School of Distance and Lifelong Learning (SDLL) Collection

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    The role of community education in curbing drug abuse among youth: a case study of Uganda youth development link (UYDEL), Kawempe division
    (Makerere University, 2019-07) Nakanwagi, Brenda
    The world over, community education has been significant in changing different bad situations as far as drug abuse is concerned. The failure of many efforts like routine arrests of drug abusers, imprisonment, family neglect, isolation, and many others led to the emergency of community education. In the month of February 2019, Kawempe police station recorded over 1000 cases of drug related Offenses particularly involving youth aged from 13-24 years and all these were attributed to parental negligence, high illiteracy levels, high degree of unemployment, extreme poverty, peer groups, among others. In order to understand the reasons for juvenile drug abuse behavior, various theoretical perspectives were utilized and strategies to curb drug abuse among the youth were identified. This study was conducted in the slum areas of Bwaise-Kawempe division, Kampala district capital city of Uganda. The participants integrated where those from UYDEL service center who alienated the study. Using the quantitative data collection tool, self-administered questionnaires were used to 50 youth respondents and the qualitative data involved usage of explorative research design where structured interviews were employed to key informants including two Program Manager, 10 Community Facilitators, two Local Leaders and 10 Family Members. The study found that drugs abused by the youth include Kuber, marijuana, nicotine, khat, cannabis and heroin and the most affected areas included Bwaise, Kimumbasa, Jambula, Kikoni, Kazo, Katoogo among others. The reasons given for using these drug substances among youth include peer pressure, individual, family and environmental factors were identified as the primary factors for juvenile drug use. This study emphasizes the role of community educators in carrying out drug abuse preventative education programs employed by different stakeholders more so in UYDEL. At the same time, it succeeds in highlighting the impacts of these programs to drug abusers and their families, strategies that could be employed to address drug abuse, and the challenges that are faced by community educators in curbing drug abuse among the youth in Kawempe Division. In addition, this study recommends a concerted effort by all the stakeholders in curbing the problem of drug abuse among youth.
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    Parental participation in youth development programs
    (Makerere University, 2019-08) Batanda, Hafisah
    This report presents findings of the study entitled “parental participation in youth development programs;A case study of Masodde Resource Centre.” The objectives of the study included the following 1. To investigate the current level and kinds of involvement in youth development programs at MRC by parents, including other care givers and representatives of the community 2. To find out the barriers toparental /or community participation in youth development programs at MRC and. 3To identify strategies that may increase the participation of parents and community members in youth development program at MRC. The study was carried out in Masodde resource Centre (MRC) foundWatuba Subcounty in Kyankwanzi. MRC is a community-based resource Centre supported by Community Efforts for Child Empowerment (CECE) an NGO operating in kyankwanzi District. The study adopted a case study design and qualitative data collection method were used. Data was collected using interviews, FGDs, observation and Document review and analyzed qualitatively using content analysis Findings of the study indicate that majority of the parents are involved in the youth development programs atMRC. That is to say they are involved in different ways for example, providing them with scholastic materials, paying their school fees, they attend to meetings at MRC, provide Counselling and Guidance. Furthermore, parents also provide some basic necessitiesto their children like provision of sanitary towels to the girls, transport upto the training Centre. However, the kindof support varied according to the course a youth offers, and also the social economic context of the parent. Further still the level of involvement varied much as MRC wanted parents to pay, very many parents were seen struggling to get the money so that their children do not mis the training though majority would in instalments. Findings for the barriers to parental/ community participation included, fear to be requested to pay the remaining school fees, Negative attitude towards vocational training especially by male parents, lack of confidence to some parents to join meetings, multiple roles and responsibilities, long distances and communication challenge. However, findingsreveals majority of the parents attend to meetings that are invited and very few visit MRC when un invited. Findings for Interventions that may increase parental/ community participation in YDP included, parents’ beings integrated inYDP from the planning to Evaluation phase, continuous sensitization about the importance of parental participation in YDP at MRC, conducting meetings in differentcommunities, involving parents in leadership positions at different levels, income generating activities, and having success stories from those youth who passed through MRC that can act as role models. However, majority of the parents reported that for them they just take their children at the Centre but they are not involved from the planning phase instead they find everything set for them. In conclusion parents in kyankwanzi district struggle to provide scholastic materials depending on the social economic context of that parent, however their also some barriers but majority of the parents still get involved in the YDP at MRC, as an adult and community educator as away to increase innervations MRC should adopt a bottom top approach As an adult and community education, I recommend to CECE to adopt a bottom top approach so that community members can feel a sense of ownership, empowered, secure, and sustain the project in order to transform their socities.
