Agricultural and Veterinary Sciences

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Cars kill chimpanzees: case report of a wild chimpanzee killed on a road at Bulindi, Uganda
(Primates, 2016-03-10) McLennan, Matthew R.; Asiimwe, Caroline
Roads have broadly adverse impacts on wildlife, including nonhuman primates. One direct effect is mortality from collisions with vehicles. While highly undesirable, roadkills provide valuable information on the health and condition of endangered species. We present a case report of a wild chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes schweinfurthii) killed crossing a road in Bulindi, Uganda, where chimpanzees inhabit forest fragments amid farmland. Details of the collision are constructed from eyewitness accounts of pedestrians. Physical examination of the cadaver indicated good overall body condition; at 40 kg, the deceased female was heavier than usual for an adult female East African chimpanzee. No external wounds or fractures were noted. Coprological assessment demonstrated infection by several gastrointestinal parasites commonly reported in living wild chimpanzees. Histopathology revealed eosinophilic enteritis and biliary hyperplasia potentially caused by parasite infection. However, eosinophilia was not widely spread into the submucosa, while egg/cyst counts suggested low-intensity parasite infections compared to healthy female chimpanzees of similar age in nearby Budongo Forest. No behavioral indicators of ill health were noted in the deceased female in the month prior to the accident. We conclude that cause of death was acute, i.e., shock from the collision, and was probably unrelated to parasite infection or any other underlying health condition. Notably, this female had asymmetrical polythelia, and, while nursing at the time of her death, had one functioning mammary gland only. In Uganda, where primates often inhabit human-dominated landscapes, human population growth and economic development has given rise to increasing motor traffic, while road development is enabling motorists to travel at greater speeds. Thus, the danger of roads to apes and other wildlife is rising, necessitating urgent strategies to reduce risks. Installation of simple speed-bumps—common on Ugandan roads—would be effective in reducing risks to wildlife, and would also make roads safer for human pedestrians.
Medium Term Climate Change Effects on Millet Yields in Gulu District, Northern Uganda
(East African Nature and Science Organization, 2024-05-12) Oriangi, George; Bamutaze, Yazidhi; Mukwaya, Paul Isolo; Edekebon, Elaijah
Climate change is expected to adversely affect crop yields and livelihoods of agro-dependent societies, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa. However, there remain gaps on the effects of expected regional climatic changes on key food security crops. This study assessed the projected climatic conditions and expected changes in millet yields for Paicho Sub County (S/C) in Gulu District up to the year 2033 using a cross sectional study design. To determine future climatic conditions, PRECIS (Providing Regional Climates for Impact Studies) model was used based on projected conditions at a 50 km spatial resolution while millet yields were modelled using Penman Grindley soil moisture balance model. PRECIS projected changes for 2033 reveal a strong and significant decrease in rainfall (p< 0.05). This is likely to decrease millet yields by 2.6% below the average current yields of 1.8 tons per hectare per year under business-as-usual scenario. The finding indicates a need for improved millet varieties that can survive under changed climatic conditions
Contribution of Dry Spell Adaptation Technologies to Crop Productivity in Isingiro Town Council, Isingiro District, Uganda
(East African Nature and Science Organization, 2023-06-01) Bwengye, Emmanuel; Tumwesigye, Wycliff; Nagawa, M. Goretty
Extended Dry Spell Adaptation Technologies (EDSATs) can improve crop resilience to Extended Dry Spells (EDS). This study was aimed at determining the contribution of EDSATs to crop productivity in the Isingiro Town Council. An exploratory survey was conducted to collect data from 125 farmers. The selection of respondents was made through purposive and referral sampling methods. Key informant interviews were conducted with 05 Production Department staff. Data was analysed using Stata 14 to generate summary tables. Results revealed that the farmers’ priority crops are Bananas, beans and maize grown by 98.4%, 69.6% and 43.2% of the farmers, respectively. 99.2% of the farmers are aware that their technologies contribute to Extended Dry Spells Adaptation (EDSA). Weeding is done by 68.8%, 68.4% and 43% of Bananas, Beans and Maize farmers, respectively. Inter-crops of beans-bananas, maize-bananas and maize-beans are implemented by 16.8%, 5.6% and 3.2% of the farmers, respectively. Application of manure is implemented by 60%, 5.6% and 4.8% of the farmers for all crops. Mulching is done by 67.2% and 7.2% of the banana and beans farmers. Contributions of weeding bananas, beans and maize contribute 65.2%, 94% and 88.6%, respectively to productivity. Inter-crops of beans-bananas, maize-banana and maize-beans contribute 122%, 57.1% and 35% to improved beans, maize, and beans productivity, respectively. Factors challenging the implementation of the crop EDSATs include; farmers’ economic status, availability of extension services, farmer exposure and availability of inputs, among others. The sustainability of EDSATs is hindered by a lack of investment funds and lack of consistent technical support, among others. Therefore, there is a need for the formulation of policy provisions that favour the availability of credit facilities to all farmers to enable them to manage all the limiting factors to the implementation and sustainability of EDSATs.
