Natural Sciences

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A century of human-induced environmental changes and the combined roles of nutrients and land use in Lake Victoria catchment on eutrophication
(Science of the Total Environment, 2022) Njagi, Dennis M.; Joyanto, Routh; Odhiambo, Moses; Luo, Chen; Laxmi, Gayatri Basapuram; Olago, Daniel; Val, Klump; Curt, Stager
Lake Victoria, a lifeline for millions of people in East Africa, is affected by anthropogenic activities resulting in eutrophication and impacting the aquatic life and water quality. Therefore, understanding the ongoing changes in the catchment is critical for its restoration. In this context, catchment and lake sediments are important archives in tracing nutrient inputs and their dominant sources to establish causality with human activities and productivity shifts. In this study, we determine the 1) changes in concentrations of total organic carbon (TOC), black carbon (BC), total nitrogen (TN), C/N ratio, and phosphorous (P) fractions in catchment sediments and the open lake, 2) distribution of diatom population in the lake, and 3) land use and land cover changes in the catchment. The distribution of TOC, BC, TN, C/N, and P correlate while showing spatial and temporal variations. In particular, the steady increase in BC confirms atmospheric inputs from anthropogenic activities in the catchment. However, lake sediments show more variations than catchment-derived sediments in geochemical trends. Notably, the catchment has undergone dramatic land use changes since the 1960s (post-independence). This change is most evident in satellite records from 1985 to 2014, which indicate accelerated human activities. For example, urban growth (666–1022%) and agricultural expansion (23–48%) increased sharply at the expense of a decline in forest cover, grassland, and woodlands in the catchment. Cities like Kisumu and Homa Bay expanded, coinciding with rapid population growth and urbanization. Consequently, nutrient inputs have increased since the 1960s, and this change corresponds with the divergence of diatom communities in the lake. In addition, the transition to Nitzschia and cyanobacteria mark increasing cultural eutrophication in the lake. The geochemical trends and statistical data support our inference(s) and provide insights into urban development and agriculture practices, which propelled increased nutrients from the catchment and productivity shifts in the lake.
A Century of Water–Socioecological Dynamics and Evolutionary Stages in Lake Victoria Basin, East Africa
(MDPI AG, 2025-04) Zhang, Xinxin;; Wang, Mengyuan;; Jin, Shiying ;; Kimirei, Ismael A.;; Gao, Qun
Understanding the feedback relationships and evolutionary stages of water–socioecological systems (W-SESs) is crucial for achieving sustainable development in basins. This study focuses on the Lake Victoria Basin (LVB) in East Africa, where population growth, rapid urbanization, and developing industrialization have intensified water resource supply–demand conflicts, leading to socioecological issues such as water environmental degradation and ecological conflicts. The objective of this research is to develop a theoretical framework for the Lake Victoria Basin W-SESs (LVB-WSESs) based on the SES framework, identify the main drivers and critical nodes in the evolution of the LVB-WSESs, analyze the root causes of water–society–ecology conflicts, and explore the feedback relationships and evolutionary stages of the LVB-WSESs over the past century. To achieve this, we employed an integrated qualitative and quantitative analysis of historical data combined with tipping point detection to systematically assess the dynamics of the LVB-WSESs. Our findings show that, under the drivers of climate change (with a 1 °C increase in annual temperature since 1920s), population growth (a six-fold increase since 1920s), economic development, land-use change, urbanization, and species invasion, the basin’s demand for water resources, water environments, and aquatic ecosystems has continually increased, leading to the gradual degradation and imbalance of the basin’s ecological functions. The evolution of the LVB-WSESs can be divided into five stages against the historical backdrop of societal transitions from colonial to independent democratic systems: the stable resource utilization period, the slow environmental change period (1920s–1960s), the rapid environmental imbalance period (1960s–1990s), the transition period from