Browse
Recent Submissions
Item Impact of Different Agro-Forestry Systems on Cocoa Diseases among Smallholder Farmers in Bundibugyo District – Western Uganda(East African Nature and Science Organization, 2025-03-17) Blasio, Bisereko Bwambale; Sseremba, Godfrey; Atibuni, Zami; Ssali, BisasoThe Cocoa Agroforestry system integrates cocoa with high-value tree species and crops, providing additional income for farmers. In the Bundibugyo district, where cocoa is a primary livelihood, recent declines in cocoa production have been linked to diseases. This study evaluated the impact of various Agroforestry systems on cocoa diseases among smallholder farmers in Bundibugyo. Data were collected from four administrative units using a cross-sectional design with purposive sampling of 92 respondents. Household interviews, questionnaires, photographs, data sheets, and observations enriched the study. Findings revealed no correlation between Black Pod disease and Cocoa Agroforestry systems. However, Witches’ Broom and Frost Pod Root diseases significantly influenced cocoa production, while Cocoa dieback showed no significance. Cocoa diseases were more prevalent during the rainy season (72%), followed by the dry season (26%), and year-round (7%). Shade diversity impacted disease incidence, with medium shade systems (shade diversity 2-3) experiencing the highest disease impact (90%) compared to lower diversity systems (9%). Additionally, cocoa pod borer was identified as a significant pest, while cocoa pod rot emerged as a major disease. The study highlights the critical influence of specific agroforestry practices and shade diversity on managing cocoa pests and diseases in Bundibugyo.Item A Framework for Interdisciplinary Research Methodology in Agroforestry: A Review(East African Nature and Science Organization, 2025-02-06) Buyinza, Joel; Sekatuba, Jude; Kalanzi, FredThis paper provides a framework for interdisciplinary research (IDR) methodology in agroforestry, motivated by a general belief that by drawing information from different fields and employing different methodologies, a broad understanding of an existing issue can be achieved. Literature from four scientific paradigms was reviewed to recommend a suitable paradigm for IDR in agroforestry. We promote a pluralistic approach around the concept of ‘what works’ such that agroforestry research and extension focus on applications of techniques to solve a problem. The study suggests a framework for IDR in the context of developing countries by modifying an existing Methodology for Interdisciplinary Research (MIR) framework that was developed to help cross disciplinary borders, especially those between the natural sciences and the social sciences. The existing framework is however limited to real-life applications in teaching and research. We contend that agroforestry research should be seen to benefit the rural poor, foster innovation and farm productivity to feed the growing world population and help farmers adapt to the changing climate. The suggested IDR framework therefore caters for extension and feedback mechanisms, that appear to be the missing link between research and education. The new framework further provides for social relevance and the generation of data for informing policy decisions relating to sustainable agriculture. The paper also highlights the main barriers and opportunities for implementing IDR in agroforestry. The current and future global complex agricultural challenges require experts with interdisciplinary experience. Therefore, interdisciplinary research in agroforestry must increasingly become the standard rather than the exception because the approaches needed and the implications of agroforestry research are by their very nature interdisciplinary.Item Social and Ecological Contributions of the Taungya Agroforestry System in the Restoration of Mount Elgon National Park, Uganda(East African Nature and Science Organization, 2024-10-16) Mukosha, Isaac; Lubowa, Muhammad; Nakizito, JoweriaBalancing conservation objectives with the livelihood needs of local communities remains a significant challenge in the management of protected areas. The Taungya agroforestry system, introduced in Mount Elgon National Park, Uganda, in 2009, aims to address this issue by integrating forest restoration with agricultural production for food security. This study assesses the social and ecological contributions of the Taungya system in Kapkwata sub-county, Kapchorwa district, focusing on its impact on forest cover restoration, food security, income generation, and the provision of ecosystem services. Using a mixed-methods approach, data were collected from 240 participants selected through random sampling, supplemented by key informant interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS, and qualitative insights were analyzed through thematic