Smallholder Farmers’ Coping Strategies to Perceived Climate Change and Variability in Isingiro District, South Western Uganda
(East African Nature and Science Organization, 2023-05-05) Aturihaihi, Christine; Opio, Fina; Tumwesigye, Wycliffe; Beyihayo, Geoffrey Akiiki
Climate change and variability pose a major challenge facing the agricultural sector around the world and trends are feared to intensify by 2050. This is likely to complicate agricultural decisions affecting local communities who depend on the sector for their livelihood. Seasonal changes in weather patterns are projected to reduce food production due to the reduction in average yields of common food crops. With the majority of smallholder farmers in Uganda depending on agriculture for survival, building their adaptive capacity to climate change is vital to ensure household food and income security. This study aimed at establishing the smallholder farmers’ perceptions of climate change and their initiatives to cope with and manage the associated risks. A sample of 126 farming households were randomly selected from three Sub counties in Isingiro District and studied using field observations and questionnaires. Key informant interviews were also conducted with three extension workers. The collected data was analysed using Stata 14 and Excel. The findings revealed that there was increasing awareness of the climate change and variability challenge among smallholder farmers with the increasing need to take on adaptation strategies. The results showed that the major perceived changes were, increased intensity and frequency of droughts (98%), increase in daytime temperatures (92.7%), decrease in rainfall intensity (92.1%) and changes in rainfall distribution patterns (90%). It also showed that different initiatives had been taken by farmers to cope with the changes like changing planting dates (92.1%), growing crop variety mixtures (73.8%) and practising soil and water conservation (62.7%). Based on the findings of this study, smallholder farmers greatly perceived climate change and variability with negative impacts imposed on their farming operations. Although farmers have tried to adapt, there is still a need to support their coping strategies through appropriate policies. This will facilitate increased adoption of adaptation measures, thereby reducing the negative consequences of climate change in future
Deleterious effects of plant cystatins against the banana weevil Cosmopolites sordidus
(Published in Collaboration with the Entomological Society of America, 2010) Kiggundu, Andrew; Muchwezi, Josephine; Van der Vyver, Christell; Viljoen, Altus; Vorster, Juan; Schluter, Urte; Kunert, Karl; Michaud, Dominique
The general potential of plant cystatins for the development of insect-resistant transgenic plants still remains to be established given the natural ability of several insects to compensate for the loss of digestive cysteine protease activities. Here we assessed the potential of cystatins for the development of banana lines resistant to the banana weevil Cosmopolites sordidus, a major pest of banana and plantain in Africa. Protease inhibitory assays were conducted with protein and methylcoumarin (MCA) peptide substrates to measure the inhibitory efficiency of different cystatins in vitro, followed by a diet assay with cystatin-infiltrated banana stem disks to monitor the impact of two plant cystatins, oryzacystatin I (OC-I, or OsCYS1) and papaya cystatin (CpCYS1), on the overall growth rate of weevil larvae. As observed earlier for other Coleoptera, banana weevils produce a variety of proteases for dietary protein digestion, including in particular Z-Phe-Arg-MCA-hydrolyzing (cathepsin L–like) and Z-Arg-Arg-MCA-hydrolyzing (cathepsin B–like) proteases active in mildly acidic conditions. Both enzyme populations were sensitive to the cysteine protease inhibitor E-64 and to different plant cystatins including OsCYS1. In line with the broad inhibitory effects of cystatins, OsCYS1 and CpCYS1 caused an important growth delay in young larvae developing for 10 days in cystatin-infiltrated banana stem disks. These promising results, which illustrate the susceptibility of C. sordidus to plant cystatins, are discussed in the light of recent hypotheses suggesting a key role for cathepsin B–like enzymes as a determinant for resistance or susceptibility to plant cystatins in Coleoptera.
