Department of Biological sciences

Permanent URI for this communityhttps://hdl.handle.net/20.500.12504/27

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Analysis of the 24-h microfilarial periodicity of Mansonella perstans
(Springerlink: Parasitology Research, 2008-12-24) Asio, Santa Maria; Simonsen, Paul E.; Onapa, Ambrose W.
The Mansonella perstans microfilarial (mf) periodicity in peripheral blood was analysed in a group of 32 healthy individuals from an endemic community in Uganda. The majority of individuals had maximum mf intensity during the first and minimum during the last 12 h of the day. Mean mf ratios (i.e. time-specific counts in relation to mean count for the individual) indicated a weak but significant diurnal periodicity with peak intensity around 0800 h. Trigonometric analysis of the ratios, assuming a harmonic wave pattern of periodicity, gave a periodicity index of 11.1 and a peak time of 0645 h. The higher mf intensities in the early morning appeared to coincide with the preferred biting hour of the vectors. The observed weak pattern of mf periodicity indicates that the sampling time of blood specimens for diagnosis will have only minor effect on diagnostic sensitivity.
Assessing production and nutrient composition of vermicompost of biodegradable domestic waste in Kasokoso slum in Kira municipality, Wakiso district
(Kyambogo University (Unpublished work), 2024-10) Atuhaire, Mavis Gift
The study assessed the production of compost from organic domestic waste through vermicomposting. Vermicomposting is not well studied as a method of waste management in urban slums. This study uses Kasokoso slums as s case study to assess production and nutrient composition of biodegradable domestic waste through vermicomposting in slum amidst challenges of the densely populated urban slums. A total of 356 households were interviewed about waste handling methods used in the area and the challenges faced in waste handling using random sampling technique. An experiment aimed at investigating the effect of worms on soil nutrient levels over a period of four months was also carried out from November 2022 to February 2023. Five boxes containing organic waste and worms constituted the experimental sample, while the control sample comprised of five boxes of waste without worms. Samples from the experiment were collected on day one, and subsequently, monthly for the next three months. The results on waste handling practices in Kasokoso Village revealed that kitchen refuse (96.3%), plastic (31.3%), glass (22.5%), and animal waste (13.6%) were the main components of household waste. Disposal methods such as burning (32.4%), dumping in designated place (13.6%), waste pit (13.5%), open space (8.1%) and Burying (2.7%) were used by the community to manage domestically produced waste. Open dumping poses environmental and health risks. Whereas Informal waste management networks involving local individuals and collectors play a vital role, formal waste management services exist but face limitations due to cost and accessibility issues. Encouraging sustainable practices like recycling and composting is essential to tackle waste management challenges. The analysis of vermicompost quality showed an increase nutrient composition; of 5.8% nitrogen in the treatment as compared to 0.9% in the control, moisture content of 8.9% in the treatment compared to a 2.5% change in the control, and pH of 2.8% and 6.4% change in the treatment and control samples respectively. Although statistically insignificant, these nutrients were slightly higher in the experimental sample (P value of 0.161> 0.05). Challenges in waste disposal are accelerated by poor sanitation, leading to waste accumulation in public and residential areas. This results in health risks and diseases like cholera and bilharzia. The lack of a proper waste management system and limited resources make waste collection and transportation expensive and irregular. Improper waste disposal obstructs water channels, leading to damaged roads, causing stagnant water, increased flood risk, and environmental degradation. This research contributes valuable insights to the pool of knowledge regarding environmentally sustainable waste management techniques within densely populated slums of urban areas using vermicomposting. However, there is need to further research on vermicomposting using a different species of earth worms besides the red earth used in this study.
Assessment of occupational safety and health measures and associated factors among Kyambogo and Uganda Christian University staff
(Kyambogo University (Unpublished work), 2024-10) Mwanja, Wilson Steeve
This study aimed to assess the common occupational health hazards, the level of implementation of occupational safety and health (OSH) measures and the associated factors among staff of universities in Uganda. This was a cross-sectional study that utilised both quantitative and qualitative methods to collect the data. The study involved 394 participants. The factors that were significantly associated with the implementation of OSH measures were; working in the institution for 5-10 years (APR=0.83, 95% CI: 0.71-0.99), P-value = 0.036; working in the institution for >10 years (APR=0.72, 95% CI: 0.58-0.92), P-value = 0.007); knowledge on OSH (APR=0.70, 95%CI:0.59-0.83), P-value < 0.001; feeling very good about the OSH in place (APR=3.49, 95% CI:1.56-7.77), P-value=0.002 and commitment by the management (APR=1.77, 95% CI: 1.09-2.87), P-value=0.021. Similarly, factors that were found to influence the implementation of OSH measures from the qualitative findings included Working in the university for long hours, knowledge levels, presence of policies regarding OSH, and good leadership. The study revealed that half of the respondents were exposed to occupational hazards ranging from ergonomic, physical, chemical and psychosocial hazards. In addition, more than half of the respondents reported a high implementation of occupational safety and health measures at the universities. Years of work at the institution, knowledge of OSH, perceptions regarding OSH, and commitment from management were significantly associated with the implementation of OSH measures. There is a need to prioritize OSH measures in Ugandan universities through staff training, policy enforcement, and good leadership and management commitment to promote a safer working environment for staff.
