Post-Graduate Dissertations (Ethics)

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The Socio-economic Effects of Depression on Children in a Post-Conflict Area: A Case Study of Aswa County, Gulu District
(Uganda Martyrs University, 2005) Alal, Single Dora
ALAL SINGLE DORA (2005-M033-1008) The Socio-economic Effects of Depression on Children in a Post-Conflict Area: A Case Study of Aswa County, Gulu District Many children fell prey of the 23 years armed conflict in Northern Uganda. Both the government and rebel groups caused adverse harm to the children destroying social facilities and lives. The communities were displaced into the Internally Displaced Persons‟ (IDP) camps with appalling conditions for human beings and children suffered significantly. The parents, government and other stakeholders failed to provide adequate protection to the children and because of these multiple sufferings the children in northern Uganda and Gulu have not recovered from the loss. Depression is associated with numerous negative and long lasting psychosocial problems in children, reduced functionality, suicide and even death. Available research and studies show that depression resulting from war and violence may have serious consequences on future adult development of adolescents; coupled with time lost, financial constraints and stress that the parents face with upbringing a depressed child. Unfortunately, these disorders often go unrecognised by families and physicians alike. In this study, the research is focusing on examining the social and economic effects of depression on children in a post-conflict situation. In carrying out of the study, the researcher chose a case study strategy as the most suitable approach for this research to examine the socio-economic effects of depression on children in a post-conflict situation. Both the qualitative and quantitative approaches were used in the study, structured 13 questionnaire, focus group discussion guide and interview guide to enlist information from different respondents. Data analysis was done using EPI DATA. Overall, the study findings show that knowledge about depression is still very scanty with the children not able to identify depression symptoms and not able to know that they are depressed. The worst part of it all is that they do not know they are actually sick and need to seek medical attention. The assessment and analysis of data on the effects of depression on social relations of the children found that majority of the children have poor relationships with their peers, parents and caretakers. Depression affects children‟s behaviours negatively and this affects children‟s positive development and may lead to other delinquent behaviours which expose them to more risks and abuse. Depression reduces the energy to engage in productive activities both at school and at home as found out by this study. This can affect their school performance negatively leading to failures in examinations. The researcher concluded that depression affects both the social and economic life of children with serious short term and long term negative consequences both for the child, family, community and consequently affecting their positive development into adult life. Therefore, early identification and treatment is very important in helping the conditions not to become chronic. There should be increased intentional community mobilisation and awareness raising to understand that depression is just like any illness that can be prevented and treated effectively. The government should ensure consistent implementation of the mental health act and health services bill to allow for continuous flow of drugs to health centres and this should be backed by increasing the number of personnel in the mental health department. Parents and adolescents should be aware of the warning signs of depression and suicidal thoughts and report any sign of danger immediately to the health units or professionals Keywords: The Socio-economic Effects, Depression on Children in a Post-Conflict Area, Gulu District
Assessment of Women’s Participation in the Urban Informal Sector: A Case Study of Kalerwe Market, Kawempe Division in Kampala City
(Uganda Martyrs University, 2005) Kinyera, Tony Apecu
KINYERA TONY APECU (2005-M033-10009) Assessment of Women’s Participation in the Urban Informal Sector: A Case Study of Kalerwe Market, Kawempe Division in Kampala City The study was aimed at assessing women‟s participation in the urban informal sector with a case study of Kalerwe market, Kawempe division in Kampala City. The main objective of the study was to find out why women‟s participation in the urban informal sector has made little impact on their socio-economic development despite their dominant role in the sector. The study further explored the socio-economic activities women are engaged in, examined factors that contribute to women‟s involvement, the challenges faced by women and how women‟s involvement in the informal sector could contribute to their socio-economic development. The research questions raised in this study were aimed at finding out: what socio-economic activities are women engaged in, factors influencing women‟s involvement, challenges they face, and how women‟s involvement in the informal sector contributes to their socio-economic development and ways of improving on their work conditions. The research design used in this study is case study. It gave the researcher room for in-depth investigation and deeper insights and understanding of problems being faced by women in the informal sector. The study was carried out in Kalerwe market located in Kalerwe village, Mulago III Parish, Kawempe division in Kampala. Female market vendors, customers and Kampala City Council (KCC) officials were considered as study population. The total sample size was 80 respondents. It included 40 women engaged in activities in Kalerwe market, 30 customers/buyers and 10 KCC officials. The researcher purposively targeted these categories because of richness in information regarding the study. The researcher used both primary and secondary data. Primary data was collected through interviews, observation and questionnaires. The researcher obtained valuable secondary data from newspapers, journals on the internet and other published materials. Data analysis was done through descriptive writing, giving details of the findings. Data was both descriptive and inferential. For statistical data, frequency tables were used and for descriptive data, the Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient (r) was used. Data analysis was done by using the statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS). The researcher sought permission from KCC authority to conduct the study. Confidentiality of the respondents, honesty and openness were adhered to during the study. The findings showed that women of different age groups and marital status are involved in several activities, including sale of fresh food stuffs, second hand clothes, fruits, and air time. It was also found out that women are faced with challenges in the informal trade. These include among others: lack of capital, lack of required skills, harassment from Kampala City Council Officials, bad debtors, 9 unfair competition from formal traders, bad weather conditions, taxation, high rent, inadequate information on market opportunities, available services, new technology and support programmes, lack of required skills, poor physical infrastructure facilities in the market, absence of organised and recognised interest groups to champion the women‟s cause in the market. The findings also revealed that women get involved in informal sector due to a number of factors which include: widespread poverty, the radical downsizing of the civil service during the 1990s and a generally a poor business climate in the country, unemployment, population increase, sustained rural- urban migration. Informal trade is found to be the major source of income to women and profitable. The findings further revealed that women spend their earnings on household requirements and taxes to government The researcher, therefore, recommends that key stakeholders such Non-governmental Organisations (NGOs), government and international agencies should explore ways of availing credit facilities to women, training them in basic skills in commerce and establishment of service infrastructure in the market. Keywords: Urban Informal Sector, Women’s Participation, Kalerwe Market