Components of resistance to banana weevil ( Cosmopolites sordidus ) in Musa germplasm in Uganda
(Entomologia experimentalis et applicata, 2007) Kiggundu, Andrew; Gold, Clifford S.; Labuschagne, Maryke T.; Vuylsteke, Dirk; Louw, Schalk
field screening trial undertaken in Uganda showed that a number of Musa L. (Musaceae) cultivars and hybrids displayed high levels of resistance to banana weevil, Cosmopolites sordidus (Germar) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), while most highland banana cultivars tended to be susceptible to weevil attack. In this study, research was undertaken to determine modalities of resistance to banana weevil. Laboratory studies suggested that all cultivars were attractive to the weevil and that females freely oviposited on all cultivars. While some differences were found between cultivars in attractivity and egg numbers, these were not related to subsequent damage. Therefore, antixenosis does not appear to play an important role in host-plant resistance to banana weevil. Larval survivorship rates in living corms were, for the most part, low on resistant cultivars, suggesting that antibiosis mechanisms offer the primary avenues of resistance. In the laboratory, development was slower on some resistant cultivars although survivorship rates on excised corm material were not as well related to levels of resistance as that on living material. Sap appeared to play a minor role in reducing egg eclosion rates on some resistant cultivars. Methanol extracts from Kayinja, a resistant cultivar, inhibited larval development on corms of susceptible cultivars in the laboratory.
Recombinant Antigen Targets for Serodiagnosis of African Swine Fever
(Clinical and Vaccine Immunology, 2009) Gallardo, Carmina; Reis, Ana L.; Kalema-Zikusoka, Gladys; Malta, Joana; Soler, Alejandro; Blanco, Esther; Parkhouse, R. M. E.; Leita, Alexandre
African swine fever (ASF) is an infectious and economically important disease of domestic pigs. There is no vaccine, and so reliable diagnosis is essential for control strategies. The performance of four recombinant ASF virus (ASFV) protein (pK205R, pB602L, p104R, and p54)-based enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISAs) was evaluated with European porcine field sera that had been established by Office International des Epizooties (OIE)-approved tests to be ASFV negative (n = 119) and ASFV positive (n = 80). The κ values showed that there was almost perfect agreement between the results of the “gold standard” test (immunoblotting) and the results obtained by the p54-specific ELISA (κ = 0.95; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.90 to 0.99) and the pK205R-specific ELISA or the pB602L-specific ELISA (κ = 0.92; 95% CI, 0.86 to 0.97). For the pA104R-specific ELISA, there was substantial to almost perfect agreement (κ = 0.81; 95% CI, 0.72 to 0.89). Similar results were observed by the OIE-approved ELISA (κ = 0.89; 95% CI, 0.82 to 0.95). Importantly, antibodies against these proteins were detectable early after infection of domestic pigs. Preliminary testing of 9 positive and 17 negative serum samples from pigs from West Africa showed identical results by the recombinant protein-based ELISA and the OIE-approved tests. In contrast, there was a high degree of specificity but a surprisingly a low level of sensitivity with 7 positive and 342 negative serum samples from pigs from East Africa. With poorly preserved sera, only the p104R-specific ELISA showed a significant reduction in sensitivity compared to that of the OIE-approved ELISA. Finally, these recombinant proteins also detected antibodies in the sera of the majority of infected warthogs. Thus, recombinant ASFV proteins p54, pB602L, and pK205R provide sensitive and specific targets for the detection of antibodies in European and West African domestic pigs and warthogs.
