Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences

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Now showing 1 - 20 of 1822

Functional and sensory properties of iron and folic acid fortified NABE-3 bean and silver fish composite instant flour
(Springer International Publishing, 2025-03-23) Ssepuuya, Geoffrey;; Hooper, Sharon;; Nakyinsige, Khadijah ;; Maseruka, Eria Gyagenda;; Musabi, Dianah;; Rukundo, Peter;; Kebirungi, Harriet;; Weatherspoon, Lorraine;; Jackson-Malete, Jose
Despite the need for Iron and Folic acid (IFA) during critical stages of child development and gestation, there is observed persistence in deficiencies despite several interventions. This situation motivated a food-based approach using IFA-fortified NARO Bean-3 (NABE-3 bean) and silverfish. IFA fortified composite flours with NABE-3 (BF): silver fish flour (SFF) proportions as 100% BF, 90% BF: 10% SFF, 80% BF: 20% SFF, and 70% BF: 30% SFF were developed. Functional, pasting, and sensory properties were assessed using standard methods. Increasing silverfish proportions in the composite flours was associated with decreased water absorption properties of the composite flours indicating reduced reconstitution abilities; reduced final viscosity but increased bulk density implying a high density of nutrients at lower viscosity and volume; and increased peak time indicating increased cooking energy requirements. The compressibility and Hausner ratios of the flours were high and not significantly different, indicating low flowability of the bean flour and its composites with silver fish. Increasing silverfish proportions reduced sensory score from liked moderately to indifferent on a 9-point hedonic scale due to colour darkening, and increased intensity of fishy aroma and flavour. The 90% BF: 10% SFF and 80% BF: 20% SFF composites were more acceptable than the 70% BF: 30% SFF. However, all the composites were more acceptable than the control 100% BF: 0% SFF. Incorporation of silver fish into NABE bean flour generally leads to increased sensory acceptability and nutrient density but reduced functionality.
Farm resources, gender and water use practices in livestock-based livelihood systems of Kiruhura district, South western Uganda
(Journal of Animal & Plant Sciences, 2009-06-15) Nanyeenya, W.N.; Mutumba, C.; Mutyaba, C.; Wanyama, J.
Uganda’s south-western rangelands have capacity to improve farm productivity but are hampered by scarcity of water. The purpose of this study was to establish the current status of farm crop and livestock enterprise management systems, gender allocation of livestock, crop and human watering activities and assess prospects for using improved technology for livestock and domestic water storage, conveyance and utilisation, and small scale irrigation. One hundred households were selected from two sub-counties to represent crop-livestock and semi-transhumant cattle systems using purposive, multi-stage and systematic random sampling procedure. Findings of the study indicate that cattle contribute up to 89% of household livelihoods, banana is a dominant crop enterprise in Kazo (5.3 acres) and sweet potatoes are common in Kikatsi (1.4 acres). The main water catchments in the community are by roof catchment (41%) and sloping surfaces (36%). Of the households with the potential to harvest from their roof tops only about 50% exploit this option. The main sources of water for domestic uses, however, are own dams and shallow wells at 34 and 21%, respectively. Regarding gender and water collection, results show that all household members contribute towards water collection but where males are concerned they rely on bicycles (48%) whereas girls and women mostly (75%) carry water on their heads. Livestock watering is largely communal as only about 40% of the farmers have own individual valley dams. The need to have affordable and sustainable water storage and utilization systems particularly for livestock production was determined. By improving water collection and storage at household level not only will labour be released for other activities but the drudgery to which the female folks are exposed will be reduced. Due to increasing sedentarised cattle keeping coupled with extended fencing and exclusion, trespass is a serious offence in the area. Individual valley tanks should therefore be promoted in place of communal dams. The current watering systems that promote siltation of storage systems due to widespread use of mud troughs should be addressed by improved water storage, lifting/pumping and distribution systems. The technologies that may be explored to improve water storage on the farms include roof catchment and surface run off harvesting using ferrocement and polyethene tanks, and individual household preferably polyethene lined valley dams/tanks. Lifting water from storage systems could be enhanced by windmills and treadle (foot) pumps.
