EANSO East African Nature and Science Organization Journals
Not a member yet
3828 research outputs found
Sort by
Extractives from Vepris glandulosa Leaf Methanol Extract and Its Antibacterial Activity
Get PDFThe challenges facing currently available antimicrobials such as resistance with no recent significant discoveries are a major health concern in Kenya characterized by prolonged hospitalization, high medical costs, and high annual fatalities. These challenges put great strain on healthcare systems and as such there is emphasis on new drug discoveries to mitigate the predicament. The objective of the study was to determine the antibacterial activity of Vepris glandulosa extracts after careful purification, isolation and structural characterization. In this study, crude methanol extracts were obtained using the cold extraction method. Isolation of compounds was accomplished by repeated column and thin-layer chromatography. One compound was obtained which was subjected to both 1D and 2D NMR spectroscopic analysis and the spectroscopic data obtained was used to propose the structure. The compound had its structure fully elucidated and was confirmed by comparing its NMR spectroscopic data with the literature reported to be Lupeol. Lupeol showed antibacterial activity against selected gram-negative and gram-positive bacteri
Effect of Occupational Health and Safety Best Practices on Employee Performance in Private Companies in Rwanda
Get PDFThe study titled "Effect of Occupational Health and Safety Best Practices on Employee Performance in Rwanda: Case of Sulfo Rwanda" explores the relationship between occupational health and safety (OHS) best practices and employee performance. The research aimed to investigate six key factors: the impact of safety training and awareness, incident reporting and investigation, safe work practices, regular inspections and audits, the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), and overall employee performance. Using an explanatory mixed-methods research design, the study relied on a population sample determined by the Yaman formula and employed a convenience sampling technique. Data was collected through questionnaires, interviews, and document reviews, with descriptive and inferential statistical methods used for analysis. The findings revealed a significant positive relationship between all examined safety practices and employee performance at Sulfo Rwanda. Specifically, safety training and awareness, incident reporting, safe work practices, regular inspections and audits, and the use of PPE all contributed positively to enhancing employee performance. The study concluded that the implementation of robust occupational health and safety practices significantly improves employee performance. Based on the findings, the researcher recommended that Sulfo Rwanda's management establish health and safety committees with qualified staff, conduct regular workplace inspections, and actively involve workers in the inspection process to further improve safety standard
Effect of Legal Actions against People Who do not Pay Their Water Bills on NWSC's Performance
Get PDFThis study examined the impact of legal actions against customers who fail to pay water bills on the performance of the National Water and Sewerage Corporation (NWSC) in Uganda. Using a mixed-methods approach that included both qualitative and quantitative data, the research assessed the relationship between legal enforcement measures and revenue collection. The findings indicated that a significant percentage of customers (76%) do not understand the water bill payment regulatory law, contributing to revenue loss. Although 62.4% of customers believe that NWSC strictly applies the regulations to enforce payment, over 62.5% admitted that the corporation rarely takes clients to court for non-payment. Grounded in deterrence theory, the study posits that legal penalties can effectively deter non-compliance, enhancing financial sustainability. It highlights the importance of a strong legal framework to ensure timely payments, particularly in the context of increasing urbanization that strains resources. Recommendations include implementing comprehensive awareness programs about billing regulations and strengthening legal processes for debt recovery. The insights from this research aim to improve financial performance and ensure sustainable water service delivery in Ugand
Eradicating Poverty Among the Ugandan Youths: An Evaluation of the Youth Livelihood Programme’s Contribution to Achieving MDG 1 and SDG 1
Get PDFThe Millennium Development Goal (MDG) No 1 sought to eradicate extreme poverty, and Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) No 1 as adopted by the United Nations General Assembly Resolution A/RES/70/1 seeks to End poverty in all its forms everywhere. Uganda as a participating member of the United Nations General Assembly, is obligated to join the united global fight against poverty stipulated in the resolutions laying out the MDGs and SDGs. In 2014, the Ugandan government launched the Youth Livelihood Programme (YLP) to aid in the fight to end poverty, targeting the largest segment of her population, the youths, in line with Goal 1 in the MDGs and subsequent SDGs. In this study, we: sought to determine the anti-poverty targets in Goal 1 of the MDGs and SDGs; and, scrutinise the Youth Livelihood Programme within the framework targets to eradicate poverty in Goal 1 of the MDGs and SDGs. We used qualitative research which was guided by the critical theory paradigm to analyse the Youth Livelihood Programme with a view to determine if it was a suitable tool in the fight against poverty. We adopted an explanatory research design focusing on the YLP in Uganda as a case study. The findings show that the Youth Livelihood Programme has recorded some success by benefiting 263,897 youths and creating over 1,250,000 indirect jobs (UGANDA-MoFPED, 2024). It is also clear that the YLP has only benefited 3.4% of the Ugandan youth population and the revolving fund is slowly getting depleted due to poor loan recovery rates from the youth groups that borrowed from the YLP fund. Based on the findings of this study, we recommend that the YLP fund can be saved by hiring competent loan recovery managers. The program could be boosted by allocating free land to the YLP beneficiaries. The government ought to increase resource mobilisation and allocation for the YLP and formulate YLP-supportive policies in the agriculture, trade and banking sectors. The recommendations will lead to greater success of the YLP and enable Uganda to fulfil its commitment to Goal 1 within the MDGs and the Successor SDG
