Masters Degree Dissertations

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A framework to mitigate impacts of contract termination on construction projects in Uganda
(Kyambogo University (Unpublished work), 2024-04) Mafabi, Micheal
Construction projects in Uganda are faced with a challenge of resorting to termination of contract as a remedy for contract breach by either party to contract. The study aimed developing a frame work to mitigate impacts of construction contract termination on projects. Fifty-eight causes and twenty impacts of construction contract termination were identified through detailed literature review, questionnaire surveys and interviews administered to all key stakeholder categories in the industry who included: project beneficiaries, clients, contractors and consultants. The study categorized the causes of contract termination into five: contractor-related; client-related; financial and business environment-related; project-related; and, political-related causes. Thereafter, the impacts of contract termination on stake holder were analyzed using relative importance index (RII). The computed RII for each of the causes and impacts was used to rank them. Findings from the study revealed that contractor- related causes with RII=0.760 ranked the most critical among the five categories. The most significant causes of contract termination were revealed to be abandonment of work, client’s bankruptcy, delays in completion of works, contractor bankruptcy or insolvency, and, lack of resources. The most significant impacts of contract termination were identified as loss of income to the contractor, loss of reputation, delays in project completion, abandonment of project, cost overruns. The study concluded that contract termination is inevitable in the construction industry but can be prevented when the causes are properly identified, analyzed and managed during the project life cycle. A framework to mitigate contract termination in the construction industry was developed as a solution otherwise the adverse effects would continue occurring. The study recommended proper planning and provision of affordable credit facilities as mitigation measures.
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.
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.
Analysing the factors affecting the performance of local construction companies in Uganda
(Kyambogo University (Unpublished work), 2024-07) Mutekanga, Zadock
Even though the local construction business is rapidly growing, poor performance has hurt the industry's reputation, therefore the study analyzed the factors affecting the performance of local construction companies, specifically looking at challenges faced, characteristics of local construction companies and establishing ways of improving their performance. Data was gathered using a cross-sectional study design that combined qualitative and quantitative methods with semi-structured questionnaires and interview guides. The study's target sample was 132 heads of departments and directors, however only 119 of them responded (a response rate of 90.2% for the questionnaire and 85.7% for the interviews). The respondents were selected by purposive and stratified random sampling. The data was presented and analyzed using percentages, frequencies, tables, and charts. The relative importance index (RII) was used to rate the difficulties experienced by local construction enterprises, their characteristics, and the steps taken to increase their productivity and competitiveness. The findings showed that the primary difficulties faced by local construction enterprises are insufficient funding and restricted capability, inadequate skilled man power, high interest rates, political and donor directives and limited advanced technology. Some characteristics of local construction companies are; being too many and small in size, labour intensive techniques and that has led to low quality output of the projects, abandoned projects, time and cost overruns. The measures to improve the performance of local construction companies majorly are continuous benchmarking, aligning national and international standards, merging and pooling resources together as well as further training in advanced technology. The study therefore, recommended that local construction companies need to pool resources together in order to have sufficient working capital, foster the development of workforce skills through instruction in cutting-edge and sophisticated technology.
Analyzing the factors that affect the quality of staircases: a case study of universities in the central region, Uganda
(Kyambogo University [unpublished work], 2023-10) khabusi, Mukhwana Benjamin
Staircases are the most common means of vertical access in low and medium rise storeyed buildings in Uganda. Their purpose is to provide safe means of movement from floor to floor. Reduction of accidents would be one of the functional requirements of stairs which is part and parcel of safety. However, the high accident rates are an indication of poorly designed and constructed stairs. With such problems on staircases, this study sought to investigate the factors that affect their quality in storeyed buildings in Ugandan universities specifically in the central region in a bid to minimize the occurrence accidents. Four kinds of surveys including observational, design and construction, technical and staircase user surveys were conducted in the study. The observational survey done using a check list revealed that the key features for quality vertitical access were; tactile ground indicators, balustrades, handrails, risers, treads, stair flights, newel posts, nosings, landings and presence of ramps in buildings. The design and construction survey which was done using self-admistered questionnaires involving 22 respondents revealed that the major factors that affect the quality of staircases were: design proficiency, construction competences, design review and other project factors. The technical survey conducted using a technical tool revealed that 66% of the stairs did not conform to the design and construction requirements due to riser heights, tread depths, slope relationship (2Rise + Going), stair slopes, handrail heights, handrail extensions and depth of nosing contrasts not conforming to the standards. The staircase user survey carried out using self-admistered questionnaires involving 212 respondents revealed that 26.3% of the users were injured while using the staircases due to missed steps, slippery surfaces, inadequate lighting in the stairwell, unevenness in the risers and treads and broken edges of steps. It was therefore concluded that to minimize the occurrence of accidents on staircases, proper design, construction and supervision need to be done in accordance with the standards short of which will lead to accidents. Key words: Staircase, quality, accidents, design, construction, supervision, user
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 (Unpublished 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.