Unlocking Uganda's Maize Potential Through Value-Addition and Product Diversification
(Uganda National Council for Science and Technology, 2025-06-17) Geoffery Sempiri
This presentation explores the vast potential of Uganda’s maize sector through value-addition and product diversification. As the most important cereal crop in Uganda, maize plays a central role in national food security, income generation, and rural livelihoods. With Uganda ranking among the top maize producers in Africa, the sector remains largely underutilized due to limited processing and diversification. The presentation outlines the different types of maize and their uses, from staple foods to animal feed, and highlights global practices such as dry and wet milling, and alkaline cooking as opportunities for industrial upgrading. It identifies promising avenues for value-added products including cereals, snacks, beverages, bioplastics, biofuels, and pharmaceutical ingredients. Key strategic recommendations include establishing quality standards, incentivizing investment in processing, funding R&D, and creating a Research Chair in Maize Value Addition to drive innovation. The presentation concludes by calling for multi-stakeholder collaboration, including public-private partnerships, to transform maize into a catalyst for Uganda’s industrialization and sustainable development.
Cross border trade analysis of the rice value chain between Uganda and South Sudan: an insight from Elegu and Nimule border posts
(Informa UK Limited, 2024-08-19) Aluong, Joseph A. Kut; Mainimo, Edmond Nyuyki; Okello, Daniel Micheal; Mugonola, Basil
Rice is an important agricultural commodity in Uganda’s economy serving both as cash and food crop and is produced in almost all regions of Uganda. As a cash crop, considerable trade in this commodity occurs within and across the borders of Uganda and South Sudan. Therefore, this study was aimed at conducting a cross border trade value chain analysis between Uganda and South Sudan. Specifically, the rice value chain was analyzed and the determinants of cross border trade were ascertained. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and probit regression analysis to determine factors influence cross border trade in rice between Northern Uganda and South Sudan. Results revealed that three quarter of traders were of Ugandans Nationals with significant level (p < 0.001). Econometric model results showed that the source of rice, the nationality of the actor, and business experience (years) and occupation significantly influenced cross border trade. Ugandan traders were involved in trade more than non-Ugandans because of access to locally produced rice. Gender based performance on rice trade was significant (p < 0.002) for both Ugandans and non-Ugandans with males participating in trade more than the females. Most of the wholesale buyers were from Kampala; they buy rice in large volumes while the rest of the rice is bought by exporters, local wholesalers and retailers. Our study recommends that rice value addition and upgrading should be promoted to in order to increase incomes and competitiveness of cross-border trade.
Disaster risk reduction measures and farmers choices: a discrete choice experiment in Uganda
(Informa UK Limited, 2024-10-15) Mutyebere, Rodgers; Vanermen, Iris; Ruymbeke, Kato Van; Nkurikiye, Jean Bosco; Twongyirwe, Ronald; Sekajugo, John; Kabaseke, Clovis; Kanyiginya, Violet; Kagoro-Rugunda, Grace; Kervyn, Matthieu; Vranken, Liesbet
Climate change induces high and erratic rainfall which triggers landslides and floods. With the increasing population and food needs, households in mountainous, densely populated areas turn fragile ecosystems into farms. This exacerbates landslide and flood risks requiring Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) measures. Tree planting and diversion channels are among the recommended measures for farmers but their adoption remains low. Current studies assessing barriers to adoption ignore farmers’ opinions regarding the kind of trees or diversion channels preferred. We apply a Discrete Choice Experiment to evaluate how information delivered through videos impacts preferences for the DRR measures. Plot-level data were collected from 319 farmers from Kasese, Bundibugyo, Bushenyi and Buhweju in Uganda – districts prone to landslides and floods. The mixed logit model reveals a general preference for risk-reducing attributes of DRR measures. Using the conditional logit model to analyze split samples reveals that information influences preferences for tree planting, while preferences for diversion channels were hardly changed. Plot characteristics did not strongly explain the differences in preferences. Our study indicates that information specific to DRR measures in extension programmes would increase the adoption of such measures.
Does certified organic agriculture increase agroecosystem health? Evidence from four farming systems in Uganda
(Informa UK Limited, 2018-02-20) Templer, N.; Hauser, M.; Owamani, A.; Kamusingize, D.; H. Ogwali; Mulumba, L.; Onwonga, R.; Adugna, B. T.; Probst, L.