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    Influence of patriotism on the development of personal and social skills in secondary school students in Kotido Municipality
    (Makerere University, 2019-09) oyugi, jimmy rowland
    The study was designed to find out how patriotism influences the development of personal and social skills in secondary school students in secondary schools in The study was guided by the following research objectives: (i) To find out how patriotism programme is implemented in schools in Kotido municipality. (ii) To find out the attitudes of teachers and students towards patriotism teaching in schools. (iii) To analyze the challenges in the implementation of patriotism in schools. The study used across-sectional research design and both qualitative and quantitative techniques to collect and analyze data with 309 respondents (head teachers, deputy head teachers, patriotism club patrons, and students) who were purposively and randomly sampled. Data was collected through self-administered questionnaires, interviews and focused group discussions. The information from the self-administered questionnaires was presented in figures and percentages in tables, while the information obtained from interviews and focused group discussions were analyzed using qualitative techniques. The outcome of the study revealed the following: • There is implementation of patriotism in schools in Kotido municipality • The attitudes of teachers and students towards patriotism affect its implementation. • Lack of funds, unsupportive school administrators, inadequate literatures in schools, negative attitudes of some teachers, students among others were found to be some of the challenges affecting implementation of patriotism in schools in Kotido municipality. The study generated the following recommendations: • Provision of enough funds by the national secretariat for patriotism to support patriotism activities in schools. • The department for patriotism should provide enough books and other literatures containing patriotism information in schools so that students can read and understand it better. • The government should train teachers and students to acquire knowledge of patriotism. • The government of Uganda should carry out massive sensitization of people to avoid negative perception of patriotism ideology.
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    Utilization and conservation of medicinal plants used for cancer management in Nyamitanga sub county, Mbarara district.
    (Makerere university, 2019-10) Semuwemba, John
    Cancer has of recent become a major health problem globally severely affecting the population. This growing burden has strained the already limited health care system hence the increasing constant need and demand for new remedies to prevent, cure and relief, thus the increasing use of medicinal plants, which are believed to have fewer side effects and are less toxic. Given their continued relevance and use of medicinal plants, the aim of the study was to establish the utilization and conservation of medicinal plants used for cancer management in Nyamitanga Subcounty Mbarara district. The commonly used medicinal plants were identified and documented, their various methods of conservation were assessed and the preparation methods before administration were also determined. The study was conducted using semi-structured interviews, questionnaires and participant observation. A total of twenty five different plant species belonging to 24 genera and 20 families were identified and documented. Most plant species belonged to family Solanaceae and the most highly ranked multipurpose medicinal plant was Cannabis sativa. Eucalyptus globulous, Mangifera indica and Zingiber officinale was the commonest used combination for management of chest and throat cancers. The most commonly used plant parts were leaves from herbaceous plants, harvested from the wild or cultivated lands. The remedies are prepared mainly as infusions, administered indirectly to treat internal cancers (orally) and direct tropical applications for external cancers, for various roles that is prevention, relief and cure but with no standard doses. A review of other literatures indicated that the medicinal plants reported in the study have been to other medicinal values. The continued utilization of these medicinal plant, habitat modification and the low involvement in the domestication conservation, with lack of knowledge about protection laws is a threat, which will in future hamper the transmission of treatment due to loss of plant diversity and low numbers of trainees mentored by experienced herbalists. Its therefore necessary to carry out more studies to document extensively, screen these medicinal plants to establish the active ingredients and effects on particular cancer cell lines, as well as Government and non-government organizations consider incorporation of experienced herbalists and standardized herbal treatment into the general health care and education system to help in treatment knowledge impaction into younger generations as well as conservation of this knowledge.