Bacterial diversity in relation to anthropogenic activities: a case study of Kibale national park wetlands, Uganda
(Kyambogo University (Unpublished work), 2024-11) Munguleni, Vincent
Bacterial diversity refers to the vast variety of bacteria in an ecosystem which function in maintaining wetland ecosystem health through nutrient recycling for the trophic status and building symbiotic relationships with other organisms. This system is being threatened in many wetlands of Uganda as a result of an increase in anthropogenic activities such as agriculture and urbanization. The study aimed to examine bacterial diversity in relation to the anthropogenic activities in Kibale National Park (KNP) wetlands. A cross-sectional design was used in data collection. Land Use and Land Cover (LULC) changes were determined in ArcMap 10.8 through unsupervised classification of high-resolution images of twenty years for 2003, 2013 and 2023. The level of wetland degradation was determined using the Anthropogenic Activity Index (AAI) score. Temperature, dissolved oxygen, electrical conductivity and pH were measured with an electrical meter. Meanwhile, composition of bacteria from 50 water samples was determined using Environmental Deoxyribonucleic Acid (eDNA) technologies and metabarcoding. The forest cover of KNP reduced from 78% to 42% in the 20 years while farmland, grassland and built-up all significantly increased. Generally, there was a significant difference in physicochemical properties and AAI between inforest and outforest wetlands of similar types. Outforest wetland were more degraded then inforest wetlands. The dominant bacterial phyla in all wetlands were Proteobacteria and Actinobacteriota where the former dominated inforest wetlands and the later dominated outforest wetlands. Bacterial diversity significantly varied between inforest and outforest wetlands of the same type except for swamps where they were similar. As a result of differences in environmental conditions, bacteria composition was richer in intact wetlands than in degraded wetlands of similar types. Conditions in degraded wetlands abundantly harboured harmful species such as Arcobacter cryaerophilus and those known to thrive in polluted waters like Thiothrix nivea. Reduction in forest cover led to increased anthropogenic activities around the wetlands which altered their physicochemical properties that then negatively influenced their bacterial diversity. The wetlands of KNP should therefore be restored and protected through science backed interventions and policies for improved ecosystem health. This would benefit both the community by providing clean-safe water and improved sanitation as well as saving the biodiversity in these wetlands from damage.
Climate variability a dominant driver of vegetation health dynamics in Kapchorwa district, Uganda
(Kyambogo University (Unpublished work), 2024-11) Lunya, Brian
Economic development, particularly in third world nations heavily reliant on agriculture, is under threat from climate change as a global phenomenon. While there have been some studies on its impact on vegetation productivity in other regions, there is a lack of research in African countries, specifically in Uganda's agricultural districts. This study aimed to evaluate the role of climate variability as a dominant factor in vegetation health in Kapchorwa district. To explore the relationships within the study, correlational research design with an integration of quantitative methods was employed. Secondary and primary climate data sets were used to determine the trends and variations in rainfall and temperature from 1989 to 2019. The Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), Vegetation Relative Abundance, and relative abundance were employed as indicators of vegetation health, and their correlations with rainfall and temperature were examined. The results showed an increasing trend (p>0.05) in both maximum and minimum temperatures in Kapchorwa district over the 30-year period, with minimal variation. Rainfall also exhibited an upward trend (p>0.05) with high variability and relatively even distribution patterns. NDVI significantly increased from 1989 to 2019, with sporadic periods of drought in the earlier years. The district's vegetation diversity was moderate (0.47), with Poaceae (grass) being the most abundant vegetation type (57%), and Actinidiaceae (shrubs) the least abundant (46%). The strong correlation (72%) and regression coefficients (52%) indicated a significant impact of temperature on the diversity and abundance of vegetation, which are essential indicators of vegetation health. These findings emphasize that while Kapchorwa's vegetation health has generally benefited from the positive climatic trends, the diversity and distribution of vegetation types are essential considerations for sustainable management and conservation. The efforts of local governments and districts should focus on preserving the dominant species of grasses, trees, and shrubs, as they are essential for maintaining ecosystem stability. The preservation of native plant species and sustainable harvesting should be prioritized in local community conservation efforts to support and improve the current trend of healthy vegetation in the face of climate variability.
Composition of benthic invertebrates along river mpanga in relation to anthropogenic disturbance
(Kyambogo University [unpublished work], 2023-08) Nalumansi, Maureen
Research on the assemblages of benthic macro faunal community in the River Mpanga catchment was conducted during the period November 2019 - January 2020 following the standard methods to assess the status of environmental pollution. Good ecological water quality is needed to maintain the integrity of the river system and depends on the preservation of natural conditions of the water and the surrounding environment. Unsustainable and improper use and pollution through various human activities can impair and destroy the ecological state of a natural system by changing its chemical composition and the biological communities that are naturally occurring. To assess the benthic invertebrates' composition in relation to anthropogenic disturbance along river Mpanga, chemical, physio-chemical and biological data were collected along the different sections of the river. The study area includes upstream of Mpanga river, the midstream in Fort Portal, the tea estates area downstream of Fort Portal. Results from the upstream area confirm that human activities have a large influence on the physical and chemical water quality. While the impact on the general biodiversity of benthic invertebrates is less pronounced at present, the continuation of these human activities threatens the habitat availability for benthic invertebrates that depend on natural river banks and unpolluted water. Chemical and biological water quality were further lowered by certain urban pressures, which can be mainly linked to improper waste and sewage disposal, as to the absence of natural bank environments. Downstream of the urban area in Fort portal, where human pressure is less intense and where banks are less modified and protected from surrounding land use practices by a protection zone of natural vegetation, both chemical and biological quality improve. The river system recovers further as it passes through Kibale Forest Natural Park, which leaves time for suspended solids (turbidity) to settle and allows chemical and biological processes to lower the water's mineral, salt and nutrient-load.