Indigenous Food Production Practices Vis-a-Vis Western Culture: A Historical Study of Livestock Production Among the Abagusii of Kenya, 1904-1920
Get PDFThis paper examines how the Abagusii navigated through the imposition of Western culture on their indigenous livestock production practices. Pre-colonial livestock production among the Abagusii was embedded within their economic, social and cultural structures. However, the advent of British colonial rule and the influence of Christian missionaries precipitated profound transformations in livestock production disrupting its indigenous significance and functions. Drawing upon the frameworks of the Articulation of Modes of Production and Agency theories, this paper traces the historical evolution of livestock production among the Abagusii, delineating the trajectory from an indigenous socioeconomic pillar to a marginalized sector under Western culture. The study explores the impact of colonial taxation policies, land alienation, forced labour and the promotion of cash crop farming, which collectively undermined the indigenous livestock economy. Missionary influences further reshaped social and economic structures, as missionary education and religious conversion redirected labour away from livestock farming. Using a historical research design, data was methodically collected from archival sources, oral interviews, and secondary sources. Through thematic analysis, patterns emerged, illuminating how external forces gradually reshaped livestock production in Gusiiland. The study reveals that despite colonial disruptions, the Abagusii community exhibited resilience by adapting their livestock practices to the evolving economic landscape, integrating aspects of capitalist agriculture while striving to maintain elements of indigenous livestock rearing. Furthermore, the research uncovers how the introduction of missionary work altered Abagusii indigenous knowledge through the acquiring of missionary education pushing younger generations away from livestock farming toward wage labour and administrative roles. Despite these shifts, livestock continued to hold cultural significance, albeit in a diminished economic capacity. In essence, the transformation of livestock production among the Abagusii of Kenya epitomizes the complex interaction between indigenous, colonial economic policies and missionary interventions. While colonial capitalism and missionary efforts sought to restructure indigenous agricultural systems, the Abagusii community employed adaptive strategies that ensured the partial retention and modification of their livestock economy. The study advocates for contemporary policies aimed at revitalizing livestock farming among marginalized communities to incorporate historical insights, cultural sensitivity, and community-driven development approaches
Women in Kenyan Political Culture in Light of the Ubuntu Spirit
Get PDFThis study explores the intersection of women's roles in Kenyan political culture within the framework of the Ubuntu spirit, a philosophy emphasizing community, interconnectedness, and shared humanity. Historically, women in Kenya have been integral to social and political movements, yet their contributions have often been marginalized or underrepresented. This research examines how the Ubuntu spirit, with its core values of collective responsibility and mutual care, has influenced and can further enhance women's participation in politics. The research traces the evolution of women's political involvement from pre-independence activism, where women played key roles in the fight for freedom, to their current participation in governance and decision-making processes. This study uses literary desktop synthesis. It highlights the traditional communal structures in Kenyan society where women's voices were vital in leadership, suggesting that the contemporary political system, often dominated by patriarchal norms, can benefit from reintegrating these Ubuntu-driven values. By fostering a political culture that embodies the principles of Ubuntu, there is potential for a more inclusive, equitable, and participatory political environment for women. Moreover, the study examines the barriers that women face in the political arena, including gender biases, cultural stereotypes, and limited access to resources. It also explores how these challenges can be addressed through the lens of Ubuntu, proposing strategies such as community-driven advocacy, gender-sensitive policy formulation, and the promotion of women-led initiatives. The research underscores the importance of creating spaces where women's voices can be amplified and respected, not just as a matter of gender equality but as a crucial component of a harmonious and just society
Energy-Efficient Buildings for Biosphere’s Sustainability
Get PDFFor decades now, the planet’s biosphere sustainability has been at stake due to human, social, economic and environmental factors that have negatively impacted our earth. With global warming and greenhouse gas emissions on the rise, there is every need to worry. Climate change today has a significant impact on almost every aspect of our environment, economies, societies and the planet’s biosphere which is under immense threat of extinction. The building sector is a key contributor to carbon dioxide emissions in the world today. Reducing the building sector's production of greenhouse gasses and other negative impacts to safer levels is a big challenge today and it must be met quickly and decisively. Luckily, there are many Information and Communications Technology (ICT) technologies that already exist to mitigate carbon dioxide emissions and adverse climatic change effects. The purpose of this research is to review the nexus of Internet of Things innovations to deliver Net Zero energy buildings (NZEBs) that can mitigate global warming for a sustainable biosphere. This will help achieve favourable energy efficiency for a sustainable world from the adverse climatic upheavals due to increased global warming. The specific objectives of the research are: i) To examine the gravity of emissions from non-energy efficient buildings and the extent to which they contribute to global warming; ii) To explore the components and capabilities of IoT technology and infrastructure that influence the design of internet of things; iii) To specify ways of integrating machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) technology to reconstruct past climate events and improve future predictions. Data analysis was done at the National Construction Authority with a target population consisting of 350 technical and management staff. The research fronts a future of worldwide energy efficiency for a sustainable biosphere to be realized by mass implementation of the Internet of Things, M2M energy-efficient buildings technolog