Assessment of the Staff Recruitment Process in the Decentralised System of Local Government: A Case Study of Mukono District
(Uganda Martyrs University, 2006) Kisekka, Bwebukya Godfrey
KISEKKA BWEBUKYA GODFREY (2006-M092-10008) Assessment of the Staff Recruitment Process in the Decentralised System of Local Government: A Case Study of Mukono District The study was carried out in Mukono District Local Government (DLG) with the major objective of assessing the recruitment process in the district. The specific objectives of this study were to establish the actual and potential sources of recruitment for Mukono district, to identify the problems surrounding recruitment of staff within the decentralised system of local government in Mukono district, to establish the effects of the recruitment process on staff performance in the district and to establish the attitude of the district staff and political leaders towards the recruitment procedures and retention of staff. The study was both qualitative and quantitative in nature. Target groups included serving officers in different categories ranging from the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO), middle level and junior officers. The lower local governments selected included the town councils of Njeru, Lugazi, Mukono and Nkokonjeru, plus the sub-counties of Goma, Najjembe, Kawolo and Nama. Also, some respondents were purposively sampled from National Service Commissions and a few line ministries. Methods used to gather data included questionnaires, interviews and focus group discussions. The data were analysed and presented as tables, graphs and charts. It was found out that Mukono district by virtue of the Constitution and the Local Government Act, Cap 243, is mandated to recruit, discipline, develop and dismiss its staff, except the CAO and Deputy CAO. The district recruits from within and from outside through a procedure that is well stipulated by the Public Service Commission (PSC). However, the recruitment is done with a lot of irregularities like political influence, bribery, no submissions from the CAO and or/Town Clerk, which is contrary to the relevant laws, guidelines, rules and regulations. This has resulted into wrong decisions being implemented, thus causing loss of revenue to the district through performance gaps, heavy workload and poor service delivery. Eighty percent of respondents pointed to the need to recruit basing on multiparty system while 20% were against it, 57% preferring radio as a means of communication in case short-listing is out, 57% were of the view that political influence has limited proper management of human resource matters in the district. It is recommended that there should be regular training of the District Service Commission (DSC) members and the public as well as on the procedures of recruitment and putting in place an efficient feedback mechanism. High labour turnover should also be studied and prevented from escalating. There is also need to set up quality assurance mechanisms, amendment of the law such that the DSC members are not appointed by the district council but by the MoPS in consultation with the PSC and their remuneration be channelled direct to the DSC account instead of sending it through the CAO. More still, the DSC should have the mandate to demand for some vital submissions from the CAO/Town Clerks instead of just sitting back to wait for submissions. In addition, the DSC should improve communication with shortlisted candidates through telephone calls, emails and text messages and feedback to those who aren‟t successful after the selection process. The rules on co-option of technical members need to be laid down clearly and tightened to avoid bias, nepotism and bribery. In conclusion, it is recommended that the applicants should submit verified academic copies with their applications to reduce cases of forgery. The DSC should also submit their quarterly reports to the District Council and the PSC on time. Keywords: Staff recruitment, decetralisation system, local government, Mukono distrcit
Assessing Factors Influencing Hygiene and Sanitation Practices in Soroti District: A Case Study of Arapai Sub-County
(Uganda Martyrs University, 2006) Agelu, Charles
AGELU CHARLES (2006-03-MA-DL-003) Assessing Factors Influencing Hygiene and Sanitation Practices in Soroti District: A Case Study of Arapai Sub-County A lot of resources have been sunk into the water and sanitation sector by various actors; Government, local and international Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) to improve the water, hygiene and sanitation situation in the country. In spite of all these, the sanitation situation has remained poor. Even households with sanitation facilities in place do not operate or maintain them. The study was conducted to assess the factors influencing hygiene and sanitation practices in Soroti district, a case study of Arapai sub-county. The study variables were: poverty, culture and illiteracy. Purposive sampling, questionnaires, interview guides, focus group discussions and observation check-lists were used to collect data from the respondents. The specific objectives of the study were: to assess how culture influences adoption of hygiene and sanitation practices, to examine how poverty influences adoption of hygiene and sanitation practices and to assess how literacy levels influence adoption of hygiene and sanitation practices. The research questions were; what cultural practices affect hygiene and sanitation? How does poverty influence hygiene and sanitation practices and how literacy levels affect hygiene and sanitation practices. The findings reveal that poverty, illiteracy and culture influence hygiene and sanitation practices in Soroti district. In order to come out of this rather difficult situation, there is need for a critical analysis of the situation so as to design appropriate interventions. This also requires a joint effort by various development actors in the region so as to have a uniform approach to development intervention. Key areas that need action are: provision of adequate extension services, subsidisation of hygiene and sanitation materials, setting up of sanitation bi-laws, regular follow-ups, involvement of community based institutions like cultural and religious leaders, involvement of women who are the primary users of water and sanitation facilities and more research into the topic so as to get further insights into factors that affect hygiene and sanitation practices in the area. Keywords: Hygiene and Sanitation, Soroti District
An Assessment of the Impact of the Local Government Development Programme on the Improvement of Health Service Delivery: A Case Study of Soroti District
(Uganda Martyrs University, 2006) Egunyu, Dorah
EGUNYU DORAH (2006-M092-10002) An Assessment of the Impact of the Local Government Development Programme on the Improvement of Health Service Delivery: A Case Study of Soroti District The study assessed the impact of the Local Government Development Programme (LGDP) on the improvement of health service delivery in Soroti district. The objectives of the study where three pronged 1) to establish the benefits of the LGDP in the improvement of health service delivery and 2) to ascertain the challenges encountered in the implementation of the LGDP and 3) to examine the mechanisms used to address the challenges encountered in the implementation of the LGDP in order to improve health service delivery. The study findings would, therefore, provide a platform for discussion of recommendations directed to address the challenges encountered in the implementation of the LGDP in order to improve health service delivery. The study employed a case study research design and both quantitative and qualitative methods of data collection were utilised. The study sample space targeted one hundred respondents, with the bulk of interviewees (80) being selected as a category of health service users within the target community and 20 key informants. The study findings indicated that the most highly rated benefits of health service delivery under the LGDP were immunisation (67.5%) and distance to health centres (26.3%) which community members rated very good. Corruption (10.9%) was cited as the main challenge to the LGDP while construction of more health centres (10.1%) was rated highest for best government local health strategy. The salient conclusion of the study was that despite the construction of health centres that ameliorated issues around distance and good immunisation programmes, corruption continued to pose a glaring threat to effective health service delivery. Key issues touching on drug outs, doctor to patient ratio resulting in high death rates from even curable diseases still remained persistent, invariably discounting gains from the LGDP. Recommendations in the study include: equipping health centres with drugs and other operational facilities, sustenance of immunisation campaigns, organising refresher courses for serving health practitioners, as well as training more health workers and creation of a national health think tank among others. Keywords: Health service delivery, Local government development, Soroti district