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    Teachers’ Professional Development and Classroom Discipline of pupils in Kawempe Division Kampala Capital City Authority
    (Makerere University, 2019-10-06) Naudo, Alice
    The study intended to investigate the effect of professional development and classroom discipline of pupils in Kawempe Division, Kampala Capital City Authority. The objectives of the study included; to find out teachers’ level of education and training, to establish the effect of teachers’ professional development on classroom discipline of pupils, and to explore other factors that impact on classroom discipline of pupils in Kawempe Division. The research was conducted in Kampala District and employed Causal Comparative Design (Ex- post Facto) design. Questionnaires, interview guides and observation checklists were used to collect data. Ten (10) primary schools were randomly selected to represent private and government schools. Data collected was analyzed using descriptive frequency tables. The study made the following findings; The highest number of teachers and head teachers has attained at least a diploma in primary teaching. Head teachers, teachers and pupils in Kawempe Division agreed that professional development has a positive effect on classroom discipline of pupils. Parents’ attitude as well as media influence topped the list among other factors that impact on classroom discipline of pupils. The study concluded that the results indicated that the majority of the teachers in Kawempe Division have attained professional development which should help them to manage classroom discipline better. This shows that teachers are open to new ideas through further training as seen from the findings that a few have even attained masters degrees. This means they are willing to embrace new training so as to help the enrich children’s experiences and also improve classroom discipline together with performance. This study also concluded that professional development has a positive effect on classroom discipline of pupils. This is evidenced by the numerous responses given, in the questionnaires, interviews and observations made during the teaching sessions. Majority of the teachers stated that motivation, rewarding and praising learners play great role in maintaining classroom discipline. Teachers who have gone through further studies take time to learn pupils and their needs, treat learners with respect, use interesting methods during their teaching among others. This helped learners to maintain classroom discipline because their needs were attended to. This study recommends that Coordinating Center Tutors, head teachers and the municipal education officer should come up with ways of involving parents in helping learners to be disciplined from home so that it makes the teachers’ job easier. This should be followed by guidance and counseling by independent personals. The study finally encourages teachers to get out of their comfort zone, be more creative by using a variety of instructional materials as trained to do. This will help to address individual needs of learners and get them involved in the lessons.
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    Diversity of plant species used in the control of pests of stored grains and legumes, a case study in Sagazi Parish of Buikwe District
    (Makerere University, 2019-11) Agula, Peter
    Sagazi parish, the study site is found within lugazi municipality, it comprises four villages; (Kisasi, Mayindo, Kasininyina and Sagazi) and boarders Mabira forest. Being blessed with very fertile clay-loam soils and reliable rainfall makes it every productive parish agriculturally hence a food basket for the district. It is very important that crops be kept for long periods of time in order to ensure food security. This is possible through use of preservatives which include among others plant materials. In this study, the various plant species used to control pests of stored grains and legumes were recorded. The data was collected within a period of two weeks and this was achieved through use of questionnaire in which key informants were interviewed, their ideas and opinions were recorded. On analysis of the data using the MS Excel, it was found out that there were a number of pests ( Sitophilus oryzea; destroyed both stored grains and legumes, Sitophilus granaries,Sitotrogacerealella and Sitophilus zeamais attacked only stored grains and Callosobruchus maculates and Acanthoscelides obtectus attacked only legumes) with the pests for grains being dominant. The most used plant species was the red pepper plant and the most effective method to control pests was usage of red pepper powder. It’s recommended that more awareness be created on the use of plants or plant materials to control pests and that further research be carried out on the documented plant species to determine the active ingredients in them.
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    Learning and enabling others to learn: reflection on experience of traditional herbalists in Kamuli District Uganda.
    (Makerere University., 2019-12-10) Katagwa, rogers
    Learning among traditional herbalists is still a myth though there is increasing number of them in the country. This is because there is no recognized institution that trains traditional herbalists yet we all see that they have knowledge, skills and experience in treating different diseases just like the western doctors who are trained for five years in different institutions and Universities. This study presents findings of research on how traditional herbalists acquire and transmit knowledge about their practices. The study was conducted in three villages of Nabirumba, Bwoko and Buwanume, found in Nabwigulu sub county Kamuli district. The main aim was to find out how traditional herbalists acquire and transmit knowledge to others about their practice. The main respondents were traditional herbalists in Nabwigulu sub county. Other respondents included community members and local leaders. Data was collected using numerous techniques such as in-depth interviews, Focused Group Discussions, Key informant interviews, document review and observation. The main findings showed that traditional herbalists learn through apprenticeship which is through two ways of vertical transmission where they learn from their parents and grandparents and also horizontal transmission where they learn from other people of different family background. It also showed different diseases treated by traditional herbalists which included biomedical diseases, Sexually Transmitted Diseases, Psychological diseases among others and difficulties encountered by traditional herbalists in their practice of herbalism. The study concluded that learning among traditional herbalists is more of formal and non-formal learning though they don’t have enough literature that they can refer to while learning. The study recommended that a lot of books should be written by researchers about learning among traditional herbalists which can help them during learning.
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    Coping with disability in refugee setting: a case study of Rwamwanja settlement in Kamwenge District.
