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Item Social innovations in rural communities in Africa’s Great Lakes region. A social work perspective(Journal of Rural Studies, 2023-04-24) Spitzer, Helmut; Twikirize, JanesticIn Africa's Great Lakes region, many rural communities face serious challenges including chronic poverty, lack of infrastructure, high unemployment, inadequate education systems and healthcare services, as well as a fundamental absence of public social protection mechanisms. In some contexts, rural dwellers suffer from the additional burden of armed conflict and political violence. Yet, rural populations show remarkable indications of resilience and exhibit innovative ways of handling their problems by themselves. Some of these approaches can be qualified as social innovations. With its focus on the role of social work in rural social innovation processes, this article aims to contribute to some under-researched aspects at the intersection of social innovation, rural studies, and social work practice. Empirical evidence of rural social innovations is based on a regional study on indigenous and innovative models of problem solving in five African countries. Here, the focus is on two case examples from Uganda and Rwanda. For Uganda, a community-based concept of household clusters to promote rural development called akabondo is presented. The example from Rwanda is called umugoroba w'ababyeyi and refers to a family strengthening and community development program that has been mainstreamed into government policies. This model is located in the challenging context of a post-genocide society. A critical analysis of these models refers to the question whether they fall into the category of a social innovation; to major players in implementing such innovations; to their impact on rural communities and the wider society; as well as to challenges facing such innovations.Item Efficient Operation of Future Wireless Mesh Networks over Available Unlicensed and Licensed GSM, WiMAX and Wi-Fi Spectra in Uganda(International Journal of Applied Earth Observation and Geoinformation, 2011-05-08) Kabuye, Henry; Aye, RachealWireless Mesh Networks are networks in which each node communicates directly with one or more peer nodes. Originally the term 'mesh' suggests that all nodes on the network are interconnected, though most modern meshes today connect only a sub-set of nodes to each other [1]. This paper aims to describe the licensed and unlicensed spectrum that is available under UCC allocations for use in a wireless mesh network. It provides a review of currently available or developing techniques to improve the efficiency of WiMAX, Wi-Fi and GSM spectrum use in wireless mesh networks. Finally the paper recommends techniques that would improve the ability of wireless mesh networks to develop using currently allocated spectrum and suggests whether or not there is sufficient spectrum to sustain the anticipated demand for wireless mesh networks.Item Effect of debranching on the rheological properties of Ca2þ epectin gels(Food Hydrocolloids, 2012-01-18) Ngouémazong, Doungla E.; Kabuye, Geoffrey; Cardinaels, Ruth; Hendrickx, MarcWater-soluble pectin (WSP) extract was subjected to controlled carrot pectin methylesterase treatment, thereby producing de-esterified pectin (DEP). Both WSP and DEP were incubated with a mixture of endo-arabinanase and α-L-arabinofuranosidase to yield partially debranched pectins (WSPDBr and DEPDBr respectively). Pectin samples were characterised in terms of degree of methylesterification (DM), neutral sugar content, and degree of branching (DBr). The characterised pectins were used for the preparation of pectin gels with high and low calcium ion (Ca2+) concentrations. The rheological characteristics of the produced gels were evaluated by means of small-amplitude oscillatory tests. These characteristics include network development of the gel, gel strength (G′), gel elastic character and gel type. Partial debranching of pectin resulted in a reduction of the arabinose content (by approximately 50%) and caused a slight decrease in polymer DBr. Gels produced from semi-dilute solutions of partially debranched pectins showed network development profiles similar to those prepared from semi-dilute solutions of the corresponding non-debranched polymers. Yet, the former gels showed lower G′ values, poor gel elastic character and a “weaker” nature as compared to the latter. Next to Ca2+ cross-links, the presence of long arabinose-containing side chains is suggested to play an important role in the rheological characteristics of Ca2+–pectin gels.Item The Role of Ethnomathematics in Mathematics Education: A literature review(Asian Journal for Mathematics Education, 2024-12-06) Batiibwe, Marjorie Sarah KabuyeThe value of ethnomathematics in the process of teaching and learning mathematics is acknowledged on a global scale. In light of this, the majority of nations have argued in favor of its inclusion in the mathematics curriculum. Whereas mathematics teachers in affluent nations receive guidance and support, most mathematics teachers in developing nations are left to their own devices. This