Department of Biological sciences

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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.
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(Kyambogo University [unpublished work], 2023-08) Nalumansi, Maureen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.
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.
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.
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
Genetic diversity in Trypanosoma (Trypanozoon) brucei isolates from mainland and Lake Victoria island populations in south-eastern Uganda: epidemiological and control implications
(Annals of Tropical Medicine & Parasitology ., 1997-11-15) Enyaru, J. C. K.; Matovu, E.; Odiit, M.; Okedi, L. A.; Rwendeire, A. J. J.; Stevens, J. R.
The Buvuma Islands, a collection of approximately 48 islands and islets, are situated off the northern shores of Lake Victoria, in Mukono District, Uganda. A mass evacuation of the islands' inhabitants was undertaken by the authorities in the 1940s because of an epidemic of sleeping sickness, the causative parasites being transmitted by Glossina palidipes (Mackichan, 1944).
Genetic diversity of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus, L. 1758) in native and introduced populations in East Africa
(Journal of Wildlife and Biodiversity, 2024-04-03) Charles, K.Twesigye; Francis, W. Nsubuga; Richard, Raja; Paul, Kato
Freshwater fish in East African Lakes are under severe threat due to the recently discovered oil and gas in the Albertine Region and overfishing across the entire East African Region. The threats, primarily caused by overfishing, are a matter of declining fish populations and a potential reduction in genetic diversity in the surviving populations due to genetic drift. This study, therefore, is of utmost importance as it assessed genetic diversity in seven populations, including five from native and two from introduced populations. The assessment of genetic diversity in Oreochromis niloticus was conducted using molecular markers in 128 samples. The results showed a moderate genetic variation between native and introduced populations at mitochondrial and microsatellite loci. The potential effects of overfishing, fish introductions, and new threats from cage farming on the genetic diversity and ecological integrity of wildlife species are discussed, highlighting the need for immediate action.
Genetically engineered East African highland bananas –proximate analysis and effect of cooking on the enhanced provitamin A levels
(African Journal of Food, Agriculture, Nutrition and Development, 2020-12) Walugembe, J.; Buah, S.; Runo, S.; Ateka, E.; Kubiriba, J.; Tushemereirwe, W.
Micronutrient deficiency is a major challenge in the developing world. This is mainly attributed to over-reliance on starchy staples foods such as cassava, rice and banana among others, which are deficient in micronutrients such as vitamin A and iron. Strategies put in place to provide a solution to micronutrient deficiencies such as dietary supplementation of vitamin A and food fortification have not been successful in the developing world due to high costs and unreliable supply chains (food and medical). Biofortification of the easily accessible staple foods could help reduce this problem associated with micronutrient deficiency. On this account, the Biofortification project in Uganda under the National Banana Program developed transgenic East African Highland Bananas (EAHBs) (M9 and Nakitembe) with enhanced levels of provitamin A (PVA) using the Fe’i banana-derived phytoene synthase 2a (MtPsy2a) gene. To determine the nutritional quality of the transgenic bananas, an analysis of the proximate composition of the biofortified East African Highland Bananas was carried out. The effect of cooking on retention of provitamin A carotenoids (pVAC), was assessed using two cooking methods; boiling and steaming (most common methods of preparing cooking banana meals in Uganda). It was observed that there were no significant (P≤0.05) differences in moisture content (P=0.4287), carbohydrate (P=0.3966), crude fat (P=0.4051), crude fiber (P=0.3214), protein (P=0.0858) and ash content (P=0.1336) between transgenic and non-transformed bananas. It was found that steaming, as a cooking method allowed for retention of more provitamin A carotenoids compared to boiling. Comparison of the cultivars on their retention of provitamin A carotenoids, results indicated that Nakitembe was superior to M9. Genetic engineering of bananas by biofortification has no effect on major food components in EAHBs (M9 and Nakitembe) and, therefore, genetically modified M9 and Nakitembe are substantially equivalent to the non-transgenic controls and the biofortified bananas can provide the necessary nutrients even after cooking. This data will inform subsequent steps for the commercialization of biofortified EAHBs.
