PostgraduateTheses/Reports

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Open Access
Access of Women to Higher Education in Uganda: An Analysis of Inequalities, Barriers and Determinants
(University of London Institute of Education, 1993) Kwesiga, Joy Constance
The study analyses factors affecting women's access to higher education in Uganda, where women are under-represented at all levels of education, as students, teachers, and managers. This reflects women's low status in Ugandan society. The conceptual framework is derived from literature covering Women in Development, the human capital concept of investment in education, the indirect benefits of educating women, and social theories of gender inequality. Literature on general educational access factors, mainly focusing on Sub-Saharan Africa is reviewed, using Hyde's (1991) three-fold classification of family, societal, and institutional factors. A sample of four primary schools, sixteen advanced level secondary schools and eleven higher education institutions provided empirical data. A crosssection of over 600 Ugandan students, teachers in secondary schools and higher education institutions, political and civic leaders and parents responded to questionnaires. Decision-makers at sample institutions and the Ministry of Education headquarters were interviewed, and documentary analysis also covered official reports, documents and records, previous research and the mass media. Although focus is on the higher education level, lower levels are investigated to provide insight into causes of diminishing numbers of female students as one climbs the educational ladder. The central conclusion is that the family, society and the state in Uganda act as if they are constantly weighing the profitability of investing in boys' or girls' education, albeit not in the conventional way of measuring earnings of educated workers, but rather assessing the future functional value of the individual. Lower status within the family structure, lower perceived social value, exacerbated by general economic constraints and inadequate educational structures make girls' education, particularly higher education, appear less profitable than that of boys. This obscures the indirect benefits that families and society would reap from higher rates of female participation in education.
Open Access
Access to Finance and Performance of Small and Medium Enterprises in Uganda: A Case of Selected Smes in Kabale Municipality
(Kabale University, 2021) Esperance, Nyiratebuka
The study investigated access to finance and performance of small and medium enterprises in Uganda: a case of selected SMEs in Kabale Municipality, the objectives of the study were: to find out the influence of cost of credit on access to finance and performance; collaterals security on access to finance and performance; effect of information access to finance on performance; and accessibility of financial institutions on access to finance and performance of SMEs in Kabale municipality. The study was guided by Contingency Theory. The study employed a descriptive study design and a cross-sectional was also used. The study used a respondent sample of 338 SMEs operating in Kabale Municipality. The study findings in respect of the main objectives indicated that access to finance influences performance of small and medium enterprises in Uganda. The results also indicate that interest rates affect borrowing of SMEs. The study results on how the respondents normally accessed information, the higher number of respondents stated that they accessed information from other clients while the least number of respondents stated that they accessed information from local dailies. From the study findings on financial institutions the respondents commonly accessed, the largest number of respondents revealed that the commonly accessed group savings where the least number of respondents mentioned that they accessed SACCOs. From the study findings on the distribution channels the financial institutions used to reach the customers, the highest number of respondents mentioned customer visits, while the least number of respondents mentioned staff visits. The study concluded that there is significant relationship between access to finance and performance of small-scale enterprises. The study recommended that the government should strengthen fiscal policies promoting the growth of small business entrepreneurs both for those nursing business ideas and those already in different engagements. Financial institutions should also modify their products to suit the financial requirements of small business entrepreneurs; and the entire financial sector should develop in-house training policies geared towards equipping the beneficiaries with credit management skills.
Open Access
Accountability and Performance of Local Governments in Uganda: A Case of Kabale District Local Government
(Kabale University, 2021) Conforte, Mizero
This study was about accountability and performance of local governments in Uganda, A case of Kabale District Local Government. Objectives of the study were to: examine how financial accountability affects performance of Kabale District Local Government; find out how administrative accountability affects performance of Kabale District Local Government; assess how citizen participation enhances performance of Kabale District Local Government. The study was conducted using descriptive research design and cross-sectional research design. The study had a target sample of 234 respondents though 195 actually participated in it. The study found out that several Financial Accountability practices such as seeking official authentication of the payments as per budget allocations, reporting, proper staffing and adherence to the required financial standards by government were key to effective accountability. Basically, the study established a strong positive relationship between Financial Accountability and Performance of Kabale District Local Government (r= .640, n=195, p< .01); a very strong positive correlation (r= .816, n=195, p<.01) between Administrative Accountability and Performance of Kabale District Local Government; and a significant relationship between Citizen Participation and Performance of Kabale District Local Government depicted by correlation (r= .814, n=195, p<.05). Therefore, null hypotheses in all hypotheses were rejected. The study concluded that Financial Accountability, Administrative Accountability and Citizen Participation are all pillars of performance of Kabale District Local Government, although performance results show that it was still below desired standards.