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
Assessing biogas recovery potential from organic Solid waste generated from academic institutions (case study: Islamic university in Uganda - Mbale city)
(Kyambogo University[unpublished work], 2022-09) Kayizzi, Patrick
Resource recovery is contingent to the circular economy and the core intention is to replace the norm of largely linear economy of take make and dispose with one where resource circulation and disposal is fostered at high value. One of the current trending strategies in waste minimization is resource recovery such as biogas given its undisputable benefits. Education institutions are considered as congregated communities that have significant social, economic and environmental impact on the environment. like local authorities, these institutions experience challenges of provision of satisfactory social services such as managing solid waste. Minimal efforts have been invested in carrying out research in waste management practices in school settings most especially establishing the potential of biogas recovery that can contribute towards reduced impact to the ecosystem. This study was therefore focused on exploring the biogas potential from solid organic waste generated from higher academic institutions in Mbale Municipality. The study first looked at solid waste management practices in sampled academic institutions and their respective main source of fuel for cooking; a checklist was prepared and 26 out of 36 sampled institutions willingly provided access to their premise. From the data gathered, 65% of the 26 institutions practiced onsite waste disposal mainly dumping in pits and burning while the other schools disposed of to the main landfill; 25 out 26 institutions utilized wood biofuels for cooking while 1 out of the 26 used electricity; none of the schools practiced resource recovery. A detailed assessment was then undertaken at Islamic University in Uganda to establish the quantity and composition of the waste generated within two distinct periods of the semester: one at the beginning (February) that represented the dry weather conditions and at the end of the semester (November) that represented the wet season. Results indicated that foliage pruning contributed the highest percentage of waste generated followed by kitchen waste while paper waste registered the least percentage contribution by both volume and weight; It was also noted that more waste generation was experienced during the wet season; hourly waste collection indicated peak collection/ generation between 1000-1200 while least collection was between 1200-1400hr with kitchen waste dominating between 0800-1000hrs and 1600- 1800 while foliage pruning dominated between 1000-1200hrs and 1200-1400hrs respectively. Biogas resource potential was investigated using a single stage biogas setup where co-digestion of the organic solid waste was used as substrate; eight sets of experiments were conducted with two identical sets per ratio for (paper, kitchen and grass) and 25% cow dung inoculant by weight of the total substrate weight under mesospheric conditions. Results indicated a high methane composition of 33% and a relatively low percentage of 13% for ratios of 1:19:7 and 1:5:7 (for paper: kitchen: grass) respectively. The potential of biogas in solid organic waste gave an indication of a virgin opportunity to explore harnessing resources from the organic waste generated from academic institutions that will in return provide an alternative for safe solid waste disposal as well as harnessing nature gas for cooking and manure for soil stabilization for ecosystem degradation mitigation. Key Words: Resource recovery, Biogas, Solid Organic Waste, Methane
Assessing occupational safety and health hazards at workplaces in Uganda : a case of four engineering materials testing laboratories
(Kyambogo University (Unpublished work), 2024-07) Lusundo, Moses Fred
Workplaces in Uganda are mandated to satisfy the requirements of the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA), 2006 regarding the Occupational Safety and Health of workers. Despite of the above, many workplaces in Uganda including Engineering Materials Testing Laboratories have continued not to satisfy the above requirements. Although different strategies to manage OSH risks have been devised and several entities like Safety committees and Ministry of Gender Labour and Social OSH in engineering materials testing laboratories has remained a challenge; thereby exposing staff and visitors to the laboratories to serious OSH hazards including physical injuries and long-term health risks like cancer. It is these compliance gaps that this study is set to examine, using the case of Engineering Materials Laboratory EML), Central Materials Laboratory (CML), Geotechnical Foundation Services Ltd (GFS) and Geotechnical Engineering and Technology Laboratory Ltd (GET). The study used both quantitative and qualitative research designs. Quantitative data collection was supported by the use of questionnaires with closed ended questions administered to 60 respondents and then qualitative data, by use of an interview guide. The study findings indicate that for all laboratories, risks due to chemical hazards ranked highest, followed by risks due to accident hazards. Risks due to physical hazards ranked third for EML as opposed to risks due to ergonomics and psychosocial factors that ranked third for CML, GFS and GET. Risks due to ergonomics and social factors ranked lowest for EML as opposed to risks due to physical hazards factors that ranked lowest for CML, GFS and GET. Consequently, the assessment of the level of compliance to Uganda’s OSH regulatory framework indicated that GET, GFS, EML and CML were 88%, 83.4%, 79.7% and 76% compliant respectively, implying that there are still gaps in the implementation of OSHA, 2006. In conclusion, the study attributes these gaps to inadequate financial resources allocated for OSH operations and laxity in implementing OSH management strategies by the various key players among others.