Corm damage caused by banana weevils Cosmopolites sordidus (Germar) collected from different banana growing regions in Uganda
(Springer Nature: Agriculture & Food Security., 2018-10-19) Twesigye, Charles K.; Ssekatawa, Kenneth; Kiggundu, Andrew; Tushemereirwe, Wilberforce; Matovu, Enock; Karamura, Eldad
In this study, both healthy tissue culture plantlets and maiden suckers of the Nakitembe cultivar were used to assess the damage level variation caused by banana weevils collected from different banana growing regions. Seventy-nine (79) tissue culture plantlets and fifty (50) suckers were established in buckets in a randomized complete block design for 5 months. Ten adult weevils (5 females and 5 males) were introduced at the base of each plant, and the buckets were covered with a weevil proof mesh. Weevil damage was estimated as a percentage at 60 days after the weevil introduction by estimating the peripheral damage (PD), total cross section corm damage (XT) and above the collar damage (ACD). Results: The results showed high differences in the PD, XI, XO and XT caused by weevils from the different zones. PD and XT ranged from 4.8–50.4 to 4.2–43.8%, respectively, caused by weevils collected from Kabale and Rakai, Kabale and Wakiso, respectively, while XI and XO varied from 0.0–42.9 to 8.3–40.4%, respectively, caused by banana weevils collected from Kabale and Rakai, Kabale and Rakai, respectively. Banana weevils from Rakai caused the highest ACD of 40.4% and no such damage was caused by banana weevils collected from western Uganda. Average ACD in suckers was 19.6% and significantly higher than that in tissue culture plants (8.5%). Conclusions and recommendations: Corm damage assessment suggests the existence of banana weevil biotypes but it is recommended that follow-up studies be carried out to confirm this phenomenon.
Covid – 19 pandemic on the utilisation of maternal and child health services at Entebbe municipality, Uganda
(Kyambogo University (Unpublished work), 2024-11) Nabirye, Lydia
All ages of people have been negatively impacted by the global Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) outbreak, but pregnant women are particularly at risk. Maternity services changed their protocols and procedures to lessen the COVID-19 risk transmission to women, their babies, and healthcare workers. This study aimed at finding the effects of COVID – 19 pandemic on the utilisation of maternal health and child health services at Entebbe municipality from three health facilities of various levels (health centres III, IV and a hospital). A facility-based cross-sectional design with both quantitative and qualitative approaches was used to collect information at the health facilities. A total of 306 women participated in the quantitative study while 28 women participated in the qualitative study. Pre – tested structured questionnaires, interview guides were used to collect information from the women who consented to take part voluntarily in the study while document review was used to collect women’s information on trends of antenatal utilisation. The findings of the study showed that there was a decline in the initiation of Antenatal Care (ANC) and a reduction in the number of antenatal visits. More than a half 72.2% were satisfied with antenatal care services provided during the pandemic of which 53.9% would recommend the facility to a relative or friend. Women who were older (=> 40 years) (aOR =25.2, 95%CI 1.6 – 389.1) and women who were more educated (aOR = 5.1, 95%CI 1.5 – 17.3) were satisfied with the service provided during the pandemic. Fear of contracting COVID-19 at health facilities, transportation difficulties, shortage of manpower, long waiting times, and harassment by security agents were the major factors that hindered the access and utilisation of Maternal Health and Child Health (MHCH) services during the pandemic. In conclusion the COVID-19 pandemic caused the interruption of health services on a global scale, including MHCH services. Effective preventive and clinical strategies to control future pandemic infection among women are necessary. It is necessary and important to replicate the study using mothers from various private hospitals.
Effect of capacity building, staffing levels and technology on quality of health management information system data on maternal deliveries at Arua referral hospital, Uganda
(Kyambogo University (Unpublished work), 2024-09) Ahimbisibwe, Julius
This study aimed to investigate the impact of capacity building, staffing levels, and technology on the Quality of Health Management Information System (HMIS) Data concerning maternal deliveries at Arua Referral Hospital (ARRH) in Uganda. The research focused on three specific objectives: evaluating how capacity building influences the completeness of HMIS data for deliveries, assessing the effect of staffing levels on the timeliness of HMIS data related to deliveries, and examining the impact of technology on the accuracy of HMIS data concerning deliveries. Using a descriptive cross-sectional design incorporating quantitative and qualitative methodologies, the study involved a population of 120 hospital staff members (6 administrators, 6 records officers, 58 midwives, and 50 nurses). Respondents were selected through a combination of random and purposive sampling methods. Quantitative data was analyzed using SPSS and R software, while qualitative data utilized Nvivo V14 for thematic analysis. Findings revealed a predominantly female workforce in departments critical to maternal health, aligning with national nursing demographics. Notably, capacity building initiatives showed a strong positive correlation (r=0.6) with the completeness of HMIS data for maternal deliveries. Staffing levels also correlated positively (r=0.5) with timeliness, particularly influenced by the presence of Records Officers. Technology showed a weaker positive correlation (r=0.4) with data accuracy, access to DHIS2 and computers contributing mildly, while internet connectivity showed limited impact. Recommendations from the study emphasize clear responsibilities in data management to address issues like incorrect register filling. It advocates for inclusive training sessions involving junior staff and promotes enhanced data sharing and dissemination practices to bolster data quality assurance processes. In conclusion, this study highlights the pivotal roles of capacity building, staffing adequacy, and appropriate technology utilization in enhancing quality of HMIS data for maternal deliveries.
