultancy firms, and government officials from Ministry of Works and District Local governments. Relevant literature was reviewed to establish actual factors influencing performance of road construction projects in Uganda. Data were coded and entered into statistical packages for social scientists (SPSS) version 25. A total of 43 performance factors were identified and categorized into five factor groups. The data were analyzed descriptively using statistical correlation and regression analysis, multi-variate analysis and relative importance index (RII) was used to rank the identified factors. The study revealed five most significant and influential factors; contractors, clients/owners, contractor’s ability to mobilize to site, availability of funds, and cash flows, and three least influential factors; inadequate mobilization of resources, inadequate geotechnical and hydrological studies and lack of equipment. The study concluded that; contract management factors, project stake holders’ factors, and project financing factors significantly influence the performance of road construction projects in Uganda. The research study also recommended among others; setting aside finances for the project before commencement, putting in place competent supervision team for contract management, ensure fair and transparent procurement processes for proper performance of road construction projects. Key Words: Assessment, Performance, Road construction projects, relative importance index.
Comparing performance of different lumped conceptual hydrological models : a case study of River Kafu catchment
(Kyambogo University [ Unpublished work], 2020-10) Amollo, Carolyne. Judith
Planning for water resources management can be supported by hydrological modeling. In a typical data scarce region, the compatibility of structures of various models with the limited data can greatly affect results of modeling. In this study, performance of six conceptual hydrological models was tested based on hydro-meteorological data from River Kafu catchment. These models included the Australian Water Balance Model (AWBM), SACRAMENTO, Soil Moisture Accounting and Routing (SMAR), TANK, SIMHYD, and Hydrological Model focusing on Sub-flows’ Variation (HMSV). The models were calibrated and validated over the periods 1952-1961 and 1962-1981, respectively. HMSV was calibrated based on conventional and case-specific frameworks for which it was hereinafter denoted as HMSV (1) and HMSV (2), respectively. Optimal parameters of each model was obtained based on automatic calibration strategy with performance assessed under both moderate and extreme hydrological conditions. Considering the full time series, the NSE values for AWBM, HMSV (1), SACRAMENTO, SIMHYD, SMAR, TANK and HMSV (2) were 0.70, 0.67, 0.35, 0.56, 0.41, 0.14, 0.53 respectively. It was found that each model performed better for high flow than low flow. Among these models, HMSV has a particular calibration framework to capture extreme hydrological conditions. To test this framework, case-specific calibration of the HMSV to capture, say, high flow or low flow, performance for extreme hydrological conditions were noted to be highly enhanced. This meant that calibration of models could be done based on a particular purpose of a study, for instance, planning of risk-based applications such as floods or drought. Under moderate hydrological conditions, the best and worst model was AWBM and SAC, respectively. For high and low flow conditions, the best model
Analyses of multi-decadal variability and trends in precipitation and potential evapo-transpiration across lake Kyoga basin
(Kyambogo University, 2020-10) Acayo Grace
The Lake Kyoga basin is located in Kyoga water management zone covering eleven sub-catchments in Uganda. The population in this region mainly depend on rain fed agriculture for their livelihood. However, recent changes in precipitation and climatic conditions calls understanding trends and variability of current and historical hydro-climatic variables. This study analyzed long-term trends and variability in precipitation and Potential Evapo-Transpiration (PETo) covering the period 1901 -1960 and 1961- 2015 respectively. Two periods were considered to remove the effect of step-jump in precipitation mean on analyses. For PETo, the period 1961-2008 was considered. Both trends and variability were assessed non-parametrically using the cumulative sum of rank difference approach. Possible drivers of variability in PETo and precipitation were sought in terms of the co-variation of the climatic variables with the large scale ocean-atmospheric interactions. The correlation of precipitation, potential Evapo-transpiration and climate indices were assessed. The climate indices included Atlantic Multi-Decadal Oscillation (AMO), North Atlantic Ocean (NAO), Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) and Nino3. It was found that precipitation over the period 1901-1960 for the month of March, April, May (MAM) exhibited positive anomalies was not significant (p>0.05) implying wet condition, however, for September, October, November (SON) and annual time series exhibited negative anomalies. The annual variability in precipitation yielded negative anomalies around 1960s to 1970s while positive anomalies were exhibited around 1990s and 2000. Variability in annual precipitation at most locations was found to be insignificant (p>0.05). Trends in PETo were not coherent as those of precipitation.
Assessment of the challenges and effects of delays in compulsory land acquisition on the performance of road construction projects in Uganda
(Kyambogo University, 2020-11) Elong, Samuel
The roads construction projects in Uganda are experiencing delays which are partly due to challenges in land acquisition. The purpose of this study was to assess the challenges and effects of delays in land acquisition on the performance of Uganda’s roads construction projects, a case of Mbale-Bumbobi-Bubulo-Lwakhakha. Eighteen (18) land acquisition processes, twenty-nine (29) challenges and eighteen (18) feasible strategies were identified through comprehensive literature reviews drawn from land acquisition practices in various countries. Data was collected using questionnaire surveys, structured interviews, and focused discussion guides. Surveys were carried out across the study population composed of valuers, surveyors, sociologists, and PAPs. The collected study data were coded and analysed using SPSS 25.0 and their magnitudes determined using Relative Importance Index (RII). The various processes were evaluated, and the least significant processes were recommended for removal. The study revealed that the top three most significant challenges identified were; (1) delayed compensation awards, (2) injurious affections and other damages, and (3) access difficulties for some families. The RII for the various strategies in mitigating challenges in land acquisition were computed and (1) the need for regular involvement and dialoguing with the stakeholders and the affected persons, (2) a proper definition of what constitute fair and adequate compensation and (3) dialoguing with the affected persons to allow civil works progress especially on undeveloped land portions were evaluated and therefore, recommended as the most feasible ones to enhance the performance of road construction projects in Uganda. Key words: Challenges, Compulsory Land Acquisition, Effects, Construction, Project affected persons, Projects and Relative Importance Index.
