Mak IR Repository (Makerere University)
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Access to microcredit by business women groups case study: Letshego Microfinance Uganda Limited, Kireka Branch
No full textA dissertation submitted to the Directorate of Research and Graduate Training in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the award of the degree of Master of Arts in Gender Studies of Makerere University.Microfinance is a tool used by many financial institutions that come up with the idea to empower women and bring them out of poverty. Usually, many microfinances operate in communities, which are highly populated, with many women engaged in small businesses but without collateral to give as security to acquire loans in commercial banks. Therefore, micro financial institutions often target such women. The purpose of the study was to assess the factors affecting access to microcredit among businesswomen groups that bank with Letshego Microfinance Uganda Ltd. specifically the study set out: to establish the factors that determine access to microcredit among business women groups in Letshego Microfinance Uganda Ltd; to examine the challenges facing business women groups in accessing microcredit from Letshego Microfinance Uganda Ltd; and to suggest strategies for improving access to microcredit among business women groups in Letshego Microfinance Uganda Ltd. The research used a case study design and adopted the qualitative approach. Primary data was collected from focus groups discussion constituted of women who are the customers of Letshego and Key informants using in-depth interview guides. Key informant included women leaders, Loan officers, local councils, and Branch Manager. The findings revealed little effort in access to financial services by businesswomen. Women still face many obstacles to get access to these services such as hindrances from their husbands who stop them from joining women groups, and family responsibility which is a great burden to the women. Therefore, the study noted that there is more need to sensitize the household unit about the presence of microfinance and engage men about the benefits of microfinance
Implications of transhumanism on the African concept of personhood
No full textA dissertation submitted to the Directorate of Research and Graduate Training in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the award of the degree of Master of Arts in Philosophy of Makerere University.The main ideas of this work were: The African concept of personhood and Transhumanism. The study has critically examined the implications of Transhumanism on the African concept of personhood, with much focus on the cognitive enhancement technologies. The study has described the African concept of personhood as a core element in African philosophy which has influenced every aspect of being of Africans that has enabled Africans to establish cordial relationships among themselves. Personhood in African context is only acquired by individuals who exhibit moral virtues in the community that promote the common good. Transhumanism however, advocates for the use of science and technology to enhance all human capacities including human virtues and values. Transhumanists believe that enhanced humans will be more virtuous, social, sympathetic, generous etc. According to Afro-communitarians, virtuous and moral activities are learnt and practiced as one grows and learns community norms with other members of the community, but not handed in as products. This study has employed the philosophical method of hermeneutics according to Martin Heidegger in order come up with clear examined implications. This study has also been guided by the ethical theory of deontology by Immanuel Kant with the support of an Afro-centric theory of moral responsibility by Menkiti. My analysis of the African concept of personhood and cognitive enhancement technologies, has revealed that the applications of these technologies to health individuals will have a big influence onto human values like; sympathy, generosity etc. that are dear to societies that embrace the normative notion of personhood, especially those found in Africa. However, this work does not call for a total ban of these technologies; it instead calls for considerations of all ethical procedures which are not perpetuated by economic gains, to be widely accepted in researching and assessing them, so that future calamities are mitigated
Shadows of silence: unsolved cold murders in Uganda
No full textA bookShadows of Silence: Unsolved Cold Murders in Uganda" is an investigative non-fiction book that delves deep into the haunting realm of unresolved homicides in Uganda. Focusing on a selection of compelling and perplexing cases, this book aims to shed light on the hidden stories, intricate investigations, and the lingering impact these unsolved crimes have had on the Ugandan society. Drawing upon extensive research, interviews, and access to official documents, the book takes readers on a journey through the enigmatic corridors of the criminal justice system in Uganda. Each chapter unravels the details surrounding a specific cold murder case, presenting a comprehensive account of the crime, its investigation, and the subsequent obstacles that hindered its resolution. "Shadows of Silence" uncovers the unique challenges faced by law enforcement agencies, including limited resources, lack of forensic capabilities, and corruption, which have impeded progress in solving these crimes. It also explores the complex social, cultural, and political factors that contribute to the