Effect of Land Use Activities on Water Quality and Vegetation Cover Change in Nsooba - Lubigi Wetland System, Kampala City
(East African Journal of Biophysical and Computational Sciences, 2024-10-07) Twesigye, Charles K.; Igunga, Kennedy; Nakayinga, Ritah
An assessment of the effect of land use activities on water quality and vegetation cover change in Nsooba - Lubingi Wetland System in Kampala city was conducted between July and October 2020. In order to achieve the set objectives, twelve locations were selected from the Nsooba - Lubingi Catchment. The physico-chemical characteristics of water along the catchment area were determined by standard analytical methods. The average values for Total Dissolved Solids across all the land-use types of wetland, built up areas and agriculture were lower than the National Standard (750 mg/l). A similar pattern of the land-use was observed for the parameters Total phosphorous, Biological oxygen demand, Chemical oxygen demand, Total suspended solids and Total organic carbon, where the observed average values were all below the National Standards of 10 mg/l, 50mg/l, 70mg/l, 50mg/l and 50mg/l, respectively. The Total Nitrogen average value for built-up areas (11.27 mg/l) was higher than the national standard of 10 mg/l while the remaining land use types of wetland (8.05mg/l) and agriculture (5.96mg/l) were below that of the recommended standard. GIS and Remote sensing techniques were used to analyze highresolution satellite imagery captured during 1998, 2008 and 2018. Wetland coverage declined by approximately 5 hectares (47.2% to 14.58%) from 1998 to 2018. Although most of the measured parameters were below the National standard specified by the Uganda National Environmental Management Authority apart from Total Nitrogen for built-up areas, there is need for close monitoring of the water quality in Nsooba - Lubingi catchment to ensure public health safety. The increased built-up environment in the Nsooba - Lubigi wetland affects ecosystems services of the wetland. The buffer zones for flood control and sewage treatment have been turned into built-up environment. The results from this study suggest a need to protect the Nsooba - Lubingi catchment for its important ecosystems services of flood control and sewage treatment.
Effect of land use activities on water quality, soil and vegetation cover for conservation of river wambabya catchment, hoima district
(Kyambogo University [unpublished work], 2023-06) Nabwire, Mirembe Winnie
Increasing land use activities are greatly decreasing environmental quality of River catchments thus, making them susceptible to pollution and depletion. The land use activities such as human settlements, massive deforestation, oil infrastructural developments, conversion of wetlands into subsistence farmland, and agroforestry were increasing within River Wambabya catchment. However, there was no empirical evidence of the present status of the water quality, soil and vegetation cover in the river catchment hence necessitating a research study. The overall objective of the research study was to evaluate the effect of land use activities on the water quality, soil and vegetation cover for conservation of River Wambabya catchment, Hoima District. The specific objectives of the study were; to determine the effect of land use activities on the water quality (pH, EC, COD, BOD, Total phosphates, nitrates, Pb, Escherichia coli, and total coliforms) of River Wambabya catchment; to assess the effect of land use activities on the soil (pH, EC, Heavy metals-Pb, Fe, Mn, Zn, Ni, Cd) of River Wambabya catchment; and to determine the effect of land use activities on the vegetation cover of River Wambabya catchment over a period of 20 years (1998-2018). The study used a simple random sampling technique during collection of water and soil samples. Water quality and soil parameters were analyzed using American Public Health Association (APHA) standard analytical procedures. Heavy metals in water were analyzed using an Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectrometry (ICP-OES) while soil heavy metals were analyzed using Mehlich- 3 extraction method buffered to pH 2.5. Vegetation cover change of 20 years (1998-2018) was analyzed using Landsat 8 images and ArcMap 10.8 version. Results showed that land use activities had significant effect on water quality BOD (p value of 0.021) at p<0.05. Subsistence farmland (7mg/l), and wetland (6mg/l) activities were the major contributors of high BOD levels. Land use activities also had a significant effect on the concentration levels of soil Zn (p value of 0.048), Ni (p value of 0.020), and Pb (p value of 0.037) at p< 0.05. Subsistence farmland, and agroforestry were the major sources of high Zn, Ni and Pb concentrations. lastly, land use activities had a significant effect on the vegetation cover of river Wambabya catchment. There was a drastic increase in built-up areas (5.38%), and subsistence farmland (1.04%) with a reduction in vegetation cover under Bushland (1.97%), forests (2.58%), grasslands (7.56%), open water (1.23%), wetlands (1.42%) and woodland (1.39%) over the 20-year period. Subsequently, natural resources conservation efforts are required in river Wambabya catchment area so as to improve its sustainability and co-existence with human livelihoods. Particularly, more conservation efforts are needed to halt the deteriorating water quality and reducing vegetation coverage of the catchment. Further in-depth studies can be conducted on the temporal variations of vegetation cover and bioaccumulation of heavy metals in the soils of the RWC due to the increasing mining and oil and gas development.