Heavy metal contamination in water, sediments and fish from selected wetlands in the Lake Victoria basin of Uganda
(Kyambogo University [unpublished work], 2023-08) Dusabe, Daphine
In Uganda, there is increased industrial and municipal waste disposal into wetlands around Lake Victoria which pose a great threat to different wetland components. A number of studies have been carried out to ascertain the impact of heavy metals in wetlands. Due to the increase in population near the wetlands, there is a higher possibility of receiving more pollutants and effluents hence the necessity of this study. This study assessed the physicochemical parameters and heavy metal concentration in water, sediments and fish from Gabba, Nabugabo, Nakivubo and Lwera wetlands. This study undertook a quantitative research approach with data collected from twelve random sample sites over a period of six months from August 2021 to January 2022. Some parameters were measured in-situ whereas others were analysed at the National Water Quality Laboratory in Entebbe. All water quality analysis was performed according to Standards methods for the Examination of waters and Wastewaters. Heavy metals analysis was done using the inductively Coupled Plasma–Optical Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-OES) following the American Public Health Association – 23rd Edition. The physicochemical parameters and heavy metals of water analysed were within the recommended limits of the East African Standards (2018) except for Nakivubo wetland which had a higher Chemical Oxygen Demand result of 60mg/L. In all the sediment samples, there were considerable concentrations of Chromium (22.97 mg/Kg - 39.34 mg/Kg), Lead (9.34 mg/Kg-19.32 mg/Kg), Cobalt (2.68 mg/Kg- 3.87 mg/Kg) and Nickel (7.67 mg/Kg-11.43 mg/Kg). In particular, Nakivubo and Gabba wetlands had the highest levels of heavy metal concentrations compared to Lwera and Nabugabo wetlands in as much as there was no significant difference in concentrations across the wetlands. The fish species analysed; Clarias Galiepinus, Clarius Liocephalus and Protopterus are mainly consumed by the local population. Chromium and Nickel concentrations in the fish muscles were observed to exceed the WHO maximum permissible limits in all the wetlands. Gabba and Nakivubo wetlands had cadmium results of 0.189 mg/Kg and 0.116 mg/Kg respectively which is beyond the recommended WHO limits. It is therefore recommended that collaborative engagement with the respective stakeholders be pursued to create awareness in communities on the apparent health risks from consuming this fish but also improve the regulatory framework of catchment-based water quality goals that would aim at reducing heavy metal loads. Continuation of regular monitoring by relevant authorities’ guidance for proper wetland management, conservation policies implementation and further research on the pollutant retention ability of these wetlands to be urgently undertaken.
How water exchange and seasonality affect the eutrophication of Murchison bay, lake Victoria
(Elsevier: Limnologica, 2015-07) Luyiga, Suzan; Haande, Sigrid; Semyalo, Ronald P.; Kizito, Yusuf S.; Miyingo-Kezimbira, Anne; Brettum, Pål; Solheim, Anne Lyche; Odong, Robinson; Asio, Santa Maria; Jensen, Knut Helge; Larsson, Petter
Murchison Bay in the Northern part of Lake Victoria has for decades received a daily wastewater load of 0.2% of its volume from Kampala City, through the Nakivubo channel. In spite of this, the Water Treatment Works abstracts raw water from this bay and has been able to produce drinking water of sufficient quality for the capital. This study monitored various physical−chemical components within the bay during 2000−2003 to understand the processes responsible for the acceptable quality of raw water. Four sampling stations were located along a transect from the channel mouth towards the open lake. Results showed that the wastewater did not accumulate in the bay, instead was already strongly diluted 2.5 km from the channel mouth. This caused an abrupt reduction in conductivity and the concentrations of the nutrients total phosphorus (Tot-P), orthophosphate (PO4-P) and total nitrogen (Tot-N). Inshore−offshore exchange of water was mediated by flows from daily and sub-daily water level fluctuations and wind-driven currents. As a daily average, 2% of the Murchison Bay flowed in and out and the incoming wastewater was diluted 9.7 times. During the dry season from June to August (D2), when the weather was influenced by the south-east monsoon, the thermal stratification in the main lake disappeared and cooler and deoxygenated water from deeper depths entered the bay influencing its water quality. The daily flushing of water in and out of the bay due to water level variation was identified as the main factor diluting the bay water.
