Kabale University Digital Repository (KAB-DR)
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Internal Control Systems And Cash Flow Management In Commercial Banks In Rwanda.
No full textThe study aimed to explore whether internal control practices, such as the control environment, control activities, and risk assessment, can address cash flow management challenges at the Bank of Kigali branches in Gasabo District. A cross-sectional survey design was utilized to collect data from Bank of Kigali branches in Gasabo District and Descriptive statistics was used to present the characteristics of the bank's internal control systems as well as cash flow management indicators. A correlational research methodology was employed to describe and measure the degree of association between internal control systems and cash flow management practices. The analysis of the correlation between cash flow management practices and control activities reveals a robust and statistically significant positive relationship. The significant positive impact of risk assessment, as indicated by its unstandardized coefficient of 0.597 and standardized coefficient (Beta) of 0.491, underscores the importance of robust risk assessment procedures. Keywords: Internal Control Systems, Cash Flow Management, Commercial Banks, Rwanda
Industrial Monitoring System with Real-time Alerts and Automated Protection Mechanisms
No full textThis work presents the design and prototyping of an Industrial Monitoring and Protection System aimed at enhancing safety and operational efficiency in industrial environments. The system integrates multiple sensors with a GSM module to monitor and respond to critical environmental parameters, such as ambient light levels, temperature, and smoke detection. A Light Dependent Resistor (LDR) is configured to detect excessive lighting levels, interfacing with a microcontroller to activate the GSM module and send alert messages when thresholds are exceeded. The temperature sensor continuously monitors ambient temperature, and upon detecting overheating, the microcontroller triggers the GSM module to notify operators. Similarly, a smoke sensor detects the presence of harmful smoke and initiates an alert through the GSM module for early fire hazard detection. These sensors are connected to the microcontroller via analog and digital input pins, with their outputs processed to enable condition-based responses. A relay switch, controlled by the microcontroller, automatically disconnects connected loads when safety thresholds are breached, preventing equipment damage and ensuring personnel safety. Real-time sensor readings and system status are displayed on an OLED screen, providing operators with comprehensive, up-to-date information on the monitored environment. The system dynamically responds to environmental conditions by triggering alerts and actions based on customizable safety thresholds for light intensity, temperature, and smoke levels. This integrated architecture ensures seamless communication between sensors, the microcontroller, and the GSM module, delivering real-time monitoring, automated protective mechanisms, and early warning capabilities. The proposed system demonstrates the feasibility of affordable and scalable solutions for industrial safety, offering immediate responses to hazardous conditions while minimizing downtime. Furthermore, its adaptable design allows for customization across different industrial environments, making it suitable for a wide range of applications
The effects of financial distress on financial performance: An empirical analysis of SMEs in Sheema, Buhweju, Rubirizi, and Bushenyi districts
No full textThis study investigated the impact of financial distress on the performance of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Sheema, Buhweju, Rubirizi, and Bushenyi Districts, Uganda. Specifically, it examined the effects of excessive debt, inadequate capital, poor management practices, unwise expansion, intense competition, litigation, and unfavorable contracts on SMEs. Financial distress, if left unchecked, can lead to bank failures and severely harm the economy, emphasizing the need for close monitoring. This study aimed to determine the relationship between financial distress and SME performance. A descriptive research design was adopted, involving in-depth analysis of data collected from 180 respondents across the four districts. The findings revealed a significant negative correlation between financial distress and SME performance. As financial strain increased, financial performance declined, and vice versa. The study recommends that SMEs leverage technology to manage their financial records, ensuring ease of auditing and access to credit. Additionally, SMEs should employ skilled accountants for bookkeeping to enhance the quality of their financial records
Perceived organisational support and organisational citizenship behaviour: Key insights from institutions of higher learning in Kabale District, Uganda
No full textThis study evaluated the relationship between perceived organisational support and organisational citizenship behaviour among higher education institutions in Kabale District. The study was guided by Social Exchange Theory and followed a descriptive cross-sectional survey design targeting a total of 269 staff members, which included top management, administration, and academic and non-academic staff of the three selected institutions of higher learning in Kabale District. Using purposive and simple random sampling techniques, quantitative data was collected from 235 respondents using a structured questionnaire. Data was then analysed quantitatively using descriptive analysis, which entailed frequency and percentages, and tables were used to present the data. At the bivariate level, a Pearson correlation matrix was used to ascertain the relationships between organisational support and organisational citizenship behaviour. The