Women Access to Microfinance Credit and its Contribution to their Economic Empowerment: A Case Study of Selected Savings and Credit Cooperative Societies in Bushenyi District
(Uganda Martyrs University, 2006) Kobusingye, Edivine Mary
KOBUSINGYE EDIVINE MARY (2006-MO43-10003) Women Access to Microfinance Credit and its Contribution to their Economic Empowerment: A Case Study of Selected Savings and Credit Cooperative Societies in Bushenyi District The general objective of the study was to investigate the accessibility to microfinance credit by women in selected Savings and Credit Cooperative Societies (SACCOs) in Beshenyi District and its effective utilisation to enhance their economic empowerment. A descriptive survey and a case study research design using both qualitative and quantitative approaches were employed in the study. Both random and non-random sampling techniques were used. Cluster random sampling was used to select the 10 institutions from which the study took place. Quota sampling was used to select the respondents of the study: 10 per institution, thus, a total of 100 respondents were sampled. Snowball sampling was used to identify the targeted women. Quantitative data was coded and frequencies and percentages computed. Qualitative information was analysed according to study themes using narrative analysis. The key research findings showed that very few women had accessed credit compared to men. This was due to lack of collateral to pledge, high interest rate charged on loans, long procedures involved before one got a loan, high levels of illiteracy of women and lack of support from husbands. Husbands controlled most of the productive resources especially land basically through inheritance, controlled incomes in the home and determined how women invested the money received as credit since they were the determinants of priority investments. Women had succeeded to invest in income generating activities, saved and supported and maintained their children in school hence were economically empowered. The conclusions made were that the percentage of women who had accessed credit from selected SACOOs in Bushenyi was still small compared to men. This was due to many factors already mentioned above. The women who were legally married and in monogamous relationships had effectively utilised the credit they received. Men controlled all the productive resources in a home basically through inheritance and determined priority investments hence denying women a chance to exercise choice in the nature of activity invested in. The size of the loan received was too small to have any positive bearing on the economic empowerment of these women. There were few cases of loan diversion since majority of the respondents had used the loans for the intended purpose. The recommendations made are that Micro Finance Institutions (MFIs) should initiate lending policies that are women friendly in order to encourage more women to access credit. Husbands should try to discuss and plan with their wives on how to utilise the acquired loans and also allow women to participate in deciding things that affect their lives and those of their families hence enhancing their empowerment. Women should try to invest in more productive or higher income generating activities which bring in more returns. MFIs should initiate more products which encourage women to save and should avoid fraudulent practices that discourage women from saving. Keywords: Microfinance credit, economic empowerment, Buhsenyi district
The Role of Savings and Credit Co-operative Organisations in enhancing the Prosperity for All Programme (Bonna-Bagaggawale): A Case Study of Rubaga Division in Kampala City
(Uganda Martyrs University, 2006) Kyalisiima, Priscilla
KYALISIIMA PRISCILLA (2006-MO53-10013) The Role of Savings and Credit Co-operative Organisations in enhancing the Prosperity for All Programme (Bonna-Bagaggawale): A Case Study of Rubaga Division in Kampala City Savings and Credit Cooperative Organisations (SACCOs) are tools for development in Uganda. It is on this basis that the government of Uganda has chosen SACCOs to provide access to financial services implemented through a development programme – the “Prosperity for All” commonly known as Bonna Bagaggawale, geared towards improvement of household incomes and people‟s livelihoods. The study was, therefore, an assessment of the role of SACCOs in enhancing the Prosperity for All (PFA) programme. The specific objectives were: to analyse the success of SACCOs in enhancing Prosperity for all and to identify the challenges faced by SACCOs in enhancing Prosperity for All. The study, which was of a case study design, was conducted in three SACCOs, namely: Namungona Cooperative Savings and Credit Society, Born Again Pentecostal Savings and Credit Society and Rubaga North Development Association and Credit Society, all located in Rubaga division in Kampala City. Using individual interviews and self-administered semi-structured questionnaires, information was collected from 120 clients who have accessed financial services from the SACCOs. Other respondents were members of SACCO management who included Loans Officers and Managers. The key findings indicated that clients have benefited more from savings and loan services but less in business tutorials and advice that would enhance knowledge in enterprise development. Regarding interest charges on loans, it was found out that interest charged was fair and, therefore, would not be a limitation to accessing loan services. The findings further revealed that though SACCOs have done a lot in extending financial and business support, less has been felt in improved standards of living and saving culture promotion. More findings reveal that SACCOS have contributed more in terms of employment and improved economic status of the community than in infrastructural development. On recommendations, with regard to the roles of SACCOs in enhancing the PFA programme, it is recommended that SACCOs improve on their proficiency in extending financial services, namely, mobilisation of savings and advancing loans for enterprise development. It is also recommended that SACCOs should consider reducing interest rates since the cost of loans has a high incidence on the demand for loans and loan repayment. SACCOs should provide non-financial services that include conducting sensitisation programmes for clients. To protect against loan delays, managers should develop loan products that suit the clients‟ needs; the delivery process should be convenient and the clients should be made to feel that SACCO staff members respect and care about them. Reviewing of the loan policies and procedures should be accompanied by building the capacity of management, staff and board members that are in charge of loan management. As regards the perception that SACCO management is corrupt, it is recommended that the SACCO Board should institute internal and external auditing of their SACCOs in order to establish efficiency and effectiveness of SACCO operations. With regard to misconceptions by clients and politicians about Bonna Bagaggawale funds, it is recommended that a sensitisation programme be intensified to furnish clients with the right information. Managers of SACCOs are also advised to adhere to lending policies and desist from political interference. It is recommended that for SACCOs to reduce on their operational costs, they should put in place internal controls that ensure prudent management of SACCO operational costs and ensure that operational self-sufficiency is attained. In this way, SACCOs will be in position to confidently execute sustainably the PFA programme. The Boards and Management of SACCOs are advised to enter into collaborative arrangements with other institutions such as RFSP, UCSCU, MSC and AMFIU put in place by government to execute the PFA programme. Keywords: Savings and Credit Co-operative Organisations, Kamapala