Effect of prolonged cooking on pro-vitamin A levels of biofortified East African highland bananas
(Biotechnology in Agriculture and the Food Chain, 2025-07-09) Buah, Stephen; Kiwummulo, Janefer; Paul, Jean-Yves; Walugembe, Joel; Wegesa, Jackline; Tumuhimbise, Robooni; Tushemereirwe, Wilberforce
Genetically modified East African highland bananas (EAHBs) with elevated levels of pro-vitamin A (pVA) have been developed to address vitamin A deficiency (VAD) in Uganda. The green, mature fruits of EAHBs are traditionally prepared into “matooke,” a soft, savory dish made by peeling, steaming, and mashing the fruit. Biofortifying such a culturally embedded food offers an effective approach to improving nutrition, particularly among vulnerable populations. Field trials of pVA-biofortified EAHBs have been conducted at four locations across Uganda, with data collection nearing completion. However, the effect of prolonged cooking, a common traditional preparation method, on pVA carotenoid retention had not been evaluated. This study investigated the retention of β-carotene equivalents (β-CE) during extended cooking in two elite events, each of hybrid M9 and Nakitembe. After 1 h of cooking, β-CE concentrations declined significantly in both wild-type and biofortified lines. Further cooking, up to 8 h, did not result in additional significant losses. By the eighth hour, β-CE levels remained above the target threshold of 20 µg/g dry weight (DW) in one M9 event (21.7 µg/g DW) and both Nakitembe events (28.7 and 27.6 µg/g DW), compared to 12.8 and 17.6 µg/g DW in their respective wild-type controls. This confirms that the biofortified bananas can deliver meaningful nutritional benefits under customary preparation methods. These results are not only pivotal for selecting final lead and backup events but also provide compelling evidence of trait stability, further supporting the case for deployment of biofortified EAHBs to improve public health outcomes in East Africa.
Effectiveness of university teacher education curriculum on the secondary school teacher performance in Uganda: the case of Kyambogo University
(Journal of International Cooperation in Education., 2013) Otaala, Justine; Maani, John S.; Bakaira, Godfrey G.
The main objective of this study was to examine the effectiveness of the Kyambogo University teacher education curriculum on secondary school teacher performance in Uganda. The study was conducted between 2008-2011. Questionnaires, focus group discussions, lesson observations and interviews were administered to Kyambogo University lecturers, university students, secondary school teachers and students. Results indicate that most lecturers and secondary school teachers use teacher-centred methods. Theoretical teaching was widely practiced in schools and university. Teachers attributed their use of teacher-centered methods to their training and pressure of national examinations. Suggestions to improve the effectiveness of the university secondary teacher education program are made and include: university curriculum review, reform of examination system, conducting pedagogical courses for university lecturers, teachers, and involving experienced teachers in supervising students on school practice.
Effects of anthropogenic activities on small-scale fishery of Albert Nile, pakwach district
(Kyambogo University [unpublished work], 2023-10) Kwiyocwiny, Emmanuel
Worldwide, fisheries have declined, Albert Nile total fish catch declined drastically from 5200-2790 (46%) between 2012-2021. Increasing population leads to overfishing and unsustainable land use. Unsustainable land use results into unfavorable climate. Crop failure due to unfavorable climate drive people to over fishing. Unsustainable land use equally negatively effects water quality required for fishery productivity. The study assessed; socio-economic status, land use, land cover change in the catchment, water quality and fishing pressure in small-scale fisheries of Albert Nile. A cross sectional survey design was used to assess socio-economic activities and fishing pressure. Study area was clustered to guarantee homogeneity. A total of 10 Landing sites (20%) were obtained by simple random sampling from each cluster. Disproportionate allocation was used to obtain 223 boats for sampling. 354 fishers responded to socio-economic survey questionnaires and interviews. Catch assessment survey was used to generate data on fishing pressure. Fishing boats systematically sampled, Geographical Information System techniques and tools such as Arc GIS was used to capture and analyse data on land use, land cover change. Documentary review was used to assess water quality. Findings indicated fishing as the most dominant socioeconomic activity. Many youths are dropping out of school to engage in fishing such that 60% of fishers are youth full-primary drop-out. House hold size averaged 10 person/household with 60% of fishers un able to afford 3 meals daily. The study equally revealed that wetland and wood land decreased by 37.7% and 23.5% respectively from 1995-2020. The decline in wetland and wood land has been attributed to increasing demand for agricultural land, over grassing and increased demand for charcoal and wood fuel. According to the findings, Albert Nile water was in a good state with water quality index ranging from (86.5-78.0), however, the concentration of Phosphorus (0.144±0.091mg/l) and total Nitrogen (2.26±0.44mg/l) reflected hypereutrophic status in 2020. The general increase in values for physical parameters and nutrient species over the study period is a sign of deteriorating water quality likely to hamper stock replenishment in the long run. The fishery is overexploited with 80% of fishers engaged in illegal practices characterized by intensified fishing averaging 5 days weekly and 6 hours daily. Meanwhile, Catch Per Unit Effort was as low as 7.0±4.1 kg/boat/day. Fish diversity index was high (H’= 2.31±0.09, E= 0.83±0.03 and D=0.13±0.02), though 80% of the species were categorized as pelagic or immature hence of low economic value. Hydrocinus forskali and Haplochromines species were very rare in the catch or not observed in the catch respectively. It was concluded that limited livelihood options will continue to push fishers into over fishing. unsustainable land use, land cover change will continue to drive people to mount more pressure on the fishery. The changing water quality parameters points to deteriorating water quality required for fishery productivity. Fishing pressure resulting from increased input is overwhelming with potential to disrupt stock replenishment. It was recommended that; socio-economic status of fishers be regularly analysed and used as input for participatory management; land use that is unsustainable be halted; all poverty alleviating programmes to target the fishers so as to reduce pressure on the fishery.
