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Semantic categories of proper names in Runyankore/Rukiga and English: A Comparative study
No full textThe study focused on personal nomenclature in Banyankore/Bakiga and British societies. The major concern of the study was: to establish semantic similarities and differences between Runyankore/Rukiga and English personal names by categories, to establish the meaning of names in the Runyankore/Rukiga surname corpus, to examine the meaning of names in the British surname corpus, and to examine the factors that influence the creation of personal names among the Banyankore/Bakiga and the English. This study sought to cause an appreciation of locally birthed names and the traditional naming culture and the need for its maintenance. The research was conducted using a qualitative approach. The data was collected from both primary secondary sources. In the case of Runyankore and Rukiga names, the researcher used an interview guide and read the existing literature and manually analysed and interpreted the data got. The researcher collected one thousand names: 500 English anthroponyms and 500 Runyankore/Rukiga and anthroponyms and categorised them according to their meanings into seventeen (17) semantic groups. It was discovered that there are similarities and differences between Banyankore/Bakiga and English personal nomenclatures. The two societies share eleven (11) categories of names: anthroponyms related to place, occupation, description of physical and behavioral traits, affective features, war, insects, birds, animals, plants, ethnicity and theophoric content. The Banyankore/Bakiga, however, have six (6) categories that the English do not have: anthroponyms related to suffering, circumstances surrounding the child’s birth, death, optimism, wealth and birth order. The two societies have factors influencing the creation of these names and the name giver’s life experiences play a big role in the creation of a name
Experimental and analytical study of lightweight foamed concrete reinforced with sugarcane bagasse fiber
No full textGrowing environmental concerns have intensified research into sustainable construction materials, such as natural fiber-reinforced concrete. Among these, lightweight foamed concrete (LFC) stands out for its reduced material consumption, improved thermal insulation, and lower environmental footprint. The integration of natural fibers, such as sugarcane bagasse fiber (SBF), into LFC has the potential to further enhance its performance. This study investigates the influence of varying SBF weight fractions (0%, 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, and 5%) on the physical, mechanical, and durability properties of LFC with a target density of 1000 kg/m3. The primary objective was to determine the optimal SBF content for achieving superior material characteristics. Experimental results revealed that the inclusion of 4% SBF provided the best overall performance, improving compressive strength by 53%, increasing ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV) by 17%, and reducing drying shrinkage by 58% compared to the control mix. Additionally, slump flow decreased progressively with higher fiber content, indicating enhanced cohesion. Water absorption and porosity were significantly reduced with increasing SBF, with the 5% mix showing up to a 19% decrease in water absorption. Thermal conductivity also declined slightly, suggesting improved insulation properties. Microstructural analysis confirmed better fiber-matrix bonding at the optimal fiber content, contributing to the observed improvements in performance. This study offers valuable insights into the mechanical, thermal, and durability characteristics of LFC-SBF composites, highlighting their potential as sustainable construction materials
Utilizing Teacher Education and Curriculum Guidance Materials for Effective Pedagogy in Sub-Saharan Africa
No full textThe quest for effective teaching methodologies remains a global concern, particularly for developing nations striving to optimize learning outcomes. While much of the existing research focuses on factors such as curriculum design and teacher professionalism, less attention has been paid to how curriculum materials and structured teacher training influence pedagogical effectiveness in sub-Saharan Africa. The paper draws on both Schiro’s Social Efficiency Curriculum theory and Siemens' Connectivist theory as theoretical lenses to investigate how teacher education and curriculum guidance materials can enhance effective pedagogical practices in the region and prepare learners for societal roles. The study analyzed peer-reviewed articles and grey literature, using a systematic literature review and textual narrative synthesis methodology. Findings reveal that effective pedagogy in developing contexts depends not only on what teachers know, but also on how they are trained; the instructional support available through curriculum guidance materials, learning through networks and connections, knowledge sharing, materials that promote reflective teaching, inclusive education, and alignment with local realities. It concludes by recommending policy actions to enhance teacher training and effective pedagogy, including the integration of culturally responsive pedagogy, the promotion of experiential and project-based learning, and the implementation of continuous curriculum evaluation
Fruits and Vegetables Used in Treating Respiratory and Other Troubles in Africa: Ethnopharmacology and Phytochemistry