Open Access
Accounting as a performance measurement tool: A case study of Restaurants in Musanze Town/Rwanda.
(Kabale University, 2015) Elisee, Kaberuka
The study investigated the role of accounting as a performance measurement tool using a case study of restaurants in Musanze Town. This was due to the fact that, the levels of applying accounting in restaurants had remained a challenge and hindered their development. The management of all restaurants selected for a study case tried to apply basic accounting in their business. The results on the extent to which accounting tools were followed in measuring restaurant performance indicated that accounting tools were essential for measuring restaurant performance. The findings revealed that net profit was most used for measuring the restaurants performance in Musanze Town. The volume of sales was another element which was taken into consideration to test restaurant performance. Then the increase of assets in the restaurants was the other component with a meaningful rate of 15% .According to the respondents when their restaurants increased their assets like acquisition of new equipment, having enough current assets to meet some obligations without depending much on liabilities, therefore this is a sign of performance in their business. The second study objective was about exploring if accounting tools have been effective in measuring the performance of restaurants in Musanze town. It was concluded that accounting was an indispensable tool in this competitive World and was very effective for measuring business performance and is also a tool for future planning. The results indicated that implementation of accounting information at the restaurants caused the improvement of managers decision –making process and internal control. The results of interview with the officers of Rwanda revenue authority, Rwanda development Board and Musanze district officer in charge of business promotion all confirmed that there were a set of policies for promoting SMEs which included hospitality industry in Rwanda. The study recommended Management of the restaurants to improve their accounting system in order to meet the international accounting standards (IAS) and evaluate themselves through accounting information.
Open Access
Administrative Management Practices and Service Delivery in Selected Non-Governmental Organizations in Kabale District: A Case Study of Kabale Municipality
(Kabale University, 2022) Barnabas, Nabaasa
Service delivery by Non-governmental Organizations (NGOs) to beneficiaries remains a major challenge in most communities in the developing world. Though management practices are important and fundamental in enhancing service delivery in the NGO sector , they have received little attention.This study examined the relationship between administrative management practices and service delivery in selected NGOs in Kabale Municipality.Spefically, the study examined the relationship between: planning, policies/laws and monitoring and evaluation and service delivery in selected NGOs in Kabale Municipality. The study employed a cross-sectional and correlational design. A total of 84 participants including 80 workers in the selected NGOs and 4 community development officers were recruited to participate in the study from October to November 2021. Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation and linear regression were used. Data were obtained from workers of NGOs using a self-administered questionnaire and interview guides from community development officers. Statistical Package for Social Sciences was used for analyzing data from questionnaires. Thematic analysis and quotes from qualitative data were used in triangulation. Of the administrative management practices, 1.3% (p = 0.161), 4.6% (p=0.032 )and 14.8% (p=0.000) were the positive contributions of planning, administration of policies/laws and monitoring/evaluation respective to service delivery in selected NGOs in Kabale Municipality. The relationship between administarative management practices and service delivery in NGOs in Kabale Municipality was positive with least effect of planning followed by monitoring/evaluation and the most administration of policies/laws effects on service delivery. Interventions targeting administrative management practices, especially, planning are vital.
Open Access
Adopting Positive Selection Technology and Improving Seed Quality in Smallholder Potato Farmers in South-Western Uganda.
(Kabale University, 2023) Kajura, Tibanyendera Deo
The Potato is an important food and nutrition security as well as cash crop in Uganda, especially in the highlands where over 200,000 households who are at subsistence level depend on it for their livelihoods. Despite the importance of the crop there has been considerable reduction in yield to the current yield of 4.2 tons ha-1 by smallholder farmers which is far short of its potential on-station yields of over 25 t ha-1, mostly due to inadequate supplies of high quality seed that compels farmers to continuously use their own recycled seed with latent infections by bacterial wilt (Ralstonia solanacearum), viruses and other tuber-borne pathogens. To address this, technologies and innovations such as Positive Selection technology have been developed and promoted among smallholders to enable them generate their own clean seed on-farm for increased productivity. The main objective of the study was to assess the adoption of Positive Selection Technology and improvement of seed quality by smallholder potato farmers. Specific objectives were to: i) ascertain the adoption and use of Positive Selection by smallholders, ii) assess the extent to which Positive Selection has improved seed quality, iii) establish factors affecting farmers’ uptake of Positive Selection Technology, and iv) assess the attitudes/or perceptions of potato farmers in adopting and application of the technology. The study was conducted in two districts of Rubanda and Kabale where the technology was first popularized and promoted. A household survey was conducted with 130 respondents randomly selected. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse the data. Chi-square tests, Pearson correlation and simple regression analyses were run between different variables to assess their interactive effects on adoption of the technology. Findings of the study showed 30.0% adoption of the technology by farmers who used Positive selected seed compared to 26.9% who used certified seed. Results of the study also indicated a 12.8% and 33.1% reduction in virus and bacterial wilt disease incidences respectively with a subsequent yield increase of 112.5% attributed to use of the improved seed quality through Positive Selection technology. Pearson correlation analysis showed significant difference in yield of positive selected with unselected and certified seed (P=0.000 and 0.001 respectively). Chi-square test indicated relationship with less significant effect (p>0.05) for all demographic factor on adoption of PS technology, while all technological factors had relationship with significant effect on technology adoption. Institutional factors that had significant effect were information access, awareness and extension services. Study findings indicated that adoption of Positive Selection Technology was influenced by demographic, socio-economic, institutional and technological factors. Based on these findings, Positive Selection technology is being applied, though adoption is still low in Uganda. It is further eminently shown that the technology can improve seed quality by reduction of tuber-borne diseases with subsequent increased productivity. Demographic, socio-economic, institutional and technological factors that affect the adoption of technologies should be thought of by government and development agencies involved in designing intervention strategies focused on seed quality improvement. More farmer trainings on the technology are needed to equip farmers with knowledge and skills for effective application of the technology. Farmers should be advised to complement Positive selection with other yield enhancing technologies such as fertilizers and crop protection products and if embraced by all farmers on a large scale, it will result into increased availability of clean seed and productivity.