analysis. The results indicate that the Taungya system significantly improved vegetation cover, with the majority of participants reporting an increase in forest cover from 0-25% to 51-75%. The program also contributed to household food security and income generation, with participants cultivating crops like Irish potatoes, maize, and onions for both consumption and sale. Non-crop benefits, including access to firewood and clean water, further enhanced household resilience. However, challenges such as small land allocations, crop pests, and wildlife conflicts were identified as barriers to maximizing the program's impact. To optimize outcomes, the study recommends increased land allocations per household and the introduction of integrated pest management strategies. The findings underscore the potential of agroforestry systems like Taungya to achieve sustainable conservation and community development in protected areasItem Soil Physical and Chemical Properties under Shea Tree (Vitellaria paradoxa) at Different Stages of Growth(East African Nature and Science Organization, 2024-09-02) Ogwok, Gertrude; Kizza-Nkambwe, Sarah; Kasima, Junior Senyonga; Mpewo, Maxmillan; Alele, Peter O.Shea tree (Vitellaria paradoxa), is one of the dominant agro-forestry species in Otuke district of Northern Uganda. Due to its economic importance and, in line with the numerous threats the tree is faced with, there is an urgent need for measures to conserve this species, for example, through incorporating annual food crops in the Shea tree parkland. This, however, requires a better understanding of tree-soil-food crop interactions. A number of studies of this aspect either considered only the mature Shea tree gardens or did not provide a clear distinction between the physiological states of the Shea tree. This was the motivation for this study where we compare variation in soil properties under mature and young Shea tree gardens with sites not having trees in Okwang sub-county, Otuke district. Five soil samples (up to 15 cm deep for top soil and 15-30 cm for sub-soil) were obtained per treatment using a soil auger. Our results show that in the top soil, only percent sand varied among the treatments, while, in the sub-soil, only percentage nitrogen and average phosphorus varied among the treatments. We also found that percentage top soil organic matter and percentage of sub-soil sand had negative strong correlations with maize and soybean yields, while percentage sub-soil clay had a strong positive correlation with maize and soybean yield. We conclude that variations in soil physical and chemical properties under Mature and Young Shea gardens only occur for those properties that have a direct link to tree residuesItem Collaboration or Contravention? Ramifications For Effective Participatory Decision-Making in Collaborative Forest Management at Echuya Central Forest Reserve, South Western Uganda(East African Nature and Science Organization, 2024-05-03) Twinamatsiko, Medard; Bugabo, Stephen GumisirizaParticipatory decision-making has been extensively adopted worldwide as an essential mechanism and a good governance principle to reach a consensus in natural resource management. However, in most communities, local people who depend on forests are not involved in the decision-making process regarding conserving protected areas. This research assesses the ramifications of collaboration or contravention on effective participatory decision-making in collaborative forest management in Echuya Central Forest Reserve. It provides insights into how community consultations and participation of forest-adjacent communities in planning meetings influence the conservation of protected areas. We collected data from a total of 639 respondents, including Collaborative Forest Management (CFM) group members and non-CFM community members, government institutions, conservation organizations, and local community leaders, using semi-structured questionnaires, interview guides, and Focus Group Discussion guides. Results indicate that community consultations allow CFM stakeholders, particularly community members, to give ideas on how such projects can be implemented without destroying forest resources, promoting the goal of conserving the forest reserve. Community members’ participation in planning meetings allows them to contribute ideas about relevant and appropriate forest conservation approaches. However, the National Forestry Authority (NFA) and other non-community actor groups dominate the decision-making process mainly because the NFA has the legal mandate to manage the forest reserve on behalf of the Government. We concluded that the connivance of government forestry officials with unauthorized forest resource users undermines the spirit of participatory decision-making. Dishonesty and lack of accountability hampered effective