Effects of waste dumping on water quality, soil and plant diversity around Cyuve dump site in Musanze city, Rwanda
(Kyambogo University (Unpublished work), 2024-10) Tuyizere, Naphtar
The rapid urban population growth and increasing demand for resources have led to a global surge in waste generation, a trend also evident in Musanze City. At the Cyuve dumpsite, waste accumulation poses potential threats to soil quality, surface water, and plant biodiversity. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of the Cyuve waste dumpsite on the surrounding ecosystem, particularly focusing on soil and water quality and plant diversity. A quantitative research design was employed, with soil samples collected from three distances downstream (0–40 m, 40–80 m, and 80–120 m) and at three depths (0–5 cm, 5–15 cm, and 15–30 cm), whereas the control site was located at 100 meters upstream the dumpsite. Surface water samples were taken from three stream locations nearby to the dumpsite. Samples were analyzed during both wet and dry seasons, and statistical analysis was performed using RStudio version 4.3.1. Results from ANOA and LSD test (p ≤ 0.05), showed that soil closer to the dumpsite (0–40 m) had higher mean values for pH, organic matter (OM), electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), and cation exchange capacity (CEC), which decreased with distance. The study revealed that heavy metal concentrations, including lead, chromium, and cadmium, were highest in the soil samples collected closest to the Cyuve dumpsite. Lead levels ranged from 0.19 to 0.88 mg/kg during the wet season, with slightly elevated concentrations of 0.37 to 1.49 mg/kg in the dry season. Similarly, chromium levels varied between 2.62 and 5.44 mg/kg in the wet season, increasing to 3.38 to 6.13 mg/kg in the dry season. Cadmium concentrations followed the same pattern, ranging from 0.353 to 0.54 mg/kg in the wet season and rising slightly to 0.193 to 0.79 mg/kg during the dry season. Surface water analysis revealed increased bacterial contamination (Total Viable Count, Total Coliforms, Escherichia coli), and heavy metal concentrations downstream and middle stream, exceeding safe limits set by the Rwanda Standards Board and WHO. Despite these findings, plant diversity remained high across all distances, indicating a heterogeneous plant community. The study concluded that the Cyuve dumpsite is negatively influencing soil and water quality, posing potential health risks. The study highlights the urgent need for Musanze City to promote public awareness and education on waste reduction, recycling, and reusing materials. Community engagement is essential for fostering responsible waste management. Additionally, proper waste management solutions, such as engineered landfill sites, are crucial to prevent environmental degradation and protect natural resources.
Epidemiological study of reported road traffic injuries (RTIs) in selected hospitals in Kampala – Uganda (2018 - 2022)
(Kyambogo University (unpublished work), 2024-11) Mugisha, Dickson
RTIs have increased in prevalence over the past few decades and by 2030, it is predicted that they will surpass both diabetes and HIV/AIDS to rank as the fifth biggest cause of death. This study was aimed at determining the epidemiology of reported Road Traffic Injuries (RTIs) in Mulago National Referral Hospital, Lubaga Hospital, Naguru Hospital, and Nsambya Hospital from 2018 to 2022. A facility-based cross-sectional design was used. Data was collected from the hospitals using document review guides. A total of 5,379 documents were reviewed from all the four hospitals. The findings of the study showed that males (80.9%) were more affected than females (19.1%). Individuals aged 21 – 30 years (34.4%) and 31 – 40 years (25.5%) were the most affected ages. Riders (31.2%) and pedestrians (33.0%) were most affected. Time of most accidents was evening and morning. Females were less likely to acquire head injuries than their male counterparts (aOR = 0.512; 95%CI = 0.456 – 0.907) while they were more likely to acquire lower limb injuries (aOR = 1.269; 95%CI = 0.011 – 1.801) and pelvis injures (aOR = 1.930; 95%CI = 1.542 – 2.132) than the male victims. The younger victims were more likely to acquire upper limb injuries (aOR = 1.739; 95%CI = 1.160 – 2.606), head injuries (aOR = 1.356; 95%CI = 1.053 – 1.922) and spine injuries (aOR = 2.163; 95%CI = 1.153 – 4.059) than the elderly victims while they were less likely to acquire lower limb injuries (aOR = 0.346; 95%CI = 1.734 – 3.175) than the elderly victims. The trends of RTIs showed a gradual increase of 0.8% of RTIs cases at the facilities from 2018 to 2022. Lubaga hospital and Naguru hospital RTIs cases showed seasonality with an index of 1.01 and 1.36 respectively. Factors associated with daily RTIs were gender, category of victim, mechanism of injury and time of incident. The study recommended the provision of zebra crossings and pedestrian walkways, use of helmets for both rider and passenger, provision of riding permits to riders, and ensuring the traffic police are available in the morning and evening times of the day.