Open Access
Adoption of ICT Banking Services and Performance of Selected Commercial Banks In Kabale Municipality: A case of Equity And Stanbic Bank.
(Kabale University, 2021) Ndayambaje, Denis
The study assessed adoption of ICT banking services and performance of commercial banks in Equity and Stanbic, Kabale District . The objectives of the study were to identify ICT banking services offered to clients, to determine the effect of integrating ICT banking services on performance of the commercial banks and to analyze the challenges affecting adoption of ICT banking services in the banks. A mixed methods approach was used and a cross-sectional research design. The study population consisted of 283 respondents. Data was collected using Questionnaires, interviews and the observation method. Both random and non random sampling techniques were used including; cluster, simple random, stratified and purposive sampling to recruit respondents in the study. Findings revealed that ICT banking services offered to clients at Equity and Stanbic banks included; electronic banking services, internet banking services, mobile banking services, decision support system and social media outreach. The effect of integrating ICT banking services on performance of the commercial banks, indicated that ICT improved the quality of banking services, and reduced long bank cues. The challenges affecting adoption of ICT banking services included; communication errors, slowing down ICT systems and equipment, ignorance by majority of the customers about ICT usage especially online services, failure of the bank customers to own ICT gadgets to access online services and lack of information on available ICT banking services. The study recommended that the banks should promote use of ICT services to all its clients since ICT enhances service quality, constant and consistent service availability, reduces errors and data redundancies and saves time by offering fast service delivery. Banks should incorporate and invest in technology since technology is an important aspect in the alignment of information systems with business strategy. Keywords: Adoption, ICT Banking Services, Performance, Selected Commercial Banks, Kabale Municipality, Equity, Stanbic Bank
Open Access
Adoption of ICT banking services and performance of selected commercial banks in Kabale municipality: A case of equity and Stanbic Bank
(Kabale University, 2021) Denis, Ndayambaje
The study assessed adoption of ICT banking services and performance of commercial banks in Equity and Stanbic, Kabale District. The objectives of the study were to identify ICT banking services offered to clients to determine the effect of integrating ICT banking services on performance of the commercial banks and to analyse the challenges affecting adoption of ICT banking services in the banks. A mixed methods approach and a cross-sectional research design were used. The study population consisted of 283 respondents. Data was collected using questionnaires, interviews and the observation method. Both random and non-random sampling techniques were used including: cluster, simple random, stratified and purposive sampling to recruit respondents in the study. Findings revealed that ICT banking services offered to clients at Equity and Stanbic banks included: electronic banking services, internet banking services, mobile banking services, decision support system and social media outreach. The effect of integrating ICT banking services on performance of the commercial banks indicated that ICT improved the quality of banking services, and reduced long queues in the banks. The challenges affecting the adoption of ICT banking services included: communication errors, slowing down ICT systems and equipment, ignorance by majority of the customers about ICT usage especially online services, failure of the bank customers to own ICT gadgets to access online services and lack of information on available ICT banking services. The study recommended that the banks should promote use of ICT services to all their clients since ICT enhances service quality, constant and consistent service availability, reduces errors and data redundancies and saves time by offering fast service delivery. Banks should incorporate and invest in technology since technology is an important aspect in the alignment of information systems with business strategy.