Integrative and Collaborative Civil-Military Relations: A Comparative Assessment of Military Support to Civil Institutions in Uganda
Get PDFUganda, a nation amidst socio-economic transformation, faces significant challenges concerning human security that demand unified and proactive efforts at the national level. In the wake of a notable decline in insurgent activities across the country, the Ugandan government boldly solicited military support to bolster civilian institutions grappling with effectiveness and efficiency issues. This study centres on the critical collaboration between the Ugandan Peoples' Defence Forces (UPDF) and two pivotal institutions: the Uganda Police Force (UPF) and the former National Agricultural Advisory Services (NAADS). Utilising an exploratory sequential mixed-methods approach, the research begins with in-depth qualitative interviews followed by quantitative surveys. This methodology illuminated the substantial adjustments and socialisation processes that army personnel underwent as they adapted to their new roles in these civilian contexts. The findings revealed a growing appreciation from the host institutions for the military’s support, particularly as their interactions matured over time. The military's engagement with both the police and NAADS was characterised by integrative and collaborative civil-military relations, which served as foundational models for their cooperation. However, the study suggests that a multi-model approach is more advantageous in dynamic working environments, allowing flexibility and responsiveness to evolving challenges. Moreover, introducing a national service training program aimed at equipping Uganda's future workforce, with a strong emphasis on civil-military relations as a core component of its curriculum, could foster a more seamless and effective coordination and cooperation between the military and other government institutions. This initiative enhances mutual understanding and cooperation, ultimately contributing to the nation’s development and stability
Life on the Frontline Conservation: The Job Satisfaction and Motivation Relationship of Eco-Guards in Protecting Tropical Biodiversity, Eastern DR Congo
Get PDFRangers, or eco-guards, are indispensable actors in biodiversity conservation, particularly within protected areas (PAs) in conflict-affected regions such as the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). However, these frontline defenders often work in life-threatening conditions with minimal institutional backing. This study examines how job satisfaction influences motivation and performance among rangers in four ICCN-managed PAs: Maiko and Kahuzi-Biega National Parks, Itombwe Nature Reserve, and Luama Hunting Domain. Between November 2022 and February 2023, 160 rangers and PA program heads were surveyed through semi-structured interviews using a mixed-methods approach. Findings reveal that 63% of rangers experience low job satisfaction, mainly due to poor salaries, erratic bonuses, limited promotion prospects, weak communication, and lack of judicial protection. Despite facing violence and insecurity, 64% reported joining the profession out of a passion for nature. Notably, higher income and longer service were positively correlated with satisfaction. Crucially, the study highlights that enhancing ranger wellbeing has direct conservation benefits: improving salaries, housing, medical support, and legal safeguards can increase ranger morale and retention, reduce corruption, and enable more consistent field presence. Increased ranger density and performance-based incentives (e.g., through the SMART system) can strengthen anti-poaching efforts and biodiversity monitoring. Furthermore, offering structured career development and psychosocial support helps maintain a resilient workforce capable of operating in volatile areas. These measures echo the Chitwan Declaration (IRF, 2019) and urge policymakers and conservation actors to prioritize ranger welfare as a strategic pillar in conservation planning. This research provides practical pathways to bolster PA effectiveness in high-risk landscape
The Introduction of a BRICS Currency and Its Impact on the International Financial Architecture
Get PDFThe idea of a joint BRICS currency emerges from a growing tension within the global financial order. The dominance of the US dollar is no longer perceived as neutral but as an instrument of structural power. Within this environment, BRICS member states seek to expand their autonomy. Their monetary initiative is not limited to questions of transaction cost or technical efficiency. It reflects a broader dissatisfaction with existing financial hierarchies and signals a desire to reshape the terms of international exchange. The proposal carries symbolic weight. It challenges existing narratives and introduces an alternative vocabulary of economic sovereignty. This study analyses the structural and political conditions under which such a currency might develop. Methodologically, it is based on a qualitative document analysis of publicly accessible policy papers, declarations, and expert publications. The underlying question is not whether a currency will be implemented, but how its possibility alters the imagination of monetary order. This study analyses the structural and political conditions under which such a currency might develop. It explores institutional asymmetries, conflicting policy priorities, and limitations in trust and governance. Rather than assuming linear progression, the analysis considers friction, inconsistency, and competing expectations among BRICS members. Pilot projects and institutional frameworks are examined, not as functional endpoints, but as provisional experiments. The underlying question is not whether a currency will be implemented, but how its possibility alters the imagination of monetary order. Findings suggest that the initiative, even in its early form, already alters expectations within the international system. Its operational viability remains uncertain. Yet its political resonance extends beyond technical feasibility. What is at stake is not only who controls money, but who defines its meaning and function within a contested multipolar world