participatory decision-making, and low attendance at meetings undermines effective participation in decision-making. Thus, community members’ consistent attendance of meetings is paramount for positive outcomes of participatory decision-making for the conservation of forestsItem The Role of Remote Sensing in Forest Cover Changes in Butambala District, Central Uganda(East African Nature and Science Organization, 2024-03-16) Namayengo, Sarah; Nuwagira, UptonNatural forests in Uganda have experienced changes which must be quantified to inform future forest resource management and avoid the danger of reduced ecosystem service benefits. The primary purpose of this study was to assess forest changes in Butambala District by employing remote sensing techniques and GIS tehniques. The original contribution is the capacity to detect Central Forest Reserve cover decline using remote sensing in the study area for a 27-year period (1995-2020). Landsat 5 and Sentinel 2 images were processed using a supervised image classification approach to identify and quantify land use/cover changes. The study results indicated that the district has undergone land cover/use changes over the last 27 years. The prevailing changes in the district from 1995 to 2022 were expansions of built-up areas from (0.54% to 4.22%), agriculture from (42.38% to 79%), and decreases in grassland from (29.9% to 0%), natural forest cover from (14.07% to 5.9%), wetland from (8.24% to 7.9%), tree plantation from (4.87% to 3.3%). The changes threaten the environment and quality of life of people. Therefore, there is need to take critical and practical measures to regulate land use and landcover changes and conserve natural resources in Butambala DistrictItem Smallholder Farmers' Local Practices Underpinning the Use of Agroforestry Technologies in Uganda's Mt. Elgon Region(East African Nature and Science Organization, 2024-03-14) Kyazze, Florence Birungi; Kalanzi, Fred; Kiyingi, Isaac; Sebuliba, EstherMt. Elgon is a unique cross-border afro-montane ecosystem that has always provided vital essential goods and services for human livelihoods. However, with the increasing population density, forest degradation has become a significant issue, resulting in a rise in landslides, mudslides, pest and disease outbreaks, and reduced land productivity. Recently, it has been realized that many smallholder farmers have incorporated trees into their farming systems using indigenous knowledge, indicating their profound knowledge regarding tree use and management has reminded us that farmers have always been privy to much information regarding tree use and management accumulated over the years. This study aims to investigate how smallholder farmers' local practices enhance the use of agroforestry technologies in the eastern highlands of Uganda. This information will help develop and promote agroforestry practices that are acceptable to farmers. The study employed a case study approach, collecting data from 12 smallholder farmers over four months. The results indicate that smallholder farmers use local practices to enhance tree seedling survival, optimize space, and shorten the waiting time for tree-related benefits. Although some of their practices may not align with the desired outcome of farm productivity, further validation is needed to understand how they can be integrated into mainstream agroforestry research and developmentItem Morphological Characteristics and Growth Performance of Bambusa vulgaris Schrad. Ex J. C. Wendl in Selected Agro-Ecologies of Uganda(East African Nature and Science Organization, 2024-03-08) Kalanzi, Fred; Kiyingi, Isaac; Mwanja, Christine Kalembe; Agaba, Hillary; Malinga, Michael; Reza, Selim; Jayaraman, DuraiBamboo is a versatile and valuable resource that has been shown to have social, ecological, and economic benefits in many countries worldwide. Even though Uganda has a suitable environment for bamboo growth, it remains underutilized. One of the key challenges in promoting bamboo farming is the need for more information about the growth performance of different bamboo species in various site conditions. Therefore, this study determined the morphological characteristics and growth performance of Bambusa vulgaris in Uganda. A total of 24 bamboo farms were selected from a list of bamboo farmers provided by key informants using stratified sampling. These farms had relatively uniform B. vulgaris stands and were drawn from Uganda's three agroecological zones (AEZs): the Southwestern, West Nile, and Lake Victoria crescent agro-ecological zones. Eight temporary sample plots were established in each zone, and various growth parameters were measured. One-way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) followed by Sidak post-hoc test was used to compare the performance of Bambusa vulgaris across the different agro-ecological