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The association between dietary diversity and development among children under 24 months in rural Uganda: analysis of a cluster-randomised maternal education trial
(Public health nutrition, 2021-03) Paul, Kakwangire; Cami, Moss; Nicholas, Matovu; Prudence, Atukunda; Ane, C Westerberg; Per, O Iversen; Grace, Muhoozi
Objective: To assess the association between dietary diversity and development among children under 24 months in rural Uganda and to establish other factors that could be associated with development among these children. Design: A secondary data analysis of a cluster-randomised controlled maternal education trial (n 511) was conducted on a sub-sample of 385 children. We used adjusted ORs (AORs) to assess the associations of dietary diversity scores (DDS) and other baseline factors assessed at 6–8 months with child development domains (communication, fine motor, gross motor, personal–social and problem solving) at 20–24 months of age. Setting: Rural areas in Kabale and Kisoro districts of south-western Uganda. Participants: Children under 24 months. Results: After multivariable analysis, DDS at 6–8 months were positively associated with normal fine motor skills development at 20–24 months (AOR = 1·18; 95 % CI 1·01, 1·37; P = 0·02). No significant association was found between DDS and other development domains. Children who were not ill at 6–8 months had higher odds of developing normal communication (AOR = 1·73; 95 % CI 1·08, 2·77) and gross motor (AOR = 1·91; 95 % CI 1·09, 3·36) skills than sick children. Girls had lower odds of developing normal gross motor skills compared with boys (AOR = 0·58; 95 % CI 0·33, 0·98). Maternal/caregiver nutritional education intervention was positively associated with development of gross motor, fine motor and problem-solving skills (P-values < 0·05). Conclusions: We found an association between child DDS at 6–8 months and improvement in fine motor skills development at 20–24 months. Child illness status, maternal/caregiver nutritional education intervention and sex were other significant baseline predictors of child development at 20–24 months.
The association of urine markers of iodine intake with development and growth among children in rural Uganda: a secondary analysis of a randomised education trial
(Public health nutrition, 2020-07) Prudence, Atukunda; Grace, KM Muhoozi; Lien, M Diep; Jens, P Berg; Ane, C Westerberg; Per, O Iversen
Objective: We examined associations of urine iodide excretion, proxy for iodine intake, with child development and growth. Design: This is a secondary analysis of a 1:1 cluster-randomised trial with a 6-month nutrition/stimulation/hygiene education intervention among mothers of children aged 6–8 months to improve child development and growth. Development was assessed using Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development–III (BSID-III) and Ages and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ), whereas anthropometry was used to assess growth. Urine iodide concentration (UIC) and urine iodide/creatinine ratio (ICR) were measured. Setting: The current study was conducted in southern Uganda. Participants: We randomly selected 155 children from the 511 enrolled into the original trial and analysed data when they were aged 20–24 and 36 months. Results: Median UIC for both study groups at 20–24 and 36 months were similar (P > 0·05) and within the normal range of 100–199 μg/l (0·79–1·60 μmol/l), whereas the intervention group had significantly higher ICR at 20–24 months. The BSID-III cognitive score was positively associated (P = 0·028) with ICR at 20–24 months in the intervention group. The ASQ gross motor score was negatively associated (P = 0·020) with ICR at 20–24 months among the controls. ICR was not significantly associated with anthropometry in the two study groups at either time-point. Conclusions: Following the intervention, a positive association was noted between ICR and child’s cognitive score at 20–24 months, whereas no positive association with ICR and growth was detected. Iodine sufficiency may be important for child’s cognitive development in this setting.