review aimed to identify local cultural relics that relate to mathematical principles taught in schools so that mathematics teachers in developing nations might use them as a reference. This review included 61 articles from Scopus, JSTOR, EBSCOhost, and ProQuest. Upon analysis, the articles revealed that cultural games, weaving, cultural dances, symbolic calculations, buildings, meals, and number systems are among the ethnomathematics activities in which school mathematics concepts are embedded. Nonetheless, cultural games and weaving are mentioned in literature the most frequently. Fabric or textiles are popular in weaving. These results imply that ethnomathematics can be used as a pedagogical, learning, or assessment method for teaching and learning mathematics in schools. However, mathematics teachers must engage in strategic and structural planning; the ADDIE model provides direction in this regard. The results of this review give mathematics teachers in developing nations a baseline and now is the right moment for them to begin implementing the suggested methods of integrating ethnomathematics into their instructional practices.Item A mixed reality system combining augmented reality, 3D bio‑printed physical environments and inertial measurement unit sensors for task planning(Virtual Reality, 2023-03-02) Kabuye, Ernest; LeDuc, Philip; Cagan, JonathanSuccessful surgical operations are characterized by preplanning routines to be executed during actual surgical operations. To achieve this, surgeons rely on the experience acquired from the use of cadavers, enabling technologies like virtual reality (VR) and clinical years of practice. However, cadavers, having no dynamism and realism as they lack blood, can exhibit limited tissue degradation and shrinkage, while current VR systems do not provide amplified haptic feedback. This can impact surgical training increasing the likelihood of medical errors. This work proposes a novel Mixed Reality Combination System (MRCS) that pairs Augmented Reality (AR) technology and an inertial measurement unit (IMU) sensor with 3D printed, collagen-based specimens that can enhance task performance like planning and execution. To achieve this, the MRCS charts out a path prior to a user task execution based on a visual, physical, and dynamic environment on the state of a target object by utilizing surgeon-created virtual imagery that, when projected onto a 3D printed biospecimen as AR, reacts visually to user input on its actual physical state. This allows a real-time user reaction of the MRCS by displaying new multi-sensory virtual states of an object prior to performing on the actual physical state of that same object enabling effective task planning. Tracked user actions using an integrated 9-Degree of Freedom IMU demonstrate task execution This demonstrates that a user, with limited knowledge of specific anatomy, can, under guidance, execute a preplanned task. In addition, to surgical planning, this system can be generally applied in areas such as construction, maintenance, and education.Item Explainable and Uncertainty Aware AI-based Ransomware Detection(IEEE Access, 2025-06-12) Kabuye, Henry; Biju, Issac; Yumlembam, Rahul; Jeyamohan, NeeraRansomware poses a serious and evolving threat, demanding detection methods that can adapt to new attack vectors while maintaining transparency and reliability. This study proposes a comprehensive framework that integrates data augmentation, explainable artificial intelligence, and uncertainty quantification to address key challenges in ransomware detection. By leveraging synthetic data generation techniques, the approach mitigates class imbalance and captures varied ransomware behaviours. Simultaneously, explainable AI methods shed light on model decisions, enhancing interpretability and building trust among cybersecurity professionals. An uncertainty-aware component flags ambiguous predictions, allowing for targeted manual reviews and minimising incorrect classifications. Experiments on multiple ransomware datasets show the framework’s ability to maintain high detection rates, even under adversarial conditions. By combining RanSAP and RDset datasets, the framework achieves marked performance improvements. When SMOTE was applied, Random Forest reached an F1-score of 0.9963, while a CNN with Monte Carlo Dropout attained 0.9906. Further incorporating CT-GAN boosted the CNN’s F1-score to 0.9978, underscoring the robustness of our approach. The results suggest that combining robust data augmentation, interpretability, and uncertainty handling offers a practical avenue for deploying reliable ransomware detection systems in real-world environments.Item Bamboo mapping of Ethiopia, Kenya and Uganda for the year 2016 using multi-temporal Landsat imagery(International Journal of Applied Earth Observation and Geoinformation, 2018-07-13) Zhao,Yuanyuan; Akombo, Rose; Mutyaba, Joseph; Oduor, Nellie Mugure; Ndawula, Andrew Kalema; Gong, PengMapping the spatial distribution of bamboo in East Africa is necessary for biodiversity conservation, resource management and policy making for rural poverty reduction. In this study, we produced a contemporary