    (Makerere University., 2019-12-19) Ngabirano, Aventiino
    This research was aimed at investigating the coping with disability in Refugee setting, case studyof Rwamwanja Refugee Settlement in Kamwenge district. The first objective was to find out the main needs of persons with disabilities in Rwamwanja settlement. The second objective was to find out how persons with disabilities meet their needs and the last objective was to find out the find out the challenges faced by persons with disabilities in meeting their needs. In line with the above objectives, data was collected from Rwamwanja Refugee Settlement in Kamwenge district. The results from the study indicated that the major forms of disability among Refugees in Rwamwanja Settlement are physical disability, blind, deaf and albino. Also, the analysis from the data collected shows that there are special needs for specific disability like medical care, wheelchairs and crutches as the major special needs all these are being supported by implementing partners operating in the settlement especially Lutheran World Federation (LWF) and the Government. Lastly, the study also found out that the major challenges faced by persons with disabilities in meeting their needs are inadequate medical care, immobility, discrimination and language barrier. This research therefore concludes that the crutches, medical care and wheelchair are the main special needs for persons with disability in the settlement. Also, the study concluded that the major source of support in meeting the needs of persons with disability is LWF as one of the implementing partners in the settlement and finally, the study concluded that immobility and inadequate medical care are the most critical challenges faced by persons with disabilities in meeting their needs.
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    The role of media in facilitating information sharing among the market vendors in Soroti Municipality. A case of Soroti main market.
    (Makerere University., 2019-12-19) Amenya, Topista
    Broadcast media are powerful communication tools and have been proved the most effective media in promoting development in the rural areas which is a tool for delivery of quick information. Radio is acknowledged to be the most important medium for communicating with the rural communities. The local media is responsible for transmitting information to the public as quickly as possible and as well raise public awareness on issues that affect the public. Geographically, the study was carried out in Soroti main market, Soroti municipality. Soroti municipality is the main municipal commercial and administrative center of Soroti district, located in the eastern region of Uganda. It boarders the districts of Kaberamaido in the west, Katakwi in the north, Kumi in the east, and Kamuli and Palisa in the south.This study aimed at understanding the role of media in facilitating information sharing among the market vendors in Soroti main market, Soroti municipality. It sought to establish the sources of business information accessed by the market vendors, establish the different local radio stations accessible and commonly listened to by the market vendors in Soroti main market, examine the factors that hinder access to business information by the market vendors in Soroti main market and as well identify community based solutions to the challenges faced by market vendors in accessing information regarding their businesses.The findings of the study indicated that there are a variety of sources of business information accessible to the market vendors which include friends, use of mobile phones, radio, market gatherings, the market notice board and the local newspaper among others. The study was able to identify the different local radio stations accessible and commonly listened to by the market vendors and these included among others Etop radio, Delta radio, radio Veritas, Teso Broadcasting Station, radio Joshua, and Voice of Teso. A majority of the respondents pointed out Etop radio as the most preferred radio station because of the nature of its programs which considers the sharing of business related information although it was revealed that the information shared does not meet all the information needs of the different categories of market vendors in Soroti main market. The study therefore recommends that the market vendors should always be involved in the identification of their information needs as a way to bridge the information gap, appropriate timing of the business information programs should be put into consideration to ensure that the business community benefits from such information and Conscientization of the market vendors on the importance of attending meetings among others.
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    The impact of Adult literacy programs to urban refugee communities:a case study of English for Adults (EFA) program at refugee Law project.
    (Makerere University., 2019-12-20) Nabaweesi, Sharifah
    Using a qualitative case study, this study investigated the impact of English For Adults program run by Refugee Law Project at Old Kampala to urban refugee communities. The study was guided by four objectives which included; establishing the profiles of the participants, scope of the program activities, socio-economic outcomes as well as the challenges faced by the program participants and graduates so as to establish possible solutions for the betterment of the program intended results. To achieve these objectives, the study employed purposive sampling to select study participants and as well interview method to obtain data in relation to the above objectives. Finding of the study also show that, although the program participants have suffered from a number of challenges, on the same hand, the same findings reveal that their participation has come with a number of positive results. Findings show that RLP’s adult literacy programs and in particular EFA have a significant socio-economic impact in the lives of the urban refugees in terms of: obtaining scholarships, qualification for entry into higher institutions of learning, which in turn has boosted their chances of employability (self and salaried employment), living a dignified life as a result of access to life-wide knowledge and information (such as topics x concerning the environment, sexual and gender based violence, refugee rights and obligations, market places among others). The study concluded and recommended that, although there are a number of successes that it has brought to the lives of the urban refugees, there is need to consider other life enhancing skills such as vocational and entrepreneurship so as to increase the socio-economic competitiveness of the program graduates and in particular enable them to start up and manage their livelihood activities.