findings revealed that all the constructs of perceived organisational support – fair treatment, career development and rewards and recognition – had a strong and positive correlation to organisational citizenship behaviour among institutions of higher learning in Kabale District, as indicated by (r = .662, p < 0.01), (r = .656, p < 0.01) and (r =.729, p < 0.01), respectively. The study concluded that perceived organisational support had a significant impact on organizational citizenship behaviour. The study recommends that institutions should regularly engage staff through open-door policies, mentorship programmes and feedback mechanisms to promote a culture of support and recognition. Design and implement structured recognition programmes for staff who demonstrate high levels of commitment, innovation, teamwork and voluntary contributions beyond their job roles. Offer staff continuous capacity-building workshops, scholarships for further studies and regular participation in academic conferences and training and Ensure transparency in promotions, task allocation and conflict resolution processes. Promote equity and inclusion across all academic and administrative departments
Quality of Academic Writing Courses in Selected Doctoral Training Programs in Uganda
No full textThis study explores the quality of academic writing courses in enhancing doctoral students’ writing skills in Ugandan public universities. Drawing on Vygotsky's constructivist theory and data collected from four public universities in Uganda, the study reveals gaps in practical academic writing activities, limited collaboration, and a lack of real-world application of academic writing courses. The findings suggest that an overemphasis on theory stifles the development of crucial writing competencies. To address this, the study advocates for more hands-on tasks, flexible learning approaches, and curriculum revisions to better equip students for real-world challenges, ultimately improving doctoral education and outcomes in Uganda
Bamboo stem ash as a sustainable cement replacement in lightweight foam mortar enhancing mechanical thermal and microstructural properties.
No full textThis study presents a novel approach to enhancing the properties of lightweight foam mortar (LFM) by utilizing bamboo stem ash (BSA) as a partial cement replacement. Unlike traditional supplemental cementitious materials (SCMs) like fly ash or silica fume, BSA provides a special blend of lightweight properties and a high silica concentration. Thus, the effect of BSA (in proportions of 0–25% and steps of 5%) on the mortars’ fresh, hardened, microscale properties, such as workability, density, strength, durability, and microstructural characteristics, was explored. At 15% BSA replacement, the compressive strength reached 8.25 MPa at 28 days, 7% higher than the control mix (7.7 MPa). The study identifies 15% BSA as the optimal replacement level, striking a balance between mechanical strength, durability, and thermal insulation. Beyond 15%, increased porosity begins to reduce strength, while thermal resistance continues to improve. Thus, a 10–15% replacement range is recommended for applications requiring structural integrity and insulation. The density of the foam mortar decreased from 1000 kg/m3 for the control mix to 960 kg/m3 at 20% BSA replacement, improving the material’s lightweight characteristics. Also, the porosity increased from 24.8% (control) to 30.2% (25% BSA), positively influencing thermal insulation properties. Thermal conductivity measurements indicated a reduction from 0.25 W/mK (control) to 0.18 W/mK at 25% BSA replacement, demonstrating improved thermal resistance. BSA incorporation improves the pore structure and fosters stronger interfacial bonding within the matrix, especially at 15% replacement, according to microstructural investigation using SEM. The water absorption rate increased slightly from 18.2% (control) to 21.6% (25% BSA), still within reasonable bounds for lightweight construction applications. As demonstrated by the mortars’ notable performance, BSA may effectively replace OPC in LFM, improving its mechanical, thermal, and environmental qualities. With the results, BSA has shown potential for developing eco-friendly building materials and aiding in reducing carbon emissions in the built environment. These results show that BSA can be a green and practical substitute for OPC in lightweight building applications, especially for prefabricated panels, insulation layers, and non-load-bearing walls. Its ability to enhance mechanical strength while reducing thermal conductivity makes it a promising material for energy-efficient and sustainable building solutions
Spatiotemporal variability of surface water quality in tropical agriculture-dominated catchments: insights from water quality indices
No full textSurface water quality in tropical, agriculture-dominated catchments faces intense pressure from human activities, yet comprehensive, index-based assessments for these regions remain limited. This study aimed to use an index-based assessment to examine the spatial and temporal changes in water quality within the Maziba catchment in southwestern Uganda, characterised by increasing land-use pressures. Monthly surface water samples were collected from 16 stations between July 2023 and June 2024 to analyse physicochemical parameters. The study employed the Weighted Arithmetic Water Quality Index (WAWQI) for assessing drinking water suitability, the Comprehensive Pollution Index (CPI) for evaluating aquatic ecosystem health, and a new combined risk framework to deliver an integrated, stakeholder-oriented assessment. WAWQI results ranged from “good” to “unfit for consumption”, with 69% of stations classified as “poor” to “unfit”. CPI indicated “slight pollution” on average. Notably, the integrated risk assessment did not classify any stations as “Low Risk”, while most were classified as “High Risk” (50.0%) or “Severe Risk” (18.8%). Human activities and seasonal changes have a significant impact on water quality deterioration in the Maziba catchment. The simultaneous decline in water suitability for drinking and ecosystem health underscores the need for integrated management strategies that target both diffuse and point-source pollution to protect public health and aquatic ecosystems.Africa-UniNet project P082 (Land Use and Land Cover Change Effects on Water Quality Characteristics of the Maziba Sub-Catchment, Western Uganda)