Recombinant protease inhibitors for herbivore pest control: a multitrophic perspective
(Journal of experimental botany, 2010) Schluter, Urte; Benchabane, Meriem; Munger, Aurelie; Kiggundu, Andrew; Vorster, Juan; Goulet, Marie-Claire; Cloutier, Conrad; Michaud, Dominique
Protease inhibitors are a promising complement to Bt toxins for the development of insect-resistant transgenic crops, but their limited specificity against proteolytic enzymes and the ubiquity of protease-dependent processes in living organisms raise questions about their eventual non-target effects in agroecosystems. After a brief overview of the main factors driving the impacts of insect-resistant transgenic crops on non-target organisms, the possible effects of protease inhibitors are discussed from a multitrophic perspective, taking into account not only the target herbivore proteases but also the proteases of other organisms found along the trophic chain, including the plant itself. Major progress has been achieved in recent years towards the design of highly potent broad-spectrum inhibitors and the field deployment of protease inhibitor-expressing transgenic plants resistant to major herbivore pests. A thorough assessment of the current literature suggests that, whereas the non-specific inhibitory effects of recombinant protease inhibitors in plant food webs could often be negligible and their ‘unintended’ pleiotropic effects in planta of potential agronomic value, the innocuity of these proteins might always remain an issue to be assessed empirically, on a case-by-case basis.
Rainwater harvesting knowledge and practice for agricultural production in a changing climate : A review from Uganda’s perspective
(Agricultural Engineering International, 2018) Kiggundu, Nicholas; Wanyama, Joshua; Mfitumukiza, David; Twinomuhangi, Revocatus; Barasa, Bernard; Katimbo, Abia; Kyazze, Florence B.
With a changing climate in Uganda, rainfall distribution patterns have become more irregular over time and space. Excess water during rainy season is causing runoff, soil erosion, nutrient depletion and crop damage which reduces the productive capacity of land, while on the other hand, prolonged droughts during the crop growing period have become common occurrences. Additionally, pastoralists lose livestock during the dry period each year in the Cattle Corridor of Uganda due to water shortage and lack of forage. It thus remains difficult to achieve the agricultural development targets identified in the National Development Plan for Uganda, without addressing regular incidences of adverse impacts of climate change. Currently there are no well explained approaches which can contribute to adoption of technologies like rainwater management systems which are crucial in enhancing crop yields and livestock production during periods of water shortage. The overarching objective of this paper was to carry out an assessment of the status, performance, and scope for improving rainwater harvesting (RWH) for small-scale agriculture under local conditions. Accordingly, research gaps in RWH technologies were identified and documented to inform future studies. The research was carried out in the semi-arid areas of Nakasongola, Rakai, and Hoima Districts characterized by crop-livestock dependent livelihoods. Findings show that RWH technologies could enable smallholder farmers and agro-pastoralists to become more resilient to increasing climate variability and climate change by conserving soil and water thus increasing food production and enhancing food security. Small-scale irrigation systems have enabled farmers to adapt to drought challenges by enhancing crop yields and allowed farmers to target for higher market prices usually associated with the effects of drought. However, there are challenges including threats to sustainability of such established systems because of lack of community participation in systems’ monitoring and maintenances, and vandalism, and some systems require high investment costs.
Levels of host plant resistance to banana weevil, Cosmopolites sordidus (Germar) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), in Ugandan Musa germplasm
(Euphytica, 2003) Kiggundu, Andrew; Gold, Clifford S.; Labuschagne, Maryke T.; Vuylsteke, Dirk; Louw, Schalk
Forty-five Musa clones, including endemic and introduced cultivars plus hybrids, were evaluated for resistance against the banana weevil, Cosmopolites sordidus, in a field trial in Uganda. The predominant groups of staple crops, East African highland bananas (Musa spp. AAA) and plantains (Musaspp. AAB), as well as plantain-derived hybrids (AAB × AA), showed the highest levels of susceptibility to this pest. These were followed by dessert bananas (Musa spp. AAA), exotic bananas (Musa spp. ABB) and finally diploids of M. acuminata (AA). Hybrids of banana origin were highly resistant. Some East African highland cultivars, especially brewing types (e.g., Kabula, Bagandeseza, Ediirira), showed intermediate levels of resistance. Among the non-highland bananas, high levels of resistance were observed in Yangambi-Km5 (AAA), Cavendish (AAA), Gros Michel (AAA), Kayinja (ABB, Pisang Awak subgroup), Ndiizi (AB, Ney Poovan subgroup)and Kisubi (Ney Poovan subgroup). The highest resistance was observed in banana hybrids TMB2×7197-2, TMB2×8075-7 and the wild banana Calcutta-4 (AA). These were considered the best sources of resistance for a weevil resistance-breeding programme with the two hybrids commonly used as improved male parents.