Associations between sociodemographic exposures, growth and development during infancy with development at the age of eight years among children: Analysis of a maternal education trial in rural Uganda
(Journal of Global Health, 2024-12-06) Kakwangire, Paul; Ngari, Moses; Muhoozi, Grace; Ane, Cecilie Westerberg; Atukunda, Prudence; Per, Ole Iversen
Background: Links between early life exposures and child development later in life are not sufficiently explored in low- and middle-income countries. We studied associations between sociodemographic variables, growth and development at six to eight months with developmental outcomes at eight years. Methods: We used data from a maternal education trial which included 511 mother-infant pairs at children's age of six to eight months (baseline). In this follow-up study, data from 361 mother-child pairs were available. Questionnaires were used to collect sociodemographic variables. Growth (anthropometry) was measured by study personnel and converted to z-scores according to the World Health Organization (WHO) growth reference. Child development (cognitive, motor and language) at baseline was assessed using Bayley Scales of Infant and Todler Development, third edition (BSID-III). Development at eight years was measured using two neuropsychological tools: Kaufman Assessment Battery for Children Second Edition (KABC-II) and Test of Variables of Attention (TOVA). Results: Higher weight-for-age z-scores (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 0.74; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.53, 0.98; P = 0.04), better maternal education (aOR = 0.86; 95% CI = 0.78, 0.96; P = 0.03). and better household head education (aOR = 0.86; 95% CI = 0.78, 0.96; P = 0.03) at six to eight months of age were associated with lower odds of scoring below average on KABC-II categorical scores at eight years of age. Motor composite scores and maternal parity at six to eight months of age were positively associated with auditory and visual TOVA scores (all P-values <0.05) at eight years. Cognitive composite scores at six to eight months of age were positively associated with visual TOVA scores (P < 0.05). In contrast, weight-for-length z-scores and household head age were negatively associated with both auditory and visual TOVA scores (P < 0.05). Being a female child was associated with lower auditory and visual TOVA scores (P < 0.05). Conclusions: At six to eight months of age, growth and development, gender, maternal education and parity, and household head age and education were associated with child development at eight years. Interventions emphasising improved growth and development in infancy, as well as parental educational attainment, may improve long-term developmental outcomes.
Automated wearable cameras for improving recall of diet and time use in Uganda: a cross-sectional feasibility study
(Nutrition journal, 2023-01) Andrea, L. S. Bulungu; Luigi, Palla; Joweria, Nambooze; Jan, Priebe; Lora, Forsythe; Pamela, Katic; Gwen, Varley; Bernice, D. Galinda; Sarah, Nakimuli; Kate, Wellard; Elaine, L. Ferguson
Background Traditional recall approaches of data collection for assessing dietary intake and time use are prone to recall bias. Studies in high- and middle-income countries show that automated wearable cameras are a promising method for collecting objective health behavior data and may improve study participants’ recall of foods consumed and daily activities performed. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of using automated wearable cameras in rural Eastern Ugandan to collect dietary and time use data. Methods Mothers of young children (n = 211) wore an automated wearable camera on 2 non-consecutive days while continuing their usual activities. The day after wearing the camera, participants’ dietary diversity and time use was assessed using an image-assisted recall. Their experiences of the method were assessed via a questionnaire. Results Most study participants reported their experiences with the automated wearable camera and image-assisted recall to be good (36%) or very good (56%) and would participate in a similar study in the future (97%). None of the eight study withdrawals could be definitively attributed to the camera. Fifteen percent of data was lost due to device malfunction, and twelve percent of the images were "uncodable" due to insufficient lighting. Processing and analyzing the images were labor-intensive, time-consuming, and prone to human error. Half (53%) of participants had difficulty interpreting the images captured by the camera. Conclusions Using an automated wearable camera in rural Eastern Uganda was feasible, although improvements are needed to overcome the challenges common to rural, low-income country contexts and reduce the burdens posed on both participants and researchers. To improve the quality of data obtained, future automated wearable camera-based image assisted recall studies should use a structured data format to reduce image coding time; electronically code the data in the field, as an output of the image review process, to eliminate ex post facto data entry; and, ideally, use computer-assisted personal interviews software to ensure completion and reduce errors. In-depth formative work in partnership with key local stakeholders (e.g., researchers from low-income countries, representatives from government and/or other institutional review boards, and community representatives and local leaders) is also needed to identify practical approaches to ensuring that the ethical rights of automated wearable camera study participants in low-income countries are adequately protected.
Child saliva microbiota and caries: a randomized controlled maternal education trial in rural Uganda
(Scientific Reports, 2022-05-12) Muhoozi, Grace K. M.; Li, Kelvin.; Atukunda, Prudence.; Skaare, Anne B.; Willumsen, Tiril.; Enersen, Morten.; Westerberg, Ane C.; Morris, Alison.; Vieira, Alexandre R.; Iversen, Per O.; Methé, Barbara A.