Over the past decades, the number of certified organic farms have increased significantly in Uganda. One assumption is that certified organic agriculture contributes to economic, social and ecological health of agroecosystems. In the literature, however, there is thin empirical evidence to support such claims. We therefore developed health indicators and contrasted data from four Ugandan farming systems with principles and objectives of organic agriculture. We identified four health patterns (ecology-driven, economically struggling, socially-driven, and hanging in) demonstrating the impact of farm management on agroecosystem health and trade-offs between health domains. Ecological farm health is strengthened only if the conversion goes beyond ‘organic by default’. Market-oriented specialization can create lock-in situations if production strategies cannot be changed easily. Food shortages occur when additional income from certified production does not compensate for the reduced area and effort devoted to food crops. We conclude that the positive effects of organic certification on agroecosystem health cannot be taken for granted. Interventions promoting organic agriculture should acknowledge risks smallholder farmers take by converting to cash crop-oriented certified organic farming. A challenging question will be how aspects of wellbeing and social health can be translated into certification standards and thus product attributes.
Low nutritive quality of own-mixed chicken rations in Kampala City, Uganda
(Agronomy for sustainable development, 2014-01-17) Kasule, Lawrence; Katongole, Constantine; Nambi-Kasozi, Justine; Bareeba, Felix; Lindberg, Jan Erik
Chicken production is popular in Kampala City, Uganda. Indeed about 70 % of all poultry products consumed in Kampala are produced locally. However, the high cost of feed is a major limiting factor. As a consequence, chicken farmers are formulating and mixing their own feeds. However, these own-mixed feeds may not meet recommended nutrient levels. We therefore studied five classes of own-mixed chicken feeds: broiler starter, broiler finisher, chick mash, grower mash, and layer mash. Samples of the chicken feeds were collected from farmers in and around Kampala City. We analyzed crude protein, ether extract, crude fiber, total starch, ash, calcium, phosphorus, and gross energy contents of the feeds. The apparent metabolizable energy content was calculated. We compared data with dietary requirements recommended for chickens in the tropics. Results show that own-mixed rations contained 21.9–36.3 % less protein than minimum recommendations. Broiler rations contained 16.2–20 % less metabolizable energy than minimum recommendations, and their crude fiber content was 37.5–50 % higher than the maximum recommendation. Layer mash contained 66.7 % less calcium and 17.5 % less metabolizable energy than minimum recommendations. All the five classes of own-mixed chicken rations were very high in ash content, ranging from 17.0 to 21.2 %. We conclude that own-mixed chicken rations do not conform to the dietary recommendations. There is therefore a need to give chicken farmers training on feed formulation and mixing.
Impact of social influence, financial literacy, and self-control on saving behavior among micro and small enterprise owners in Uganda
(Taylor & Francis Ltd, 2025-03-05) Mpaata, Eva;; Kyambade, Mahadih;; Matovu, Augustine ;; Naigwe, Josephine
This study examines the moderating role of self‑control in the relationship between financial literacy, social influence, and savings behavior among Micro and Small Enterprise (MSE) owners in Kampala, Uganda. The study aims to establish whether self‑control influences the association between financial literacy and savings behavior, as well as between social influence and savings behavior. A cross‑sectional research design was employed, targeting MSE owners officially registered with Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) and Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA). A total of 373 responses were analyzed using PROCESS Macro Model 3.2. The findings indicate that financial literacy and social influence significantly impact savings behavior. self‑control significantly moderates the relationship between financial literacy and savings behavior, as well as between social influence and savings behavior. Individuals with higher self‑control exhibited stronger savings behavior than those with lower self‑control, even as financial literacy and social influence improved. Findings highlight that financial literacy, social influence, and self‑control play significant roles in shaping savings behavior among MSE owners in Kampala. Social networks and financial knowledge contribute to better financial decision‑making, while self‑control moderates these relationships. The findings suggest that policymakers and financial educators should integrate self‑control training into financial literacy programs to enhance savings behavior among MSE owners.
Between-breed variations in resistance/resilience to gastrointestinal nematodes among indigenous goat breeds in Uganda
(Tropical Animal Health and Production, 2017-09-13) Onzima, R. B. 1,2 & 3 & 2 & K. K. Benda2 & 1; Mukiibi, R.; Ampaire, A.; Kanis, E.