No full textRespiratory troubles, which encompass conditions such as cough, asthma, tuberculosis, bronchitis, common cold, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, pose significant health challenges globally. This chapter explores the diverse array of biologically active agents (BAA) found in vegetables and fruit plants used not only as sources of food but also for treatment of respiratory troubles in Africa. A total of 38 vegetables and fruit plants from 22 families were encountered. The plants are sources of antimicrobials that help the lungs to resist infection as well as boost the immunity of the host; expectorants which stimulate the coughing up of mucus; anti-inflammatory agents and demulcents which soothe irritated membranes, while others are spasmolytic which relax the bronchial muscles. The BAA include allicin from garlic, quercetin from onions, theobromine from cacao, and anethole from fennel. BAA, such as bromelain in pineapple, beta-carotene in carrots, vitamin C in lemon, and glucosinolates in radish, play pivotal roles in mucolytic activities and enhancement of immune function as well as repair of the bronchial membrane. Some of the vegetables/fruits are a source of mineral salts that are vital to the integrity and functioning of lungs. Thus, Cleome gynandra contains selenium, a key component that inhibits HIV-associated tuberculosis. The available research evidence underscores the importance of integrating the BAA into human daily diets as a prophylactic approach and therapeutic strategy against respiratory troubles
Mechanical and microscale characterization of foamed concrete with Tianqi aluminosilicate binder
No full textPersistent research work has aided the development of supplementary cementitious materials, contributing to both sustainable development and mitigating environmental impacts. This study utilized Tianqi aluminosilicate (TAS) as partial replacement for Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) in foamed concrete (FC) mix. The mechanical, transport, and microstructural characteristics of the concrete were explored. The formed concrete mixes were developed by varying TAS from 0 to 40%, in steps of 10% for OPC to identify optimal performance. The mechanical characteristics (compressive, flexural, splitting tensile, and elastic modulus) improved by 18–25% over control and peaked at 20% TAS. At 20% TAS substitution, the transport properties (water absorption and permeability) improved significantly, which corresponds to 35% and 28%, reduction, respectively. SEM analysis revealed that TAS refined pore structure, yielding a denser matrix with homogeneous hydration product distribution. The result revealed foam stability and uniformity in mixes containing TAS, and an improvement in mechanical and durability of the concrete. Filler effect and pozzolanic activities of TAS were identified as two key factors responsible for the observed results. There was pore refinement improved secondary hydration in the concrete matrix. The results show that 20% TAS substitution improves strength and durability while lowering OPC use and striking the ideal performance balance. From the results, TAS proved to be a sustainable supplementary cementitious material aiding the durability of the mixes. This work advances eco-friendly construction practices by demonstrating TAS’s viability in high-performance FC applications
Self-competence and preparedness in implementing the Parish Development Model in Uganda: Voices of Parish Chiefs and Community Development Officers
No full textTo increase household incomes and improve the quality of life, the government of Uganda introduced the Parish Development Model (PDM)—a ―whole-of-government‖ approach aiming to transition communities from subsistence to market economies. This study examines the self-competence and preparedness of Parish Chiefs in implementing the PDM in Uganda’s rural districts of Kabale and Rubanda. Findings from qualitative analysis of semi-structured interviews with Parish Chiefs and Community Development Officers (CDOs), alongside documentary reviews, reveal critical gaps in technical knowledge, logistical support, governance structures, and collaboration mechanisms. Despite commitment to community mobilisation, many Parish Chiefs face inadequate training, limited facilitation, and weak reporting structures. The study concludes that equipping local implementers with multi-sectoral skills is pivotal to the success of PDM. This research contributes to SDGs 1 (No Poverty), 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions), and offers insights into local-level policy implementation in Africa’s rural context
Financial Management Practices and Performance of Private Universities in Uganda.
No full textThe purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of financial management practices on the performance of private universities in Uganda. It sought to unravel the hidden mysteries of how these practices shape the financial destiny of these institutions. This study introduces an interesting contemporary development in the evaluation of university performance, placing greater emphasis on the quality of education and the financial sustainability of private universities, with financial management practices acting as the predictor variable. Efforts were made to assess whether internationally accepted financial accounting and management practices, such as financial accountability, budgeting, internal financial controls, and working capital management, have enhanced the resource base of private universities, thereby ensuring better performance in terms of guaranteeing financial sustainability and education quality. This includes the provision of modern learning infrastructure, the employment of qualified and competent staff, and the promotion of research leading to cutting-edge innovations. To achieve the research objective, the study draws on the interdisciplinary theories of Agency and Stakeholders as its theoretical foundations. The study adopts a post-positivist approach, which advocates for an explanatory sequential mixed-methods approach. This approach employs a descriptive, analytical, and cross-sectional research design. The study surveyed a population of 280, with a sample of 162 respondents providing the quantitative data, while 16 key informants participated in the qualitative survey. Quantitative data was gathered using a questionnaire survey method, while semi-structured interviews were employed to collect qualitative data. The research team analyzed the quantitative data using structural equation modeling (SEM) to examine and validate the developed research model. SEM was also used to evaluate and refine the model's causal and effect aspects. The qualitative data underwent theory-driven content analysis. The findings from the study's quantitative and qualitative strands were triangulated during the discussion stage.