Ethnobotanical survey and phytochemical analysis of medicinal plants used in the management of diabetes and hypertension diseases in Mpigi district, Uganda
(Kyambogo University (Unpublised work), 2024-10) Nnko, Silas Sangito
Diabetes and hypertension have emerged as significant global health challenges due to their increasing prevalence within populations and status as major contributors to mortality worldwide, with projections indicating a further rise in deaths, particularly in less developed regions. Various allopathic medicines have been produced but with low curative efficiency and side effects. On the other hand, medicinal plants have emerged as a significant alternative for treating various human conditions, such as diabetes and hypertension. Despite their importance, and high usage globally, majority of them have not been studied and documented. This study was conducted to assess the use of medicinal plants in the management of diabetes and hypertension in Mpigi district, Uganda. Individual interviews with traditional herbalists were carried out in a semi-structured format followed by field visits for taxonomic classification of the plants mentioned in the local language. Furthermore, three highly used plants were selected for phytochemical analysis qualitatively, quantitatively, and using the GCMS method. These plants were also analysed for their safety profile using rats as model species. Fifty-four (54) herbalists were interviewed, and 64% of them had an experience of more than 6 years in treating diabetes and hypertension. Herbalists reported the utilization of one hundred and twenty (120) plant species for the treatment of diabetes and hypertension. In the phytochemical analysis, the results revealed the presence of a majority of the analysed phytochemicals, encompassing alkaloids, steroids, phenols, tannins, flavonoids, coumarins, and terpenoids. The FSM extract exhibited high levels of total phenols (217±25.05mg/g) and total tannins (179.75±3.44mg/g). The CRM extract contained substantial amounts of total flavonoids (28.75±0.98mg/g), total saponins (225.07±4.11mg/g), and total alkaloids (116.15±3.73mg/g). Additionally, FSM extract contained 14 detected compounds, while both CRM and MPM extracts contained 30 compounds each. Several of the identified compounds exhibit pharmacological activities that are pertinent to the treatment of diabetes and hypertension. The LD50 value, surpassing 5000mg/kg in toxicity assessment, confirms the safety of these plants within the context of traditional use. However, the administration of the three extracts significantly altered certain haematological (White Blood Cells) and biochemical parameters (liver enzymes), indicating potential toxicity. Traditional healing knowledge remains crucial for addressing human ailments, and the study underscores the significance of the identified plants in managing diabetes and hypertension, albeit with a need for cautious use to prevent adverse health effects. The three analysed plants possess compounds with antidiabetic and antihypertensive abilities signalling the potential for drug development.
Ethnobotanical Survey of Phytotherapeutic Management of Diabetes and Hypertension Diseases in Mpigi District, Uganda.
(East African Journal of Science, Technology and Innovation, 2024-12-13) Nnko, Silas Sangito; Kaddumukasa, Martha ; Sekagya, Yahaya H. K; Kyayesimira, Juliet
Diabetes and hypertension are escalating global health challenges, affecting over 500 million and 1.3 billion people respectively, and significantly contributing to mortality, especially in less developed regions. The prevalence of these diseases is rapidly increasing underscoring the urgent need for effective prevention, management, and treatment strategies. Various allopathic medicines have been produced but with low curative efficiency and side effects. On the other hand, medicinal plants have been a key alternative form of treatment for human ailments including diabetes and hypertension. Despite their importance, the majority of them have not been studied and documented. This study was conducted to assess the use of medicinal plants in the management of diabetes and hypertension diseases in the Mpigi district, Uganda. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with traditional herbalists followed by field visits for taxonomic classification of the plants. Data was analysed using Atlas.ti software and IBM SPSS Statistics 29 was used to calculate frequencies. Fifty-four herbalists were interviewed, and 64% of them had an experience of more than 6 years in treating diabetes and hypertension. One hundred and twenty plant species were mentioned to be used by herbalists to manage diabetes and hypertension. Forty-seven percent (47%) of these plants treat diabetes, 24% treat hypertension and 29% treat both diabetes and hypertension. These plants were distributed to 52 different families, key among them include Asteraceae, Solanaceae, and Euphorbiaceae. The most frequently used parts included leaves (38.7%) and bark (20.6%). Highly mentioned plants included Tithonia diversifolius, Aloe vera, Catharanthus roseus, Kigelia africana, Prunus africana, Momordica foetida, and Centella asiatica. Key threats and conservation strategies were also mentioned. It is concluded that traditional healing knowledge still plays a key role in managing human ailments and therefore these findings are key for the management of diabetes and hypertension and for future research in drug development.