persistence of these cold cases, painting a vivid picture of the Ugandan society and its struggle for justice. Throughout the book, the author skillfully intertwines the narratives of the victims, their families, and the dedicated investigators, creating a compelling tapestry of human emotions, perseverance, and the quest for truth. By giving voice to those affected by these unsolved murders, the book offers a powerful reflection on the enduring pain and the search for closure in the face of unresolved loss. Moreover, "Shadows of Silence" examines the broader implications of these cold cases, including the erosion of public trust in the justice system, the perpetuation of fear within communities, and the urgent need for reforms to ensure effective investigations and prosecution of violent crimes. Ultimately, "Shadows of Silence: Unsolved Cold Murders in Uganda" aims to raise awareness about these forgotten victims and the challenges surrounding their cases. It calls for renewed attention, collective action, and public engagement to bring about accountability, closure, and justice for both the victims and their families. By shedding light on these dark shadows of silence, the book seeks to ignite a dialogue that can drive change, challenge impunity, and create a safer and more just society for all Ugandans
Welcoming Uganda: navigating hospitality law
No full textA bookIsaac Christopher Lubogo's "Welcoming Uganda: Navigating Hospitality Law" is a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the intricate legal landscape that governs the hospitality industry within the vibrant setting of Uganda. This indispensable guide offers a multidimensional perspective on hospitality law, catering to a diverse audience that includes industry professionals, legal practitioners, entrepreneurs, and students. The book's journey begins with a comprehensive overview of Uganda's legal foundations, providing readers with a solid understanding of the regulatory framework that shapes the hospitality sector. From there, Lubogo delves into the practical aspects of establishing hospitality businesses, meticulously addressing licensing, permits, and compliance with zoning regulations. Central to the book's significance is its in-depth analysis of contracts and agreements within the hospitality context. Lubogo navigates through the complexities of contractual relationships, offering valuable insights into negotiation, drafting, and dispute resolution, all while emphasizing the fusion of legal principles with practical considerations. Safety, liability, and ethical considerations take center stage in subsequent chapters, where the book illuminates the legal responsibilities of hospitality establishments toward guest well-being and property protection. It does not shy away from addressing the challenges of employment law in the industry, shedding light on labor rights, diversity, and the creation of equitable work environments. Intellectual property, a critical yet often overlooked aspect of the hospitality business, receives dedicated attention. Lubogo skillfully guides readers through the intricacies of protecting branding, creative assets, and innovations in an industry that thrives on uniqueness and creativity. In the era of digital marketing and global connectivity, the book's exploration of tourism promotion, marketing regulations, and ethical considerations in advertising offers practical insights for navigating the evolving landscape of hospitality promotion. Furthermore, "Welcoming Uganda" takes a visionary stance by addressing environmental sustainability and regulatory compliance, providing guidance on aligning business growth with eco-conscious practices. The book concludes with a series of enlightening case studies, translating theoretical knowledge into realworld applications. These case studies offer readers a glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of navigating hospitality law in Uganda. In essence, "Welcoming Uganda: Navigating Hospitality Law" is more than a legal guide; it is a roadmap for success in an industry where law, culture, and business intersect. Lubogo's expertise, combined with his ability to make complex legal concepts accessible, ensures that this book is an invaluable asset for anyone seeking to thrive in Uganda's diverse and burgeoning hospitality landscape
Assistive technologies in teaching children with physical disabilities in selected pre-schools in Kampala Central Division
No full textA dissertation submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the award of a degree of Master of Education in Early Childhood Education of Makerere University.The connectivism Learning theory proposed by George Siemens &Stephen Dwnes (2005) believed that technology is a major part of learning and that the use of technologies like the assistive technologies gives children opportunities to make connections, choices about learning and promote group collaboration. Guided by this theory, this qualitative study focused on assessing how use of assistive technologies influences the learning of children with disabilities in Pre-school . The study specifically examined the usage, benefits, barriers and best practices in the use of assistive technologies. Information was provided by a total of 15 respondents from pre-schools within Kampala central division. The administrators of pre-schools and teachers were purposively selected, whereas the pre-school children were selected using simple random sampling .Data was collected using a structured interview guide and Observation check list and analyzed using content analysis.