Developing a maintenance management system for public building in district local governments of Uganda: a case of Amuria district local government
(Kyambogo University(Unpublished work), 2020-11) Elolu, Julius E.
The practice of building maintenance is globally accepted as the most sustainable way to conserve buildings from deterioration. In most developing countries, costs incurred for assessment, repair and maintenance of buildings are principally met by the local governments other than insurance companies and yet the former have insufficient funds to cater for the challenges of maintenance of buildings. This study sought to develop a maintenance management system for public buildings in District Local Governments of Uganda. Published literature on building maintenance management systems, condition survey index, defects severity and their priorities on the need to rectify was reviewed. The methodology used in this study had mechanisms of collecting both primary and secondary data sources that included key informant interviews, observations, inspections and desk studies. The maintenance management system was used determine the components to be maintained by ranking. This was premised on the severity of defects using a Multi-Criteria Decision Model (MCDM) that was based on the principals of Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Process (F AHP). During the study, condition assessment of buildings was conducted using an assessment tool and the staff that were involved in the management of buildings were interviewed. The findings showed that visual observation was the common mechanism used for condition assessment of building components due to the limited allocation maintenance activities in the development budgets. The common defects that affected components of the buildings were mostly cracks, surface deterioration, moisture ingress and debonding which was attributed to the social behavior of users and environmental factors. Most components were in good condition that required regular routine maintenance and a few were dilapidated and required immediate attention. This study recommended that District Local Governments need to establish the Maintenance Management System and regularly conduct condition assessments to inform the planning and budgeting of the built asset portfolio.
Developing a maintenance management system for public buildings in district local governments of Uganda: a case of amuria district local government
(Kyambogo University [unpublished work], 2020-11) Elolu, Eonya Julius
The practice of building maintenance is globally accepted as the most sustainable way to conserve buildings from deterioration. In most developing countries, costs incurred for assessment, repair and maintenance of buildings are principally met by the local governments other than insurance companies and yet the former have insufficient funds to cater for the challenges of maintenance of buildings. This study sought to develop a maintenance management system for public buildings in District Local Governments of Uganda. Published literature on building maintenance management systems, condition survey index, defects severity and their priorities on the need to rectify was reviewed. The methodology used in this study had mechanisms of collecting both primary and secondary data sources that included key informant interviews, observations, inspections and desk studies. The maintenance management system was used determine the components to be maintained by ranking. This was premised on the severity of defects using a Multi-Criteria Decision Model (MCDM) that was based on the principals of Fuzzy Analytical Hierarchy Process (FAHP). During the study, condition assessment of buildings was conducted using an assessment tool and the staff that were involved in the management of buildings were interviewed. The findings showed that visual observation was the common mechanism used for condition assessment of building components due to the limited allocation maintenance activities in the development budgets. The common defects that affected components of the buildings were mostly cracks, surface deterioration, moisture ingress and debonding which was attributed to the social behavior of users and environmental factors. Most components were in good condition that required regular routine maintenance and a few were dilapidated and required immediate attention. This study recommended that District Local Governments need to establish the Maintenance Management System and regularly conduct condition assessments to inform the planning and budgeting of the built asset portfolio. Key Words: Maintenance, Defects, Components, Assessment, Management System
Assessement of the impact of sawdust ash on the sulphate resistance of concrete during early strength development
(Kyambogo University, 2020-12) Basajjansolo Babiito, Patrick
Sulfates are detrimental to the structural integrity of concrete throughout its service life. In the project for the construction of the overhead transmission line grid for power evacuation from the Karuma Hydro Power plant, aggressive levels of sulfates were encountered along Karuma – Lira 132kV Transmission Line. This necessitated use of Sulfate Resisting Cement (SRC) in foundations to counter sulfate attack. Sulfate Resisting Cement is twice as expensive as Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) in Uganda and may only be available on a minimum special order of 200 tons. Based on the above the study was therefore aimed at evaluating the impact of sawdust ash on the sulphate resistance of concrete during early strength development. A total of 384 concrete cubes of 4 designed mixes were used in two different sulphuric acid solutions of differing concentrations to simulate sulphate attack on concrete. Cubes were exposed to sulfate attack for 28 days in sulphuric acid solutions in the early stages of hardening (i.e., at the age of 6, 24 and 72 hours) and in the later stage of hardening (i.e., aged 28 days). SDA dosages used to replace part of the OPC were 0%, 5%, 10% and 15%. It was observed that concrete in the early stages of hardening (i.e., age of 6, 24 and 72 hours) exhibited improved resistance to sulfate attack compared to that in the later stage of hardening (i.e., aged 28 days). Moderate strength concrete grades (i.e., C16/20, C20/25) with design cement content less than 18.1% performed better than the higher strength concrete (i.e., C25/30 and C30/37). The ingress of SO4 2- ions into C20/25-5% SDA concrete followed a decreasing linear function for concrete cured for 72 hours before exposure to sulfate attack. A maximum cement replacement of 10% with SDA as well as partial back filling of foundation concrete after 72 hours of casting is

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