environmental imbalance to protection (1990s–2015), and the reconstruction period of socioecological equilibrium. This study not only enhances understanding of the long-term dynamics of the LVB-WSESs but also provides practical implications for sustainable water management in similar basins globally. It enriches the local practice of global sustainable development theories, providing new theoretical perspectives and case references for future watershed sustainable management. By identifying critical drivers and evolutionary stages, our findings can inform policy decisions and interventions to mitigate socioecological conflicts and achieve basin-level sustainability. Publicly Available Content Database
A facile polymerisation of magnetic coal to enhanced phosphate removal from solution
(Journal of Environmental Management, 2019-10-28) Kajjumba, George William; Aydın, Serdar; Osra, Faisal; Wasswa, Joseph
Globally, there are increased threats to available freshwater resources due to pollution, climate change, and increased demand from population growth. Phosphorus is one of the essential nutrients required for animal and plant growth. However, when it is released into freshwater resources in excess amounts, it can become a pollutant through eutrophication. This study aimed to enhance the removal of phosphate from water using modified coal. The coal was magnetised by in-situ synthesis using a precipitation technique. To obtain functional groups and mechanical stability, magnetised coal particles were coated with polyaniline, via the polymerisation of aniline to form Magnetised Unburnt Coal Polyaniline (MUC-PANI). The properties of MUC-PANI were investigated using TGA, BET, XRD, Raman spectroscopy, SEM, and FTIR. TGA reviewed MUC-PANI as 58% magnetised coal and 42% polyaniline, while the specific surface area increased from 30.0 to 42.2 m2/g after modification. SEM indicated a cauliflower structure on the surface of MUC-PANI due to the successful polymerisation of polyaniline. The FTIR spectrum showed successful adsorption of phosphate due to the formation of incipient peak at1008 cm−1. The adsorption kinetic data are better fitted to the Elovich model. The Langmuir adsorption capacity of MUC-PANI is 147.1 mg PO43−/g at 25 °C and pH 5.0 (initial concentration 10-200 mg/L, dose 0.8 g/L). MUC-PANI is a cost-efficient compound for removal of phosphate because it is made from readily available coal.
A Framework for Interdisciplinary Research Methodology in Agroforestry: A Review
(East African Nature and Science Organization, 2025-02-06) Buyinza, Joel; Sekatuba, Jude; Kalanzi, Fred
This paper provides a framework for interdisciplinary research (IDR) methodology in agroforestry, motivated by a general belief that by drawing information from different fields and employing different methodologies, a broad understanding of an existing issue can be achieved. Literature from four scientific paradigms was reviewed to recommend a suitable paradigm for IDR in agroforestry. We promote a pluralistic approach around the concept of ‘what works’ such that agroforestry research and extension focus on applications of techniques to solve a problem. The study suggests a framework for IDR in the context of developing countries by modifying an existing Methodology for Interdisciplinary Research (MIR) framework that was developed to help cross disciplinary borders, especially those between the natural sciences and the social sciences. The existing framework is however limited to real-life applications in teaching and research. We contend that agroforestry research should be seen to benefit the rural poor, foster innovation and farm productivity to feed the growing world population and help farmers adapt to the changing climate. The suggested IDR framework therefore caters for extension and feedback mechanisms, that appear to be the missing link between research and education. The new framework further provides for social relevance and the generation of data for informing policy decisions relating to sustainable agriculture. The paper also highlights the main barriers and opportunities for implementing IDR in agroforestry. The current and future global complex agricultural challenges require experts with interdisciplinary experience. Therefore, interdisciplinary research in agroforestry must increasingly become the standard rather than the exception because the approaches needed and the implications of agroforestry research are by their very nature interdisciplinary.