The findings revealed that, the use of assistive technologies was in place but schools faced acute financial constraints in acquiring the desired items since government facilitation was minimal. The very limited access to assistive technologies narrowed teachers‟ understanding of assistive technologies in the learning of pre-school children. It was also found out that in schools with external donations, the use of assistive technologies featured, the technologies provided opportunities for interaction, working together, sharing and communication which are critical pillars in the learning and development of pre-school children, The teacher intimated that use of the assistive technologies was in place but teachers had limited understanding of the Assistive technologies user guides, which rendered some items idle.. It was revealed that all the teachers overwhelmingly agreed that assistive technologies are important in the effective and efficient learning of the children. The researcher recommends that having a variety of assistive technologies be made a key requirement in pre-schools. The MOES should also support pre-schools in acquiring relevant assistive technologies. All teachers should be regularly trained in the effective and efficient use of assistive technologies. The pre-school curriculum should be made more activity based to allow teachers and children opportunity to use assistive technologies
Association mapping of genomic regions for resistance to anthracnose disease in sorghum association panel
No full textA thesis submitted to the Directorate of Research and Graduate Training in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the award of the degree of Master of Science in Crop Science of Makerere University.Sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] is an important cereal crop for dryland areas in the world. The crop is constrained by several biotic and abiotic factors that reduce the productivity by up to 100% under severe conditions. The objective of this study was to determine the response of sorghum genotypes to anthracnose disease and identify genomic regions associated with resistance to anthracnose disease in sorghum association panel (SAP) collection. A total of 340 genotypes were screened in the field for resistance to anthracnose under natural infestation and 10 anthracnose resistant genotypes were identified. SAP_PI656036 was the most resistant and high yielding genotype. To facilitate gene discovery and molecular breeding in sorghum, approximately 265,000 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in 274 worldwide accessions were characterized. Genome-wide association study was performed for anthracnose severity scores at ANT-70, ANT-77, ANT-84, ANT-91 and SAM in different locations. The GWAS analysis mapped 5 significant SNPs associated with several loci on Chr01, Chr02, Chr06 and Chr08 for resistance to anthracnose. The genome-wide SNP markers identified in this study can provide a basis for crop improvement through marker-assisted breeding and genomic selection. Furthermore, markers identified in this study could be converted into Kompetitive Allele Specific PCR (KASP) markers to support marker-assisted breeding for resistance to sorghum anthracnose.Intra-ACP mobility through the ARISE II project funded by the European Union study scholarship at Makerere University.
MaRCCI provided a partial scholarship to cover the stipend and research, I am really grateful for that. I also thank MaRCCI for providing all the necessities, planting materials and land during this study without them, this study would not have been completed.
RUFORUM partial funding through the Carnegie Corporation of New York funded postdoctoral fellowship (Grant ID RN/2020/RI/02
Genetic variability and Kasp marker validation for provitamin carotenoids and dry matter content in West African Cassava germplasm evaluated in Uganda
No full textA dissertation submitted to the Directorate of Research and Graduate Training in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the award of the degree of Master of Science in Plant Breeding and Seed Systems of Makerere University.The cassava breeding program in Uganda has released numerous white fleshed varieties, but no the evaluated yellow provitamin A varieties have been released to date. The latter are more prone to virus diseases and have low genetic gains due to the negative relationship between dry matter content (DMC) and total carotenoid (provitamin A) content (TCC). West Africa (WA), particularly Nigeria, has successfully released numerous provitamin A clones, prompting their introduction to Uganda. Therefore, the objectives of this study were to assess genetic diversity between and within the Ugandan genotypes and the WA provitamin A cassava genotypes for TCC and DMC and to evaluate the effectiveness of allele-specific KASP markers for the selection of TCC and DMC. This study involved 640 WA clones planted in an augmented design with 3 local checks in 2 locations of Uganda for 2 seasons and 13 Ugandan accessions planted in a randomized complete block design (RCBD). TCC was