The study's findings revealed that effective financial management practices impact the performance of private universities by 57%. Specifically, financial accountability had a positive and statistically significant effect on performance (β = 0.411, P<0.01), while financial controls also had a positive and significant effect on university performance (β = 0.130, p < .01). Working capital management showed a positive and significant effect on university performance (β = 0.407, P < 0.05). Budgeting, however, had a positive but statistically insignificant effect on university performance (β = 0.006, p > 0.01). Nonetheless, some private universities did not effectively implement financial management practices, which contributed to the persistence of poor performance in these institutions in Uganda. The study recommends that universities establish governance structures that promote collaboration between institutional leaders and proprietors and develop key performance indicators that link both financial management practices and overall university performance. Private universities should also explore opportunities for networking and strategic partnerships with other universities and agencies, particularly for research and projects, rather than competing and duplicating efforts, which depletes their resources. The thesis contributes to theory by developing a Habaasa model for evaluating the performance of private universities in Ugand
Issue 9 (July 2024 – June 2025)
No full textThis issue of the Kabale University Newsletter highlights major academic, administrative, and community engagement milestones achieved by Kabale University between July 2024 and June 2025. It documents leadership transitions, research breakthroughs, innovations, and institutional collaborations that reflect the university’s strategic growth and national impact. Key features include the appointment of Prof. Joy C. Kwesiga as Chairperson of the National Council for Higher Education, a tribute to the legacy of the 1st Chancellor Prof. George Mondo Kagonyera, and the induction of the 3rd University Governing Council. The issue also showcases initiatives such as the launch of the Rukungiri Campus, participation in international academic mobility under Erasmus+, medical training outreach programs, and partnerships with FAWE and Mastercard Foundation to promote STEM education. Collectively, these stories emphasize Kabale University’s vision of fostering research, innovation, and inclusive education under the motto “Knowledge is the Future.
Corporate Governance and Financial Performance of Savings and Credit Cooperative Societies in Uganda. A Case of Kiruhura District
No full textCorporate governance has garnered significant global attention over the years, with matters of effective corporate governance becoming subject matter for public and academic discourse. This study has taken an interest in investigating the relationship between corporate governance and financial performance in SACCOs in Kiruhura District, Uganda. The study investigated the moderating role of government policies on the relationship between corporate governance and financial performance. The research was molded in an integrative framework on mixed theories of agency and stewardship. To investigate the number of hypotheses, the researchers set up a positivist paradigm and chose a cross-sectional design. Through purposive sampling, 35 SACCOs were chosen from Kiruhura district. Data analysis was done using descriptive statistics by SPSS version 25.0 for procedures concerning the initial assessment through multicollinearity check, calculation of mean and standard deviation, and checking management of outliers and missing values. The following SEM using Jaffrey’s Amazing Statistical Program (JASP) version 0.17.2.0 was then applied to investigating the relationship amongst the variables in the conceptual model. The significance of corporate governance on financial performance in SACCOs in Kiruhura district was statistically proven beyond p < 0.05. The finding further points out that government policies are the mediation construct between corporate governance and financial performance. This study takes the findings that justify theories of SACCOs' financial performance. It underscored that equitably corporate governance etched in the SACCO is as a key facilitator of better financial performances. Subsequent research is anticipated to examine longitudinal designs, qualitative methodologies, and international comparisons to address the identified gaps and limitations. In creating a circle of agency theories, the amount in which corporate governance positively affects the financial performance of SACCOs is now empirically found; at the same time, government policies moderate between them. The study also highlights that empirical evidence is applied to cross-sectional design working within a positivist framework, indicating variables in constructing the linkage. The study recommends that the managers of SACCOs focus significantly on the corporate governance practices and in ensuring adherence to corporate governance principles to better the decision-making and performance of the firms. Result of the study shows that government policies moderate the relationship between corporate governance and financial performance of SACCOs. Corporate governance influences the financial performance of SACCOs while this effect is moderated by government policies. Managerial implications for this study may entail an improvement in the general standards of transparency, stakeholder communication, and accountability toward all stakeholders
Participatory Budgeting and Financial Sustainability in the Local Governments in Uganda: A Case Study of Kabale District Local Government
No full textThis study examined the effect of participatory budgeting on financial sustainability in Kabale District Local Government, Uganda. The research objectives were to examine the influence of budget formulation on financial sustainability, analyze the effect of budget approval on financial sustainability, assess the influence of budget implementation on financial sustainability, and ascertain the effect of participatory budgeting onfinancial stability when mediated by government policies. The study adopted a cross-sectional research design using Kabale Districtas a case study. A population of 3600 was targeted from which a samplesize of 360 respondents was selected using purposivesampling and conveniencesampling. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation, and regression analysis. The study found a significant positive relationship betweenparticipatory budgeting practicesand financial sustainability. The studyfurther found that budget formulation plays a critical role in enhancing financial sustainability. Budget formulation and implementation had the strongest influence on financial sustainability. Genderhad no significant moderating effect onthe relationship between participatory budgeting and financial sustainability. The study concluded that participatory budgeting enhances financial sustainability in local governments. The study recommends strengthening citizen engagement in all budget phases, enhancing transparency in budget processes, and gender exclusivity to support participatory budgeting initiatives for improved financial sustainability in local governments