Geographic shifts in the highland cooking banana (Musa spp., group AAA-EA) production in Uganda
(International Journal of Sustainable Development & World Ecology, 1999) Gold, Clifford S.; Karamura, Eldad B.; Kiggundu, Andrew; Bagamba, Fred; Abera, Agnes M. K.
Between 1970 and 1990 Uganda witnessed the decline of the highland cooking banana from traditional growing areas in the central region, coupled with crop expansion in the country's southwest. Apprehension that the factors leading to loss ofsustainability in the central region may be replayed in extant production areas has raised concern about the future of the cooking banana in Uganda. Consequently, a multi-disciplinary study was conducted at nine central and six southwestern sites to document shifts in cooking banana production and to elucidate the causes behind these shifts. Cooking banana production in central Uganda sites fell from 18% of total food crop and 7% of total cash crop production in the 1970s to 4% and 2%, respectively, in the 1990s. Farmers identified reduced labour availability and management, increasing pest pressure and declining soil nutrient status as the major causes of decline. On-farm verification confirmed farmers' observations: weevil levels were the highest yet found in Uganda, while foliar samples indicated deficiencies in magnesium, nitrogen, and potassium. Soil nutrient deficiencies, however, appear to be a direct outcome of reduced management rather than 'soil exhaustion' as postulated by farmen. . In southwestern Uganda, the importance of the cooking banana as a cash crop has quadrupled since 1970. Banana fint penetrated the region because' of its ease of production and stability of yield. High yields attracted traders and urban market demand drove further crop expansion. With current market incentives, banana management standards have been high. Under current levels of management, it is unlikely that farmen in southwestern Uganda will experience a similar process of decline as that which occurred in the central region. However, concern remains aboqt lack of replenishment ofnutrients leaving the farm in the form offruits sold for market, a nutrient loss which may eventually lead to non-sustainability of the cropping system.
Farmers’ perception of calf housing and factors influencing its adoption on dairy cattle farms in Uganda
(Scientific African, 2021) Kiggundu, Muhammad; Kigozi, Abasi; Walusimbi, Hussein K.; Mugerwa, Swidiq
Calf housing is a significant challenge affecting calf performance. Despite its importance in ensuring optimal calf performance, inadequate housing facilities cause morbidity and mortalities on many dairy farms. This study explores farmer perception of calf housing and factors influencing its adoption on dairy cattle farms in Uganda. A cross-sectional survey was conducted to collect data across four regions of Uganda. Data analysis was through descriptive and inferential statistics (chi-square), and a binary logit model was estimated. Results revealed that 70.8% of farmers provided housing for their calves. Of these, 59.2% constructed permanent while 40.8% constructed temporary structures. Of the farmers who provided calf housing, 54.6% were dissatisfied with the structures' appropriateness in protecting the calves on their farms. Among the variables included in the model, education level, region, and cattle breeding method positively influenced calf housing adoption. On the other side, the number of cattle owned, cattle grazing system, and land tenure system negatively influenced calf housing adoption. Subsequently, increasing literacy levels, possession of a small cattle herd, and private ownership of land with a title deed increase the likelihood of adopting calf housing. In light of these results, we recommend that the promotion of calf housing needs to be sensitive to farmers' demographic and socio-economic characteristics and farm characteristics. Additionally, the provision of farmer education and training should be enhanced to ensure the adoption of calf housing on dairy farms across the country.
Theoretical Perspective of Urban Farming and Food Security in Southwestern Uganda
(East African Nature and Science Organization, 2025-04-09) Atuhaire, Mary Tibamanya; Adyanga, Akena Francis; Ocan, Johnson
This study examined the potential of urban agriculture as a strategy to alleviate food insecurity among low-income households in urban areas of southwestern Uganda. As rapid urbanization challenges traditional food systems to meet increasing demand for affordable and nutritious food, urban agriculture offers a promising solution. By using limited urban spaces to grow crops, urban agriculture can increase food access and provide economic benefits. Drawing on secondary data from government reports, academic research, policy documents and case studies, the study examined the role of urban agriculture in improving food security, promoting community empowerment and generating income through market-oriented gardening. The study suggests that households practising urban farming have better access to diverse and nutritious foods compared to households in peri-urban and rural areas. However, constraints such as land scarcity, inadequate water management, limited technical knowledge and inadequate policy support hinder the full potential of urban agriculture. The study highlighted the need for integrated urban policies that support sustainable food systems and community-based agricultural programs. By promoting innovative farming techniques and optimizing the use of space, urban farming can serve as a scalable model for building resilient urban food systems in southwestern Uganda.