zones based on growth parameters. The results of the study showed that the total above-ground biomass was highest in the Lake Victoria crescent (24.773 kg/ha), followed by the West Nile (17.141 kg/ha) and the Southwestern (15.125 kg/ha) agro-ecological zones. The growth rate of B. vulgaris after three years was found to be similar to the outstanding growth rate mentioned in the literature. The growth performance of B. vulgaris was notably better in the L. Victoria crescent compared to the West Nile and Southwestern highlands – suggesting that efforts to promote the growing of B. vulgaris should prioritize the L. Victoria crescent agro-ecological zone. Overall, this study provides valuable information on the growth performance of B. vulgaris in different agro-ecological zones in Uganda. This information can be used to guide the promotion and development of bamboo farming in the country, which has the potential to improve livelihoods and contribute to sustainable developmentItem Characterisation of Forest Resources and the Local Communities for the Choice of Sustainable Forest Management Strategies in Uganda(East African Nature and Science Organization, 2023-07-09) Alule, Jimmy Rhombe; Nuwategeka, Expedito; Oriangi, GeorgeThe decline in natural forest resources in the tropics due to ineffective management practices has reached unprecedented levels with the most affected forests being in developing countries. Efforts to manage these resources sustainably have proven futile. Understanding the nature and status of the forest resources and the communities is crucial for devising effective management strategies. The study was designed to characterise forest resources and the local communities to aid in the choice of effective management strategies for forest resources. The study was conducted in Yumbe district, northwestern Uganda, using a cross-sectional research design. It targeted communities living in the sub-counties of Kei, Kerwa, and Midigo. Data were collected using questionnaires, key informant interviews, focus group discussions, participant observations, and remote sensing. Pearson correlation and regression were used to analyse quantitative data, while thematic analysis was used to analyse qualitative data. The correlation p-values (Sig.) of less than .05 were statistically significant, implying a strong relationship between socioeconomic and demographic characteristics of households and the choice of forest management strategies. The results further showed that the local communities were poor, illiterate, and dependent on subsistence farming and forest resources. The forest resources both in public and communal lands were in a state of serious decline. They were non-timber-based, accessible to the local community and dominated by woodland and other grassland mosaics. The local community used sustainable management practices, such as selective harvesting, tree planting, and gazetting some sites as sacred places. The management strategies used were forest type-specific, e.g., traditional for community forests and modern for public forests. The most important factor influencing the choice of management strategy was the level of education with an R Square value of .112. The study, therefore, recommends an improvement in the education of the local communities and the integration of local skills and practices to promote community-based approaches in sustainable forest resource management.Item Is Fair Benefit Sharing a Reality or A Fallacy? Implications for Effective Collaborative Forest Management at Echuya Central Forest Reserve, S. W. Uganda(East African Nature and Science Organization, 2023-02-10) Bugabo, Stephen Gumisiriza; Bitariho, Robert; Twinamatsiko, MedardIt is generally accepted that equitable benefits sharing from protected areas (PAs) is a probable technique for both sustainable management and PA conservation. Evidence however, suggests that this might not be entirely true since such benefits might not be equitably shared among local communities as they would have wished. This research compares benefits received by Collaborative Forest Management (CFM) community members with those of non-CFM community members adjacent to Echuya Central Forest Reserve (ECFR). The study further assesses the most preferred benefits by local community members around ECFR and the perceived barriers to equitable benefit sharing. It provides insight into how benefit sharing under CFM influences the conservation of protected areas. We conducted 458 household interviews, 26 key informant interviews and 4 focus group discussions to obtain data from CFM and non-CFM community members, government institutions, conservation organisations and local community leaders around ECFR. Benefits received by community members include access to firewood, grass, medicinal plants, materials to make ropes, honey and