School of Forestry, Environmental and Geographical Sciences (SFEGS) Collection

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https://dissertations.mak.ac.ug/handle/20.500.12281/6449

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    Influence of airline marketing on Uganda as a tourist destination
    (Makerere University, 2024) Nakaayi, Mary Immaculate
    This study investigates the influence of airline marketing strategies on Uganda’s appeal as a tourist destination. Conducted at Entebbe International Airport Uganda’s primary gateway, this research employs a survey design to capture a comprehensive overview of current marketing practices and their effects on the tourism industry. A stratified random sampling method was utilized to ensure diverse representation across different demographics. Data collection involved semi-structured questionnaires that I administered at the airport, allowing for the acquisition of qualitative insights into tourists' experiences and perceptions. The findings reveal a diverse demographic among respondents and highlight the significant impact of airline marketing initiatives on tourists’ decision-making processes. Key marketing strategies, particularly discounts and promotions, were identified as influential factors in shaping perceptions of Uganda's accessibility and attractiveness. Statistical analysis, conducted using SPSS, illustrates a strong correlation between effective marketing tactics and tourist interest in Uganda, with 56% of respondents acknowledging the influence of airline marketing on their travel decisions. The study concludes that strategic airline marketing plays a crucial role in enhancing Uganda's global appeal as a tourist destination. Recommendations are made for airlines and tourism stakeholders to leverage social media and enhance price competitiveness to attract a broader audience.
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    Effect of harvest age on the charcoal quality of selected Bamboo species commonly grown in Uganda
    (Makerere University, 2024) Lusiba, Gaudino
    Uganda's increasing reliance on traditional biomass for energy especially fuel wood and charcoal burning is amount enormous pressure on the already diminishing wood resources. Bamboo, a rapidly growing and versatile species, and presents a promising alternative for fuel supply instead of hardwood. However, not much information is available on the performance of bamboo as a fuel wood species. Therefore, this study investigates the effect of bamboo age on charcoal quality, providing valuable insights for sustainable energy production. This study focused on charcoal made from two bamboo species commonly grown in Uganda that is to say; Dendrocalamus asper and Oxytenanthra abyssinica carbonized using a retort kiln. The following parameters were studied on the resultant charcoal produced from bamboo at different ages; calorific value, ash content, and porosity. The findings showed notable differences between the species: Dendrocalamus asper showed better thermal efficiency (67.3%) and lower specific fuel consumption (20.3%), whereas Oxynathra abyssinica yielded more charcoal about 27.8% but had a lower calorific value (25.721MJ/Kg). Age had a moderate impact on the physicochemical characteristics and charcoal yield; Oxynathra abyssinica, for example, exhibited reduced water absorption (56.8%) and increased density with age. this study conclusion show that, Dendrocalamus asper exhibits better thermal efficiency and lower specific fuel consumption (SFC), making it suitable for fuel applications requiring energy efficiency, while Oxytenathera abyssinica yields more charcoal and has a higher calorific value, making it ideal for large-scale production. Harvesting age did not significantly affect yield or physio-chemical characteristics. It is advised to prioritize Oxytenathera abyssinica for increased output, make investments in cutting-edge carbonization technology, and do additional study to better understand sustainability. Government subsidies for the manufacturing of bamboo charcoal and laws supporting environmentally friendly carbonization processes and sustainable harvesting practices are examples of proposed policies.