Open Access
Adoption of Integrated Financial Management System and Procurement Performance in Uganda A Case Of Kabale District In Uganda
(Kabale University, 2022) Ruth, Kobusingye
The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of Integrated Financial Management Information System (IFMS) adoption on public procurement performance in Kabale District. The study adopted a cross section research design. For the purposes of this study, the population of interest was 4 entities in Kabale District (Kabale University, Kabale District, Kabale Referral Hospital, Kabale Municipality). 40 respondents with 10 Officers from each entity. The target respondents were Procurement Managers/ Officers, Accounting Officers, Inventory Officers and Finance Officers. Given the small size, a census was proposed. Primary data was collected for the purpose of this study. It was collected using questionnaires were administered to the relevant officers through a drop and pick later strategy for one week so as to give the respondents an ample time to fill them, the filled questionnaires were inspected for completeness and edited. Descriptive statistics was used to determine the effect of IFMS on the procurement performance. Standard deviation, range and co-efficient of variation was used to determine the challenges in implementing the IFMS. Content analysis was used to analyse qualitative information collected in the survey. The study found out that the various components of IFMS have been adopted in the by selected entities. They include; accounts receivable, accounts payable, procurement management, cash management respectively. The study also concludes that cash management has a positive and significant effect on procurement performance accounts receivable, accounts payable, procurement management have a no significant effect on procurement performance. Based on the findings, this study recommends that Ministry of Finance Planning and Economic Development should fully commit itself to see that the implementation of IFMS is running smoothly without any challenges by allocating more funds to train staff and fully equip entities.
Open Access
Advertisement and Sales Performance in Mtn Uganda, Kabale Branch.
(Kabale University, 2023) Mwebesa, Acleo
The study was to establish the effects of advertising on the sales performance of MTN Uganda, Kabale District. It was guided by a number of objectives, which were: to establish the various forms of advertisement used by MTN Uganda; to examine the effect of media advertisement on sales performance of MTN Uganda; to examine the effect of billboards and sponsoring events on sales performance of MTN Uganda; and to investigate the relationship between advertisement and sales performance of MTN Uganda in Kabale District. The data was collected from primary and secondary sources. The researcher used questionnaires and interview guides as research instruments. The study sample of 136 respondents was selected using simple random and purposive sampling. The respondents comprised employees of MTN Uganda, Kabale district, Qualitative data was analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. Descriptive statistics included the use of frequencies and percentages to analyze biodata, while inferential statistics included the use of mean and standard deviations to test individual responses; as well as the Pearson correlation coefficient (r) to test the relationship between advertisement and sales performance of the MTN Uganda Kabale branch. The study findings revealed that the various forms of advertisement used by MTN Uganda included media, billboards, sponsorship of events, routine sales promotions, a website, and giving prizes with the company name. The results further revealed that there is no significant relationship between media advertisement and sales performance (r = 0.511, p = 0.663), there is a significant effect of billboards and sponsorship of events on sales performance (r = 0.003, p = 0.412), and lastly, there is no significant relationship between advertisement and sales performance of MTN Uganda Kabale district (r = 0.610, p = 0.713).Based on research findings, the following recommendations were made: there is a need for MTN Uganda to conduct a customer communication needs assessment and be in a better position to design a clear and dependable medium to reach out to the public with services and products; there is a need to hire marketing professionals with the ability to package advertisement messages; and there is a need to choose the right people and approach to deliver messages. While designing advertisement messages, there is a need to strike a balance between the message content, medium or channel used, and personal qualities of the people involved in the ads if the process is to be impactful. MTN, as a company, should invest in corporate social responsibility; this helps promote the company’s products and services while transforming customers’ lives and communities.
Open Access
The Affirmative Action and Household Income Status of the Batwa Community Evicted From Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, Kanungu District, Uganda
(Kabale University, 2022) Saulo, Katariko
This study was conducted on the Affirmative Actionand Household Income Status of the Batwa Evicted from Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, Kanungu District, Uganda. The main objective of the study was to analyse the phenomena and challenges of the Batwa Affirmative Actionand Household Income in relation to the Batwa communities evicted from BINP. Four specific objectives were: To assess the services/projects provided by the Batwa Affirmative Action and Household Income in Bwindi; To investigate whether Batwa Affirmative Action and Household Income raised household income among the Batwa; To examine the challenges encountered by the Batwa Affirmative Action towards Household Income; To determine response perceived solutions to the challenges encountered by the Batwa Affirmative Action towards Household Income.A case study research design was employed for this study with mixed qualitative and quantitative approaches. With the aid of questionnaires, interview guides and focus group discussions, data was collected from 147 respondents that included the Batwa beneficiaries, religious workers, UWA staff, BMCT, BDP,UOBDU staff, Hospital/health centres and schools within Kanungu District. The first study objective revealed that Savings and credit schemes/Village Banks /VSLA was the main service provided to the Batwa as presented by 71% of the respondents. Other services included land ownership and food production, water and sanitation, tourism, and health among other.The second study objective revealed that the Batwa Affirmative Action and Household Income had raised household income among the Batwa as evidenced by 15.2% Batwa that had radios. Other assets included goats, cell phones, cows, and sheep among others. The third study objective revealed that most of the Batwa were not sensitizedso much that they were not aware of what is expected of them, or what is expected from non-Batwa. Finally, the fourth study objective revealed that the Batwa should be educated to initiate appropriate IGAs like goat keeping, apiary, irish potatoes, bananas, vegetables, coffee and tea. The study recommends that the Batwa should be involved in the planning, implementation and evaluation of projects that concern them so that they areproperly consulted. This would minimize or remove Batwa suspicion that project managers misuse funds meant for developing the Batwa. Instead of assimilation policies, the Batwa should be integrated into the surrounding communities without losing identity. The Batwa need to be fully sensitized that there is no more chance for nomadic hunter-gatherer lifestyle as the lifestyle is unsustainable.