bamboo cover map of Ethiopia, Kenya and Uganda for the year 2016 using multi-temporal Landsat imagery series at 30 m spatial resolution. This is the first bamboo map generated using remotely sensed data for these three East African countries that possess most of the African bamboo resource. The producer's and user's accuracies of bamboos are 79.2% and 84.0%, respectively. The hotspots with large amounts of bamboo were identified and the area of bamboo coverage for each region was estimated according to the map. The seasonal growth status of two typical bamboo zones (one highland bamboo and one lowland bamboo) were analyzed and the multi-temporal imagery proved to be useful in differentiating bamboo from other vegetation classes. The images acquired in September to February are less contaminated by clouds and shadows, and the image series cover the dying back process of lowland bamboo, which were helpful for bamboo identification in East Africa.Item THE TECHNOMART PLATFORM An Online Gateway to Uganda’s Research and Innovation Ecosystem(Uganda National Council for Science and Technology, 2025-07-02) Geoffery SempiriThe Technomart Platform is an innovative digital gateway developed by the Uganda National Council for Science and Technology (UNCST) to enhance visibility, collaboration, and commercialization within Uganda’s Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) ecosystem. Presented at the 2nd NEMRA Conference on 2nd July 2025, this platform aims to serve as the national one-stop centre for linking academia, industry, and innovators. It offers a suite of interconnected services, including a searchable database of shared research equipment, expert profiles, an innovation marketplace, a technology challenge hub, and access to production facilities. By enabling real-time information exchange and fostering demand-driven innovation, Technomart supports the development of solutions to industrial challenges, facilitates public-private partnerships, and strengthens Uganda’s capacity for research utilization. Ultimately, it positions itself as a strategic tool for accelerating socio-economic development through STI.Item Sustainable urban transportation planning: Integrating an electrified metro system into Kampala metropolis(Elsevier Ltd, 2024-11-21) Kimuli, Ismail;; Kirabira, John Baptist;; Nkambwe, Ismael ;; Nakyejwe, Saadat L.K.;; Lubwama, Michael;; Sendawula, Kasimu;; Nabaggala, Nashua KElectrified metro critical.•Policy shifts vital.•Multi-modal integration.•Renewable energy focus.•Kampala-specific solutions. With the United Nations (UN) predicting that 60% of the global population will reside in cities by 2050, sustainable transportation planning is a prominent global trend. This study examines Kampala's transportation sustainability and addresses existing knowledge gaps. It leverages the TIMES-VEDA model, an acronym for “The Integrated MARKAL-EFOM System - Versatile Data Analyst.” TIMES-VEDA is an engineering optimizer used to explore four scenarios: Business-as-Usual (BAU), Reduction in Electricity Consumption (REC), Renewable Electricity Portfolio (REP), and Carbon Reduction Target (CRT). These scenarios analyze the inherent aspects of the Kampala metropolis energy system, providing a foundation for evidence-based decision-making. The approach aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (UN's SDGs 7, 11, & 13), Uganda's Vision 2040, and the third National Development Plan (NDPIII). The analysis demonstrates that sustainability is within range and highlights the imperative of a holistic approach, the potential of mass rapid transit, anchored by an electrified metro system, to advance green mobility. It sheds light on sustainable practices and trade-offs among distinctive pathways, suggesting a mix of policy measures to combat climate change. The KAMPALA-TIMES model, a bottom-up framework, reveals that a region-specific policy package, particularly the CRT scenario, achieves significant decarbonization, promoting eco-friendly multimodal transportation and paving the way for a more sustainable future for Kampala until 2060. The findings inform policy on urban planning and sustainable transportation that is adaptable elsewhere, ensuring long-term environmental and economic resilience.Item Leveraging AI in academia: university students’ adoption of ChatGPT for writing coursework (take home) assignments through the lens of UTAUT2(Taylor & Francis Ltd, 2025-03-22) Namatovu, Afulah;; Kyambade, MahadihThe rapid growth of artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming education, with tools like ChatGPT offering innovative support for university students in tasks such as essay writing and problem-solving. This study examines factors influencing ChatGPT adoption among students in Uganda, using the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology 2 (UTAUT2) framework. The UTAUT2 model explores performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, facilitating conditions, hedonic motivation, price value, and habit as key drivers of technology use. A mixed-method approach was employed, involving a survey of 473 third-year Makerere University Business School