Undernutrition is a public health challenge in sub-Saharan countries, including Uganda. In a previous randomized controlled trial (RCT) with a nutrition, hygiene and stimulation education intervention among mothers of 6 months’ old children, we found less caries in the intervention group when the children were 36 months of age. We now examined the effects of (i) the intervention on the microbiota, (ii) microbiota on caries, and (iii) the intervention and microbiota on caries. The original RCT comprised 511 mother/child pairs whereas in the current study we had access to data from 344/511 (67%) children aged 36 months. The saliva microbiota was determined using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Carious lesions (a proxy for dental health) were identified using close-up intra-oral photographs of the upper front teeth. Statistical models were used to determine host-microbiota associations. The intervention had a significant effect on the microbiota, e.g. an increase in Streptococcus abundance and decreases in Alloprevotella and Tannerella. Significant associations between the microbiota and dental caries were identified: Positive associations of Capnocytophaga and Tannerella suggest that these taxa may be deleterious to dental health while negative associations of Granulicatella, Fusobacterium, and Abiotrophia suggest taxa potentially beneficial or benign contributors to dental health. Based on taxonomic profiles, the effects of the intervention and microbiota on dental health may be independent of one another. Educational interventions with emphasis on nutrition and oral hygiene may provide a feasible strategy to decrease progression of childhood caries in low-resource settings.
Cognitive development among children in a low-income setting: Cost-effectiveness analysis of a maternal nutrition education intervention in rural Uganda
(Plos one, 2023-08) Montasir, Ahmed; Grace, K. M. Muhoozi; Prudence, Atukunda; Ane, C. Westerberg; Per, O. Iversen; Knut, R. Wangen
Inadequate nutrition and insufficient stimulation in early childhood can lead to long-term defcits in cognitive and social development. Evidence for policy and decision-making regarding the cost of delivering nutrition education is lacking in low and middle-income countries (LMIC). In rural Uganda, we conducted a cluster-randomized controlled trial (RCT) examining the effect of a maternal nutrition education intervention on developmental outcomes among children aged 6–8 months. This intervention led to significantly improved cognitive scores when the children reached the age of 20–24 months. When considering the potential for this intervention’s future implementation, the desired effects should be weighed against the increased costs. This study therefore aimed to assess the cost-effectiveness of this education intervention compared with current practice. Health outcome data were based on the RCT. Cost data were initially identified by reviewing publications from the RCT, while more detailed information was obtained by interviewing researchers involved in processing the intervention. This study considered a healthcare provider perspective for an 18-months’ time horizon. The control group was considered as the current practice for the future large-scale implementation of this intervention. A cost-effectiveness analysis was performed, including calculations of incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs). In addition, uncertainty in the results was characterized using one-way and probabilistic sensitivity analyses. The ICER for the education intervention compared with current practice was USD ($) 16.50 per cognitive composite score gained, with an incremental cost of $265.79 and an incremental cognitive composite score of 16.11. The sensitivity analyses indicated the robustness of these results. The ICER was sensitive to changes in cognitive composite score and the cost of personnel. The education intervention can be considered cost-effective compared with the current practice. The outcome of this study, including the cost analysis, health outcome, cost-effectiveness, and sensitivity analysis, can be useful to inform policymakers and stake- holders about effective resource allocation processes in Uganda and possibly other LMIC.
A comparative study on the role of microcredit on agricultural production improvement among resource-poor rural women.
(2023-03) Faith, Muyonga Mayanja Namayengo; Johan, A. C. van Ophem; Gerrit, Antonides
The objective of the study was to compare agricultural investment and agricultural production of rural agrarian women in Uganda that had received microcredit to those that had not. A quasi-experimental was used to assess differences between performance indicators of agricultural enterprises for existing and incoming borrowers of Bangladesh Rural and Advancement Committee (BRAC) microfinance. Propensity score matching was used to ensure the comparability of the groups and to assess differences between existing borrowers and in- coming borrowers, before they received their first loan. Results indicated that the major reason for borrowing was education of children. There was no difference in investment in agricultural production between the study groups. The existing borrowers had lower monetary value of all harvested crops and for maize and beans than the in-coming borrowers. Total number of animals owned, types of animals kept and reported monetary value for goats and local cattle were also less for existing borrowers than for in-coming borrowers. It was observed that the loan repayment protocols did not match income from agriculture. The results reveal a need to modify loan repayment protocols to address the latent period between agricultural investment and output.