Moderating role of employee commitment on the relationship between talent management practices and employee performance in public universities in Western Uganda
No full textThe study sought to examine the moderating effect of employee commitment on the relationship between talent management practices and employee performance in public universities in Western Uganda. The study was guided by the Egalitarian Theory of Talent Management, and a cross-sectional research design was adopted in the study. From a population of 1156, a sample size of 320 respondents was obtained in two phases: first, a census was used for the human resource directors and top management since the population was small (12 respondents); then secondly, the Yamane formula was used to calculate the sample size for the university council members and teaching and administrative staff, which yielded a sample of 308 respondents. The purposive sampling technique was used to select the human resource directors and top management, while simple random sampling was used for the council members and teaching and administrative staff. Using structured questionnaires, quantitative data was then collected from the 320 respondents of the two selected public universities (Mbarara University of Science and Technology and Kabale University). Data was then analyzed using structural modeling techniques. The findings revealed that the moderating effect of employee commitment on the relationship between talent management practices and employee performance was not statistically significant for either administrative or academic staff in Ugandan public universities. Specifically, for administrative staff, the interaction effect was not significant (z = -0.268, p = 0.789), although the direct effect of talent management on performance was statistically significant (β = 0.348, z = 2.161, p = 0.031), and the total effect remained strong (β = 0.314, z = 3.684, p < 0.001). This suggests that talent management practices such as attraction, development, retention, and motivation directly improved administrative staff performance, regardless of commitment levels. The study recommended that universities should focus on strengthening talent management initiatives directly, and while fostering employee commitment is important, efforts should prioritize implementing effective attraction, development, motivation, and retention strategies that independently drive performance improvements
Benzophenones from African plants to fight cancers and cancer drug resistance
No full textIn response to the cancer threat, several interventions have been sought including the search for small molecules from natural sources that may arrest cancer at any of its different cycle stages. Such molecules include the benzophenones from fungi or higher plants (Clusiaceae and Guttiferae families). This book chapter will systematically cover the emerging areas in the field of benzophenones and their polyprenylated benzophenone analogs isolated from herbal medicines found in Africa with application in cancer treatment. Initially, benzophenones have been introduced as chemical entities, then an overview of their biosynthesis has been introduced, followed by phytochemical characterization from various tissues in the plant kingdom, and lastly a comprehensive updated study on benzophenones and their prenylated derivatives against various cancer cell lines has been provided
Reimagining habituation: The case for a reciprocal and contextual understanding
No full textAs the frequency and intensity of human–wildlife interactions continue to rise, the process and outcomes of habituation are becoming more important. Commonly defined as ‘…a waning of response to a repeated, neutral stimuli’ or of similar wording, we argue that these conceptualisations of habituation are too simplistic in the context of direct human–wildlife interactions. We argue that much of the habituation literature has been one-sided (i.e. focused only on the nonhuman) and detriment-focused, failing to grasp the deep complexities of the process and its implications.
We conducted a brief scoping review of the habituation literature to show how the term is being used by whom, and in what context. We sought to explore habituation from a broad disciplinary range and therefore included literature from ethology, behavioural ecology and conservation biology as well as disciplines less represented in mainstream conservation such as multispecies anthropology, political ecology and more-than- human geography.
Supported by the scoping review, we illustrate that habituation as an outcome of human–wildlife interactions is (1) a nuanced, reciprocal process that is both understood and practised in diverse ways, with potentially negative and positive impacts for both people and wildlife and (2) is shaped by cultural, historical and political–economic contexts.
We share four case examples based on our own research that justify and reinforce our arguments for reframing our understanding of habituation.
Adopting more reciprocal and contextual conceptualisations of habituation will improve our collective understanding of how it occurs and how to find ways to adapt and coexist. We urge future research to explore these ideas and understandings through different geographical and species contexts and apply additional disciplinary approaches to understanding and managing human–wildlife interactions