Open Access
Agribusiness strategy and rural development: A case study of Ihunga Sub County, Ntungamo District
(Kabale University, 2018) Denis, Simpson Singahache
The purpose of the study was to investigate the relationship between agribusiness strategy and rural development in Ihunga Sub county, Ntungamo District. Case study research design was used and this allowed the researcher to concentrate on selected households and identified various interactive processes at work. A sample of 395 respondents from 30,000 target population participated in the study by answering the questionnaire and took part in interviews. Data collected by the researcher was entered using Statistical Package for Social Scientists (SPSS), and descriptive statistics analysed. and the researcher interpreted the data from the socio-demographic characteristics of the study respondents using frequencies and percentages to show the distribution of respondents on different items. The study was guided by three objectives; namely: (i) To establish how agribusiness strategy contributes to rural development. (ii) To examine the challenges hindering agribusiness strategies in rural development. (iii) To analyse the mitigation measures to the challenges hindering agribusiness strategy towards rural development in Ihunga Sub County, Ntungamo District. The key study findings were: lack of provision of food security strategy, poor policy articulation and lack of supply of agricultural inputs to farmers. The conclusion of the study was that agribusiness strategy has a prominent role to play in advancing rural development in Ihunga Sub County, Ntungamo District. Basing on the study objectives and subsequent findings, the study recommended among others: to have food security in homes and families using agribusiness strategy for developments; to launch cooperative societies so that agro-based producers with common goals advance their aim to kick poverty out of their areas by setting up the bargaining power to look for market, reliable technology and inputs to boost their operations aiming at developing their rural area; to adopt agribusiness strategy for rural development and widening employment opportunities; Government to come in and enforce policies and laws aiming at regulating birth so as to control population growth, Government should come in to properly articulate policies and ensure their effective implementation to enhance rural development basing on agribusiness strategy as the benchmark and the Ugandan government to prioritize the agriculture sectors by allocating a big proportion of the budget to agriculture and industry sectors.
Open Access
Agribusiness strategy and Rural Development: A case Study of Ihunga Sub county-Ntungamo District.
(Kabale University, 2018) Denis Simpson T.K, Singahache
The purpose of the study was to investigate the relationship between agribusiness strategy and rural development in Ihunga sub county, Ntungamo District. The study was guided by three objectives; namely: (i) To establish how agribusiness strategy contributes to rural development. (ii) To examine the challenges hindering agribusiness strategies in rural development. (iii) To analyze the mitigation measures to the challenges hindering agribusiness strategy towards rural development in Ihunga Sub County, Ntungamo District. A case study research design was used and this allowed the researcher to concentrate on selected households and identified various interactive processes at work. A sample of 395 respondents from 30000 target population participated in the study by answering the questionnaire and took part in interviews. Data collected by the researcher was entered using Statistical Package for Social Scientists (SPSS), and descriptive Statistics analyzed and interpreted the data from the socio-demographic characteristics of the study respondents using frequencies and percentages to show the distribution of respondents on different items. The key study findings were: lack of provision of food security strategy, poor policy articulation and finally lack of supply of agricultural inputs to farmers. The conclusion of the study was that agribusiness strategy has a prominent role to play in advancing rural development in Ihunga Sub County, Ntungamo District. Basing on the study objectives and subsequent findings, the study recommended among others: to have food security in homes and families using agribusiness strategy for developments, to launch cooperative societies so that agro-based producers with common goals advance their aim to kick poverty out of their areas by setting up the bargaining power to look for market, reliable technology and inputs to boost their operations aiming at developing their rural area, to adopt agribusiness strategy for rural development and widening employment opportunities, Government to come in and enforce policies and laws aiming at regulating birth so as to control population growth, Government should come in to properly articulate policies and ensure their effective implementation to enhance rural development basing on agribusiness strategy as the benchmark and the Ugandan government to prioritize the agriculture sectors by allocation a big proportion of the budget to agriculture and industry sectors.