Human factors and accidents of aviation operations in eastern Africa
(Kyambogo University [unpublished work], 2023-10) Nassimbwa, Florence
Safety performance is much poorer in developing countries when one compares to other countries worldwide, despite the fact that the aviation crews in these countries are trained with the aim of minimizing aviation accidents. The accidents are due to errors caused by failure in the human biological functionality which is totally related to our anthropometric limitations, physiology and anatomy, among others. These include; oxygen carrying capabilities/ hypoxia, hyperventilation, blind spots in the eye, disorientation in relation to the human's position in space, motion sickness, illusions, barotrauma, decompression sickness, circadian dysrhythmias, drugs/medication, sleep disorders, weight, fatigue, stress and many others. Therefor this study set out to investigate the human factor risks and accidents in Eastern Africa region aviation operations. A cross sectional research design was applied and quantitative data collected using a survey. The sampling procedure included both purposive and random sampling techniques used to draw a representative sample of aviation stake holders. Data from 42 Ugandan and Kenyan accident and incident final investigation reports from 2000- 2017 was analyzed. Results indicated that skill based errors in Kenya were 44% and in Uganda 50%, whereas decision errors in Kenya were 45% , Uganda 25% and perceptual errors and violation in Uganda were 25% and in Kenya 11% while exceptional violations were Kenya 77% and Uganda 81%. MLogit model showed significance at P<0.001, in the manner with which one flies, exceptional violation, supervisory violations and organizational processes. Examining of the current human factor risks in the region’s aviation operations showed that there are risks in quality control analysis (P= 0.023) and troubleshooting abilities (P= 0.02). Quality control analysis and troubleshooting abilities had a significant effect on the ability to predict skills required for the job (P < 0.05). The significant aeromedical factors included sleep (P=0.005), high levels of anxiety (P= 0.021), shortness of breath (P=0.011) and cigarette smoking (P<0.001). The Geographical Information Systems (GIS) tool captured latent human factors risks through ranking 40 randomly selected airports in the region, while the distress thermometer captured active risks which included health, stress (domestic and work related), fitness, deadlines and time pressure, sleep disorders, fatigue and pain. It can be concluded that both Kenya and Uganda had high levels of unsafe acts, although Kenya had a higher percentage. Four significant aeromedical factors were captured in the existing aeromedical factors in the region. Consequently, training and its evaluation plus the use of a regional adaptive curriculum that increases individual’s skills and reduces the emerging unsafe acts, and Uganda publicizing final accident and incident investigation reports on the responsible ministry (Works and Transport) website are recommended. Using the GIS tool and the distress thermometer to detect latent and active human factor risks pre-flight and on ground to assess the state of the crew members and environment before one embarks on a task is also recommended. Map of airports and aerodromes with high human factors risks in Kenya Map of airports and aerodromes with high human factors risks in Kenya Map of airports and aerodromes with high human factors risks in Kenya.
Indigenous knowledge and antibacterial activity of selected herbs used locally to treat common cold in Central Uganda
(Journal of Medicinal Plants Research, 2016-08) Walugembe, Joel; Iramiot, Jacob S.; Katuura, Esther
The study documented the medicinal plants used in the treatment of influenza and common cough and established efficacy of some plants locally used against bacteria causing upper respiratory tract infections in Uganda. It involved an ethnobotanical survey and laboratory experimental investigation to determine the bioactivity against selected bacteria that cause upper respiratory tract infections. Data on medicinal indigenous knowledge was collected with the aid of questionnaires, direct observations, key informant interviews and field excursions and voucher specimen collection. The plants were identified by a botanist at Makerere University Herbarium (MHU), Department of Biological Sciences and voucher specimen were deposited in the herbarium. Methanol and diethyl ether extracts of the commonly used plants were screened for antibacterial activity against Streptococcus pneumonia and Klebsiella pneumonia using agar well diffusion and agar well dilution methods. Ethno botanical survey showed that 43 plants were commonly used and the most commonly used plant was Momordica feotida. Three out of four extracts assayed had activity against S. pneumonia and K. pneumonia, while one showed activity against K. pneumoniae. Hence, plants extracts showed broad spectrum antimicrobial activity. There is need for further development and standardization of products to treat respiratory diseases at household level in the study area.