assessed using colour charts, iCheck, and NIRS, whereas DMC by NIRS and oven drying methods. Genotyping for molecular diversity by high-density SNPs was done using DArTSeq, and clones were also genotyped with 6 provitamin A and 5 DMC KASP markers for the validation study. Genetic diversity (GD) within the WA population was measured using indices like minor allele frequency (MAF), expected heterozygosity (He), observed heterozygosity (Ho), and the polymorphism information content (PIC). The WA clones evaluated in Namulonge for TCC through color charts and iCheck had an average of 3.91 color intensity and 8.13 μg/g, respectively, while those evaluated in Serere using iCheck had an average of 3.2 μg/g. However, the Ugandan clones had a TCC mean of 7.12 μg/g. With DMC, the WA clones evaluated in Namulonge using oven drying and NIRS had an average of 30.36% and 30.72%, respectively, while those evaluated in Serere using oven drying had a mean of 36%. Conversely, Ugandan clones had a DMC mean of 30.30%. Comparably, WA clones accumulated higher levels of TCC and DMC than Ugandan clones. Both the Ugandan and WA clones showed a negative correlation between TCC and DMC. The Ugandan clones had r = -0.43, whereas WA clones evaluated in Namulonge had r = 0.48 and those evaluated in Serere had r = -0.32. WA population revealed genetic diversity with MAF, He, Ho, and PIC means of 0.179, 0.262, 0.256, and 0.217, respectively. The analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) reveals that each cluster has 59.6% genetic diversity. The TCC marker PSY2_572 had the highest coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.67 hence the marker of choice. In conclusion, moderate variation among the WA genotypes suggests that the useful alleles for desirable traits could be exploited for breeding purposes, whereas deploying TCC marker PSY2_572 in MAS will increase selection efficiency and accelerate TCC gain.NextGen project scholarship through Makerere Research Centre for Crop Improvement (MaRCCI)
Serological and molecular epidemiology of Zoonotic Rickettsia in Arthropod vectors and humans in selected districts of Uganda
No full textRickettsioses are emerging, neglected infectious diseases caused by obligate intracellular Gram-negative bacteria transmitted by arthropod vectors to humans. The diseases are febrile in nature and are difficult to diagnose. Rickettsioses are underreported in sub-Saharan Africa, including Uganda. This cross-sectional study aimed at determining the epidemiology of rickettsia in arthropod vectors and humans in selected districts of Uganda by molecular and serological tools. Ticks and fleas were collected from animals and environment of 360 households; identified morphologically, pooled by host, location and time of collection. The arthropods were tested for rickettsia using Real-time PCR, the amplicons were sanger-sequenced and compared for homology on NCBI GenBank. Additionally, 460 serum samples collected from febrile patients in five referral hospitals from same districts and period of vector collection were tested using IgM ELISA for SFG and TG rickettsia, Phase II IgG ELISA for Q-fever, and IFA for Orientia spp. Of the 471 tick pools tested, 116 (24.6%) were positive for Rickettsia spp. by the gltA primers and the variation in pool prevalence rates were not significant for the districts (2=8.627, df =4, p=0.071) and host type (2=2.713, df=2, p=0.258). Of 116 gltA-positive tick pools, 86 pools were positive for 17kDa gene, of which 48 were successfully sequenced. The predominant Rickettsia spp. identified were R. africae in four tick species and R. conorii in three tick species. Rickettsia conorii subsp. israelensis was detected in one tick pool for the first time in Uganda. Of the 62 flea pools tested for Rickettsia spp., 29 (46.8%) were positive, of which 25 PCR amplicons were successfully sequenced for 17kDa genes. Two (8%) sequences were identified as R. felis from C. canis and 23 (92%) were R. asembonensis from multiple flea species. The overall seroprevalence of SFG rickettsiosis and Q-fever were 6.3% and 7.6% respectively. Increasing age (OR-adjusted=1.4, 95%CI=1.0—1.9, p=0.026) and rural background (OR-adjusted=2.6, 95%CI=1.6—6.4, p=0.037) were both significantly associated with seropositivity for Q-fever, while only increasing age had higher odds for seropositivity for SFG rickettsia (OR-adjusted= 1.9, 95% CI= 1.4—2.6, p<0.001). One serum from Bwera hospital reacted to both SFG and Q-fever antibodies and four separate sera each were reactive for typhus group IgM and Orientia spp. IgM. This is the first seroprevalence finding of Q-fever, SFG and STG in febrile patients in Uganda. This study shows that seven Rickettsia spp. are circulating in ticks and fleas in Uganda, including new strains previously known to occur in the Mediterranean region. Physicians should be aware of rickettsia as potential causes of acute febrile illnesses and continued surveillance to identify hotspots is essential.DAAD, DTRA through MUWRP and CARTA