A Framework for Managing Water Quality from Hand-dug Well: A Case of Mutukula Town Council, Uganda
(East African Nature and Science Organization, 2025-02-09) Tumwebaze, Yosam; Agunyo, Miria Frances; Wozei, Eleanor; Nkambwe, Sarah Kizza
This research proposed the adoption of a framework as a supporting tool to enhance the management of the quality of water from hand-dug wells in Mutukula Town Council, Uganda. Although water from hand-dug wells is often considered prone to contamination, no such study has been carried out for Mutukula Town Council. Adopting both qualitative and quantitative approaches including the use of surveys, experimentation and tools such as the sanitary inspection package developed by the World Health Organization, the research clearly indicated that not only was the quality of water from the 5 wells considered poor but that the wells also lacked pertinent components such as secure covers, drainage provisions, headwalls among others. Moreover, the absence of regulatory tools/guidelines, and cultural and socioeconomic practices amongst community members further contributed to risks associated with using water from these wells. This research proposes a framework that can be adopted by respective local authorities to enhance management and monitoring of water quality and it incorporates key components of training and capacity building, collective supervision and encouraging regular engagements with the various stakeholders
A reassessment of the East African ranges of two subspecies of Yellow-fronted Tinkerbird Pogoniulus chrysoconus based on a comparison of plumage, biometrics and song
(African Journals Online (AJOL), 2022) Alexander, N.G. Kirschel; Matteo, Sebastianelli
The distribution of the nominate subspecies of Yellow-fronted Tinkerbird Pogoniulus chrysoconus has long been thought to extend throughout Uganda south into northwestern Tanzania, with extoni replacing it from southwestern Tanzania southwards. But little or no evidence has been available from southern Uganda or western Tanzania to confirm this. We performed fieldwork in Uganda and Tanzania, recording songs, ringing and measuring tinkerbirds and photographing their plumage. Our analyses of plumage, biometrics and bioacoustics reveal that nominate chrysoconus was present in most of Uganda, however, in southern Uganda, near Lake Mburo National Park, it was replaced by extoni, which extends southwards into Tanzania. Our findings suggest that published distribution maps and descriptions will require revisions.
A review of the current status of the water quality in the Nile water basin
(Springer Berlin Heidelberg, 2024-12) Kipsang, Nathan K.;; Kibet, Joshua K.;; Adongo, John O.
Abstract Background Water contamination has become one of the most challenging problems to clean water supply and infrastructure in the twenty-first century. Accordingly, access to clean water is limited by negative impacts of climate change and pollutants of varying health risks. Overtime, global population has experienced an exponential growth, which has put pressure on the limited water resources. At least 3 billion people globally rely on water whose quality is largely unknown. Main body of the abstract The Nile water basin, found in East and Central Africa, covers 11 countries including DRC, Tanzania, South Sudan, Kenya, Uganda, Burundi, Egypt, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Sudan, and Rwanda. The Nile River flows through it before draining its water into the Mediterranean Sea in Egypt. Nile River water was pivotal for the ancient civilization in the Sudan and Egypt through provision of fertile soil and water for irrigation, drinking, fishing, animal husbandry, and channel of transport and in modern times, on top of the historical utilization, for generation of hydroelectric power leading to conflict and cooperation over the shared water resources. Literature on water quality in the Nile water basin is summarized, using the traditional review method to point out gaps, compare the water quality with other areas and suggest recommendations based on the findings of this study. The Nile water basin has been contaminated by numerous pollutants such as toxic heavy metals and organic contaminants, therefore pushing the resident water quality above the World health organization (WHO) acceptable guidelines for drinking water, agricultural irrigation, and aquatic life support. Cases of contamination outside the recommended limits of cadmium in little Akaki River in Ethiopia, aldrin and dieldrin in the Tanzanian side of L. Victoria and other areas clearly show contamination above the WHO limits in the Nile water basin. Short conclusion The effect of fish cages, micro-plastics, heavy metals, organic contaminants and suspended sediment load primarily from human activities like agriculture, industries and municipal wastes is continuously contaminating the Nile basin water toward poor quality water status. Consequently, interventions like transboundary laws and regulations to mitigate the risks must be enforced.