Determinants and variation of total body fat percentage, abdominal fat and waist circumference within and across semesters: a cohort study of Kyambogo University students
(Kyambogo University [unpublished work], 2023-11) Nanduga, Esther
University students may end up having a high rate of fat accumulation due to a sedentary lifestyle, a decrease in physical activity, and unhealthy dietary habits. This contributes to the rising prevalence of obesity which is linked to a higher risk of developing various chronic diseases. The study's main objective was to examine the determinants and variation of total body fat percentage, abdominal fat and waist circumference of Kyambogo university students within and across three semesters. A longitudinal cohort design was employed and multi-stage simple random sampling was used to select the sample from the university faculties. Data was analysed using the International Business Machines Corporation – Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (IBM -SPSS) software. Chi-square analysis, multinomial logistic regression, and two way repeated Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) were carried out all at 0.05 statistical significance. The results revealed that male students were 49.1% less likely to be obese [OR: 0.40, 95% CI 0.16-0.97]. Students who did not consume vitamin A-rich fruits were 2% less likely to be obese [OR: 0.02, 99% CI 0.00-0.19]. Students who carried out less than 150 minutes of physical activity were 48.6% more likely to be obese [OR: 2.74 95% CI 1.15-6.52]. In addition, the total body fat percentage and the waist circumference of the students increased gradually over the semesters. In conclusion, the study showed that the majority of the students did not have a healthy total body fat percentage and recommends that university students should be sensitised on the importance of maintaining a healthy nutritional status and what constitutes a healthy diet.
Dietary practices and nutritional status of elderlypersons in post-conflict: A cross-sectional study ofNorthern Uganda
(Research square, 2024-07-24) Ocaya, Dennis; Ndagire, Regina; Namboze, Joweria; Kyeyune, Jemimah; Atim, Fiona
Malnutrition remains a problem in older populations globally. Most older persons do not meet therequired dietary intake with the majority consuming more of carbohydrate-based foods and vegetables.The current study therefore aimed at assessing the dietary practices, nutritional status and associatedfactors among elderly persons in the post-war setting of Gulu district. This was a cross-sectional study among elderly persons ≥ 60 years residing in Bungatira Sub-County,Aswa County-Gulu District. The study used a multi-stage sampling procedure. Nutritional status wasmeasured using the Mini Nutrition Assessment – Short Form (MNA-SF) Analysis was done in STATA 16using modifi ed Poisson regression model. Variables with a p-value of 0.05 at multivariable analysis wereconsidered as factors associated with malnutrition.
Differential COVID-19 vaccination uptake and associated factors among the slum and estate communities in Uganda: a cross-sectional population-based survey
(MDPI, 2023-02) Joseph, Kawuki; Joweria, Nambooze; Paul, Shing-fong Chan; Siyu, Chen; Xue, Liang; Phoenix, K. H. Mo; Zixin, Wang
Vaccination against COVID-19 remains one of the ultimate solutions to the ongoing pandemic. This study examined and compared the completion of primary COVID-19 vaccination series and associated factors in the slum and estate communities of Uganda. This was a cross-sectional survey conducted among 1025 slum and estate residents. Logistic regression models were fitted. Of the 1025 participants, 511 were slum residents and 514 were estate residents. Completion of COVID-19 vaccination was 43.8% in the slum community and 39.9% in the estate community (p = 0.03). Having more knowledge about COVID-19 was positively associated with completing COVID-19 vaccination in both communities. Perceived benefits and cues to action also had a positive association, but only among the slum residents. However, perceiving people infected with COVID-19 as having a high death rate, perceived barriers such as serious side effects and long distances, and depressive symptoms had negative associations with vaccine uptake among the slum community, but not in the estate community. Addressing barriers to vaccination, strengthening and utilizing the various cues to action, engagement of religious and cultural leaders, and continued community education and sensitization tailored to the needs of each community are potentially vital strategies in raising vaccination rates. Consideration of socioeconomic impact-alleviation strategies, especially among the urban poor, would also be beneficial.