Gastrointestinal nematodes (GINs), Haemonchus contortus, are a major health problem in goat production. Resistance to H. contortus, the most prevalent GIN in Uganda, was studied among three indigenous goat breeds to assess their differences. Twelve male goats of each breed approximately 7 months old of small East African (SEA), Mubende, and Kigezi goats from smallholder farmers in Arua, Mubende, and Kabale were assembled for the study. At the station, they were dewormed with a combination therapy of the broad-spectrum dewormers closantel and albendazole to free the goats of gastrointestinal parasites. During experimentation, the goats were kept indoors and ad libitum fed on clean banana peels and napier grass. On attainment of zero-worm-egg status, the goats were artificially infected with 18,000 third-stage (L3) larvae of H. contortus prepared according to Baermann’s procedure. Data were collected on fecal egg count (FEC), packed cell volume (PCV), and body weight (BW) on a 2-week basis until 12 weeks post infection and carcass weight and total worm count (WC) in the abomasum at termination of the experiment. The data on FEC, PCV, and BW were subjected to repeated-measure analysis of variance and the others by one-way analysis of variance. FEC between breeds was only significantly different at 12 weeks post infection (p = 0.04). Generally, higher FEC was recorded in Kigezi compared to SEA and Mubende goats. Carcass weight was significantly different among breeds (p < 0.05), with Mubende having the highest carcass weight, followed by Kigezi and SEA. PCV and daily weight gains were significantly different between breeds (p < 0.05). WC was not significantly different between the breeds. FEC and PCV were weakly significant at later stages of the experiment with higher parasite burden suggesting potential variation in resistance to H. contortus. These differences could be exploited in designing breeding programs with disease resistance in indigenous goat breeds.
Drivers of commercialization: A case of indigenous chicken production in northern Uganda
(Informa UK Limited, 2019-05-02) Aryemo, Irene Penninah; Akite, Irine; Kule, Enos Katya; Kugonza, Donald Rugira; Okot, Marion Wilfred; Basil Mugonola
This study was conducted to assess the drivers of commercialization and profitability among the smallholder farmers of indigenous chickens (IC) in northern Uganda. A market index was constructed to measure the proportion of IC marketed as a proxy for commercialization. A Tobit regression model was fitted using maximum likelihood estimation to determine the drivers of commercialization level of IC. Gross margin analysis was conducted to measure annual profits from IC production and a multiple linear regression was estimated using ordinary least squares to ascertain the determinants of profitability. Overall, the level of commercialization of IC was found to be as low as 31.2%. This level was affected by: IC flock size, number of cattle owned, group membership and access to poultry specific extension services. Commercial IC production was found to be profitable with average gross margins of UGX 118,704 (equivalent to US$34 per annum). Our results revealed that profitability in IC production and marketing was affected by bicycle access, number of extension visits, family ownership of chickens, sex, and age of household head. Our findings point to the need for implementation of strategies to increase flock size like disease management, provision of targeted extension services and increased group marketing of chickens.
Efficiency of resource use among pond fish farmers in Central Uganda: A stochastic frontier production function approach
(Informa UK Limited, 2013-04-03) Bukenya, James O.; Hyuha, Theodora S.; Molnar, Joseph; Twinamasiko, Julius
This article presents the use of a stochastic frontier production function to examine the efficiency of resource utilization in pond fish farming in Uganda. The study draws on data from a field survey administered to 200 small-scale fish farmers in three major fish farming districts in Central Uganda: Mukono, Mpigi and Wakiso. The districts were part of a large aquaculture development project funded by the United States Agency for International Development-Aquaculture and Fisheries Collaborative Research Support Program. Productive efficiency was analyzed using stochastic frontier analysis with a translog production function while assuming a truncated-normal distribution for the inefficiency term. The output variable was total quantity of fish produced, while input variables were quantity or value of inputs used in the production process, namely labor, pond size, stocking density, capital and feeds. The estimated index of resource-use efficiency revealed that small-scale farmers were inefficient in resource allocation by over-utilizing labor with an estimated allocative efficiency index of −0.94 and grossly under-utilized pond size, feeds and fingerlings with allocative efficient indices of 1.15, 1.64, 3.71, respectively. The results suggest that there is considerable scope to expand output and also productivity by increasing production efficiency at the relatively inefficient farms and sustaining the efficiency of those operating at or closer to the frontier.
Expiry of veterinary medicines in supply outlets in Central Uganda: prevalence, management and associated factors
(Informa UK Limited, 2023-12-31) Kisaka, Stevens; Tumwebaze, Frank K.