A Review of the Effects of Climate Change on Water Resources in Sub-Saharan Africa
(African Journal of Climate Change and Resource Sustainability, 2023-06-23) Turyasingura, Benson; Ngabirano, Hannington; Kinyi, Hellen Wambui; Singh, Sudhir Kumar
Water provides different goods and services like handcraft and fishing materials, water supply for domestic use, businesses, agriculture, transport, washing, drinking, and eco-tourism. However, few studies have assessed the effects of climate change on water resources in recent years. This study investigated the relationship between water resources and climate change in Sub-Saharan Africa. In the first segment, Vos-Viewer was used to map, study the literature, and identify any gaps in order to evaluate the interdependence between water resources and climate. The study was guided by specific objectives, which include assessing the adaptation and mitigation strategies for the effects of climate on water resources. Searches for the keywords “climate change” and “water resources” were conducted to obtain literature for this study. A total of 125 papers were selected for this study from 1945–2022, from Scopus, Google Scholar, Science Direct, and Web of Science, that were found relevant for this study and were selected and discussed. Thus, the worldwide literature was used to provide a real understanding of the effects of climate change on water resources, adaptation, and mitigation measures. According to the findings of the study, cooperation networks in developing countries were not as prominent as research networks in developed countries. It was shown that irregular rainfall affects water quality and quantity by giving the water a muddy, acidic, and turbid appearance. Therefore, all stakeholders should facilitate prudent water resource usage by 695 million people who still use unimproved water facilities in sub-Saharan Africa
A Review of the Effects of Climate Change on Water Resources in Sub-Saharan Africa
(African Journal of Climate Change and Resource Sustainability, 2023-06-23) Turyasingura, Benson; Ngabirano, Hannington; Kinyi, Hellen Wambui; Ayiga, Natal; Sudhir, Kumar Singh
With respect to the fact that the environment of today is not the exact environment of tomorrow, there is a need to develop a sustainable mechanism that either pauses the adverse effect of human activities on natural resources and the climate or create mitigating factors that reverse the negative climate evolution. For this to happen, researchers and stakeholders require adequate academic information that can be used for policies formulation and strategic planning. It is for this reason that the East African Nature and Science Organization hosts this open access academic journal on climate change and resource sustainability.
A Review of the Effects of Climate Change on Water Resources in Sub-Saharan Africa
(East African Nature and Science Organization, 2023-06-23) Turyasingura, Benson; Ngabirano, Hannington; Kinyi, Hellen Wambui; Fatima, Sule Mohammed; Ayiga, Natal; Bojago, Elias; Benzougagh, Brahim; Banerjee, Abhishek; Singh, Sudhir Kumar
Water provides different goods and services like handcraft and fishing materials, water supply for domestic use, businesses, agriculture, transport, washing, drinking, and eco-tourism. However, few studies have assessed the effects of climate change on water resources in recent years. This study investigated the relationship between water resources and climate change in Sub-Saharan Africa. In the first segment, Vos-Viewer was used to map, study the literature, and identify any gaps in order to evaluate the interdependence between water resources and climate. The study was guided by specific objectives, which include assessing the adaptation and mitigation strategies for the effects of climate on water resources. Searches for the keywords “climate change” and “water resources” were conducted to obtain literature for this study. A total of 125 papers were selected for this study from 1945–2022, from Scopus, Google Scholar, Science Direct, and Web of Science, that were found relevant for this study and were selected and discussed. Thus, the worldwide literature was used to provide a real understanding of the effects of climate change on water resources, adaptation, and mitigation measures. According to the findings of the study, cooperation networks in developing countries were not as prominent as research networks in developed countries. It was shown that irregular rainfall affects water quality and quantity by giving the water a muddy, acidic, and turbid appearance. Therefore, all stakeholders should facilitate prudent water resource usage by 695 million people who still use unimproved water facilities in sub-Saharan Africa
A Systematic Review of Contaminants of Concern in Uganda: Occurrence, Sources, Potential Risks, and Removal Strategies
(https://doi.org/10.3390/ pollutants3040037, 2023) Baguma, Gabson; Bamanya, Gadson; Gonzaga, Allan; Ampaire, Wycliffe; Onen, Patrick