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    Factors influencing adherence to treatment of tuberculosis among patients at Masaka Regional Referral Hospital, Masaka District
    (Makerere University, 2020-12-03) Nansamba, Grace Kitone
    Introduction: Tuberculosis (TB) is a major contributor to the global burden of disease and has received considerable attention in recent years. The main objective of the study was to determine patient related, socio-economic and health facility-based factors influencing adherence to treatment of tuberculosis among patients at Masaka Regional Referral Hospital. Methodology: This was a quantitative cross-sectional study where data was collected using structured questionnaires and the sample size was 136 respondents. Data was analyzed by software version SPSS 11.50 and presented using frequency tables and figures. Results: Study findings indicate that age, level of income, level of education, co-infections and side effects among more than 60% of the respondents emerged as key patient related determinants compromising the trend of adherence to treatment among TB patients. While level of household income, long walking distance, high transport costs and strictness of the employers among more than 50% of the respondents emerged as key socio-economic determinants compromising the trend of adherence to treatment among TB patients. And poor attitude of health workers, long queues and long waiting time, inadequate manpower, supplies and equipment, according to more than 55% of the respondents emerged as key health facility related factors compromising the trend of adherence to treatment among TB patients. Recommendations: The government and other stake holders should put in place a policy to address the issue of intensive community health education and incentives for TB patients. The health facility should lobby for increased number of health workers, medical supplies and equipment. Health workers should improve their attitudes towards their patients/clients and patients should always adhere to treatment and always report side effects early. Conclusion: Both various patient and health worker-related factors emerged as key determinants compromising the trend of adherence to treatment among TB patients. Therefore, national and health facility - based programmes for scaling up adherence to TB treatment should target the patients and health workers for optimum outcome.
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    A survey of field insect pests of cereals in Kisoro District.
    (Makerere University., 2021-05-04) Mujanama, Denis
    A variety of different insects attack cereals. Insect pests are responsible for two kinds of damage to growing crops, direct injury done to the plant by the feeding insect and transmitting diseases. Insect pests are some of the major constraints limiting yield of cereals in Kisoro district. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of insect pests on cereal crops in Kisoro, specifically identifying them, determine the damage they cause and economic loss. A survey was conducted in three sub counties in Kisoro district (Figure1). Five gardens of each of the cereals were randomly selected from each of these sub counties for the samples. The sampling sites were divided into four quadrates and five plants were selected within the square meter at random from each part. Questionnaires were also used to collect information from the farmers. Samples of insects were identified from the field and laboratory. Damage assessment was done by clear observation of sampled plants for damage on leaves, stems and grains for severity. Yield loss was estimated using the formula: Yield in pest-free garden (YPFG) – Yield in garden with pests (YGWP). Insect pests identified were; Russian wheat aphid, armyworm, English grain aphid, corn earworm, white flies, brown wheat mite, corn leaf aphid, lesser cornstalk borer, sugarcane borer, flea beetles, sorghum head caterpillar, mites. It was discovered that Russian wheat aphid had the highest frequency 500 severity of 4 in Nyarusiza. Among pests maize, corn leaf aphid had the highest frequency. For sorghum, corn aphid had the highest frequency in all the sub counties. Wheat has the highest yield loss of about 80.9% when there is no pest control. Sorghum had the lowest percentage yield loss of 6.79%. It was found out that most of the farmers were females
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    The impact of Antenatal attendance on the prevalence of Malaria among expectant mothers of Nawanyago Health centre III Kamuli District - Uganda.DA
    (Makerere University., 2021-05-05) Lwabya, Ronald
    The Impact of Antenatal Attendance on the Prevalence of Malaria among Expectant Mothers of Nawanyago Health Centre III Kamuli District- Uganda. The specific objectives were; evaluate the relevance of the Health education package administered to the expectant mothers at the clinic and establish the relationship between spread of malaria in the sub-county and socio demographic, mosquito net use and antenatal visits. A total of 120 expectant mothers were randomly selected from a list before stratified by area of residence (urban and rural) and requested to participate in the study. All people residing in any part of the country were eligible respondents provided they consent. There was a high percentage of malaria positive cases among expectant mothers who doesn’t use mosquito nets compared to those who use mosquito nets (32.56% Vs 27.63%). However this was not statistically significant. There was a significant difference in the proportion of MRDT reactive cases based on the number of antenatal visits (P value 0.047). Among 35 MRDT reactive cases, malaria was highest among those who hadn’t had any previous antenatal visit and constituted 16/35 (46%) of the MRDT reactive cases. From this study, mothers who had at least one antenatal visit were above 50% less likely to have malaria compared to those who never had any prior antenatal visit. Correspondingly, those with 1, 2 and 3 ANT visits had about 60%, 78% and 72% less likeliness of having malaria with Odds ratios (0.395, 0.225 and 0.281 respectively). It was recommended that; More effort is required to sensitize expectant mothers and encourage them to go for antenatal visits and always to use insecticide treated mosquito nets. Campaigns should be carried out to encourage behavioral change especially on the use of insecticide treated mosquito nets.