Effects of Neglecting Culture in Child Protection and Development in Pastoral Communities of Karamoja: A Case Study of Rupa Sub-County in Matheniko County, Moroto District Karamoja Region
(Uganda Martyrs University, 2006) Achom, Oluka Irene
ACHOM OLUKA IRENE (2006-M033-10019) Effects of Neglecting Culture in Child Protection and Development in Pastoral Communities of Karamoja: A Case Study of Rupa Sub-County in Matheniko County, Moroto District Karamoja Region The study was about the effects of neglecting culture in promoting child protection and development in pastoral communities in Rupa sub-county in Moroto district -Karamoja region. It was meant to identify the cultural institutions, values, norms that enhance child protection and development and correspondingly establish the effects of cultural neglect in child protection and development. The study also highlights factors which influence cultural neglect in child protection and development in order to find solutions and recommendations to such problems through the analysis done by the researcher after data collection. Three hundred and sixty seven (367) respondents were randomly selected for the study. Primary data were collected through indepth informant interviews and focus group discussions. Various agency and government of Uganda publications and textbooks were used then as sources of secondary data. The research findings identified the following existing traditional institutions and practices which traditionally provided a platform for enhancement of child protection and development: the clan system, adolescent sexuality, courtship rape, marriage using animals, polygamy, care of orphans and widows, child birth, protection of children from evil or harm, naming of children, ownership of non-biological children, gender roles and livelihoods, mainstreaming of pastoralist protection issues, education, traditional healing/health care, nomenclature, disarmament/restoration of law and order in Karamoja, role of elders, congregating under trees (usually outside the manyata). The effects of neglecting culture in child protection and development were discussed alongside the above identified existing norms, institutions and values. Majority of these cultural institutions hold positive aspects of traditional child protection mechanisms which have been neglected due to the limiting factors such as: chronic insecurity and violence, rampant incidences of sexual abuse/rape, human sacrifices, failure of the current generation set to hand over power to the next generation set, decline in power of the traditional systems to regulate conflicts, poverty, chronic insecurity, women‟s role in raiding, pride in raiding, extended drought, lack of economic activities, loss of parents or guardians. However, neglecting some cultural practices was viewed as yielding positive effects for child protection and development. The study findings revealed that whereas there are both positive and negative effects of neglecting culture, the negative effects are more detrimental to child protection and development. Introduction of modern formal systems for child protection and development are not given ample time to evolve. Advocates of change are eager to see results of change in the short term. Both the Karimojong and the development partners (Government, Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), private sector) need to take into consideration the role of culture in designing development programmes in order to develop appropriate sustainable child protection and development programmes for Karamoja with specific focus on Rupa sub-county. The research will contribute important and useful information to policy makers and development partners who are interested in promoting child protection and development in Rupa sub-county and to the government that is currently implementing the Peace, Recovery and Development Plan (PRDP) in Karamoja. This study will also help scholars in the academic field to undertake further research into issues of culture and development and it is important that this study was carried out to help Moroto district in designing its District Development Plans. NGOs and UN agencies will be able to evaluate the relevance and the effectiveness of their programme interventions using the recommendations of this research. Keywords: Pastoral Communities, Child Protection, Karamoja
Assessing the Contribution of Informal Cross-Border Trade to Household Poverty Reduction in Malaba Town Council, Tororo District.
(Uganda Martyrs University, 2006) Adude, Onyokor Vicent
ADUDE ONYOKOR VINCENT (2006-M033-10006) Assessing the Contribution of Informal Cross-Border Trade to Household Poverty Reduction in Malaba Town Council, Tororo District. Informal Cross-Border Trade (ICBT) has become a source of livelihood for border communities both employed and unemployed amidst the difficult socio-economic conditions which have affected living standards of the people. This study has explored the contribution of ICBT to household poverty reduction. The overall objective of this research was to assess the contribution of informal cross-border trade (ICBT) to poverty reduction in Malaba Town Council, Tororo district. The specific objectives were: to explore the extent and nature of ICBT in Malaba town, to examine the derived socio-economic benefits from ICBT and to examine the challenges and constraints faced by informal cross-border traders. The data for this research were collected from people engaged in ICBT, the study of written records and review of literature, key informants and observation. The written documents on ICBT, and scholarly works provided the background knowledge and conceptualisation of the study. In the survey methods of data collection, we interviewed 25 informal cross-border traders. The established informal traders gave us important insights into their experiences with ICBT. The study established the existence of a robust ICBT in Malaba town. It also identified the need for sources of livelihood as the key motivation for ICBT. The majority of the informal cross-border traders lack wage employment. The social economic profiles of these traders are not important in this business enterprise. The traders‟ levels of formal education do not determine the nature of cross-border trade. The study demonstrates that the sources of funding for launching and, sustaining cross-border trade are usually drawn from the personal and family savings. A small number of these traders apply and qualify for loans from financial institutions. Given the fact that family savings are meagre, the ICBTs import small quantities of goods. They transport their merchandise by public transport such as buses or coaches and/or on foot. The traders, most importantly, import essential and scarce commodities into their countries. Because the traders need income, they import goods that sell quickly in the markets and bring money quickly. The study has shown that the ICBT is a safety net for the unemployed people in border towns like Malaba. The trade provides sources of income to people without wage employment. More importantly, ICBT promotes entrepreneurship skills of people without formal education. The ICBT has a potential of transforming the traders into formal businessmen and women. The study has implications for those who view ICBT as merely a survival mechanism and strategy. The ICBT activities are significant and contribute immensely to household welfare. The study recommends the designing of appropriate policies to guide traders involved in ICBT which would impact positively on the local food security situation, attract investments in agro-processing, develop markets and transport infrastructure which could greatly contribute to poverty reduction. Key Words: Informal Cross-Border Trade, Household Poverty, Reduction Council, Tororo District.