Isolation, characterization and genome analysis of the orphan phage Kintu infecting Xanthomonas vasicola pv. musacearum
(BMC Microbiology, 2024-11-18) Nakayinga, Ritah; Ntulume, Ibrahim; Wagemans, Jeroen; Vallino, Marta; Kanaabi, Reagan; Kajubi, Ali; Kwetegyeka, Justus
Background Xanthomonas vasicola pv. musacearum is responsible for the widespread Banana Xanthomonas Wilt in banana cultivation regions across the globe. Biocontrol measures for disease management remain limited amidst increasing antimicrobial resistance and unsustainable conventional agricultural practices. The purpose of this study is to explore a viable alternative or adjunct strategy through the use of bacteriophages for disease management. Results Kintu was isolated from sewage and displayed clear and circular plaques measuring 3 mm. Based on transmission electron microscopy, Kintu displays siphovirus characteristics, including an icosahedral head and a non-contractile tail. Kintu infects 78% (22 out of 28) Ugandan Xvm strains, has an optimal multiplicity of infection of 1, a 10 min adsorption and latent period, a 35 min burst period, and a burst size of 15 particles per bacterium. Phage titers remain stable for two and half months (75 days) in SM buffer at -20 oC and − 40 oC but decrease significantly (p ≤ 0.0001) at 4 oC. Kintu is active at pH 3 and 11, maintains viability at temperatures between 25 oC and 120 oC and tolerates UV irradiation for up to 2 min and 20 s. Kintu inhibits Xvm growth at MOI ratios of 0.1, 1 and 10. The genome is a double stranded DNA molecule that consists of 48,985 base pairs and a G + C content of 51.71%. Antibiotic resistance genes or genes associated with a lysogenic life cycle are absent. There is limited sequence similarity of Kintu with other phages, making it a novel phage belonging to an unclassified genus of the class Caudoviricetes. Conclusion Kintu is a novel bacteriophage that infects and lyses Xanthomonas vasicola pv. musacearum, the causative agent for Banana Xanthomonas Wilt. Its stability across diverse temperatures and pH conditions highlights its potential as a biocontrol agent for managing the disease.
Mansonella perstans filariasis in Africa
(Elsevier: Acta Tropica, 2011-09) Simonsen, Paul E.; Onapa, Ambrose W.; Asio, Santa Maria
Mansonella perstans is a vector-borne human filarial nematode, transmitted by tiny blood-sucking flies (biting midges). It is widespread in many parts of Sub-Saharan Africa and also occurs in parts of Central and South America. Despite the commonness of this parasite very few studies have been carried out on its epidemiology and on the morbidity resulting from it, and only few thorough drug trials have been conducted to look for effective and suitable drugs and drug regimens for treatment and control. Here, we review currently available knowledge on M. perstans infections in Africa, including documented aspects of biology, vectors, transmission, diagnosis, epidemiology, morbidity and treatment. It is concluded that there is an urgent need for more research on this widespread but greatly neglected infection in order to properly assess its public health significance and as a background for identifying and recommending optimal means and strategies for treatment and control.
Mansonella perstans filariasis in Uganda: patterns of microfilaraemia and clinical manifestations in two endemic communities
(Oxford Academic: Transactions of The Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene, 2009-03-01) Asio, Santa Maria; Simonsen, Paul E.; Onapa, Ambrose W.
Surveys for Mansonella perstans infection and potentially related clinical manifestations were undertaken in two endemic communities in Mukono and Luwero districts of Uganda where no other human filarial infections are transmitted. A sensitive and accurate counting chamber method was used for quantifying microfilaraemia in 100 μl of finger-prick blood. Among 575 and 991 examined individuals aged ≥1 year in the two communities, the overall microfilariae (mf) prevalence was significantly higher in Mukono (76.5%) than in Luwero (57.7%). As early as age 1–4 years, 40.6% and 20.5% of the children were mf-positive. Prevalences increased rapidly with increasing age to reach 89.2% and 81.4% in the 15–19 years age group and then remained high in subsequent age groups. The geometric mean mf intensity among mf-positive individuals was slightly higher in the Mukono community (32.4 mf/100 μl) than in the Luwero community (29.9 mf/100 μl), and this parameter increased with age in both communities. No obvious associations were observed between various clinical parameters and M. perstans microfilaraemia in any of the study communities. The observed patterns of microfilaraemia and the lack of obvious visible clinical manifestations suggest that the host's regulatory responses are downregulated in M. perstans infections. [ClinicalTrials.gov identifier:

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