Open Access
Agricultural Innovation Characteristics and Their Utilisation: A Case of National Agricultural Research Organization
(Kabale University, 2021) Barekye, Alex
Although innovations exist in the agricultural sector in Uganda, there is inadequate adoption/utilization of agricultural innovations by end-users. The research was carried out to assess the utilization of agricultural innovations in Uganda using a case of the National Agricultural Research Organisation with the following objectives: to establish the factors that influence development of agricultural innovations, to determine the relationship between agricultural innovation characteristics and utilization of innovations at farm level, and to examine the effect of market attributes on utilization of innovations in agriculture. The study was guided by a conceptual framework which considered agricultural innovation characteristics and market attributes as independent variables and utilization as a dependent variable. Using a cross sectional survey research design, a survey mainly using structured questionnaires was carried out among the National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO) staff to establish the factors that influence development of agricultural innovations. In order to establish how the innovation characteristics and market attributes affect utilization of innovations, a total of 91 households involved in cassava, maize and rice production were interviewed in Kihiihi sub-county, one of the sub-counties in Kanungu district where the NARO innovations on cassava, maize and rice have been promoted. The data was collected, coded, cleaned and analysed using SPSS to generate frequency tables and STATA to generate an ordered logistic regression of innovation characteristics and market attributes on utilization of agricultural innovations. The respondents agreed that it is important to consider the cost, relevance, and end-user opinion of agricultural innovations as important determinants of developing agricultural innovations. Also respondents agreed that in order to sustain innovations, agricultural research innovators need a clear plan on how innovations should be done (88% of respondents agreed), 91% of respondents agreed that regular information sharing among stakeholders and 94% agreed that the cost of the innovation process, are important factors in sustaining agricultural research innovations. Of the three commodities considered in this study, generation of new varieties emerged as the most important agricultural innovation in the community with 56%, 48% and 54% of the innovation on cassava, maize and rice respectively. The results also indicated that that there was a positive significant relationship between the attribute/characteristics of the varieties and the extent of utilization of varieties. In addition, regression results indicated that innovation characteristics such as relative xii advantage, compatibility, triability and, other variables such as gender, age, education had a significant effect (p<0.05) on innovation utilization by farming communities. However, complexity had a negative significant effect. The age of respondents has a negative significant effect on the utilization of the innovations while education had a positive significant effect on utilization of innovation. Keywords: Agricultural Innovation Characteristics, Utilisation, National Agricultural Research Organization, NARO.
Open Access
Agricultural innovation characteristics and their utilization: A case of National Agricultural Research Organization
(Kabale University, 2021) Alex, Barekye
The research was carried out to assess the utilization of agricultural innovations in Uganda, using a case of the National Agricultural Research Organisation, with the following objectives: to establish the factors that influence development of agricultural innovations; to determine the relationship between agricultural innovation characteristics and utilization of innovations at farm level; and to examine the effect of market attributes on utilization of innovations in agriculture. Using a cross sectional survey research design, a survey mainly using structured questionnaires was carried out among the National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO) staff to establish factors that influence development of agricultural innovations. A total of 91 households involved in cassava, maize and rice production were interviewed in Kihiihi Sub-county, one of the sub-counties in Kanungu District where the NARO innovations on cassava, maize and rice have been promoted. The data was collected, coded, cleaned and analysed using SPSS to generate frequency tables and STATA to generate an ordered logistic regression of innovation characteristics and market attributes on utilization of agricultural innovations. The respondents agreed that it is important to consider the cost, relevance, and end-user opinion of agricultural innovations as important determinants of developing agricultural innovations. Respondents also agreed that in order to sustain innovations, agricultural research innovators need a clear plan on how innovations should be done (88% of respondents agreed), 91% of respondents agreed that regular information sharing among stakeholders and 94% agreed that the cost of the innovation process, are important factors in sustaining agricultural research innovations. Of the three commodities considered in this study, generation of new varieties emerged as the most important agricultural innovation in the community with 56%, 48% and 54% of the innovation on cassava, maize and rice respectively. The results also indicated that that there was a positive significant relationship between the attribute/characteristics of the varieties and the extent of utilization of varieties. In addition, regression results indicated that innovation characteristics such as relative advantage, compatibility, triability and, other variables such as gender, age, education had a significant effect (p<0.05) on innovation utilization by farming communities. However, complexity had a negative significant effect. The age of respondents had a negative significant effect on the utilization of the innovations, while education had a positive significant effect on utilization of innovation.