Constraints faced by Female Head Teachers in their Performance as Decision Makers: A Case Study of Selected Government Aided Primary Schools in Amuria District.
(Uganda Martyrs University, 2006) Acom, Kellen
ACOM KELEN (2006-M053-10001) Constraints faced by Female Head Teachers in their Performance as Decision Makers: A Case Study of Selected Government Aided Primary Schools in Amuria District. The 21st Century is witnessing women defying the socio-cultural set ups that discriminate against them and are taking up leadership, administrative and management positions as decision makers with back up by “Affirmative Action” taken by many governments. This study sought to examine the constraints Female Head teachers face in their performance as decision makers in selected government aided primary schools in Amuria district in Uganda. A survey method was used to collect data from a sample of 139 respondents from 10 female headed primary schools. Interviews, questionnaires, focus group discussions and observation techniques were used. The collected data were presented on frequency tables, interpreted and analysed using descriptive statistics. The findings revealed that female head teachers face many constraints as they perform their decision making roles. It came out that the socio-cultural aspect is one of the constraints but not the major one to performance of female head teachers as revealed by the findings. The constraints include infrastructural/resource inadequacy, inadequate support supervision, socio-cultural influence, inadequate knowledge and skills and unrealistic policies and they have significant effect on school performance in Primary Leaving Examination (PLE). The study recommends that government appoints more women to head schools, build their capacity and give them more support, resources and facilities so as to boost their performance as decision makers. The study also recommends government to train head teachers in administration and management. The study recommends similar studies to be undertaken on male head teachers and in other parts of the country so as to get the general picture of experiences of all head teachers. Key Words: Constraints, Female Head Teachers, Performance, Decision Makers Government Aided Primary Schools, Amuria District.
An Assessment of Low Functionality of Protected Water Points and Attainment of Millennium Development Goal 7: A Case Study of Kapelebyiong Sub-County in Amuria District
(Uganda Martyrs University, 2006) Alupo, Grace
ALUPO GRACE (2006-03-MA-DL- 005) An Assessment of Low Functionality of Protected Water Points and Attainment of Millennium Development Goal 7: A Case Study of Kapelebyiong Sub-County in Amuria District The study highlights key findings of low functionality of protected water sources and analysed existing community mechanisms established to foster attainment of the Millennium Development Goal target on water in Kapelebyong sub-county in Amuria district. The study assesses the number of functional and non-functional protected water sources in the sub-county as well as the cause, and the different mechanisms put in place to try to respond to the problem of their continuous break down. The factors responsible for low functionality of protected water sources included: inadequate contribution of O&M fees, weak and non-functional Water User Committees (WUCs); accountability and transparency problems, inadequate number of trained Hand Pump Mechanics (HPMs). The methodology used to generate the data, utilised a research design frame of a case study. The population studied included; community members who were mainly household heads who were 16 in number and were randomly selected for a focus group discussion of 8 members, a questionnaire targeted a pump mechanic, purposively selected. There were in–depths interviews with 2 local council leaders purposively selected plus one non-governmental organisation and 1 district water officer selected purposively to provide information to the documentary guide. Key recommendations of the study included mobilisation of communities in the maintenance of water sources; continuous HPMs and WUCs training, government should review the existing policy guidelines to ensure their relevancy to various communities (a one-fit-all policy does not work in water stressed areas such as Kapelebyong sub-county), and enactment and enforcement of ordinances and bye-laws regarding the water source. Keywords: Law functionality, Water points, Millennium Development Goal, Amuria District
An Examination of the Gender Dimensions in Accessing and Utilising Microfinance in Buhaguzi County, Hoima District
(Uganda Martyrs University, 2007) Baguma, John
BAGUMA JOHN (2007-03-MA-PTR-008) An Examination of the Gender Dimensions in Accessing and Utilising Microfinance in Buhaguzi County, Hoima District This study delved into gender dimensions in accessing and utilising microfinance in Buhaguzi County. This was because, hitherto, there was no quality information on gender and access to microfinance in Buhaguzi County. The main objective was to generate information regarding gender-based inequalities in accessing microfinance services particularly for Buhaguzi county, hoima district in the western part of Uganda. The study was carried out following a case study design. Using questionnaires and key informant interviews, data were collected from Buhimba, Bugambe and Kiziranfumbi sub-counties of Buhaguzi County in Hoima district. The data were obtained from a random sample of eighty seven (87) microfinance clients and from four (4) key informants belonging to the different microfinance institutions which were operating and had clients in the these counties. Field data were analysed using a series of methods. Quantitative data were analysed using the statistical package for the social sciences (spss) where percentages and cross tabulations were used to generate the outputs. Both the frequency counts and percentages were presented in tables. Qualitative data were analysed using content analysis and its information was analysed along themes. The findings show that access to microfinance services is skewed in disfavour of men because the group-guaranteed methodology adopted by the microfinance institutions in the area does not favour the men. Most of the men obtained financial services from mainstream and formal financial institutions because they had the collateral that was necessitated to do so. It was also found that, nevertheless, men have control over the utilisation of the financial resources obtained by women from the microfinance institutions. Study findings revealed that the tendency for men to have control over credit facilities that are secured by their wives/partners is due to the patriarchal nature of families in the county and the fact that the men tended to have more education. Subsequently, the study recommends that the microfinance institutions devise means of reaching out to men that are ineligible for the group-based lending methodology and sensitise both the men and women on gender and their rights and responsibilities in as far as the utilisation of their services is concerned. This will ensure that the gender gap in accessing microfinance services is closed and that the microfinance services obtained are put to good use. Keywords: Gender Dimensions, Microfinance, Hoima District
The Impact of Educated Women on Economic Development in Yumbe District
(Uganda Martyrs University, 2007) Candiru, Christine