Assessing occupational safety and health hazards at workplaces in Uganda : a case of four engineering materials testing laboratories
(Kyambogo University (Unpublished work), 2024-06) Lusundo, Fred Moses
Workplaces in Uganda are mandated to satisfy the requirements of the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA), 2006 regarding the Occupational Safety and Health of workers. Despite of the above, many workplaces in Uganda including Engineering Materials Testing Laboratories have continued not to satisfy the above requirements. Although different strategies to manage OSH risks have been devised and several entities like Safety committees and Ministry of Gender Labour and Social development (MoGLSD) empowered by the act to ensure compliance of work places, OSH in engineering materials testing laboratories has remained a challenge; thereby exposing staff and visitors to the laboratories to serious OSH hazards including physical injuries and long-term health risks like cancer. It is these compliance gaps that this study is set to examine, using the case of Engineering Materials Laboratory (EML), Central Materials Laboratory (CML), Geotechnical Foundation Services Ltd (GFS) and Geotechnical Engineering and Technology Laboratory Ltd (GET). The study used both quantitative and qualitative research designs. Quantitative data collection was supported by the use of questionnaires with closed ended questions administered to 60 respondents and then qualitative data, by use of an interview guide. The study findings indicate that for all laboratories, risks due to chemical hazards ranked highest, followed by risks due to accident hazards. Risks due to physical hazards ranked third for EML as opposed to risks due to ergonomics and psychosocial factors that ranked third for CML, GFS and GET. Risks due to ergonomics and psycho-social factors ranked lowest for EML as opposed to risks due to physical hazards factors that ranked lowest for CML, GFS and GET. Consequently, the assessment of the level of compliance to Uganda’s OSH regulatory framework indicated that GET, GFS, EML and CML were 88%, 83.4%, 79.7% and 76% compliant respectively, implying that there are still gaps in the implementation of OSHA, 2006. In conclusion, the study attributes these gaps to inadequate financial resources allocated for OSH operations and laxity in implementing OSH management strategies by the various key players among others.
Assessing the applicability of earned value management Technique in enhancing performance of construction Projects in Uganda: a case of Kampala city
(Kyambogo University, 2021-07) Mugabi, Ronald
Monitoring is the most important component in project management. It deals with measuring performance of a project at certain time intervals and reports that performance to the organization for process control. Any project with considerable cost overrun and schedule delay typically gets in trouble at its beginning, and unfortunately, project managers do not realize this problem until late in the implementation when their ability to recover the project to achieve its planned objectives diminishes. This study aimed at assessing the applicability of Earned Value Management (EVM) technique on measuring the performance of construction projects in Kampala City, and adopted a mixed method research design that employed both quantitative and qualitative techniques. Data were collected and analyzed using SPSS software. The study established that among the standard practices used in measuring performance Critical Path method was the most commonly used. This means that emphasis should be put to understanding the effect of this method to performance of projects. It was further established that barriers that hinder the effective application of Earned Value Management Technique were as follows in descending significance, with the use of construction equipment having a significance level of 84.3%, followed by level of technology at 78.2%, labour ratesat 20.9%, and material prices at 19.7%; and based on these findings a performance monitoring tool for construction projects was developed as = − 5.698 + 0.197 + 0.181 + 0.036 + 0.009 . The study thus concluded that EVM techniques are less commonly used and less known than Critical path method and PERT method for measuring performance of construction projects. The study further concluded that the application of EVM on projects is greatly affected by labour rates, and material prices as indicated in the developed performance monitoring tool. It is envisaged that the developed tool will be useful in monitoring the performance of projects right from inception to completion paying most attention to equipment, technology in used, cost of labour and material costs. Key Words: Earned Value Management, technique, Construction Projects, Performance Measurement, Kampala city.