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    Contribution and attitude of local people towards the status and conservation of Tooro Botanical Gardens, Fortportal City, Western Uganda
    (Makerere University, 2024) Ainganiza, Daizy
    This study was carried out to assess the contribution and attitude of local people towards the status and conservation of Tooro Botanical Gardens Fort Portal City (TBG), Western Uganda, focusing on their attitudes, contributions, and the challenges they face. The objectives were to; assess the threats to TBG and the attitudes of local people towards TBG, document the plant species and their conservation status, and assess the challenges faced by local people as they participate in the conservation and management of TBG. A sample size of 60 respondents was obtained using simple random sampling techniques. Data were collected using a questionnaire, direct observation checklist, interview guide, and botanical book and analyzed in SPSS. A slight majority of respondents (51.7% male and 48.3% female) demonstrated positive attitudes toward the gardens, with 33.3% rating their attitude as "very good" and 28.3% as "excellent." However, a significant portion of the community (46.7%) was not fully familiar with the activities conducted at TBG, highlighting a need for greater outreach. The survey revealed that while a significant proportion of the community holds positive attitudes towards TBG, issues such as resource theft (30.0%) and land encroachment (21.7%) are major challenges that threaten the garden's sustainability. respondents highlighted various threats to TBG, such as urban development (13.3%) and climate change (8.3%), reflecting broader environmental concerns that could impact the gardens' long-term sustainability. Despite these challenges, a significant proportion of the community (42.0%) supported the idea of private ownership and management of TBG, citing potential benefits such as enhanced community pride and identity. The study also identified various plant species within TBG, categorizing them by their conservation status, with some species marked as endangered or vulnerable. Despite a general awareness of the gardens’ importance, gaps in community engagement and knowledge were evident, particularly among those less familiar with TBG activities. Respondents suggested several measures to enhance conservation efforts, including awareness campaigns, workshops, and increased community involvement. The study recommends addressing financial constraints, improving security, fostering community participation, and implementing adaptive management strategies to mitigate threats such as climate change and urban development. The long-term preservation of TBG requires coordinated efforts between gardens' management and the local community, emphasizing the importance of these interventions.
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    The impact of temperature and rainfall variability on coffee production: a case study of Zombo District, North Western part of Uganda
    (Makerere University, 2022) Jaker, Daniel
    Worldwide, climate change and variability have been raising concerns about potential changes to crop yields and production systems. The study focuses on the impacts of climate variability on coffee production in Zombo district, North western part of Uganda. Specifically, this study is aimed at determining how temperature and rainfall affects coffee production. The study utilized secondary data for rainfall and temperature all obtained from Uganda National Meteorological Authority for a period of 30 years. Secondary data for coffee production was also obtained from the office of the District Agricultural Officer, Zombo district for the period from 2010-2020. Temperature and rainfall series were analyzed for fluctuation using time series and trend analysis on temperature and rainfall was performed using the Mann-Kendell test. Correlation analysis was used to establish the relationship between temperature and rainfall with coffee production. The study found out that in the area of study (p-value > alpha 0.05) had insignificant trends in annual maximum temperature. It was also found that the area (p-value < alpha 0.05) had significant trends in rainfall. According to the results of the study, it was established that there was a positive relationship between coffee production and temperature and rainfall during the study period but was insignificant because (p > 0.05), this therefore led to the partial rejection of the null hypothesis and that there was a relationship between rainfall and temperature variations with coffee production in Zombo. Trends of coffee production over the period 2010-2020 showed that coffee production increased linearly.
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    Assessment of climate variability and milk prices among small holder farmers in Kiruhura District
    (Makerere University, 2023) Arishaba, Urban
    In spite of the global campaign to mitigate climate change, it remains one of the most pressing wicked problems. Climate change variations indicators significantly affects agriculture production and yields. Agriculture yield production which is often affected by climate variability has been shown to influence agriculture price products. This study was set out to assess the effect of local rainfall and temperature variations on milk prices in Kiruhura district. The two specific objectives of the study were (i) to describe the trends in cow milk prices, rainfall and temperature and (ii) establish the relationship between rainfall, temperature and cow milk prices. The results of the study revealed an increasing trend (0.1225x) in the mean average rainfall generally, decreasing trends (-0.0649x) in the temperature, and an increasing trend (35.742x) in the cow milk prices over the years (2010-2020). Further, the study showed a significant positive relationship between rainfall variations and the cow milk prices (r= 0.773, p-value=0.005) and a significant negative relationship between temperature variations and the cow milk prices (r= -0.790 p-value=0.005). The study recommends a need to establish meteorological stations at district local level well equipped with a good number of weather instruments to record not only rainfall as it is the case in the area, but also other weather elements such as temperature, humidity, and wind speed among others which are other climatic components that affect livestock, milk production, and milk prices in the area.