students and qualitative interviews. Structural equation modeling (SEM) analyzed relationships between UTAUT2 constructs and students’ intentions to use ChatGPT. The findings show that performance expectancy, habit, and social influence significantly impact adoption, while effort expectancy and price value have less influence. This research highlights the potential of AI to enhance academic performance in resource-constrained settings. The insights are valuable for educators and policymakers aiming to integrate AI tools effectively in developing countries, addressing barriers like limited digital literacy and technological access. The study provides a foundation for strategies that support the adoption of AI in higher education, enhancing learning outcomes in Uganda’s unique socio-economic context.Item Contribution of R&D grants and investment to the commercialization of innovations in Uganda: Lessons from UNCST a science granting council(Informa UK Limited, 2024-11-09) Jjagwe, Ronald; Kirabira, John Baptist; Mukasa, NorbertThe Government of Uganda (GoU) has prioritized Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) in its pursuit of a knowledge-based economy. While scholars have identified a positive association between innovation investment and performance, the role of R&D grants and investment in the commercialization of innovations and their influence on innovation performance require further clarification. The objective of this study is to examine the contribution of R&D funding and investment to the commercialization of innovations in Uganda. A qualitative research method was employed using case study and interview approaches. This method involves gathering various types of evidence including document reviews, field visits, and interviews with key informants and focus groups. Data analysis was conducted by matching themes derived from document reviews, case studies, and interviews. The study findings highlight the need for GoU to prioritize institutional development, address structural problems to innovation input, promote talent flow, and rationally build regional knowledge value chains to improve innovation and commercialization efficiency. The Uganda National Council for Science and Technology (UNCST) must maintain momentum in gathering STI indicators to support the evidence-based formulation of effective STI policies. This study provides theoretical and policy-oriented insights by emphasizing the significance of R&D funding and investment in facilitating the commercialization of innovations in Uganda.Item Conceptual and Procedural Trajectories in Transformation Geometry: A Comparative Study of Technology-Enhanced and Conventional Van Hiele Phased Instruction(International Journal of Education, Technology and Science, 2025-05-01) Ndungo, Issa; Balimuttajjo, Sudi; Akugizibwe, EdwinThis study investigates the effectiveness of Technology-Enhanced Van Hiele Phased Instruction (TVHPI) compared to Conventional Van Hiele Phased Instruction (CVHPI) in enhancing learners' conceptual understanding and procedural fluency in transformation geometry. A quasi-experimental design was employed, involving 144 secondary school learners from six schools in Uganda. Conceptual and procedural understanding was assessed from learners’ test scripts using a 5-point scale of performance, and performance across Van Hiele levels was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results revealed that TVHPI significantly improved both conceptual understanding (t = 10.861, p = 0.00) and procedural fluency (t = 10.491, p = 0.00) compared to CVHPI. Performance across Van Hiele levels showed foundational tasks (Levels 1 and 2) were better supported by both strategies, while TVHPI showed an advantage at intermediate levels (Level 3). The study recommends integrating technology like GeoGebra into instructional practices to enhance learning outcomes. These findings emphasize the potential of technology-enhanced strategies to improve geometric reasoning and inform curriculum design.Item Uganda’s National Transmission Backbone Infrastructure Project: Technical Challenges and Way Forward(IEEE, 2010-12-30) Bulega, T.; Kyeyune, A.; Onek, P.; Sseguya, R.; Mbabazi, D.; Katwiremu, E.Several publications such as media articles have pointed out key technical challenges facing Uganda's National Transmission Backbone Infrastructure (NBI) project. The challenges emanate from the use of G652 instead of other fiber-optic cable types like the G655 fiber-optic cable. However, the articles do not suggest ways of addressing the technical limitations of the project. This paper uses an exploratory, quantitative and analytical approach to evaluate the goals of the project, and the already deployed part of the infrastructure, and compares the evaluation results, against the technical capability of the backbone, based on global backbone infrastructure performance benchmarks. A survey of previous work and results from related studies form inputs to a grounded theory-based hypothesis formulation. The paper highlights the national demand of bandwidth by all anticipated users such as government ministries, universities, schools, health