Ethnomedicinal uses and nutritional composition of yams (Dioscorea hispida Dennst.) In Kitholhu, Kasese District, Uganda
(Springer, 2024-05) Makeo, Onani; Okot, Amito Patricia; Isabirye, Isaac; Omara, Timothy; Walugembe, Joel
Yams (Dioscorea species) are traditionally valued as famine foods and medicinal lianas in countries such as Uganda, Indonesia, Ethiopia, Sudan, Thailand and Singapore. However, little information exists on the traditional medicinal uses and nutritional composition of yams in Uganda, despite them being cultivated and considered to have medicinal benefits in Eastern and Western Uganda. This study was sought to document the ethnobotanical knowledge and assess the nutritional composition of Dioscorea hispida Dennst. (D. hispida) in Kasese District of Western Uganda. An ethnobotanical survey was carried out from November 2022 to May 2023 in Kitholhu subcounty, a flood-prone area in Kasese District to assess the indigenous knowledge on the medicinal uses of D. hispida. Using semi-structured questionnaires, a total of 47 respondents selected using snow ball technique were interviewed. The proximate composition (moisture, ash, crude fat, protein, crude fiber and total carbohydrate contents) of sampled D. hispida tubers were analyzed. The ethnobotanical data obtained was analyzed using descriptive statistics while nutritional data was subjected to a one-way analysis of variance at P < 0.05. Up to 83% of the respondents cultivate D. hispida, with 94% of these indicating that the tuber is used in traditional management of typhoid, diabetes mellitus, malaria, yellow fever, intestinal inflammation, cancer, peptic ulcers and hypertension, among other ailments. Proximate analysis indicated that D. hispida samples from Kitholhu had 72.29 ± 0.38% moisture, 6.08 ± 0.15% crude fiber, 1.24 ± 0.05% crude fat, 3.05 ± 0.03% ash, 5.65 ± 0.29% proteins and 11.67 ± 0.52% carbohydrates. Our results suggest that there is rich ethnobotanical knowledge on the use of D. hispida for the treatment of ailments among the local communities of Kitholhu. Thus, D. hispida is a famine and medicinal plant that needs to be considered for conservation to enhance food security in Kitholhu and Uganda as a whole. Further studies are required to assess D. hispida for its claimed bioactivities against the reported diseases and conditions.
Evaluation of the effectiveness of protected areas in conserving ecological integrity in Kibale and queen Elizabeth conservation areas, Uganda
(Kyambogo University [unpublished work], 2023-08) Katswera, Joseph
The effectiveness of wildlife protected areas in conserving ecological integrity in Kibale and Queen Elizabeth Conservation Areas, Uganda was explored. The study was conducted from August 2017 to October 2019 in response to the inadequate data and information that existed on how effective wildlife protected areas conserve ecological integrity with a view to suggest management strategies to enhance the conservation of biological diversity and ecosystem processes. An evaluation of how the long-term wildlife monitoring, wildlife corridors, community-based conservation, and threats affects biodiversity and ecological integrity was conducted through a survey. Document review, semi-structured questionnaires, Key Informant Interviews, Focus Group Discussions, the Nature Conservancy’s Conservation Action Planning methodology, Threat Reduction Assessment technique, and Geographical Information System/remote sensing were used to collect data. A sample size of 416 respondents was used during this study. Data was analysed using inferential statistics, and results presented in tables and figures. The study established that Wildlife Monitoring was done primarily in-house by the protected area staff; and rarely through co-operation with other agencies, academic institutions, co-operative projects with NGOs, and contracting out to consultants and/or freelance researchers, (χ2 (4, N = 81) = 15.523, p = .000, α = .05, V=.526). The long-term wildlife monitoring program used on-the-ground monitoring, and rarely used traditional knowledge and remote sensing which would improve wildlife monitoring. Wildlife monitoring guided the wildlife agency to formulate conservation-related policies (χ2 (1, N = 81) = 297.1, p = .000, α = .05, V = .342), identify new conservation initiatives (χ2 (1, N = 81) = 7.247, p = .000, α = .05, V = .370), and propose innovative conservation policy areas (χ2 (1, N = 81) = 9.351, p = .001, α = .05, V = .416) to conserve biodiversity and protect ecological integrity. The landscape had 20 key wildlife corridors which facilitate the movement of migratory animal species mainly Elephants, Chimpanzees and Lions. However, the corridors experienced changes in vegetation cover, corridor connectivity, migratory animal populations, and stepping stone habitats. Community Based Conservation contributed to overall conservation through participation of local communities (χ2 (1, N = 268) = 46.013, p = .000, α = .05, V = .588), local authorities (χ2 (4, N = 268) = 17.021, p = .000, α = .05, V = .261) and private sector (χ2 (1, N = 268) = 20.822, p = .000, α = .05, V = .326) in conservation programs which improved community-park relations (χ2 (3, N = 268) = 24.815, p = .000, α = .05, V = .229). Further, the wildlife protected areas were primarily threatened by anthropogenic and natural threats, and administrative constraints which threatened habitat quality, diversity, and continuity. The average threat reduction indices for both Conservation Areas were less than 50% implying that management only mitigates less than 50% of the PAs threats, hence a significant “dissatisfactory” on the overall performance of the conservation areas to protect ecological integrity. In conclusion, long-term wildlife monitoring guides development of conservation-related policies, innovative conservation initiatives, and proposes policy areas to conserve the ecological integrity. The wildlife corridors provide ecological linkages for migratory animal species contributing to the overall conservation of biodiversity. Community-based conservation is fundamental to conservation of biodiversity since it improves community knowledge and collaboration, creates trust, belonging and acceptance, reduces pressure on the park resources, and improves community-park relations. Threats in the conservation areas were reducing. Therefore, wildlife agency should provide incentives to meet community needs, strengthen the benefit sharing scheme, and create and strengthen community conservation institutions to participate in conserving biodiversity. The wildlife agency should formulate more conservation-related policies; integrate ecosystem health in the wildlife monitoring program; and also put more effort to address the threats affecting biodiversity to move from “dissatisfactory” to “satisfactory” level of ecological integrity. Finally, further research should investigate ecosystem health; the magnitude (area) and intensity of habitats affected by invasive and alien plant species; restoration options of the wildlife corridors; and the impact of tourism-related infrastructural development on ecological integrity of the wildlife protected areas. Key words: Biodiversity, Conservation, National Parks, Wildlife

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