Farmers’ Knowledge and Perception of Apple Arthropod Pests in the Kigezi Highlands of Uganda
(East African Nature and Science Organization, 2025-03-18) Kamusiime, Emilly; Natongo, Judith Ssali; Cosmas, Wacal; Tumuhaise, Venansio; Obua, Joseph
This article examines the knowledge and perceptions of farmers on arthropod pests in Kigezi apple agroecology. Today, apple production in Kigezi persistently gives poor quality and low quantity apple fruits, and a significantly low percentage of Kigezi apples reach both local and international markets. This study’s data was collected from four districts of Kigezi which include; Kabale, Rukiga, Rubanda and Rukungiri where 25 apple growers were selected per district. Interviewing selected farmers was done from May to December, 2023, using structured and non-structured questionnaires. Collected data was analyzed using descriptive statistics where parametric and non-parametric tests were conducted and frequencies and percentages were generated from different responses. Results from analysis of variance (ANOVA) indicated a significant knowledge gap on pest species of Green apple aphids, Apple sawfly, Thrips and Apple rust mites across districts. Again, knowledge of all common pests of apple scales, coddling moth, apple maggot, apple bud weevil, rosy aphid, woolly apple aphid, common green capsid, apple grass aphid, green apple aphid, apple sawfly, thrips, apple rust mite and fruit tree spider red mite significantly differed among the farmers. It was noted that 37% of interviewed farmers were aware of apple arthropod pests. However, 82% of knowledgeable farmers were unable to identify nor classify these arthropod pests nor do they match any arthropod pest species to its associated damage symptoms. This led to 95% of respondents scoring less than 10% on knowledge of arthropod pests at both district and sub-county levels. This might have resulted from limited farmer training on arthropod pests and their associated damage symptoms. Therefore, for increased apple production in Kigezi, we recommend that farmers be equipped with knowledge of arthropod pests and their management. This could be achieved through comprehensive farmer sensitisation and training on arthropod pests.
Unraveling the Mediating Factors in Agricultural Training Transfer for Ugandan Extension Workers
(East African Nature and Science Organization, 2025-02-24) Mukasa, Pontious Mubiru; Miiro, Richard; Obaa, Bernard; Mutebi, Henry; Kizza, James; Kiwanuka, Joseph
Purpose: This paper investigated the mediation role of transfer work environment and training design on training transfer of agricultural management skills on the population of extension. Work environment and training design are expected to mediate the relationship between trainee characteristics (independent variables) and the transfer of training (dependent variable). Methodology: Data was collected from 281 agricultural extension workers who completed training on holistic agricultural management skills training programs at Makerere universities. This was achieved through a survey questionnaire anchored on a 5-point Likert scale and analyzed using Structural equation modelling using Analysis of Moment of Structures. Findings: Based on the results; we established a positive significant relationship between trainee characteristics, work environment, training design and perceived training transfer as insinuated by the Learning Transfer System Inventory. Additionally, the work environment and training design of extension workers partially mediate the relationship between trainee characteristics and perceived training transfer as well as training design between work environment and perceived training transfer. Implications: To optimize training outcomes, attention should not only be given to individual trainee characteristics but also to the conducive work environment and well-designed training programs. Fostering a supportive work context and tailoring training designs to align with organizational needs become crucial strategies.