centers, administrative headquarters and private sector entities. The findings of the study are validated through comparisons with results of investigations carried out on similar projects in developing countries. Finally the paper suggests ways of addressing the challenges of the NBI project using alternatives such as the use of Dense Wave Division Multiplexing (DWDM) repeaters after shorter distances, leasing bandwidth from private companies to cater for the deficit, use of microwave links for redundancy, setting up a Network Operation Center (NOC) for operation and maintenance, and deployment of WiMAX as a last mile solution.Item Building information modelling adoption in Uganda’s construction industry(Informa UK Limited, 2022-04-04) Acheng, Pamela O.; Kibwami, Nathan; Mukasa, Tom J.; Odongkara, Brian B.; Birungi, Rachel; Semada, Julius; Manga, MusaBuilding Information Modelling (BIM) has gained traction over the last decade seeing several countries making BIM mandatory. Projects using BIM have enjoyed better quality, reduced costs, and duration. However, its adoption remains low in developing nations like Uganda. This study assessed the state of BIM and its feasibility in Uganda’s construction industry. Data was collected using a structured online survey from 162 registered Architecture, Construction, and Engineering professionals. The analysis applied statistical tests like One-way non-parametric ANOVA, pairwise post hoc dunn and Mann-Whitney tests to assess relationships between profession, work experience, role in the supply chain, involvement in academia, against the awareness, BIM tools used, BIM functions, perceived benefits of BIM, and barriers to BIM adoption. Enhanced productivity was the highest benefit of BIM, along with complete project information and improved design quality. Acquisition and training costs were the top barriers to adoption. The ANOVA test showed those in academia had better understanding of BIM concepts, implying academia's importance in promoting BIM while work experience influenced BIM functions used and awareness of BIM tools. Different professions had varied understanding of some BIM concepts.Item Effects of technical and security factors on grid electricity reliability: evidence from Uganda national electricity grid network(Emerald, 2023-11-03) Migisha, Adella Grace; Ntayi, Joseph Mapeera; Adaramola, Muyiwa S.; Buyinza, Faisal; Senyonga, Livingstone; Abaliwano, JoycePurpose An unreliable supply of grid electricity has a strong negative impact on industrial and commercial profitability as well as on household activities and government services that rely on electricity supply. This unreliable grid electricity could be a result of technical and security factors affecting the grid network. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the effects of technical and security factors on the transmission and distribution of grid electricity in Uganda. Design/methodology/approach This study used the ordinary least squares (OLS) and autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) models to examine the effects of technical and security factors on grid electricity reliability in Uganda. The study draws upon secondary time series monthly data sourced from the Uganda Electricity Transmission Company Limited (UETCL) government utility, which transmits electricity to both distributors and grid users. Additionally, data from Umeme Limited, the largest power distribution utility in Uganda, were incorporated into the analysis. Findings The findings revealed that technical faults, failed grid equipment, system overload and theft and vandalism affected grid electricity reliability in the transmission and distribution subsystems of the Ugandan power grid network. The effect was computed both in terms of frequency and duration of power outages. For instance, the number of power outages was 116 and 2,307 for transmission and distribution subsystems, respectively. In terms of duration, the power outages reported on average were 1,248 h and 5,826 h, respectively, for transmission and distribution subsystems. Originality/value This paper investigates the effects of technical and security factors on the transmission and distribution grid electricity reliability, specifically focusing on frequency and duration of power outages, in the Ugandan context. It combines both OLS and ARDL models for analysis and adopts the systems reliability theory in the area of grid electricity reliability research.Item Investigating the modern renewable energy-environmental Kuznets curve (REKC) hypothesis for East Africa Community (EAC) countries(Emerald, 2023-11-28) Nabaweesi, Jennifer; Kigongo, Twaha Kaawaase; Buyinza, Faisal; Adaramola, Muyiwa S.; Namagembe, Sheila; Nkote, Isaac NabetaPurpose The study aims to explore the validity of the modern renewable energy-environmental Kuznets curve (REKC) while considering the relevance of financial development in the consumption of modern renewable energy in East Africa Community (EAC). Modern renewable energy in this study includes all other forms of renewable energy except traditional use of biomass. The authors controlled for the effects of urbanization, governance, foreign