Contaminants of concern (CoCs) pose significant threats to Uganda’s ecosystems and public health, particularly in the face of rapid urbanization, industrial expansion, and intensified agriculture. This systematic review comprehensively analyzed Uganda’s CoC landscape, addressing imminent challenges that endanger the country’s ecosystems and public health. CoCs, originating from urban, industrial, and agricultural activities, encompass a wide range of substances, including pharmaceuticals, personal care products, pesticides, industrial chemicals, heavy metals, radionuclides, biotoxins, disinfection byproducts, hydrocarbons, and microplastics. This review identified the major drivers of CoC dispersion, particularly wastewater and improper waste disposal practices. From an initial pool of 887 articles collected from reputable databases such as PubMed, African Journal Online (AJOL), Web of Science, Science Direct, and Google Scholar, 177 pertinent studies were extracted. The literature review pointed to the presence of 57 pharmaceutical residues and personal care products, along with 38 pesticide residues and 12 heavy metals, across various environmental matrices, such as wastewater, groundwater, seawater, rainwater, surface water, drinking water, and pharmaceutical effluents. CoC concentrations displayed significant levels exceeding established regulations, varying based on the specific locations, compounds, and matrices. This review underscores potential ecological and health consequences associated with CoCs, including antibiotic resistance, endocrine disruption, and carcinogenicity. Inefficiencies in traditional wastewater treatment methods, coupled with inadequate sanitation practices in certain areas, exacerbate the contamination of Uganda’s aquatic environments, intensifying environmental and health concerns. To address these challenges, advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) emerge as promising and efficient alternatives for CoC degradation and the prevention of environmental pollution. Notably, no prior studies have explored the management and mitigation of these contaminants through AOP application within various aqueous matrices in Uganda. This review emphasizes the necessity of specific regulations, improved data collection, and public awareness campaigns, offering recommendations for advanced wastewater treatment implementation, the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices, and the enforcement of source control measures. Furthermore, it highlights the significance of further research to bridge knowledge gaps and devise effective policies and interventions. Ultimately, this comprehensive analysis equips readers, policymakers, and regulators with vital knowledge for informed decision-making, policy development, and the protection of public health and the environment.
Above-ground biomass and carbon stocks of different land cover types in Mt. Elgon, Eastern Uganda
(International Journal of Research on Land-use Sustainability, 2014) Buyinza, Joel; Balaba Tumwebaze, Susan; Namaalwa, Justine; Byakagaba, Patrick
This research applied selected allometric models to estimate the total above ground biomass (TAGB) and carbon stocks in the different land-use/ land cover (LULC) types in Mt. Elgon National Park, in Eastern Uganda. The LULC types identified for the study were – tropical high forest (THF) - normal, THF- degraded and grasslands. The vegetation in each land cover type was assessed at four levels i.e. the mature trees, poles, saplings and undergrowth. Tree diameter and height of each sampled tree were also measured. In each plot, one sapling was randomly selected, uprooted and sub-samples of the foliage, bole and root components were collected, and their fresh weight was determined in the field. Calculation of the Mean Squared Error (MSE), Prediction Sum of Squares (PRESS) statistic and Predicted R2 values of the selected equations was done to establish the most appropriate equation for biomass and carbon estimation. The TAGB was 652.15t/ha, 55.16t/ha and 41.7t/ha in the THF-Normal, THF-Degraded and Grasslands respectively. The carbon stocks in the THF-normal were 293.65tC ha-1, 25 tC ha-1 in the THF-degraded and 18.76 tC ha-1 in the grasslands. Over 90% of sequestered carbon was lost due to land cover change from THF-Normal to THF-Degraded. This calls for policy makers to urgently come up with interventions to address forest degradation.
Abundance and Diversity of Native Forage Species in Pastoral Karamoja Sub-Region, Uganda
(African study monographs, 2015) Egeru, Anthony; Wasonga, Oliver; MacOpiyo, Laban; Mburu, John; Majaliwa Mwanjalolo, G.J
Low input pastoral production systems rely exclusively on natural forage resources in space and time. Information on the abundance and diversity of such pastures is vital in improving livestock production and managing the biodiversity of grazing landscapes. This study documented grass and browse forage species utilised in pastoral Karamoja, and determined their relative abundance by district, season and grazing land cover. Up to 65 grass and 110 browse species were utilised in Karamoja Sub-region. In-situ assessments revealed that Chloris, Hyparrhennia, Sporobolus, Pennisetum, Aristida, Cynodon, Eragrostis, Setaria, and Panicum grasses had higher relative abundance. Triumfetta annua, Indigofera erecta, Acacia drepanolobium, Grewia holstii, Acacia kirkii, Acacia mellifera, Acacia tortolis, Maerua pseudopetalosa, Acacia oerfota, and Ocimmum canum woody species were the most abundant. From the community assessment, Hyparrhennia, Chloris, Panicum, Bracharia, Eragrostis, and Setaria grasses and Acacia mellifera, Cadaba farinose, Acacia oerfota, Acacia drepanolobium, Caparis tormentosa, Maerua pseudopetalosa and Hisbiscus micrantha woody plants were identified as the most abundant among the grazing land cover. The grass and browse forage species varied by season, location, and land cover type. The study also found detailed local knowledge of grass and browse forage species in the community. This study has shown the existence of high diversity among grass and browse forage species with differentiated relative abundance across space and time. This, and the detailed communal cultural knowledge, form a basis for the improvement of livestock production as well as biodiversity conservation in Karamoja sub-region.