Background Animal diseases are a danger to livestock, businesses, and public health. This is why the public and private sectors in Africa have invested immensely in the manufacture and distribution of veterinary drugs. However, veterinary drug supply chain actors still suffer losses as a result of expiration. Besides, the way expired products are managed might pose risks to human, animal, and environmental health. This study investigated the prevalence, management of, and factors associated with the expiry of veterinary medicines in supply outlets in Central Uganda. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among owners and caretakers of veterinary drug supply outlets. Data were collected using self-administered, semi-structured questionnaires. The level of expiry was computed as “acceptable” (for levels reported as ≤ 5%) and “unacceptable” (for levels reported as ˃5%). Logistic regression was used to assess associations between the level of drug expiry and predictor variables. Results A total of 168 owners/caretakers of veterinary drug supply outlets were included in this study. The majority (148/168, 88.1%) of respondents reported having experienced expiries in their outlets. Unacceptable levels of expiry were reported in 38/168 (22.6%) of the outlets. Retail outlets accounted for the majority (34/38, 89.5%) of the unacceptable levels. Powdered drugs accounted for most expiries (106/148, 71.6%). Most expiries were for drugs supplied to outlets on credit (58/124, 46.8%) and those used to treat rare diseases (26/124, 21%). Major reasons for expiry included irrational prescription, inaccurate forecasts, overstocking, dry seasons, and stocking without considering stock-at-hand. Methods of disposal of expired drugs included throwing at pits (74/168, 44.1%); returning drugs to suppliers (51/168, 30.4%); and incineration (33/168, 19.6%). Factors associated with acceptable levels of expiry included the caretaker being female [adjusted OR = 2.9, 95% CI = 1.22–5.08]; having a procurement policy [adjusted OR = 3.9, 95% CI = 1.29–4.81] and practicing first expiry, first out [adjusted OR = 6.07, 95% CI = 4.71–8.70]. Conclusions Veterinary drug expiries are common in Uganda, and environmentally unfriendly methods of disposal are widely used. Acquisition and use of inventory tracking technologies that support First-Expiry-First-Out principles as well as proper disposal of expired medicines are recommended.
Efficacy of albendazole, levamisole and ivermectin against gastro-intestinal nematodes in naturally infected goats at the National Semi-arid Resources Research Institute, Serere, Uganda
(Veterinary Parasitology, 2013-07-27) Byaruhanga, C.; Okwee-Acaib, J.
A study was conducted between April and July, 2011 to determine and compare the efficacy of albendazole (ABZ), levamisole (LVM) and ivermectin (IVM) against gastrointestinal nematodes in naturally infected Mubende and Boer crossbred goats at the National Semi-arid Resources Research Institute in Serere, Uganda. Forty Mubende goats and 31 Boer crosses were each blocked by age and sex and randomly assigned to four groups. The first group of each breed served as the untreated control, the second was treated with albendazole (5 mg/kg BW), the third with levamisole hydrochloride and oxyclozanide (7.5 and 15 mg/kg BW) and the fourth with ivermectin (0.2 mg/kg BW). Each group included 7–11 animals. Treatments were administered with doses of goats in albendazole and ivermectin, and doses of sheep in levamisole, as recommended by the manufacturers. In the treated groups, goats received anthelmintics basing on individual weights. Fecal egg counts, expressed as eggs per gram and larval cultures were done on day zero before treatment and on day 13 after anthelmintic treatment. Efficacy for each anthelmintic was determined by the Fecal Egg Count Reduction Test (FECRT). In Mubende goats, ABZ, LVM, and IVM reduced FEC by 28.5%, 91%, and 98%, respectively. In Boer crosses, ABZ, LVM, and IVM reduced FEC by 11%, 84.88% and 78.47%, respectively. At a 95% CI, only IVM was more effective in Mubende goats than Boer crosses (t = 2.564, p < 0.05). This may indicate occurrence of anthelmintic resistance in the goat farming sector in Uganda. Further studies need to be done to clarify the state of efficacy of the commonly used anthelmintics covering different agro ecological zones and species of animals in Uganda.