Differential practice and associated factors of COVID-19 personal preventive measures among the slum and estate communities of Uganda: A community-based cross-sectional survey
(Journal of Global Health, 2023-09) Joseph, Kawuki; Joweria, Nambooze; Paul, Shing-fong Chan; Siyu, Chen; Xue, Liang; Phoenix, K H Mo; Zixin, Wang
Background Compliance with personal preventive measures (PPMs) remains essential in the prevention and control of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and future infectious disease outbreaks. This study aimed at examining and compar- ing the practice of COVID-19 PPMs and associated factors in selected slum and estate communities of Uganda. Methods This was a cross-sectional survey conducted among 1025 slum and estate residents in Uganda. The outcome variable was compliance with COVID-19 PPMs, including face mask use, hand washing / hygiene, and social distancing. Logistic re- gression models were fitted to assess the associated factors, using SPSS (version 26). Results Of the 1025 participants, 511 and 514 were slum and estate residents, respec- tively. Compliance with PPMs was as follows; face mask use (slum 45.0% vs. estate 49.6%; P = 0.27), hand washing/ hygiene (slum 38.4% vs. estate 44.9%; P = 0.04) and social distancing (slum 19.4% vs. estate 36.0%; P < 0.001). Compared to estate residents, slum residents had more knowledge related to COVID-19, perceived COVID-19 would have a longer timeline and larger impact on their life, had more depression and anxiety symptoms, and faced more difficulties to access information. Illness perceptions, in- fection risk, and severity perceptions were associated with higher odds of PPMs com- pliance in both groups, except for perceiving a high chance of contracting COVID-19, which was associated with lower odds of social distancing in the slum community. Depression and anxiety symptoms were associated with higher odds of PPMs com- pliance in both groups. Frequent exposure to COVID-19 information through health care workers and family members and friends was associated with higher odds of all the PPMs in both communities. Moreover, getting COVID-19 information from local channels was significantly associated with higher odds of mask use and hand hygiene, but only in the estate community. Conclusions Our findings provided implications to improve PPMs compliance in future infectious disease outbreaks. To improve PPMs compliance rates, redesigning community education to focus on fostering positive perceptions and addressing the water and sanitation needs of slum communities are essential. Moreover, designing programs that provide free or subsidised face masks and soap to the most vulnerable and engaging religious leaders are also vital strategies.
Entrepreneurial resources and the well-being of women entrepreneurs in the hospitality industry of Uganda
(Asia Pacific Journal of Innovation and Entrepreneurship, 2024-09-23) Najjinda, Shamirah; Akileng, Godfrey; Bagire, Vincent; Turyakira, Peter
Purpose – The purpose of this study is to establish whether all the dimensions of entrepreneurial resources matter in fostering the well-being of women entrepreneurs. Design/methodology/approach – An explanatory research design was used to collect data through a questionnaire survey of 283 women entrepreneurs who benefited from the Uganda Women Entrepreneurship Programme (UWEP). This study used Statistical Package for Social Sciences to analyze the data. Findings – Study results show that social and human capital matter unlike financial capital in boosting the well-being of women entrepreneurs. Originality/value – This study provides maiden empirical evidence on contribution of entrepreneurial resource dimensions in fostering the well-being of women entrepreneurs, unlike extant studies that mostly focused on entrepreneurial resources as a global variable. This was done using evidence from Uganda, a developing context where the government and other stakeholders are still grappling with improving the wellbeing of women as a pathway for social-economic development. Keywords Entrepreneurial resources, Social capital, Human capital, Financial capital, Entrepreneurial well-being, Women entrepreneurs, Uganda
An exploration of teachers and trainers use of instruction practices and development of students interpersonal abilities in hospitality training: the Ugandan perspective
(Journal of Vocational Education & Training, 2022-02-07) Ajambo, Lucy; Sannerud, Ronny; Nabagaala, Justine
Interpersonal abilities as critical competencies are a prevalent subject in hospitality training. However, there remains a need to further study how teachers and trainers apply instruction practices to develop and strengthen students’ interpersonal abilities. This study aimed at identifying instruction practices used by teachers and trainers to ensure students’ development of interpersonal abilities and establishing students interpersonal abilities from teachers and trainers use of instructional practices. A qualitative research approach using a descriptive study design was used. A sample of 26 participants was purposively selected from vocational institutions and workplaces. In-depth interviews and observations were used to collect data. The study found out that discussions and presentations strengthened by mentoring were key to inculcating and strengthening the students’ interpersonal abilities. However, some students were confronted with challenges; remembrance of what was discussed, teacher and trainers acting as barricades during the use of instructional practices leading to student passiveness, being laughed at by fellow peers, understanding what has been discussed and in task-specific- feedback from trainers at the beginning of the workplace training. Thus, the study concluded that teacher-trainer collaboration was crucial for clear harmonization of instructional practices of students’ interpersonal abilities development and strengthening.