Performance Evaluation of NAGRIC Community-Based Animal Breeding Program on Dairy Farming in Kikatsi Sub County Kiruhura District
(East African Nature and Science Organization, 2025-01-20) Ahimbisa, Brian; Bahame, David; Mwebembezi, William
Community-Based Animal Breeding Programs (CBABP) have gained considerable attention recently and are being viewed as a viable approach to increase livestock productivity in low-input and smallholder settings, particularly in Uganda’s cattle corridor in general and Kiruhura district in particular. Despite the implementation of the NAGRIC community-based animal breeding program, there remains a significant gap in the comprehensive evaluation of its performance in dairy farming systems. This study therefore was intended to evaluate the performance of NAGRIC community-based animal breeding program to determine its effectiveness in achieving the desired outcomes. The study specifically aimed at assessing the level of farmer engagement and participation in NAGRIC-CBABP, analysing the influence of NAGRIC-CBABP on cattle-breed improvement and milk production and evaluating the Sustainability of NAGRIC-CBABP in Dairy Farming communities in Kikatsi sub-county, Kiruhuura district. To achieve the objectives, a cross-sectional study design was adopted rooted in the quantitative approach. The study population comprises dairy farmers, government leaders, local leaders and other leaders in Kikatsi Sub County, Kiruhura district. The sample size included 59 respondents. A structured questionnaire with multiple-choice questions was used to collect quantitative data from farmers while semi-structured interviews were held with key informants in this case leaders. The collected data was analyzed by generating descriptive statistics. From the analysis, the study revealed that the level of farmer engagement and participation in NAGRIC-CBABP is still low where about 72.5% of the farmers are still reliant on natural breeding methods with limited participation in modern breeding methods such as artificial insemination. Community-Based Animal Breeding Program had a positive influence on cattle-breed improvement and milk production in Kikatsi Sub County since they are perceived by most farmers to be highly beneficial in terms of genetic improvement, increased availability of quality and improved breeds. However, there was concern among most farmers about the scarcity of highly productive breeds in terms of milk production and the lack of tick and disease-resistant breeds. Other concerns were about the high cost of semen, limited knowledge about artificial insemination and lack of semen that specifically breeds heifers. Despite the Government intervention most dairy communities in Kikatsi Sub County have not sustainably benefitted from NAGRIC-CBABPs since utilization of services provided under this program is still low. Addressing these challenges is therefore critical to improve farmer engagement and participation in NAGRIC-CBABPs hence contributing significantly to the sustainability of these programs. The study therefore recommended Government through the NARO and MAAIF conduct thorough research into the breeds of dairy cattle that are highly productive and resistant to ticks and diseases as well as the most effective acaricides and drugs for ticks and diseases respectively. The Government should also provide subsidies on the cost of semen used in artificial insemination and train and employ more agriculture extension officers to scale up sensitization
Reflections on Social Justice in the Promotion of Biotechnology Crops and Institutionalisation of Food Values among Smallholder Farmers in Central Uganda
(East African Nature and Science Organization, 2024-11-06) Serugo, Paulous; Ssentongo, Jimmy Spire; Byalebeka, John
The academic discourse of agricultural biotechnology carries a lot of information on how biotechnology crops are crucial in realizing food security once they are fully adopted by farmers. Biotechnology crops are seen as the solution to ameliorate the Malthusian catastrophe of population increase threatening food security. While studies on agricultural biotechnology are increasing, they mainly focus on how the new agriculture science produces crops with desirable traits in supporting food production interventions. Few studies have concerned themselves with the social justice implications among smallholder farmers, posed by institutionalised agricultural biotechnology knowledge with its sophistication. This paper addresses itself to the above lacuna. The data collection used an embedded mixed method design with focus group discussions, in-depth interviews, non-participant observation, and questionnaire survey methods. The paper shows that mechanisms that are used to promote biotechnology crops are highly institutionalized. The institutions not only develop the biotechnology crops but also engage in mechanisms that encourage smallholder farmers to adopt these crops. The major social justice concerns addressed by this study are plant diversity, equity and commercialization of biotechnology-generated seeds/crops, participation, and farming choices
Minimum Tillage and Soil Surface Cover Reduced Weed Density but Not Diversity Over Four Growing Cycles
(East African Nature and Science Organization, 2024-10-01) Otim, Godfrey Anyoni; Ekwangu, Joseph; Tumwebaze, Susan; Obia, Alfred