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.
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
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
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.
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
Assessment of membranes used in drying faecal sludge to minimise the sand take-away in the sludge drying beds
(Kyambogo University [unpublished work], 2023-08) Ngabirano, Deneth
Sludge drying beds provide sludge dewatering by allowing the liquid to both drain under gravity through a permeable medium on which the sludge sits, and to evaporate under ambient conditions. Lubigi plant with 19 sludge drying beds handles faecal sludge from pit latrines and septic tanks separately for sludge dewatering. Clogging in filter beds and sand membrane material is challenging as it continues to get off with dry sludge cakes. The study's main aim was to assess different membranes used in faecal sludge drying to minimise the sand layer takeaway in the sludge drying beds at Lubigi Faecal Sludge and Wastewater Treatment Plant. This study analysed the chemical and physical characteristics of faecal sludge in the existing and unplanted drying beds at Lubigi. A pilot-scale dewatering facility was designed and constructed with four unplanted sludge drying beds (A, B, C, and D) with a one m2 effective drying area. The cumulative percolate was measured following a non-uniform time interval of 5, 10, 30, 60, 180, 360, 720, and 1440 minutes. This lasted for ten days until the faecal sludge was dewatered entirely. Five raw faecal sludge samples collected from different points of the existing and operating beds were analysed using the Makerere University laboratory. The cake samples had average weights ranging from 0.48 to 46.98% of the respective chemical elements. Carbon and oxygen had the highest weight ratios of 46.96% and 36.73%, whereas sodium had the lowest, with 0.48% in all elements, respectively. Low sodium content implies low alkaline indices in the faecal sludge, which is desirable. Additionally, moisture content (ranging from 73.68% to 75.91 % by mass, mean= 74.81±1.11 %), sand content (between 17.43% (89.62 g) and 19.66% (118.08 g), mean = 18.344±0.86%) and calorific value (between 2846.38 kcal/kg to 3185.46 kcal/kg. Sand (Bed A) exhibited the highest mean dewatering rates with a peak of 502 mm after 4.5 hrs, followed by pavers with 416 mm after 7.5 hrs, nylon with 384 mm in 4.5 hrs and lastly, hessian with 59mm after 20hrs. The efficiency shows that hessian, nylon and pavers were efficient (R2 = 0.632, 0.592, and 0.540), followed by sand (R2 = 0.491). All membranes had a very significant correlation between dewatering time (t min) and percolate (Q ml), p < 0.05 based on a> 95% confidence level. Nevertheless, nylon expedited average filtration rates at all times compared to the rest of the media. This is because its cake yielded moderate moisture, sand, and calorific values compared to the rest of the media hence optimised. Nylon filter media was optimised based on different gauge sizes of 1.0 mm (reference size) (Bed A), 0.5 mm (Bed B), and 2.00 mm (Bed C). The average dewatering times of the filter media in Beds A, B, and C were 5, 60, 180, and 360 minutes, respectively. Bed C (2.0 mm) had the highest flow rate (156.61 ml) but the lowest sand content (82.14%, 85.16%), Bed B (0.5mm) had the lowest flow rate (49.09 ml) and the highest levels of moisture content (86.91 %, 90.92%) and Bed A (1.00mm) had the intermediate flowrate (83.37 ml), moisture (83.28%, 87.28%), sand (13.24%, 14.8%, and calorific value (2745.12 Kcal/kg, 2600.12 Kcal/kg). These were determined based on the size of holes in the filter media, hence recommending the 1.00 mm nylon gauge. Keywords: Calorific value, Dewatering, Faecal Sludge, Lubigi, Moisture Content, Optimisation, Sludge Drying Beds and Sand Content.