Factors associated with nutritional status of women 18-59 years in Mukono municipality, Uganda
(Kyambogo University, 2019-11) Athieno, Justine
Recent findings indicate an increase in obesity and persistent underweight among women in Uganda. Obesity, overweight and underweight have been associated with diet and physical activity. It is however not clear which socio demographic, physical activity and dietary factors are most important influencers of nutritional status among urban women in Uganda. Identifying these will go a long way in determining appropriate intervention strategies for the control of obesity and the associated complications in Uganda. The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence of underweight, overweight and obesity and how they are associated with socio demographic, dietary and physical activity factors among women 18-59 years in Mukono Municipality. Participants were randomly selected. A semi structured socio demographic questionnaire, semi quantitative food frequency questionnaire and the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire were used to collect data. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 20, frequencies and percentages used to ascertain the prevalence and multinomial logistic regression models used to predict factors at 95% confidence interval. The study revealed that prevalence of BMI-defined overweight was 29.7%, obesity 20.7% and underweight 2.9%. Older women were less likely to have healthy WHR (AOR 0.2; 95% CI: 0.04-0.90; P<0.05), those with moderate monthly expenditure were less likely to be obese (AOR 0.3; 95% CI: 0.1-0.9; P<0.05). Frequent consumption of foods from: meat and eggs group increased the likelihood of having excessive abdominal fat (AOR 1.7; 95% CI: 1.02-2.8; P<0.05), (AOR 1.2; 95% CI: 1.0-1.5; P<0.05) respectively, nuts and seeds increased the likelihood of being overweight (AOR 1.2; 95% CI: 1.0-1.5; P<0.03), plantains decreased the likelihood of healthy waist circumference (WC) (AOR 0.8; 95% CI: 0.7-0.9; P<0.01), poultry decreased the likelihood of moderately unhealthy WC (AOR 0.7; 95% CI: 95% CI:1.0-1.4; P<0.05). There was low (31%) attainment of minimum dietary diversity for women. Non-participation in active transport related physical activity (PA) increased the likelihood of being over fat (AOR=1.8 95% CI: 1.5–3.0; P<0.05) while more time spent in work related PA decreased the likelihood of having severely unhealthy WHR (AOR=0.9 95% CI: 0.9–2.0; P=0.01). Attainment of WHO standard of PA was at 47.1%. In conclusion, obesity and abdominal obesity were prevalent among the respondents. They are associated with age, high parity, expenditure per month, time spent in work activity and reliance on walking for transport. They are also associated with a high frequency of consumption of meat, eggs, nuts and seeds and with a low consumption of poultry and vegetables. Key words: Socio demographic, diet, physical activity, nutritional status and women.
First physicochemical analysis of stingless bee honey from Uganda
(Journal of Apicultural Research, 2023-01) Charles, Oromokoma; Patrice, Kasangaki; Perpetra, Akite; Ronald, Mugume; Robert, Kajobe; Gilbert, Mangusho
Following years of its exploitation from only wild colonies, the stingless bee (Meliponula bocandei Spinola, 1853) was recently domesticated in Uganda. Products currently harvested by the beekeepers are honey and propolis. Studies from other countries have shown that stingless bees produce honey that is distinct in physicochemical properties. Therefore, in an effort to lay a foundation for the development of quality standards for stingless bee honey in Uganda, we collected M. bocandei honey from the Western Highlands and Lake Victoria Crescent agroecological zones. A selected set of physicochemical properties (moisture content, viscosity, water activity, electrical conductivity and HMF) of the honey were determined. Results reveal the following means of the physicochemical properties: moisture content (26.45 ± 3.9%), viscosity (38.32 ± 2.25 Pa.s), water activity (0.71 ± 0.04%), electrical conductivity (0.229 ± 86.91 mS/cm), pH (4.15 ± 0.68), and HMF (5.42 ± 4.78 mg kg−1), The low mean HMF reveals that stingless bee honey from these two agroecological zones is of good quality. Overall, the mean values of the physicochemical parameters measured are within the figures in the East African Community standards for stingless bee honey. We recommend investigations to establish the diversity of forage plant resources used by the stingless bee M. bocandei in order to boost meliponiculture.