bamboo rhizomes, livelihood project support, cash benefits and training. The preferred benefits in their descending order include agricultural support, financial support, ecotourism, and livestock farming. The failure to monitor the implementation of CFM activities and corruption hinder equitable benefit sharing and promote overexploitation of forest resources. This study recommends that the National Forestry Authority (NFA) should include forest-adjacent communities in budget frameworks in order to provide financial support for CFM activities. The NFA and conservation organisations working around ECFR need to enhance the monitoring of CFM activities to ensure transparency and equitable sharing of forest resourcesItem The Trends and Magnitude of Tree Plantation Growing in Rural Communities of Kigezi Sub-region, South Western Uganda(East African Nature and Science Organization, 2023-02-03) Tumushabe, Jennifer Turyatemba; Bariyomu, Rogers; Bwanika, Brain; Twongyirwe, RonaldThe study documents the trends and magnitude of tree plantation growth in the Kigezi Sub-region of South Western Uganda. In most developing countries, national governments have been promoting and supporting rural communities with tree-planting programs in the region. A trend analysis was used to determine the escalating tree plantation growth in the sub-region. Landsat (TM/ETM+) satellite images were used to capture the trends, and a survey was also used to obtain information on the distribution patterns of established tree plantations. A randomly selected sample of 389 tree plantation growers was surveyed. The research approaches adopted were to supplement and strengthen the findings and also to provide an opportunity for the researcher to understand in-depth how tree plantations grow in the rural livelihood economy. Recommendations from this study emphasise the strengthening of the existing policy reforms. Also, interventions to harness sustainable forestry management should be used to provide integrated benefits to all, ranging from safeguarding local livelihoods to protecting the biodiversity and ecosystems provided by forests and reducing rural poverty in the Kigezi sub-regionItem Cost- Benefit Analysis of Collaborative Forest Management: A Case Study of Tororo Central Forest Reserve, Eastern Uganda(East African Nature and Science Organization, 2022-07-08) Anguti, Silas; Mukadasi, Buyinza; Andama, EdwardForests provide multitude of benefits to humanity in terms of local socio-economic, development, and environmental protection which are often not valued at national level because of lack of a valuation system for the ecosystem services. This study undertook a cost-benefit analysis of Collaborative Forest Management (CFM) implementation at Tororo Central Forest Reserve (TCFR) between Nyangole community and National Forestry Authority (NFA) using Contingent Valuation Method (CVM). The result showed that Nyangole community incurred total discounted costs of USD 74,440.0 on tree planting, forest resource management and protection, tree nursery activities and agriculture. Meanwhile they received total discounted economic benefits of USD 396,720.0 from sale of poles, tree seedlings, training opportunities, fire wood, mango fruits, and food stuffs. Other benefits that accrued to the community were opportunity of receiving visitors at the project, training allowances and other ecosystem services provided by the forest. The benefit-cost ratio of CFM to Nyangole community was 5:1 with positive Net Present Value (NPV). We concluded that the CFM partnership between government and Nyangole yielded benefits to the both parties and recommend that this approach be rolled to other sites within the countryItem Sustainable Human-Wildlife Conflict Management Strategies Around Busitema Central Forest Reserve, Eastern Uganda(East African Nature and Science Organization, 2021-10-04) Turyahabwe, Remigio; Asaba, Joyfred; Mulabbi, Andrew; Makoba, Gudoyi PaulThe study aimed at establishing sustainable Human-wildlife co-existence strategies to help settle the conflicts existing between humans and wildlife living around Busitema Central Forest Reserve. To achieve this, we first examined the nature of the existing conflicts which helped us to come up with conflict-specific co-existence strategies. We used questionnaires, interviews and focused group discussions, where the information obtained was confirmed by field observations. The data was then analysed using simple descriptive statistics like percentages, means and standard deviations. Results indicated that primates (baboons and monkeys) dominated the conflicting list of wildlife with humans followed by rodents while carnivores were the least reported. Crop raiding (100%), livestock and poultry predation (36%) were the most dominant conflicts reported posed to man while habitat destruction (40%) and road accidents (26%) were the biggest conflict man has posed on wildlife. Equitable compensation (10±0.0) and community involvement in conservation (8±1.4) dominated the sustainable Human-Wildlife co-existence strategies suggested by local communities. It was concluded that, involvement of local communities in wildlife conservation should be prioritized and areas surrounding the protected forest area should be planted with crops such as tea and trees such as eucalyptus (woodlots) that are not affected by wildlife but rather are enhancers of wildlife habitatsItem Predicting the impacts of land management for sustainable development on depression risk in a Ugandan case study(Scientific Reports, 2022-07-08) Pienkowski, Thomas; Kinyanda, Eugene; Asiimwe, Caroline; Milner‑Gulland, E. J.Agricultural intensification and expanding protected areas are proposed sustainable development approaches. But, their consequences for mental health are poorly understood. This study aims to predict how forest conservation and contract farming may alter resource access and depression risk in rural Uganda. Residents (N = 695) in 11 communities in Masindi District were asked about their expectations under land management scenarios using scenario-based interviews, household characteristics and depression symptoms. Over 80% of respondents presented with a ‘business-as-usual forest access’ scenario expected reduced access to forest income and food over the next decade; this number climbed above 90% among ‘restricted forest access’ scenario respondents. Over 99% of those presented with two land access scenarios (‘business-as-usual land access’ and ‘sugarcane expansion land access’) expected wealthy households to gain land but poorer families to lose it, threatening to increase poverty and food insecurity among small-scale farmers. Bayesian structural equation modelling suggested that depression severity was positively associated with food insecurity (0.20, 95% CI = 0.12–0.28) and economic poverty (0.11, 95% CI 0.02–0.19). Decision-makers should evaluate the mental health impacts of conservation and agricultural approaches that restrict access to livelihood resources. Future research could explore opportunities to support mental health through sustainable use of nature.Item Reverse logistics and environmental sustainability in selected manufacturing entities in Kampala district, Uganda(Kabale University Interdisciplinary Research Journal, 2022-07-14) Rugasira, Jack; Agaba, Moses; Byarugaba, Jotham Mbiito; Asiimwe, JaneThe purpose of this study was to empirically establish the relationship between reverse logistics and environmental sustainability in Uganda, focusing on selected manufacturing entities in the Kampala district. The study employed a cross-sectional design. The study also used quantitative approaches in collecting and analysing the data both descriptively and inferentially. The study population was 675 manufacturing entities. Using the purposive sampling technique, the study took a sample of 248. Data were obtained from 186 usable questionnaires. The researcher applied Statistical Package for Social Scientists (SPSS) to test all four hypotheses. The results are presented in terms of descriptive statistics and inferential statistics in terms of correlation analysis, simple regression and multiple regression analysis models. Results indicate that Pearson’s correlation results indicate a relatively moderate, positive and significant association between Green manufacturing and Environmental Sustainability in Kampala industries. The findings show that there was a low but positive correlation (r= 0.480, sig .000, p< .01) between Reverse Logistics and Environmental Sustainability. This implies that any improvements made in reverse logistics can be associated positively with environmental sustainability in Kampala. The study, therefore, concludes that findings are partially supportive of The National Environment Act, 2019; specifically concerning the prohibition of littering, Trans boundary movement of waste and classification and management of hazardous waste. It is therefore recommended that National Environment Management Authority and Uganda revenue Authority work out a rewards system for firms that actively practice Reverse Logistics as this undercuts pollution as reduces waste dumped in water bodies and the environment.Item Aflatoxin B1 Production, Toxicity, Mechanism of Carcinogenicity, Risk Management, and Regulations(Archives of Animal and Poultry Sciences, 2021) Awuchi, Chinaza God.; Ondari, Erick N.; Twinomuhwezi, Hannington; Igwe, Victory S.; Amagwula, Ikechukwu O.parasiticus. It is well known strong carcinogenic substance with median lethal dose (TD50) of 3.2 μg per kg a day in rat model. Mechanism of AFB1 carcinogenicity has been defined. The carcinogenicity of AFB1 differs from species with