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    The utilization and conservation of non timber forest products in Budongo forest reserve.
    (Makerere University., 2021-05-07) Owino, Phibby
    Non timber forest products plays an important role in contributing to livelihood of people around the forest especially in developing countries. The study was carried out basing on the following objectives: (i) To identify the non-timber forest products accessed, (ii) Evaluate the contribution of non-timber forest products to the livelihood of people, (iii) Identify control methods that are instituted to control over exploitation of the non-timber forest products in Budongo central forest reserve of Budongo Sub County, four villages around the forest were selected. Methods of data collection included use of structured questionnaires, were a total of 60 respondents interviewed from the four villages around Budongo forest. Descriptive statistics using tables, graphs and pie charts was used to analyze data. The study revealed that herbal medicine was the most NTFPs obtained from the forest, followed by forest food, firewood, forest water, charcoal, ropes, poles, fruits and others like rattan, crafts, bamboos, nutsand latex. The contribution of NTFPs to the livelihood of people were; source of income, livelihood diversification, source of herbal medicine, source of food, poles, attracting tourists and research Centre, others included climate modification, rainfall formation and breeding places for wild animals. Control methods instituted to control the over exploitation of NTFPs were; planting of more trees, patrolling, monitoring, afforestation and sensitizing people about the use of forests, avoiding illegalities like grazing in the forest, illegal hunting and charcoal making and involving the local people in decision making. However, forests have negative effects on the people around them like vermines, fierce wild animals breeding places for insects that spread different diseases and wrong dowers and limits land for expansion of settlement, agriculture and industrialization.
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    Microbial safety of smoked fish sold in local markets. a case study of Kaleerwe and Busega markets, Kampala Distirct.
    (Makerere University., 2021-05-14) Ssemogerere, Alloysius
    The consumption of smoked fish usually obtained from the open shelf in most communities of the developing countries has raised some health-related concerns. This research investigated the microbiological quality of commercially important smoked fish, Oreochromis niloticus (tilapia) obtained from fish mongers in two popular fish markets, Kalerwe and Busega, Kampala (Uganda). The E. coli and enterococcus counts of the heads, tails and muscles of the fish samples were determined using standard methods. The ranges of the counts of the total E. coli and enterococci were 1.7X103cfu/g–5.19X105 cfu/g, and 9.86X103 cfu/–9.34X104 cfu/g respectively. The samples obtained from Kalerwe market had the highest counts in most samples while those obtained from Busega market had the lowest counts. It is recommended that in order to prevent the spread of organisms that are of public health importance, fish should be processed, stored and distributed under safe hygienic conditions and good sanitary practices.
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    Diversity of cultural methods used by farmers to control tomato pests and diseases, case study of Budondo sub-county in Jinja District.