Assessing the impact of scope adjustment on project cost as a measure of project success : A case study on the construction supervision of Kwik Residential Apartments in Mutungo, Kigo
No full textA project report submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirement for the award of a Master's Degree in Construction Management of the College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology at Makerere University.In the context of construction projects, a variation usually refers to any change or modification made to the original scope, design, or specifications of the project. Variations can arise due to various reasons such as design changes, unforeseen site conditions, client requests, changes in regulations, or any other factors that necessitate alterations to the original plans. Variations often have cost implications as they translate into increased project scope, modified design or specifications, increased quantities of materials and labour requirements. The Researcher therefore sought to assess the cost impact of scope changes as a crucial part of the project cost management process. It's important to manage variations effectively to ensure that they are properly documented, authorized, and communicated to all relevant stakeholders. This helps maintain clarity, control costs, and ensure that the project continues to meet the desired objectives despite any changes that may arise during its execution. This report therefore comprises of the causes of scope adjustments as well as their effect on cost as an indicator of project success. From previous studies, it is also highlighted that changes are almost inevitable when managing projects in practice and as such; there are project management principles and practices that have been adopted to minimise the disruption that results from scope adjustment. The Researcher therefore sought to assess how effective these change management practices have been at reducing the disruption caused by changes to successful project completion. The Researcher therefore took to active participation as an Assistant Quantity Surveyor on the Consultant's team during the construction of Kwik Apartments at Kigo to build up a detailed study and review of the issues pertaining to scope adjustment and how effectively they were handled on that Project culminating into conclusions and recommendations. The study was concluded by emphasizing the need for good rapport amongst stakeholders as handling of changes is best managed by negotiation amongst the parties beyond having a trail and justification for reasons of scope adjustment
Assessing the utilisation of automated teller machines in Centenary Bank : A case of Koboko branch
No full textA dissertation submitted to the College of Business and Management Science in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the award of the Degree of Master of Arts in Financial Services of Makerere University.The study assessed the utilization of Automatic Teller Machines in Centenary Bank and considered Koboko branch. The study was guided by the following research objectives; to establish the drivers of adoption of ATMS by Centenary Bank, to evaluate the impact of the usage of ATMs in the provision of banking services in Centenary Bank, to establish the challenges associated with the usage of ATMS in the provision of banking services in Centenary Bank, and to suggest strategies of improving ATM utilization in Centenary Bank. A cross-sectional research design with a quantitative technique were used in collecting and analysing data. The target population was 3,000 respondents and a sample size of 352 respondents (guided by Statistician Yamane (1967) formula)) was selected and convenience sampling as the sampling technique. Primary data was collected using self-administered questionnaire. The study revealed that among the major drivers of adoption of ATMs at Centenary bank include cost control, new technology, perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, increased security. It was also revealed that the impact of the usage of ATMs in the provision of banking services in centenary bank include reduction in the time spent by the customers to get service, increase in customer satisfaction, decongestion of the banking halls, cost cutting by the bank and also reduction in the transaction costs. Furthermore, the study also revealed the challenges that are associated with the usage of ATMs in the provision of banking services in centenary bank including; Network stability, user problem by the customers more so self PIN resets using the machine, power stability, telecom infrastructure, machines running out of cash, regulatory issues, complexity in working with ATM suppliers. The study recommended strategies of improving ATM utilization in centenary bank to include; ensuring that that machine is loaded with cash at all times, sensitization of the customers on how to use the machine to reset their PINs, including an option of denomination choosing by the customer and also increasing on the number of ATM machines within Koboko district. the bank to increase on the duration of the expiring of the cards and also to increase on the withdraw amounts