Abundance, movements and habitat use by African Grey Parrots (Psittacus erithacus) in Budongo and Mabira forest reserves, Uganda
(Journal of African Ornithology, 2007) Amuno, John B.; Massa, Renato; Dranzoa, Christine
Populations of African Grey Parrots are threatened by increased forest loss and the pet trade. Budongo forest reserve has, for over 60 years, been subjected to selective logging. Mabira forest reserve faces human pressures characterised by extractive disturbances, and agricultural activities with increased boundary settlements. We estimated parrot populations using the ‘forest limiting circumference’ method, and ‘encounter rate approach’ for general abundance and forest type associations, respectively. Counts were conducted on flyways in the morning and evening of one day, and observations on food tree location and preference were made by forest type and time of day. Total parrot populations were estimated at 714 in Budongo and 342 in Mabira. Mean numbers of flocks observed per flyway were 4.18 ± 4.33 and 4.70 ± 2.71 for Budongo and Mabira, respectively. Similarly, flock sizes varied from 2.59 ± 2.95 in Budongo to 2.87 ± 3.06 in Mabira forest. High encounter rates were recorded in disturbed/secondary forests during foraging activities and these coincided with areas of abundant fruiting trees. Movements into and out of main forests followed regular flyways and inter-forest movements increased with forest fragmentation. However, the presence of forest strips seemed to enhance the stability of flyways. While African Grey Parrots in Budongo may benefit from its large size, the Mabira population is likely to face a greater threat of further decline. More protected areas are needed to maintain viable populations, and future research should focus on breeding ecology, population monitoring and the impact of trade activities on this species.
Active restoration facilitates bird community recovery in an Afrotropical rainforest
(Biological Conservation, 2016) Latja, Pirita; Valtonena, Anu; Malinga, Geoffrey M.; Roininen, Heikki
Active restoration of rainforests is essential in enhancing the recovery of biodiversity in many tropical regions suffering from deforestation. However, the value of actively restored rainforests for birds is still relatively poorly understood because of the short history of active restoration programs. Here, we studied the recovery of bird communities in Kibale National Park, Uganda.Wesampled birds along a restoration gradient consisting of six restoration areas (3–16 years old) and used five primary forests as reference areas. We found that bird community compositions changed in an orderly fashion along the restoration gradient. The abundance of arboreal insectivore frugivores and forest specialists increased, while that of foliage-gleaning insectivores, granivores and forest visitors decreased towards older sites. The similarity of the bird communities of the restored forests to those of the nearby primary forests increased linearly with time. If this recovery rate is extrapolated to the future, the bird communities could reach a pre-disturbance state after only approximately 20 years of active restoration. However, previous studies have shown that recovery is typically a non-linear process, and the time needed for bird communities to recover is more likely longer than this. Nevertheless, our study provides evidence that bird communities benefit from active rainforest restoration after human-induced deforestation.
Adaptation To Climate Change In Uganda: Evidence From Micro Level Data
(Global environmental change, 2011) Hisali, Eria; Birungi, Patrick; Buyinza, Faisal
This study employed data from the 2005/06 Uganda national household survey to identify adaptation strategies and factors governing their choice in Uganda's agricultural production. Factors that mediate or hinder adaptation across different shocks and strategies include age of the household head, access to credit and extension facilities and security of land tenure. There are also differences in choice of adaptation strategies by agro-climatic zone. The appropriate policy level responses should complement the autonomous adaptation strategies by facilitating technology adoption and availing information to farmers not only with regard to climate related forecasts but available weather and pest resistant varieties.