CANDIRU CHRISTINE (2007-M053-10007) The Impact of Educated Women on Economic Development in Yumbe District The study was conducted from May to July 2010. It aimed at finding out the impact of educated women on economic development in Yumbe district. The specific objectives were: - To establish the contribution of educated women to economic development in Yumbe district, to identify the appropriate type/level of education attained by women in Yumbe district for economic development and to find out factors that affected the contribution of educated women on economic development in Yumbe district. The researcher used various tools to gather information from different categories of respondents. The tools used were; questionnaires, group discussion guides, nominal discussion guide, observation and documentary review. Information was sought from educated women, women groups, men married to educated women, district officials and women who carried out economic activities individually and smaller groups. The study established that educated women contributed a lot to the economic development of Yumbe district. This mainly involved women who attained informal and non-formal education. However, they faced some challenges that hindered their participation in economic development. For example, inadequate transport facilities to transport their produce to the market, inadequate or unqualified human resources, poor health, lack of committed and strong associations, high level of illiteracy among the women and high level of poverty to mention but a few. Keywords: Economic Development, educated women, Yumbe district
Impact of Sedentarisation on Food Security among Pastoralists in Rengen Sub-County, Kotido District
(Uganda Martyrs University, 2007) Emuria, Paul
EMURIA PAUL (2007-03-MA-DL-021) Impact of Sedentarisation on Food Security among Pastoralists in Rengen Sub-County, Kotido District The Jie pastoralists in Rengen sub-county had for many decades been food self sufficient having successfully responded to the increasing social, economic, political and climatic shocks through economic diversification including agro-pastoralism, wage labour and increased market orientation. However, over the past decade, renewed attempts by government and partners to jumpstart and modernise the pastoral economy with emphasis on transforming the values and behaviours of pastoralists have apparently destabilised the newfound socio-economic equilibrium. Faced with more demands in their way of life than at any previous times, the Jie pastoralists have struggled to cope yet with diminishing options. This study examined the impact of sedentarisation on the capacity of the Jie pastoralists to meet their self-defined food needs unaided. It was both qualitative and quantitative in nature employing semi-structured questionnaires, interviews, and content analysis methods administered through individual interviews and focus groups discussions. Observation and photography were also used. The findings reveal that recent interventions in Rengen sub-county resulted into increased restrictions on grazing mobility within and outside the sub-county, destabilised the socio-economic strata, contributed to unsustainable exploitation of natural resources and disrupted the traditional social support networks as well as the internal and external trade relations. The main conclusion of the study is that the gains from renewed and rather disproportionate sedentarisation efforts by the state and partners have been outstripped by the increased vulnerability of the Jie pastoralists to food insecurity due to foregone traditional copping strategies. Major recommendations among others include: relaxation of restrictions on pastoral mobility, enhancement of pastoral livelihood diversification, improved internal security, improvement of key infrastructure and more importantly the development of policy on pastoralism. Keywords: Food security, Pastoralist, Sedentarisation, Kotido district
The Impact of the Conflict in Northern Uganda on the Traditional Livelihood of the Population of Pader District in Acholi Sub Region: A Case Study of Patongo Sub-County
(Uganda Martyrs University, 2007) Aziku, Santus
AZIKU SANTUS (2007-MO93-10084) The Impact of the Conflict in Northern Uganda on the Traditional Livelihood of the Population of Pader District in Acholi Sub Region: A Case Study of Patongo Sub-County Acholi sub region in Northern Uganda including Patongo sub-county in Pader district has suffered from unprecedented insecurity since the mid 1980‟s. For over twenty years, the Lord‟s Resistance Army (LRA) and its predecessor insurgents have waged a civil war against the Government of Uganda and terrorised the civilian population of Gulu, Kitgum and Pader and parts of neighbouring districts like Lira, Soroti and Kotido. The vicious attacks of the LRA led to massive displacement and adversely compromised the incomes and overall quality of life of the population that largely depended on agriculture for its livelihood. This research attempts to assess into depth the impact of this conflict on the traditional livelihood strategies of the local population particularly that of Pader sub-county. It attempted to do this by answering four specific research questions namely - What were the traditional livelihood strategies of the local population in Patongo sub-county? How were these traditional livelihood strategies affected by the armed conflict? What were the effects of the disruption of the traditional livelihood strategies on the local population? And what are the options for reconstruction of the people‟s livelihood? The conclusions drawn from this study reveal that: access to farm land, crop production, livestock raring, social capital, trade/markets, and traditional skills and knowledge were the main components of the traditional livelihood strategy of the local people of Patongo sub-county. By displacing the population while leading to destruction of property and social capital; loss of productive asserts, markets, trade and employment opportunities; deprivation from basic services and restriction of movement, the conflict completely disrupted and separated the local population from their traditional sources of livelihood. This disruption and separation consequently led to depletion of the people‟s productive assets, dependence on humanitarian assistance for basic survival and above all adaptation of new livelihood strategies as a coping mechanism. The population became economically unable to participate in the national economy, adequately provide their own needs and educate their children. The research also concludes that, it is possible to rebuild the people‟s livelihood and improve the overall quality of life. The people themselves believe that, their traditional livelihoods would be restored if they could have access to their own farm land and there is restocking of their lost animals; if they continue to receive food aid and be supported with house hold supplies and cash as they resettle while at the same time the government rehabilitates the social infrastructure and provides basic social services. Keywords: Conflict, Traditional Livelihood, Acholi Sub-region
Causes and Effects of Street Children on Development in Uganda: A Case Study of Street Children in Kabale Municipality, Kabale District
(Uganda Martyrs University, 2007) Bugabo, G. Stephen