certain species, e.g. monkeys and rats, reportedly mostly susceptible compared to the other species. In animals and humans, aflatoxin B1 has been shown to be teratogenic, mutagenic, and immunosuppressant. The worldwide maximum tolerated aflatoxin B1 levels was reported by the FAO to be in within 1 to 20 µg per kg in food; 5 to 50 µg per kg in cattle feed. Aflatoxin B1 permeates via skin. Dermal exposures to AFB1 in specific conditions usually result in concerning health risk. Liver is organ mostly vulnerable to the toxicity of AFB1. AFB1 is a genotoxic hepatocarcinogen that has its exposures linked to hepatocellular carcinoma development, tumors of the liver, particularly when simultaneously occurred with hepatitis B viral infection. The hepatocellular carcinoma prevalence in people exposed to aflatoxins, has shown to increase with simultaneous occurrence of hepatitis B viral infection. Oral median lethal dose (LD50) of AFB1 is 0.3 to 17.9 mg per kg bw for many animals. Embryonic deaths and weakened development of embryo of Fabricius bursa in chicken by AFB1 was reported. Exposures to aflatoxin B1 is mostly taken care of with the measures directed at the prevention of crop contamination in field, handling in post-harvest, and also in storage,Item Effects of Climate Change on Fort Patiko Historical Site in Northern Uganda(East African Nature and Science Organization, 2025-01-15) Kabwijamu, Patrick; Alidri, Agatha; Nuwategeka, Expedito; Omara, John Christopher; Ochen, PatrickThis study investigated the effect of climate change on Fort Patiko in Gulu District, in Northern Uganda from 1972 to 2023. Archaeological and historic sites are under threat of climate change, characterised by global warming, heavy rains and flooding, drought and extreme weather events. Fort Patiko may not be an exception. The study established that Fort Patiko's originality and physical appearance have been impacted by climate change. Due to rain and heat waves, the rock's colour and structures have changed over time. Wind, rain, and humidity agents of erosion are weakening the rock structures. There are fewer studies which have tried to explore the effect of climate change on Fort Patiko, therefore, this study will fill the gap. Qualitative and quantitative research methods were employed for this study to understand the diversity and intensity of the effect of climate change on the Fort Patiko historical site. The ethnohistorical research design was used to extract historical narratives and events pointing to the effects of climate change on Fort Patiko. Data was collected through, a review of documents and reports on climate change in the region; direct observation, and interviews with local community members to explore the nature and effects of climate change on Fort Patiko. A total of 55 participants were interviewed. Thematic analysis was used to identify key characteristics and effects of climate change on the Fort Patiko historical siteItem Effects of Changing Weather Patterns on Household Food Availability in Bukiro Sub County Mbarara District(East African Nature and Science Organization, 2024-09-07) Nuwasasira, John Francis; Ewaechabo, Tiyo Christopher; Tumwesigye, Wycliffe; Tusingwire, AgnesChanging weather patterns and their variables are already negatively impacting food security by damaging crops, reducing yields, and increasing the prevalence of pests and diseases. These pests and diseases contend with crops for sunlight, water, and nutrients, further diminishing agricultural yields and creating issues for crops that were previously unexposed to these threats. Climate-related disruptions in food distribution and transportation, both internationally and domestically, have a substantial impact on not just safety and quality but also access to food. Prolonged dry spells followed by heavy and stormy rains cause interruptions in food production and transportation, reducing farmers' ability to get their grains to market and potentially affecting food prices. This study assessed farmers’ perceptions of effects of changing weather patterns on food security and their coping strategies towards effects of weather changing patterns in smallholder households in Bukiro Sub County, Mbarara District. A sample of 100 smallholder farmers were randomly selected from four parishes of Bukiro sub county and studied using questionnaire and observations. Key informants Interviews were also conducted with nine technical workers and three opinion leaders. Software STAT 26 and Ms excel version 2016 were used to do data analysis. The study found out that changing weather patterns through its variables specifically heavy and stormy rains, late of set of rains, and prolonged dry spells had significant effects on food security. The perceived effects of changing weather patterns established were drying up of water sources (83.8%), decreased