    (Makerere University., 2021-05-18) Kityo, Daniel
    Production of tomatoes in Budondo sub-county is heavily affected by pests and diseases that makes it lose value and from which many farmers depend on use of synthetic pesticides as best strategy for pest control. This study was carried out in order to identify the tomato varieties grown by farmers from Budondo sub-county, pests and diseases that affect tomato production, cultural methods used by farmers to control tomato pests and diseases and assessment of damage caused by pests on tomatoes. Data was collected using questionnaires from 32 randomly selected respondents equally distributed in the sub-county. Samples of pests affecting tomatoes were collected from gardens either by forceps or hand picking for later identification. Tomato gardens were visited to assess the level of pest damage based on a damage rating scale. Some diseases were identified by relating with similar photographs on diseased plants in journal “Field guide to non – chemical pest management in tomato production”. The data collected was recorded, entered into computer excel spread sheet and later presented in tables and graphs. It was concluded from this study that tomato is the main cash crop grown in the sub-county and very many tomato varieties are planted. Amongst all varieties, cal J was the most common tomato variety grown while hybrid 614 was the least grown tomato variety. The common identified pests and diseases were tomato horn worms, Manduca quinquemaculata with percentage frequency 70% and late blight, Phytophora infestan 73% respectively. It was also identified that tomato pests white flies, Bemisia tabaci and cut worms, Agrotis spp had highest severity that all others. There was a high diversity of cultural methods used by farmers to control tomato pests and diseases. Of all methods used, mulching with 86% was the most predominantly method used while intercropping with 13% was the least used. It was recommended that; Further studies be conducted to find out the efficacy of different cultural methods on controlling a specific tomato pest or disease in Budondo sub-county. More research be carried out to compare the severity of damage caused by a particular pest or disease on different tomato varieties when no cultural control is applied. Further studies be carried out to compare the efficacy of cultural control methods with chemical control strategies in the prevention of particular tomato pest or disease. Much sensitization be carried out on farmers
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    Biocontrol potential of Azolla pinnata for culex quinquefasciatus management in Uganda
    (Makerere University, 2022-01-07) Dhikusoka, Simon
    Background: Culex quinquefasciatus is a major vector for lymphatic filariasis (LF), a disease of great public health importance in Uganda. However, there is limited evidence on the biocontrol methods for Culex quinquefasciatus management in Uganda. This current study therefore, is aimed at assessing one of the potential biocontrol methods for Culex quinquefasciatus management in Uganda of which “the biocontrol potential of Azolla pinnata for Culex quinquefasciatus management in Uganda” is a prospective candidate Methods: The study was conducted from Makerere university lower invertebrate laboratory in February 2021. Four, one-litre plastic tanks were added with varying concentrations of Azolla pinnata in the following order, T1 (10 g in 500 ml), T2 (20 g in 500 ml), T3 (30 g in 500 ml), T4 (0 g in 500 ml), then 100 larvae at their second instar were introduced into each tank. The larvae were fed on fish feed and cat feed. Daily changes in pH, DOC, and number of larvae that emerge into adults in all water tanks were monitored. The concentration of Azolla pinnata was categorized as low (10 g), moderate (20 g,) high (30 g), and no Azolla (0 g). Percentage of larvae that emerged into adults were categorized as very low (<45%), moderate (≤55%), and very high (≥80%). Results: The results suggest that, number of larvae that emerged into adults greatly reduced with increasing concentration of Azolla pinnata (g/500 ml of water), that is to say, T1 (74 %), T2 (54 %) T3 (43 %). In addition, the effect of increasing Azolla pinnata infestation was: decreasing pH of infested water, (P< 0.05), (ii) increasing dissolved oxygen content (DOC) of water, (p˂ 0.05), and (iii) decreasing number of larvae that emerged into adults, (p˂ 0.05). Conclusion: These results suggest that high concentrations of fresh Azolla pinnata increases Culex quinquefasciatus larval mortality by reducing the pH of the infested water. Keywords: Culex quinquefasciatus, Azolla pinnata
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    Antibacterial potential of Alibizia coriaria (Welw. ex Oliver) and Vernonia amygdalina (Del.) as alternative remedies in the treatment of common hospital associated infections
    (Makerere University, 2022-03-24) Okiror, Emmanuel
    Background: Presently, it is necessary to discover new and efficient antimicrobial drugs because of increasing drug resistant organisms. Using medicinal plants for natural treatment of diseases caused by bacterial origin has mainly been considered. In this study, Albizia coriaria and Vernonia amygdalina were investigated for their antimicrobial potential in the treatment against selected hospital associated Infectious bacteria. The plants were selected on the basis of their widespread use in traditional herbal medicine. Methods: In this laboratory based experimental study, the fresh leaves and stem barks were randomly collected from the plants of A. coriaria and V. amygdalina in April 2021 in Kasana- Mukono District. Extraction of the plant material was done with methanol and water. The antibacterial activity of each plant extract against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus was determined by agar well diffusion method followed by incubation at 37ºC for 24hrs and then the zones of inhibition diameters measured with the aid of a ruler in millimeters (mm) and the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) determined using the agar dilution method. Data were analyzed using R statistical package 3.1.1. All the results will be expressed as Means ± SEM (standard error of mean). Results: The antibacterial screening carried out in this study indicated that both A. coriaria and V. amygdalina have potential antimicrobial activity (Table 4.1.1). The best antibacterial activity was observed in methanol extract of A. coriaria bark (zone of inhibition (zoi) 19.00mm & 22.67mm) followed by the methanol extract of V. amygdalina leaves with zone of inhibition 16.00mm and 19.00mm against E. coli and S. aureus respectively. The means of the zones of inhibition had a significant difference at P≤ 0.05 (Table 4.1.1). Furthermore, A. coriaria bark and V. amygdalina leaves showed low MICs for both aqueous and methanol extracts against E. coli. Conclusion: The results of this study justify the use of these plants in traditional medicine and indicate a promising potential for the development of more effective alternative remedies that will curtail the current problem of antibiotic resistance. Therefore communities need to be sensitized on the safe use of these medicinal plants and their conservation should be given a priority. Key words: Albizia coriaria, Vernonia amygdalina, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus.