BUGABO .G. STEPHEN (2007-M093-10064) Causes and Effects of Street Children on Development in Uganda: A Case Study of Street Children in Kabale Municipality, Kabale District The problem of street children is global and has been experienced by almost all cities and small towns in the world and has affected development. The objectives of this study were: to find out the number of street children, to examine the causes of the street children phenomenon, to find out the extent to which street children affect development and to analyse the mitigating factors to the problem of street children in Kabale Municipality. The study was largely qualitative though quantitative methods were used to a small extent. The population of study involved street children, community members, government leaders and non-governmental organisations whose activities concern street children. Non-random sampling techniques were used and the research was based on a sample size of 140 respondents. Interviews, observation and documentary analysis were the data collection methods used. The findings of the study indicated that the causes of street children problem were mostly domestic centred such as domestic violence, child sexual abuse, poverty, family breakdown, child neglect and torture. The increase in the number of street children in Kabale Municipality was found to have affected development through increased illiteracy rates which limits the number of future professionals in different sectors like engineers, doctors, teachers and lawyers. Infant immortality rates which affect population growth, increase in HIV/AIDS prevalence due to child prostitution were also found to affect development. However, several church-founded and community-based organisations have played a significant role in rehabilitating street children to turn them into productive citizens. These organisations provide children with school fees, scholastic materials and medical care. The study recommends that the government and community members should aim at promoting poverty alleviation programmes to strengthen people‟s economic bases, sensitising parents to stop administering corporal punishments on children, and observing children‟s rights. More child centres and orphanages should be built to absorb all children on the streets. Keywords: Street Children, Development in Uganda, Kabale Municipality
Assessing Participation of Care-Givers in Food Security and Nutrition Interventions of Orphans and other Vulnerable Children in Kibaale District: A Case Study of Rural People in Action for Development
(Uganda Martyrs University, 2007) Tushaboomwe, Tumuhimbise Herbert
TUSHABOOMWE TUMUHIMBISE HERBERT (2007-M023-10021) Assessing Participation of Care-Givers in Food Security and Nutrition Interventions of Orphans and other Vulnerable Children in Kibaale District: A Case Study of Rural People in Action for Development Although civil society organisations have been heralded for performing many activities geared towards improvement of rural people‟s welfare, these attributes are largely untested and available reviews about their performance in encouraging participation are sceptical. This motivated the researcher to assess the level of participation of care-givers in food security and nutrition interventions for Orphans and Vulnerable Children implemented by Rural People in Action for Development (RUPAD) in Kibaale district. The study covered three sub-counties, namely, Mugarama, Bwamiramira and Kyanaisoke. Specifically, the study sought to examine the nature of food security and nutrition interventions implemented by RUPAD to caregivers, assess the participation levels of caregivers in RUPAD‟s food security and nutrition interventions as well as the challenges faced by care-givers in participation in RUPAD‟s food security and nutrition interventions. Using simple random and purposive sampling approaches, a total of 110 respondents participated in the study. A case study design was used and primary data collected through interviews and focus group discussions. Data collected was analysed both qualitatively and quantitatively. Descriptive statistics were used in the analysis. Research findings revealed that RUPAD implemented a food security and nutrition project that provided crop husbandry support to care-givers in Kibaale district. However, there was low participation of care-givers in food security and nutrition interventions implemented by RUPAD in the area. The challenges faced by care-givers in participation in RUPAD‟s food security and nutrition interventions included the long distance between care-givers‟ residences and RUPAD offices, delay in provision of seeds, short time for meeting announcements that led to failure by many beneficiaries to attend such meetings and poor health of care-givers among others. Due to these challenges, the study made several recommendations including setting up RUPAD branch offices in each sub-county to enable care-givers to consult staff in case of need, sensitisation of the community on the importance of project management meetings and involving care-givers in project planning and management among others. Keywords: Food security, Nutrition intervention, Orphans, Vulnerable Children, Kibaale District
Assessment of the Contribution of Local Council Courts in the Administration of Justice in Amuru District: A Case Study of Pabbo Sub-County
(Uganda Martyrs University, 2007) Akello, Dorcas
AKELLO DORCAS (2007-M093-10062) Assessment of the Contribution of Local Council Courts in the Administration of Justice in Amuru District: A Case Study of Pabbo Sub-County The research assessed Local Council (LC) courts‟ administration of justice and set out to answer three specific issues: LC courts‟ knowledge and understanding of roles and responsibilities, challenges faced by LC courts in administration of justice and barriers to access justice in the LC courts. The research was conducted in Pabbo sub-County found in Amuru district. The study used both qualitative and quantitative methods for data collection. Data was collected from 138 respondents through interviews by use of open ended questionnaires, focus group discussions and key informant interviews. Both manual and computer packages (SPSS) were used to analyse the data. The research findings revealed that access to justice in the LC courts is influenced by a number of factors and that LC courts face a number of hurdles in their attempts to dispense justice. One of the critical challenges to access to justice in the Local Council courts is the lack of funding for the courts that has exposed it to accusations of corruption and acceptance of gifts and facilitation that erode their impartiality. Most courts were using witnesses as a voting panel, and were awarding the case to the person who could bring the most witnesses or for whom the audience voted. It is not easy for a local court to judge against the powerful. Delaying tactics are also common and this, in essence, undermines expeditious decision-making. The possibility of winning in the LC courts means little, since the judgments of the sub-county court are just as easily ignored by the other party. Going to the Magistrate‟s Court also involves re-hearing the case, since LC courts have no known idea for applying to this court for enforcement of a judgment that was never appealed. Winning at the Magistrates‟ court has the possibility of getting enforcement, but court orders and bailiffs cost hundreds of thousands of shillings which must be paid up front by the winner and at the same time one has to know the procedure. The research offered some key recommendations: that the problems of access to justice in the LC courts are structural and far too widespread to be addressed through ad hoc response to symptoms or individual cases. The more important issues to address are the system problems of motivation, supervision and management, funding, and structural problems in the justice system itself, which allows forum shopping and makes enforcement almost impossible. A sense of justice, therefore, has to be present and is by and large achievable, provided the appropriate mechanisms are put in place. Keywords: Local Council Courts, Administration of Justice, Amuru District
An Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Farmer Field School Extension Approach in Promoting Sustainable Agriculture Among the Rural Farmers in Agago District: A Case Study of Parabongo Sub-county.