direct investment (FDI) and trade openness. Design/methodology/approach Panel data of the five EAC countries of Burundi, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania and Uganda for the period 1996–2019 were used. The analysis relied on the use of the autoregressive distributed lag–pooled mean group (ARDL-PMG) model, and the data were sourced from the World Development Indicators (WDI), World Governance Indicators (WGI) and International Energy Agency (IEA). Findings The REKC hypothesis is supported for modern renewable energy consumption in the EAC region. Financial development positively and significantly affects modern renewable energy consumption, whereas urbanization, FDI and trade openness reduce modern renewable energy consumption. Governance is insignificant. Originality/value The concept of the REKC, although explored in other contexts such as aggregate renewable energy and in other regions, has not been used to explain the consumption of modern renewable energy in the EAC.Item Internet financial reporting adoption(Emerald, 2019-04-03) Bananuka, Juma; Night, Sadress; Ngoma, Muhammed; Najjemba, Grace MugangaPurpose This study aims to examine the contribution of board role performance and isomorphic forces on internet financial reporting. Design/methodology/approach This study is cross-sectional and correlational. Data were collected through a questionnaire survey of 40 financial services firms. The study’s unit of analysis was a firm. Chief Internal Auditors and Chief Finance Officers were the study’s unit of inquiry. Data were analyzed through correlation coefficients and linear regression using Statistical Package for Social Sciences. Findings The results suggest that board role performance and isomorphic forces are significant predictors of internet financial reporting. However, board role performance is not a significant predictor of internet financial reporting in the presence of isomorphic forces. The control and strategic roles of the board are positively and significantly associated with internet financial reporting unlike the service role. Only the coercive isomorphism is positively and significantly associated with internet financial reporting unlike the normative and mimetic isomorphism. Originality/value This study provides initial empirical evidence on the contribution of board role performance and isomorphic forces on internet financial reporting using evidence from Uganda’s financial service firms. To the researcher’s knowledge, this is the first perception-based study on internet financial reporting.Item Factors influencing selection of drinking water technologies for urban informal settlements in Kampala(Water and Environment journal, 2014) Isoke, Jennifer; van Dijk, Meine PieterAccess to drinking water in urban informal settlements of developing countries still remains a challenge for the poor and depends on technology selected. This paper determines the score on criteria used for technology selection by two major stakeholders in the water service delivery chain, the users and the utility. The criteria are: affordability to connect, affordability of consumption, method of payment, ease of operation, ease of spare parts acquisition, access distance, access time, generating sufficient water continuously, service coverage, the possibility of cost recovery and security of installation (SOI). The study was carried out in Bwaise II and Kisenyi III, two informal settlements in Kampala, the capital of Uganda. Through a household survey and semistructured interviews of key informants, data were collected for the score on these criteria of four piped water distribution technologies: public water points (PWPs) with conventional meters, PWPs with prepaid meters, house connections and yard taps. Using multicriteria methods and preference elicitation by pair wise ranking, the most preferred factor for technology selection from the users' point of view is affordability to connect, while from the utility's point of view, it is SOI. These preferences were confirmed by data from focus group discussions and in‐depth interviews.Item Comparative analysis of data protection regulations in East African countries(Emerald, 2024-10-02) Shao, Deo; Ishengoma, Fredrick; Nikiforova, Anastasija; Swetu, MrishoPurpose Protection of personal data is integral to the digital economy, ensuring trust and privacy as its foundational elements. The purpose of this study is to analyze data protection laws in Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda and Rwanda to understand their legal frameworks and identify challenges hindering their effective implementation. Design/methodology/approach This study uses a comparative exploratory case study approach, analyzing legal frameworks of four East African (EA) countries through examination of legal documents, official reports and academic articles. The dimensions of analysis include registration, supervisory authority, data subject rights and cross-border data transfer regulations. Findings While all four EA countries are in the process of enacting data protection acts, they differ in scope, provisions and enforcement; more needs to be