Open Access
Agricultural Projects and Rural Development in Rwanda: A Case Study of Urugaga Imbaraga in Musanze District
(Kabale University, 2021) Joseph, Munyanziza
The majority of communities in Rwanda are rural dwellers and agrarian by occupation. This study assesses the role of agricultural projects and rural development in Musanze district, Rwanda. The research was a survey that collected data from 214 respondents -- 139 being farmers, 35 selected from Urugaga Imbaraga project staff, 30 respondents being local leaders and 10 community development officers. Respondents were selected using purposive and random sampling methods. The researcher used both qualitative and quantitative data collection methods. The researcher used both primary and secondary data collection tools. Data was analysed by descriptive statistics. The study findings revealed that Agricultural Projects have significantly increased food production in the locality through increased provision of pesticides and improved seeds to farmers, establishment of new infrastructure and provision of fertilizers. Though Urugaga Imbaraga in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture has significantly improved farmers` use of agricultural inputs, there is need to empower farmers by reducing the cost of fertilizers, improved seeds and even pesticides based on acreage one owns. Due to lack of adequate production capacity and insufficient stocks in the country, Rwanda still depends upon imported inputs which are too costly for farmers. There is need to loosen conditions that dictate access to, control and use of financial facilities by farmers. Being the core of the country’s economic backbone, agriculture should be given special attention in this regard whereby special financial facilities should set aside for agricultural development and be made flexible so as to be available to individual farmers.
Open Access
An Assessment of Microfinance Institution Services and Performance of Small and Medium Enterprises in Kabale Municipality.
(Kabale University, 2023) Mugarura, Elijah
Performance of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) has been recognized as an important contributor to many global economies. The importance of Small and Medium Enterprises as engines of employment creation and economic growth cannot go unrecognized. However, in the recent years most SMEs continue to register failures within the first few months in operation due to financial literacy problems and resource insufficiencies. Microfinance institutional services have thus been established to bridge the resource needs and capital insufficiency gaps that exist among the SMEs. Literature on how Microfinance Institutional Services affect the Performance of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) remains scanty in Kabale district, South Western Uganda. This study assessed Microfinance Institution Services and Performance of Small and Medium Enterprises in Kabale Municipality. The specific objectives were to assess; effect of provision of financial literacy, development of managerial skills, and marketing facilitation through SME clubs, marketing associations on the performance of small and medium enterprises. The study was descriptive in nature employing quantitative approaches for data collection and analysis. Information was gathered from a sample of 71 different SME owners and other key informants using questionnaire. Data was analyzed using Microsoft EXCEL and SPSS Version 22.0 to generate both descriptive and inferential statistics. The study found out that provision of financial literacy had a positive significant effect on the performance of SMEs. Financial literacy programs like savings literacy, debt literacy and investment literacy supported business owners to safely manage income, expenditure and savings, make clear financial decisions, timely pay back loans as well as investment diversification. all of which improved performance of SMEs. The study also found out that development of managerial skills positively affected SMEs performance mainly by improving SME governance, increasing business vision through met objectives and plans as well as motivating employees to work hard for better hence guaranteeing SMEs ability to compete, survival and thrive in a dynamic environment. The study further confirmed that marketing facilitation through SME Clubs, marketing associations positively affected performance of SMEs. SME Clubs and marketing associations offered personal liability protection, business security, access to capital and resources, created a less competitive business environment, contributed to business networking and offered a collective voice for small business owners. In conclusion, the study further confirmed that microfinance institution services (financial literacy, development of managerial skills and marketing facilitation) positively influenced performance of SMEs and recommended that more managerial trainings should be given to the SMEs by the MFI so as to equip them with more knowledge on running their enterprise which would translate into better management of funds and enhance performance in a long run. The study further recommends MFI to lower on their interest rates put on loans they give to SMEs so as not to let loans be too heavy for them to pay back which may hamper their positive contributions on the growth of SMEs. SME owners need more training in programs like budgeting and planning, debt management, record keeping, saving and retirement plans.
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An Evaluation of Socio-Economic Factors Underlying Pupils’ Dropout in Selected UPE Schools of Southern Division Kabale Municipality Kabale District.
(Kabale University, 2024) Akampurira, Samuel
This study evaluated socio-economic factors underlying pupils' dropout in selected UPE schools in Southern Division, Kabale Municipality, Kabale District. The study aimed to assess the influence of peer pressure, family background, and pupils' characteristics on pupils' dropout rates. The study adopted a descriptive research design and used both qualitative and quantitative approaches. The study population was 100 respondents from which a sample size of 80 respondents including head teachers, teachers, parents, and pupils was obtained using Krejcie and Morgan Table, 1970. Questionnaires and interview schedules were used to collect data. The study found that negative peer pressure, family background, and pupil characteristics, such as academic ability, motivation, behavior, and age, contribute to pupils' dropout. The study recommends interventions to foster positive peer relationships, improve school resources and parental support, and provide additional support to pupils with low academic performance. The findings provide insights for policymakers and education stakeholders to design and implement effective interventions to reduce pupils' dropout rates and promote inclusive and quality education in Uganda.