(Uganda Martyrs University, 2007) Tabu, Justin
TABU JUSTIN (2007-M093-10129) An Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Farmer Field School Extension Approach in Promoting Sustainable Agriculture Among the Rural Farmers in Agago District: A Case Study of Parabongo Sub-county. Farmer Field School (FFS) is a popular education and extension approach worldwide. Such schools use experiential learning and a group approach to facilitate farmers in making decisions, solving problems, and learning new techniques. This study evaluated the effectiveness of the Farmer Field School extension approach in promoting sustainable agriculture among the rural farmers in Parabongo sub-county, Agago district. The specific objectives of this study were: To establish the functions of FFS Extension Approach in promoting sustainable agriculture, to find out to what extent FFS approach is boosting sustainable agriculture and to craft strategies that will improve the implementation of FFS approach methodology as one of the agricultural extension approaches. This study used on a case study design; both quantitative and qualitative methods of data collection were employed. An interview guide was used to collect data through key informants; focus group discussions and questionnaires were used to gather data from the other selected respondents. The major findings of the study are the following; on its functions in the life of a rural farmer, FFS methodology has the ability to build the capacity of the farmers to become experts because it is farmer lead, it encourages farmers to experiment, empowers the farmers to think independently, it builds self confidence in the farmers especially for the women due to equal participation and it encourages the formation of the cooperative working groups. As regards the extent to which it interacts with the key component of sustainable agriculture, the research found that the approach is also effective in boosting the sustainable agriculture by strengthening the key element of sustainability through the practical training integration of environmental protection in production, emphasis on economical sustainability and contextualising the social sustainability. The FFS is an experimental, participatory learning methodology, it promotes new learning without compromising the experiences of the farmers, uses the problem solving approach based on the a specific location, therefore, the study concludes that: FFS as a model is the most effective and appropriate extension methodology for validation and dissemination of agricultural technologies and practices which eventually lead to people-oriented and sustainable agriculture amongst the rural farmers. However, the study also discovered that there has been a gap in the FFS in the way the FFS extension approach is being handled by the different implementers, the training duration and ideology behind. The study recommends that the government and her line department of Agricultural extension should prioritise the adaptation of the FFS extension for knowledge and technology transfer; NGOs and other stake holders active in FSAL sectors not to take FFS as a means of securing funds from donors but should treat it as one of the extension approaches that needs to be adopted by the framers for their survival; rural farmers to embrace the FFS extension approach and its evolution into the FFS network as the best and the only way through which the farmers are empowered to access markets for their produce at an affordable cost; need for future research on how FFS extension approach can be used to train the local farmers on other non-crop products. Key Words: Rural Farmers, School Extension Approach, Sustainable Agriculture Rural Farmers, Agago District.
Examining the Effectiveness of Government-Run Poverty Eradication Programmes in Kabarole District: A Case Study of LGDP, PMA and NAADS in Bukuuku Sub-County
(Uganda Martyrs University, 2007) Byomuhangi, Apolo
BYOMUHANGI APOLO (2007-MO53-10005) Examining the Effectiveness of Government-Run Poverty Eradication Programmes in Kabarole District: A Case Study of LGDP, PMA and NAADS in Bukuuku Sub-County This dissertation is about examining the effectiveness of government-run poverty eradication programmes in Kabarole district, basing on Bukuuku sub-county as a case study. It is a report of a study that was carried out from November 2009 to July 2010. The study was carried out with an aim of evaluating government-run poverty eradication programmes, in order to establish their strengths and weaknesses and suggest policy changes that could lead to effective poverty eradication. In the study, the researcher collected data by distributing questionnaires to fifty households and twenty individual farmers, interviewing local leaders and heads of departments and farmers, carrying out focus group discussions, documentary analysis and observation. It was found out that most people understood poverty as low income. This was mainly due to the fact that there were few economic activities in the area, with most people engaged in subsistence agriculture. Since most of them had no marketable surpluses from their production, they lacked income, which they pointed out as the major cause of poverty. Furthermore, the researcher found out that a number of factors were responsible for household poverty among the rural poor. The main factor was drunkenness followed by unemployment, lack of education and training, lack of capital, infertile soils and disasters. Other factors pointed out included lack of market, population pressure on land, gender discrimination, resistance to change and physical disabilities. Regarding evaluation of government-run poverty eradication programmes, it was discovered that most poor households had not received any financial assistance from the government and were not aware of how to get it and for what development activities. The few who were assisted expressed dissatisfaction because of underfunding. A number of people expected large sums of money to buy land build houses and start big businesses. Also it was discovered that some projects had failed due to insufficient funding and poor mobilisation/sensitisation of beneficiaries. In view of the above, the researcher came up with suggestions on policy changes and recommendations that could lead to effective eradication of poverty. These were in agreement with theoretical expectations, such as; promotion of the spirit of self-reliance, good use of local labour and resources, provision of essential social services to all rural people, development of infrastructure and diversification of rural economic activity. Keywords: Poverty eradication, NAADS, Kabarole

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