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    Perceptions and practices for preventing malaria among expectant mothers attending Bubalya Health Centre III in Butaleja District
    (Makerere University, 2022-04) Wafula, Desmas
    The study was a descriptive cross-section study with the aim of assessing the perceptions and practices regarding malaria prevention during pregnancy in Bubalya Subcounty, Butaleja district and explore ways to scale-up malaria prevention interventions. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire targeting expectant mothers that sought for antenatal care from Bubalya health centre (III), located in Bubalya sub-county-Butaleja district in eastern Uganda. A questionnaire was used to gain insight into a respondent‟s knowledge, attitudes and practices towards malaria. Majority of the respondents (45.35%) were married and (52.33%) of the respondents were unemployed. The majority of the respondents had no formal education (32.56 %). Majority, 82 (95.35 %), of the respondents reported to have suffered from malaria before while majority of the respondents, 84 (95.35%), Knew or heard of the symptoms of malaria. Sources of information varied amongst pregnant women with Health centre as the main source (43.02 %). Majority of the respondents (68.60 %) reported to have ever selfmedicated. Only 45.35 % of the respondents made any attempt to take herbal medicine while 74.42 % knew what anti-malarial to take while pregnant. Majority of the respondents, 95.35 %, 91.86 %, and 76.74 %, knew what antenatal care was, its benefits and first course of action to be taken if she had fever respectively. The highest percentage (26.74 %) of respondents knew that everyone in the house should sleep under a mosquito treated bed net. The results showed that there is still a disconnection between what pregnant women know about malaria, its negative effects especially towards the unborn child and health-seeking behaviour for treatment. Public education is necessary to address the few but highly negativeimpact knowledge gaps highlighted by the study. For example, some pregnant women thought that they can never fall sick from malaria since they have blood group O.
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    The role of adult and community education in improving the livelihoods of young mothers. a case study of Jese Uganda.
    (Makerere University, 2022-11) Karungi, Proscovia
    With the challenges presented by the global pandemic, Covid 19, which resulted into lockdown including closure of schools, such resulted into teenage pregnancies since many school going girl children dropped out of school. The Covid 19 situation was worsened by the social-cultural stereotypes of some of the parents not believing in the girl child education. Also, the prevalent high levels of poverty among the population worsened the situation since families could not support themselves to achieve better livelihoods. Consequently, young girls succumbed to early and unwanted pregnancies and have been forced out of their homes, married early yet their disparities like poverty have not been addressed. However, programs to cope up and manage with their situations have been put in place. Therefore, this research aimed at establishing how JESE Uganda with the skill-up program helped young mothers to improve their lives. The study was conducted in Kibiito Town Council, Bunyangabu District, Western Uganda where the program implementers, trainers of skills and the trainees were interviewed. The study used Qualitative data collection tools like in-depth interview guide, key informant guide and purposive interviews. Two program implementers, five trainers and ten trainees were interviewed from different training centres. The study found out that tailoring and hair dressing were the skills done by young mothers including soft skills like entrepreneurship, health and nutrition and sanitation. The challenges faced were: delays in the delivery of training materials, shortage of equipment, few trainers, late coming and absenteeism of trainees, lack of start -up capital, registration fee that was unaffordable, limited space and negative attitudes/values of some trainers. The key recommendations were: provision of adequate funding to help learners that are unable to pay initial fees to access the training and for those graduating to be helped to get employed; also, for the trainers to integrate methods so as to optimise the learning among the trainees; and for the organisation to always make prior community engagements to create awareness and mobilise sensitise more vulnerable young mothers to be helped through the training program.