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Appraisal Systems and Employees’ Performance in Local Governments in Uganda: A Case Study of Kabale District Local Government.
(Kabale University, 2024) Muruhura, Abel
The study examined Appraisal Systems and Employees’ Performance in Local Governments in Uganda: A Case Study of Kabale District Local Government, aimed to analyze the effect of performance planning, determine the relationship between performance monitoring and assess the impact of performance improvement on employee performance. A cross-sectional research design was used, with a sample size of 160 selected from a population of 266 using Slovin's formula. Stratified random sampling was applied to select respondents from various roles, including teachers, administrators, and district staff. Data collection methods included questionnaires, interviews, and documentary reviews. The findings revealed a strong positive correlation between performance planning and employee performance (r = 0.626, p < 0.000), indicating that setting specific, measurable goals aligned with organizational objectives enhances performance. Similarly, performance monitoring showed a strong correlation with employee performance (r = 0.621, p < 0.000), though inconsistencies were noted in appraising core competencies. Performance improvement also had a significant positive impact on performance (r = 0.629, p < 0.000), though feedback processes were found to be inconsistently applied. The study concluded that effective appraisal systems significantly improve employee performance but highlighted areas for improvement in appraisals and feedback. Recommendations included integrating Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), enhancing feedback mechanisms, and promoting two-way communication to ensure a more comprehensive and consistent appraisal process.
Open Access
Assessing the Factors Influencing Attrition of Health Workers in Government Health Units in Lyantonde District, Uganda.
(Kabale University, 2023) Kansiime, Benon
Introduction The shortage of health workers remains a critical public health issue globally despite of national strategic plans enacted in 2014 by world leaders which aimed at handling the shortage of health workforce. This study assessed the factors influencing attrition of health workers in government health units in Lyantonde district, Uganda. This was guided by three specific objectives of the study which were to: find out the drivers of attrition of health workers in Lyantonde district; determine the effects of attrition of health workers in Lyantonde district; and establish retention measures of health workers in Lyantonde district. Methodology Across sectional study of collecting qualitative and quantitative data was conducted on 171 study participants including health workers, Chief Administrative Officer, the District Health Officer, the District Principal Human Resource Officer, Secretary District Service Commission, the Chairperson District Service Commission, the District Principal Internal Auditor, and Secretary for Health, Medical superintendent Lyantonde Hospital, District Planner and the Chief Finance Officer. Frequencies, percentages, means, standard deviations and correlations were used to achieve the objectives. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the qualitative data. Results 171 respondents participated in the study making a response rate of 95%, 34.5% were males, and 65.5% were females. The cadre distribution of the participants was as follows: Medical Officers 5 (2.9%), clinical officers 14 (8.2%), Nursing 82 (48.0%), Health Assistant 11(6.4%), Health inspector 4 (2.3), Radiographers 2 (1.2), Laboratory Assistants 9 (5.3%), Laboratory technicians 3(1.8%), Dispensers 2 (1.2%), Orthopaedic officer 1 (0 .6%), and Midwives 38 (22.2%). The drivers of attrition included: low pay/salary/allowances 49.7%, limited opportunities for promotion 51.5%, poor/lack of utilities 62.6%, lack of housing facilities 75.4%, and poor education facilities for health workers 48.5%. the effect of attrition of health workers included; shortage of health workers 85.5%, lack of access to all health services in the facilities 73.1%, and poor service delivery 43.3%. Moreover, on measures to mitigate the attrition of health workers, the following were found to be most important: provision of accommodation to the health workers (Mean=4.02), the government should provide training and promotion outlets (Mean=4.08), provision of incentives (Mean=4.31), provision of retention allowances (Mean=4.16). However, respondents were not sure if good relationship between the community and the health workers can lead to retention (Mean=3.0), and Availability of infrastructure and quality services (Mean=3.82). Discussion: The majority of the health workers have enough experience by they still face challenges of: inadequate pay, lack of equipment, health units accessibility, and availability of housing and social amenities which may contribute to their attrition. The effects of attrition of health workers cited in the study were: shortage of health workers, inadequate service provision, and patients did not access all services. Measures to mitigate the attrition of health workers cited in the study were provision of accommodation to health workers, training and promotion outlets for health workers with additional qualifications, provision of retention allowances especially to those working in the hard to reach areas.

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