Actor social networks as knowledge sharing mechanisms in multi-stakeholder processes: a case of coffee innovation platforms of Uganda
(Informa UK Limited, 2019-06-23) Magala, Damalie Babirye; Mangheni, Margaret Najjingo; Miiro, Richard Fred
Purpose: This study examined knowledge sharing mechanisms in coffee IPs and their effect on actor linkages in four districts of Uganda. Design/methodology/approach: Thirty one respondents from the public and private sector were interviewed using a qualitative approach. Data were analyzed using the Atlas ti qualitative software version 7.5.18 to generate themes for information sources, types and channels. Social network analysis was used to measure the actor centrality positions and influence in the IP network. Findings: Results revealed seven main categories of actors in the Coffee IPs who shared information on coffee inputs, agronomic practices, processing and markets through three main channels. Level of cohesion was less than 10% which had negative implications on the knowledge flow, trust and collaboration among the actors. Influential positions were occupied by the processors and farmer leaders in IPs in the southern districts of Luwero and Rakai, while nursery operators were most influential in IPs of the western districts of Ntungamo and Bushenyi. Weak linkages within the social networks indicated that initiatives of the actors were fragmented, as each actor acted as an individual detached from the platform activities limiting inter-actor knowledge sharing. Practical implications: Innovation intermediaries should focus on integrated systemic and innovative approaches to strengthen actor social linkages for knowledge sharing and better platform performance. Theoretical implications: Actor positions and relationships in innovation networks are critical tenets for fostering knowledge exchange and performance. In an innovation platform, diverse actors are multiple sources for accessing information within a given social and institutional context. Originality/value: The study contributes to existing debate and knowledge on institutional change in agricultural innovation systems.
Adoption of soil and water conservation technologies in the Rwizi catchment of south western Uganda
(Informa UK Limited, 2012-11-19) Mugonola, Basil; Deckers, Josef; Poesen, Jean; Isabirye, Moses; Mathijs, Erik
Soil and water conservation technologies, such as mulching, grass strips and retention ditches, have been promoted in many areas of Sub-Saharan Africa. However, technology adoption rates have remained unsatisfactory. In this study, a logit model was used to examine the adoption of soil and water conservation technologies in the Rwizi catchment of Uganda using cross-sectional survey data from 271 smallholder farmers. Findings revealed that the likelihood to adopt these conservation technologies by smallholder farmers is explained by land size, tropical livestock units, access to extension services, value of gross output, gender of the household head and location of the farmers. Our results further showed that the quadratic term in land size was significant and negative, highlighting an acreage threshold to adoption. In general, our findings underscore the importance of information access and landownership in adoption of soil and water conservation technologies in the Rwizi catchment of Uganda.
Prevalence and Risk Factors of Gastrointestinal Parasite Infection in Goats in Sironko District, Eastern Uganda
(Uganda Journal of Agricultural Sciences, 2019-11-05) Namutosi, Winnie; Higenyi, James; Kizito, Elizabeth; Omodo, Micheal
This study investigated the prevalence and risk factors of gastrointestinal parasite (GIP) infections in goats in Sironko District. Randomly selected livestock farmers (28) were interviewed. Two hundred twenty (220) faecal and blood samples were analysed using laboratory techniques. The overall prevalence of GIP was 74.5 percent. Nematodes were the most prevalent (61.8%). The level of GIP infections were; Eimeria (37.7%), Haemonchus contortus (36.4%), Trichostrongylus (43.6%), Strongyloides (14.6%), Strongyle (12.7%), Nematodirus (0.9%), Moneizia (14.55%) and Fasciola (11.82%). Further analysis showed high (48.6%) anaemia in adult goats. The most significant risk factors were location of farm (p=0.001), production system (p=0.045) and frequency of deworming (p=0.023). It is concluded that there is a high prevalence of GIP linked with heavy infection in the area. Therefore, it is imperative to promote agricultural adaptation strategies that will strengthen the farmers’ resilience.
Border parasites: schistosomiasis control among Uganda's fisherfolk
(Informa UK Limited, 2012-02) Parker, Melissa; Allen, Tim; Pearson, Georgina Pearson; Peach, Nichola; Flynn, Rachel; Rees, Nicholas
It is recognized that the control of schistosomisais in Uganda requires a focus on fisherfolk. Large numbers suffer from this water-borne parasitic disease; notably along the shores of lakes Albert and Victoria and along the River Nile. Since 2004, a policy has been adopted of providing drugs, free of charge, to all those at risk. The strategy has been reported to be successful, but closer investigation reveals serious problems. This paper draws upon long-term research undertaken at three locations in northwestern and southeastern Uganda. It highlights consequences of not engaging with the day to day realities of fisherfolk livelihoods; attributable, in part, to the fact that so many fisherfolk live and work in places located at the country's international borders, and to a related tendency to treat them as “feckless” and “ungovernable”. Endeavours to roll out treatment end up being haphazard, erratic and location-specific. In some places, concerted efforts have been made to treat fisherfolk; but there is no effective monitoring, and it is difficult to gauge what proportion have actually swallowed the tablets. In other places, fisherfolk are, in practice, largely ignored, or are actively harassed in ways that make treatment almost impossible. At all sites, the current reliance upon resident “community” drug distributors or staff based at static clinics and schools was found to be flawed.