done to ensure mature data protection in these countries. The commonalities and distinctions in the legal frameworks are underscored, providing a mapping of data protection regulations in the EA region. Moreover, this study reports implementation constraints and areas for improvement. Practical implications The findings of this study provide valuable insights for policymakers, highlighting areas where data protection regulations can be improved. The results of this study can guide harmonizing regional data protection laws, ensuring consistent and effective enforcement. This study offers a foundation for future policy development and regional cooperation on data protection issues. Social implications The social implications of this research lie in its potential to shape public attitudes on data protection and privacy rights. By highlighting these concerns, this study may influence societal norms and values, encouraging a more informed and conscientious public discourse on inclusive policies that consider the diverse needs of different regional populations. Originality/value This study provides a pioneering comparative analysis of data protection regulations across four EA countries, offering unique insights into the regional variations and commonalities in legal frameworks. Its value lies in informing future policy development, enhancing regional cooperation and contributing to the harmonization of data protection practices in the selected EA countries, which remains an under-explored area in existing literature.Item Moving up the value chain with South-South cooperation for trade and technology? An analysis of India’s trade with East Africa(Emerald, 2023-03-16) Saha, Amrita; Bontadini, Filippo; Cowan, AlistairPurpose The purpose of this paper is to provide an early assessment of India’s South-South cooperation for trade and technology (SSTT) with East Africa, focusing on Ethiopia, Rwanda, Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania. It aims to analyse the role of SSTT in providing support to targeted sectors. Design/methodology/approach The paper examines SSTT, focusing on India and East Africa over a specific period (2000–2016) of its emergence, and extends the public sponsorship literature in international business (IB) to better understand the relationship between SSTT and value addition – applying to a particular case study of SSTT interventions in spices. Findings The paper highlights SSTT as a pathway to support value addition in global value chains (GVCs). Trade between India and East African countries has grown, with three developments over the period of analysis in particular: shifting trade patterns, growing share of intermediate goods trade and differences in GVC insertion. However, East African exports are largely of lower value. Capacity building to support processing capability and thriving markets can encourage greater value addition. Preliminary findings suggest early gains at the margins, as SSTT interventions have been focusing on capacity boosting with buffering and bridging mechanisms for increased volume of trade. Moving up the value chain however requires that specific value-enhancing activities continue to be targeted, building on regional capacities. Our high-level case study for spices suggests that activities are starting to have a positive effect; however, more focus is needed to specifically target value creation before export and in particular higher levels of processing. Practical implications While findings are preliminary, policy implications emerge to guide SSTT interventions. There is capacity for building higher value-added supply chains as is evident among East African countries that trade with each other – future SSTT programmes could tap into this and help build capacity in these higher-value value chains. Future SSTT programmes can take a comprehensive approach by aiming at interventions at key points of the value chain, and especially at points that facilitate higher value addition than initial processing. An example is that Ethiopia and Rwanda are likely to benefit from an expanded spice industry, but the next phase should be towards building processing for value-addition components of the value chain, such as through trade policies, incentivising exporters to add value to items before export. From a development perspective, more analysis needs to be done on the value chain itself – for instance, trade facilitation measures to help processers engage in value chains and to access investments for increasing value add activities. (iv), Future research should examine more closely the development impacts of SSTT, namely, the connection between increased trade, local job creation and sustained innovation, as it is these tangible benefits that will help countries in the Global South realise the benefits of increased trade. Originality/value The paper underlines how the SSTT approach can contribute to the critical IB and GVCs literature using a theoretical grounded approach from public sponsorship theory, and with a unique lens of development cooperation between countries in the global south and its emerging impact on development outcomes in these countries.