Assessment of moisture related defects in masonry walls
(Kyambogo University (Unpublished work), 2024-04) Elem, Joel
Moisture intrusion into walls continues to be one of the top challenges in the building construction industry in Uganda. The study assessed and investigated moisture related defects in masonry walls, materials and construction methods to mitigate moisture rise and related defects in masonry. This study made an assessment on moisture related defects in masonry walls, together with; carrying out a baseline survey on the building industry practice to find the cement to sand mix commonly used, and to assess prevalence of capillary water rise in buildings, determining the height of water rise by capillarity in masonry walls from damp proof course level, and finding out the materials and construction methods that can be used to mitigate moisture rise and related defects in masonry walls, as the specific objectives. Experimental masonry wall models measuring; 1.6m wide x 1.9m height x 230mm thick for the study. The models were built of ordinary clay bricks, well plastered and built with cement sand mortar / plaster of mix ratios; 1:1, 1:2, 1:3, & 1:4. Selected vertical points on the wall surface were cored and tested for moisture content. It was found that the masonry walls were susceptible to moisture rise, and it was also observed that; the stronger the mortar mix, the less the capillary rise of moisture in the wall. The height of water / dampness is highest at the bottom, just above the damp proof course levels, and moisture rise ranged between 0 – 0.6m above dpc levels. The study further investigated the efficiency of various water proofing materials that can be applied on the external walls to minimise capillary rise. The percentage reduction in moisture content was as follows; overlapping dpc 95, stone slates 94.1, glazed tiles 82.3, cement sand mortar in plaster with 4% clay giving 66.8, bituminous paint 44, facing bricks 43.7, and finally weep holes in plaster 30.5. All the three objectives were observed to be realistic, and true. And the study therefore concluded that water proofing treatment of masonry walls should be done to heights of not less than 0.70m above DPC level to improve durability of masonry walls against related effects. This provides knowledge, and innovation to the construction industry. And this study also recommends; the use of overlapping of damp proof course, together with slates, as some of the best water proofing materials. There is also need for conducting more research on the areas of; variation of strength of building units with moisture content, and failure mechanism of most water proofing materials.
Assessment of performance of road maintenance local contractors in Uganda: a case of Uganda National Roads Authority Lira station
(Kyambogo University (Unpublished work), 2021-08) Beamanya, Namara Babra
Road maintenance is essential in order to preserve the road in its originally constructed condition, protect adjacent resources and ensure user safety in Uganda. However, there has been inadequate improvement in the road sector evidenced by some of the roads being poorly maintained in terms of surface quality, markings and signs, and the government is still losing billions of shillings in shoddy works and services being delivered by road maintenance local contractors, thereby increasing maintenance backlog. The study assessed the performance of road maintenance local contractors in Uganda using a case study of Uganda National Roads Authority Lira Station. From targeted population of 103 respondents, a sample size of 87 respondents was selected using random and purposive sampling techniques. Data were collected using questionnaires and statically analyzed. Relative importance index (RII) was used to determine critical factors affecting the performance of road maintenance local contractors. Through literature review and document analysis, critical factors affecting the performance of road maintenance contractors were identified. These factors were ranked using RII for developing a framework to enhance performance of road maintenance local contractors. The study results indicated that respondents regarded contractor’s managerial skills (RII= 0.1088), followed by contractor’s financial capacity (RII= 0.893), contractor’s experience (RII= 0.855), cost factors (RII= 0.854), technology (RII= 0.846), procurement process on contractors selection (RII= 0.845), time factors (RII= 0.839), health & safety standards (RII= 0.838), and design changes (RII= 0.828) as the critical factors affecting performance of road maintenance local contractors. A framework was developed to indicate that the planning phase of road maintenance projects depends on; contractor’s managerial skills, and contractor’s level of experience. Implementation phase of road maintenance projects by local contractors was found to depend on; level of contractor’s financial capacity, cost factors, procurement process on contractors selection, level of health & safety standards, time factors, and design changes. The study concluded that contractor’s managerial skills was the most impactful factor on performance of road maintenance local contractors in Uganda. The study recommended that more focus should be put on contracts managerial skills since it had the greatest impact on Local Contractor’s performance. Keywords: Critical factors, Performance, Local contractors, Road maintenance.

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