Food as a human right during disasters in Uganda
(Elsevier: Food Policy, 2014-12) Rukundo, Peter Milton; Iversen, Per Ole; Oshaug, Arne; Omuajuanfo, Lovise Ribe; Rukooko, Byaruhanga; Kikafunda, Joyce; Andreassen, Bård Anders
Natural and human induced disasters are a threat to food security, economic progress and livelihoods in Uganda. However, we have limited knowledge regarding the putative role of the human rights dimension to the impact and management of such tragedies. In this article we assessed the present policies, legislation and institutional capabilities to ascertain whether they could assure the right to adequate food during disaster situations in Uganda. Using purposive sampling, 52 duty bearers working in institutions deemed relevant to food security, nutrition and disaster management were interviewed using a semi-structured guide. Relevant provisions from policy, legislation, institutional budgets and records of Parliament provided the context for analysis. The most important concern coming from the analyses of the information retrieved were inadequate preparedness mechanisms and capabilities. Whereas Uganda’s Constitution proclaims the right to adequate food, and the need to establish a contingencies fund and commission responsible for disaster preparedness and management, they had not been instituted. Implementation of relevant policies appeared slow, especially with regard to assuring adequate relief food as a State obligation. Legislation to guarantee funding and institutionalisation of necessary disaster preparedness and management capabilities was not in place. An ambitious 5-year Uganda Nutrition Action Plan adopted in 2011 had not yet been funded by mid-2013, implying a reality gap in nutrition programming. Budget architecture and financing to disaster management have in effect fallen short of assuring adequate relief food as a human right. Due to capacity constraints, an approach of humanitarian relief may be entrenched in contradiction of State obligations to respect, protect and fulfil human rights. To stay ahead of the potential threats, the Government with support of the Parliament and relevant partners need to enact legislation to appropriate budget resources needed to institute a mechanism of capabilities to implement the constitutional and policy provisions on the right to adequate food and disaster management.
Food variety consumption and household food insecurity coping strategies after the 2010 landslide disaster : the case of Uganda
(Cambridge University Press: Public Health Nutrition, 2016-06-09) Rukundo, Peter M; Oshaug, Arne; Andreassen, Bård A; Kikafunda, Joyce; Rukooko, Byaruhanga; Iversen, Per O
To evaluate the nutritional situation of the victims of the 2010 landslide disaster in Uganda, food varieties consumed and coping strategies were assessed. Design Cross-sectional. Food variety scores (FVS) were obtained as the total of food items eaten over the last week while an index was based on severity weighting of household food insecurity coping strategies. We included 545 affected and 533 control households. Setting Victims in the affected Bududa district in Eastern Uganda and those victims resettled in the Kiryandongo district, Western Uganda. Results Adjusted for covariates, in Bududa significantly higher mean FVS were observed among: affected than controls; farmers than others; and relief food recipients. Control households scored higher means (SE) on severity of coping: 28·6 (1·3) v. 19·2 (1·2; P<0·01). In Kiryandongo, significantly higher FVS were observed among: control households; household heads educated above primary school; those with assets that complement food source; and recipients of relief food. Severity of coping was significantly higher among affected households and non-recipients of relief food. Affected households had a higher likelihood to skip a day without eating a household meal in Bududa (OR=2·31; 95 % CI 1·62, 3·29; P<0·01) and Kiryandongo (OR=1·77; 95 % CI 1·23, 2·57; P<0·01). Conclusions Whereas FVS and severity of coping showed opposite trends in the two districts, resettlement into Kiryandongo led to severe coping experiences. Administrative measures that provide a combination of relief food, social protection and resettlement integration may offset undesirable coping strategies affecting diet.