Adoption of sustainable agricultural intensification practices: assessing the role of institutional and socio-economic factors amongst smallholder farmers
(Taylor & Francis Ltd, 2025-03-04) Katya Kule, Enos;; Agole, David;; Obia, Alfred ;; Okello, Daniel Micheal;; Odongo, Walter
Sustainable agricultural intensification practices (SAIPs) are highly recommended for smallholder farmers due to their positive impact on farm production and productivity. However, farmers remain reluctant to adopt SAIPs resulting in low agricultural productivity in Uganda. This study assessed the institutional and socio-economic factors affecting the adoption and adoption intensity of SAIPs amongst smallholder maize farmers in Eastern Uganda. Primary data were collected from 320 maize farmers in Kamuli and Jinja districts using a pretested questionnaire. The binomial logistic and generalized Poisson regression models were used to compute the predictor variables of adoption and adoption intensity of SAIPs respectively. Results showed that improved maize varieties, conservation tillage, legume intercrop, integrated soil fertility management (ISFM), and integrated pest management (IPM) were adopted by 58, 36, 44, 52, and 56% of the farmers. Institutional factors i.e., group membership, access to all-weather roads, credit, and extension information were the significant predictors of the adoption and the adoption intensity of SAIPs. Socio-economic factors i.e., market-oriented farming influenced both the adoption and adoption intensity of SAIPs, age of family head, family labour use, household size, and dependence ratio, only positively influenced the adoption intensity of adoption of SAIPs. The policy implications of this study include the need to strengthen agricultural extension institutions and streamline extension information disseminated to farmers to enhance the adoption of SAIPs. Farmers should be advised to utilize cheap credit services such as village savings and loan associations to facilitate the adoption of SAIPs.
Evaluation of potential industrial application of selected East African Highland cooking banana cultivars starches grown in Uganda
(Taylor & Francis Ltd, 2025-05-11) Akuyenze, Paul;; Muranga, Florence I.;; Ssenku, Jamilu E. ;; Masawi, Agnes Nandutu;; Nyakoojo, Clement;; Kirabira, John Baptist
The potential for industrial application of starches extracted from 11 East African Highland Cooking Banana (EAHCB) cultivars based on their structural, physicochemical, and functional profiles was assessed. Their starch granules were smooth with varying shapes and particle sizes across the cultivars. The starch content, homopolysaccharide content, mechanical properties and particle sizes of the native banana starches were generally higher than those of the standard starches. Their functional and pasting properties were lower than in the commercial food starch, laundry starch and pharmaceutical starches. Based on all the properties, PCA analysis revealed a wide variation between the native EAHCB starches and the standard food, laundry, and pharmaceutical starches on the market, pointing to the need for modification before industrial application. The results revealed that some EAHCB starches possess properties similar to commercial food, laundry, and pharmaceutical starches, indicating the potential for breeding EAHCB cultivars that produce starches suitable for industrial use, thereby reducing modification costs. We recommend further research into the genetic control of starch biosynthesis in specific EAHCB cultivars to facilitate the breeding of starches for industrial applications.
Institutional and technical drivers of intra-household marketing decisions for smallholder farmers in Uganda: evidence from Northern Uganda
(Taylor & Francis Ltd, 2025-05-09) Lukwago, Moses Mwesige;; Micheal Okello, Daniel;; Mugonola, Basil
Agricultural output marketing as an economic venture, increases smallholders’ economic welfare (incomes) through market participation. However, the venture is plagued by inefficiencies that emanate from incomplete institutional and physical infrastructures as well as imperfect competition. Data were obtained from a random sample of 206 farmers in Nwoya district. A Tobit regression was conducted to determine the institutional (and technical) drivers of farmers’ intra-household market participation decisions. The results revealed that variety used (p < 0.1), group membership (p < 0.01), markets (p < 0.05), road access (0.05), distance to markets (p < 0.05), total labor (p < 0.05) and household size (p < 0.1) significantly influenced intra-household market participation decisions. The outcome of this study provides a course-way upon which government institutions and relevant stakeholders can make strides through addressing policies aimed at enhancing sustainable economic welfare through increased productivity which reduces poverty and boosts food security among famers.

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