land for crop growing (82.4%), reduction in crop yields (77.7%), drying of pastures for animals (67.4%), drying of crops (58.1%), and occurrence of crop and livestock pests and diseases at (56.6%). Also, the perceived weather changing variabilities were late onset of rains (60.1%), prolonged dry spells were responded at 17.6%, and heavy and stormy rains 22.3%. From the study finding farmers clearly perceived that changing weather patterns had negative effects smallholders’ agricultural production systems impacting negatively on food securityItem Evaluating Adaptive Capacity and Welfare of Farmers in Uganda's Climate-Vulnerable Regions Using an Index-Based Method(East African Nature and Science Organization, 2024-07-08) Byamukama, Willbroad; Atuhe, Innocent; Arinda, Shaman; Natumanya, HillaryThe escalating impacts of climate change on agricultural regions in Africa underscore the urgent need for effective adaptation strategies. This study aims to quantify factors influencing the well-being and adaptation capacity of farmers in climate-vulnerable areas. Conducted from December 2023 to March 2024 in Kigezi and Acholi regions, the study sampled 320 farmers using random sampling. The Adaptive Capacity and Welfare Index (ACWI) was used to describe the well-being and adaptive capacity of farmers in climate-vulnerable areas. ACWI comprises five components (Access to Welfare Programs, Social Relationship Conditions, Family Welfare Conditions, Adaptation Capacity, Experience with Innovation/Technology, and Climate Change Extension). Linear regression results identify several significant factors influencing ACWI, such as village location, planting activities during the dry season, number of family dependents, cultivated land area, education level, income from rice farming, alternative employment, and fishing activities. Kigezi region showed a higher ACWI compared to Acholi, indicating better business diversification and climate change awareness. This study underscores the importance of considering local conditions and socio-economic factors in enhancing farmers' adaptive capacity and welfare. Policy recommendations should focus on improving access to resources, adaptation programs, training, and promoting farmer education and business diversification to ensure sustainability and productivity in agriculture amidst climate change challengesItem Climate Change: An Obvious Phenomenon or Myth, in the African Context(East African Nature and Science Organization, 2024-06-04) Horace Muhamya; Ocan, Johnson; Adyanga, Akena FrancisClimate change is a global phenomenon of unprecedented consequence, engendering substantial scientific, political, and societal discourse. This literature review article offers an exploration of climate change perceptions and realities in the African context. It begins by establishing the unmistakable scientific consensus, with the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) serving as a primary authority. The review highlights robust evidence, including temperature trends, extreme weather events, and ecological impacts across the African continent, affirming climate change as an undeniable scientific phenomenon. However, the discourse surrounding climate change in Africa is not homogeneous. Dissenting arguments challenging climate change as a myth emphasize the variability in public perception, data limitations, and the complexities of attribution. These counterarguments reflect diverse perspectives, economic interests, and political inclinations, contributing to the multifaceted character of the climate change discussion. The implications of these findings are substantial, especially for a region highly susceptible to climate change impacts. Proactive measures for climate mitigation and adaptation are imperative to address the vulnerabilities experienced by communities, ecosystems, and economies. A multidisciplinary approach is underscored, recognizing climate change as an intricate challenge interwoven with economics, politics, and human behavior. The diversity of voices in this discourse emphasizes the need for ongoing research, collaborative efforts, and an inclusive approach to policy formulation. In navigating the complex terrain of climate change, unwavering commitment to scientific rigor, transparency, and sustainable solutions is paramount. This literature review contributes to the ongoing dialogue, providing a basis for further inquiry and informed decision-making. It has the potential to guide future investigations, shape public policy, and elevate awareness regarding the critical significance of addressing climate change in the African context and, by extension, the entire world. The findings presented here are a testament to the indispensable role of rigorous scholarship in comprehending and confronting one of the most pressing challenges of our time