This study investigated use of cultural practices to address weed challenges that present one of the highest costs to farmers. The parameters explored included the effects of tillage and soil cover practices on weed density and diversity, evaluated in a split plot experimental design. Increasing rainfall amounts significantly increased weed density and weed diversity. Minimum tillage significantly suppressed weeds with a density of 80/m2 compared to conventional tillage density of 124/m2. Soil cover practices similarly suppressed weed density (p<0.05) compared to sole crops without soil cover intervention. Maize with mulch had the lowest density (64/m2) followed by maize intercropped with one line of soybean between maize being more effective in weed suppression (92/m2 vs 113/m2). Sole maize and sole soybeans treatment both had a density of ~121/m2. Weed diversity, as measured by Shannon-Weiner index and Simpsons index were not statistically different across treatment (p>0.05). However, weed species count was higher in minimum tillage by 05% compared to conventional tillage, hence it calls for investment in minimum tillage and intercropping practices to allow a more diverse weed community that will be less competitive, less prone to dominance by highly adapted weeds, hence promoting ecological sustainability
Diversity and Prevalence of Indigenous Soil Bacillus spp. in the Major Cabbage Growing Agroecological Zones of Uganda
(East African Nature and Science Organization, 2024-09-25) Baryakabona, Silver; Ssekandi, Joseph; Turyagyenda, Laban
Different species of genus Bacillus have been reported from different environments of the world. They are reported to play a role of soil fertility improvement, plant growth promotion and disease and pest management. Most of these reports on Bacillus species are from studies conducted outside Uganda and therefore information on the prevalence and diversity of bacillus species in Ugandan soils is scanty. This study aimed at determining the prevalence and diversity of Bacillus spp. isolated from the cabbage rhizosphere in the four major cabbage-growing agroecological zones of Uganda. The experiment was conducted in a laboratory at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosafety Makerere University for morphological and biochemical identification of the Bacillus bacteria. DNA extraction and PCR were conducted at the College of Natural Resources Makerere University while sequencing was done at Macrogen laboratories in Korea and Inqaba Biotec in South Africa. Morphological, biochemical and genomic analyses revealed five Bacillus spp. (22 Bacillus strains) grouped as B. cereus, B. mycoides, B. thuringiensis, B. megaterium and B. bingmayongensis. B. cereus and B. megaterium were the most dominant and widely spread Bacillus spp. A phylogenetic tree indicated three major clads, showing that B. thuringiensis was closely related to B. cereus while B.bingmayongesis was closely related to B.megaterium. The B. mycoides were closely related to some B. cereus strains and B. bingmayongensis. The phylogenetic tree further showed that some Bacillus strains of the same species were distantly related. It was therefore concluded that most abundant and prevalent Bacillus spp. in Ugandan soils were B. cereus and B. megaterium. The presence and abundance of these bacillus species in the Ugandan soil presents an opportunity for soil scientists to innovatively manipulate them for use as biofertilizers and biopesticides for crop production and management. Such innovations would reduce the reliance of farmers on synthetic fertilizers that are pollutants to the environment and unhealthy to the users and consumers
Adoption of Sustainable Dairy Management Practices and its Effect on Farm Income: A Case of Dairy Farmers in Rubaya Sub-County, Mbarara District
(East African Nature and Science Organization, 2024-08-27) Muhumuza, Ronnie; Ssemakula, Edward; Kalibwani, Rebecca
Sustainable dairy management (SDM) practices aim to minimize environmental impact, promote animal welfare, ensure economic viability, and support social responsibility throughout the dairy production chain. The SDM practices that could improve sustainability of dairy farming systems in Uganda include milk management, animal health, feeding and breeding practices. Despite the numerous advantages that scientific literature reports for these dairy management practices, they are not always adopted by farmers because of various factors. The objectives of this study were to examine farmers’ adoption decisions towards Sustainable Diary Management (SDM) practices, as well as the economic impact of this adoption among dairy farmers in Rubaya Subcounty. The cross-sectional research design was applied to collect both quantitative and qualitative data using a semi-structured questionnaire. Data were collected using a household survey of 160 randomly selected respondents, from different villages within the study area. R Software Version 4.4.0 was used for data analysis. The results reveal that most of the SDM practices were adopted by over 50% of the dairy farmers. Only Artificial insemination, drying off animals, conservation fodder and concentrate feeding practices were adopted by less than 50% of the dairy farmers. The Multivariate logistic regression model results show that the adoption of SDM practices is significantly associated with varied demographic (Gender, age, household size); socio-economic (land size and household income); and institutional factors (access to agricultural credit, access to extension services, and membership to a farmer association). The study found out that adoption of SDM practices increased their farm income by UGX. 2,930,429/=, highly significant at 5% (p=0.02). The study recognizes two main pathways to increase the adoption of SDM practices: i) utilizing farmers’ knowledge and information sharing platforms; and addressing broader market and institutional failures

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