Long-term effects on depressive symptoms among Ugandan mothers – Findings from a follow-up of a cluster-randomized education trial in a rural low-resource setting
(Journal of Affective Disorders, 2024-04) Paul, Kakwangire; Prudence, Atukunda; Moses, Ngari; Ane, C. Westerberg; Per, O. Iversen; Grace, Muhoozi
Introduction Depression is increasingly affecting mothers in poor countries such as Uganda. Various interventions have been implemented to tackle this problem, but their sustainability is under-researched. Here we present follow-up data on maternal depression six years after a cluster-randomized controlled maternal education trial in rural Uganda. Methods The intervention lasted six months and consisted of nutrition, hygiene, sanitation and child stimulation education, delivered to 511 mothers of 6 to 8 months' old children. Six years later we assessed maternal depressive symptoms using two psychometric tools; the Beck Depression Inventory II (BDI-II) and Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression scale (CESsingle bondD). Results For this follow-up study, data was available from 307/511 (60 %) mothers. Intention-to-treat analyses adjusting for clustering showed that the intervention mothers had non-significantly less depression symptoms (absolute score difference − 2; 95 % CI -5 to 0; p = 0.07) on BDI-II, and borderline significantly less depression symptoms (absolute score difference − 3; 95 % CI -5 to 0; p = 0.05) on CES-D compared to the controls. For categorized depression scores, the control mothers had significantly higher proportion of women classified in the worse depression categories for both BDI-II and CESsingle bondD. We did not find any baseline characteristics associated with maternal depression. Limitations The BDI-II and CES-D tools are both self-reported and we cannot rule out the possibility of social desirability bias in reporting of depression symptoms. Conclusion Six years after the maternal education trial, some benefits on maternal mental health were sustained. More studies are warranted on sustainability and scale-up of such interventions.
Longitudinal assessments of child growth: a six-year follow-up of a cluster-randomized maternal education trial
(Elsevier, 2021-08) Prudence, Atukunda; Moses, Ngari; Xi, Chen; Ane, C. Westerberg; Per, O. Iversen; Grace, Muhoozi
Background & aims: Child growth impairments are rampant in sub-Saharan Africa. To combat this important health problem, long-term follow-up studies are needed to examine possible benefits and sustainability of various interventions designed to correct inadequate child growth. Our aim was to perform a follow-up study of children aged 60e72 months whose mothers participated in a two-armed cluster-randomized education intervention trial lasting 6 months in rural Uganda when their children were 6e8 months old with data collection at 20e24 and at 36 months. The education focused on nutrition, hygiene, and child stimulation. Methods: We measured growth using anthropometry converted to z-scores according to WHO guide- lines. We also included assessments of body composition using bioimpedance. We used multilevel mixed effect linear regression models with maximum likelihood method, unstructured variance-covariance structure, and the cluster as a random effect component to compare data from the intervention (receiving the education and routine health care) with the control group (receiving only routine health care). Results: Of the 511 children included in the original trial, data from 166/263 (63%) and 141/248 (57%) of the children in the intervention and control group, respectively, were available for the current follow-up study. We found no significant differences in any anthropometrical z-score between the two study groups at child age of 60e72 months, except that children in the intervention group had lower (P ¼ 0.006) weight-for-height z-score than the controls. There were no significant differences in the trajectories of z-scores or height growth velocity (cm/year) from baseline (start of original trial) to child age of 60e72 months. Neither did we detect any significant difference between the intervention and control group regarding body composition (fat mass, fat free mass, and total body water) at child age 60 e72 months. Separate gender analyses had no significant impact on any of the growth or body composition findings. Conclusion: In this long-term study of children participating in a randomized maternal education trial, we found no significant impact of the intervention on anthropometrical z-scores, height growth velocity or body composition.
Malnutrition and associated risk factors among children 6–59 months old in the landslide-prone Bududa District, Eastern Uganda: a cohort study
(Current Developments in Nutrition : American Society for Nutrition, 2022-01-18) Nahalomo, Aziiza; Iversen, Per Ole; Andreassen, Bård Anders; Kaaya, Archileo Natigo; Rukooko, Archangel Byaruhanga; Tushabe, Gerald; Nateme, Nancy Catherine; Rukundo, Peter Milton
Background The United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 2.2 calls for an end to all forms of malnutrition. This might be derailed due to persistent landslide disasters in low-income countries like Uganda. Objectives The prevalence of malnutrition and the impact of seasonal variations and associated factors were assessed among children aged 6–59 mo in the landslide-affected households in Bududa District, eastern Uganda. Methods A prospective cohort study using a 2-stage simple random technique was applied to select 422 households including 392 children during May–August (food-plenty season) 2019. After 6 mo, in January–March (food-poor season) 2020, 388 households and 366 children were assessed. Socioeconomic and demographic data were collected using structured questionnaires. Child malnutrition outcomes were defined according to WHO criteria. Factors associated with malnutrition outcomes were identified by bivariate and multivariate logistic regression.

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