Adaptation to Climate Change in Uganda: Evidence from Micro Level Data
(Global environmental change, 2011) Hisali, Eria; Birungi, Patrick; Buyinza, Faisal
This study employed data from the 2005/06 Uganda national household survey to identify adaptation strategies and factors governing their choice in Uganda's agricultural production. Factors that mediate or hinder adaptation across different shocks and strategies include age of the household head, access to credit and extension facilities and security of land tenure. There are also differences in choice of adaptation strategies by agro-climatic zone. The appropriate policy level responses should complement the autonomous adaptation strategies by facilitating technology adoption and availing information to farmers not only with regard to climate related forecasts but available weather and pest resistant varieties.
Adaptation to climate variability and household welfare outcomes in Uganda
(Elsevier B.V, 2024-12) Babyenda, Peter;; Kabubo-Mariara, Jane;; Odhiambo, Sule
Over the last one decade, most of the empirical studies on climate variability have largely concentrated on assessing the effect of climate variability on agriculture. Little attention has been given to the analysis of what factors determine the decision to adapt to climate variability and what impact does it has on welfare of the adapting households. This paper therefore, assesses the determinants of adaptation to climate variability and how it influences welfare of the farming households in Uganda. To achieve this, the study utilizes six waves of Uganda National Panel survey collected by Uganda Bureau of Statistics spanning over a period of 10 years from 2009 to 2019 and the switching regression model for empirical analysis. The findings indicate that adapting to climate variability is beneficial to adaptors as it safeguards welfare deterioration. On the other hand, presence of climate variability, age of the household head, the value of household assets, location, formal land ownership, having main occupation as agriculture and availability of extension services were identified as key determinants of the decision to adapt to climate variability among farming households in Uganda. These findings thus highlight the importance to have measures to improve adaptation process at the same time enhancing household welfare.
Adaptive Party Choice of Low-Ranking Males in Fission–Fusion Dynamics of Chimpanzees in Kalinzu Forest Reserve, Uganda
(MDPI AG, 2022-08) Shibata, Shohei; Furuichi, Takeshi; Hashimoto, Chie
Several studies have examined factors that regulate fission–fusion dynamics (FFD) in chimpanzee communities, such as receptive females, predation risks, and food availability. However, the effects of these factors vary between populations. In this study, we conducted focal animal observations of adult males in the M group in Kalinzu to examine the influence of male dominance rank, aggression from other males, the presence of females exhibiting maximum sexual swelling (MS), and fruit abundance on male tendencies of party attendance. We found that low-ranking males spent more time alone than other males when females with MS were absent. In contrast, when females with MS were present, males of all ranks showed a similar tendency of party attendance. We also found that the aggressive interactions increased with the number of males irrespective of the presence or absence of females with MS, and low-ranking males attracted aggression more frequently than higher-ranking males. These results suggest that low-ranking males frequently ranged alone to avoid aggression from other males unless they attended parties to seek mating opportunities. We conclude that low-ranking males have alternative tactics to balance the costs and benefits incurred or gained when attending parties.
Adoption Patterns and Intensity for Multiple BananaTechnologies in Uganda
(MDPI AG, 2022-12) Stella Kiconco; Suresh Chandra Babu; Kenneth Akankwasa
The adoption of improved technologies is widely recognized as key to improving agricultural productivity in Sub-Saharan Africa. This study analyzes adoption patterns and intensity of multiple banana technologies in Uganda which have been promoted over time. We used primary data collected from 383 banana farmers sampled using a multi-stage sampling procedure. Multivariate probit (MVP) and ordered probit analyses were applied to establish the adoption patterns and adoption intensity, respectively, and any factors affecting them. The findings highlight that 15 pairwise correlation coefficients among banana technologies were statistically significant implying that banana farmers adopt technologies simultaneously. The household size, total banana area, ecological location, membership to farmer groups, access to formal credit sources, and the type of market accessed had significant effects on household adoption patterns and intensity. Thus, it is recommended that such factors should be seriously considered in addition to technology characteristics when planning promotion programs. Simultaneous adoption implies that each of the technologies should be considered as a package which contributes to the increased farmer options and maximum synergistic effects among them. This study contributes to the existing literature by highlighting the key variables which affect the pattern and intensity of adopting technological packages involving both input intensification and low-external-input technologies in Uganda.

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