Post-graduate Dissertations (School of Postgraduate Studies and Research)
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Item Biological Interactions and Influence of Shade on the Performance of Ficus Natalensis- Banana Agro Forests in Nakaseke District, Central Uganda.(Uganda Martyrs University, 2010) Wesiga, JimmyWESIGA JIMMY (2010-MI52-20057) Biological Interactions and Influence of Shade on the Performance of Ficus Natalensis- Banana Agro Forests in Nakaseke District, Central Uganda The purpose of the study was to assess the management practices for Banana- ficus agroforests and to develop land use strategies in order to maximise production for smallholder farmers in Uganda. The study was guided by three objectives; to assess the influence of ficus natalensis shade intensities on growth parameters of different banana varieties, to investigate the effects of different spacing regimes on the performance of different banana varieties under ficus natalensis shade and to determine the effect of ficus natalensis on soil organic matter and moisture content under banana agro forests. The study was carried out as an on-farm experiment where two banana varieties of Mpologoma and Kisansa were raised as micro corms and planted under three ficus natalensis trees and in a control plot. The study investigated influence of shade on banana growth parameters (height, number of leaves and girth), how performance varied in relation to spacing away from the tree and influence of shade on organic matter under ficus trees. A completely randomised block design (CRBD) with five replicates was used. The shade of each tree was categorised using Densiometer and the plantlets were planted according to categorised shade intensities (50%-59%, 60%-69%, 70%-79%, 80%-89% and 90%-99%). Planting was done in radial directions from the tree at a spacing of 1 meter from each banana plant. The banana plantlets were spaced at distances 1m (D1), 2m (D2), 3m (D3), 4m (D4), 5m (D5), 6m (D6) and 10m (D9) towards the outer canopy of the tree in circular directions. Instruments such as; Time Dominancy Reflector (TDR 300) for moisture recording, Spherical densitometer for light measurement, Soil kit for organic matter, diameter tapes for girth and rulers for height measurements were used. Shade intensity had varying effects on growth parameters of the two banana varieties with more pronounced effects on Mpologoma than Kisansa, the shade intensities of 70%-79% and 80%-89% were the best performers in influencing the growth of number of leaves and girth of both banana varieties. The growth performance of the two banana varieties under ficus natalensis differed significantly (p<0.05) in relation to distance from the tree. The best performance was recorded at a distance of 3m (D3) from the tree trunk with mean number of leaves at 5.06, plant height of 23.51 and girth of 7.64 in Kisansa variety. In Mpologoma, the best performance was obtained at a distance of 6m (D6) closely followed by performance at 3m (D3). Both banana varieties depicted a significant reduction in growth performance (p<0.05) while in close proximity to the tree trunk at 1m distance. The soil organic matter content varied significantly (F=29.14; p= 0.000) with distance from the ficus tree trunk. The organic matter content near the tree trunk and in the control conditions at a distance of 10m from the tree trunk were slightly high and not significantly different. Organic matter increased with distance from the tree trunk, with a steady rise from a distance of 2m (7.119) to the highest value at 6m (16.356). Banana ficus agro forests are important in Uganda; it increases food security and reduces poverty as well as increasing soil fertility. Growing bananas in ficus agro forests improves banana performance in growth parameters as compared to open conditions away from the tree canopy. Distance is significant in the practice. Planting at a distance of 3meters from tree trunk towards outside the canopy is vital for banana productivity. Key words: Ficus, Natalensis, Bana, Agro-forest, ShadeItem Assessment of the Contribution of Beekeeping to People’s Livelihood: A Case Study of Masindi District.(Uganda Martyrs University, 2011) Tusimomuhangi, LawrenceTUSIMOMUHANGI LAWRENCE (2011-M152-20023) Assessment of the Contribution of Beekeeping to People’s Livelihood: A Case Study of Masindi District Assessment of the contribution of beekeeping to people’s livelihood was conducted in Masindi district, Western Uganda. The purpose was to assess the contribution of beekeeping to people’s livelihood. Specifically, the study focused on determining the status of beekeeping, identifying and documenting indigenous knowledge used in beekeeping, identifying benefits of beekeeping to the people of Masindi district and challenges faced by beekeepers in the district. There was no clear information and documentation on the contribution of beekeeping in Masindi district. A case study design was used for this study. Three parallel methods for data collection were used. Questionnaires were administered to seventy-eight beekeepers and key informants that involved development partners, technical staff and leaders in the district. Focus Group Discussions and personal observations were used. The data were analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) and presented in form of Bar charts, Pie charts and frequency tables. The study established the honey production levels. Beekeepers were found to be using more of the traditional hives than modern ones although modern bee hives had a higher colonisation rate. The study also found out that beekeepers have not yet received adequate information and skills to exploit all bee products as some required expensive equipment. The study further revealed the existing indigenous knowledge that farmers use to practice beekeeping like the traditional log hive. The beliefs followed during the practice of beekeeping are the means used to conserve the environment, increase honey yields and gain skill to make beekeeping a dependable farming practice. It was also established from the beekeepers that people value beekeeping in terms of facilitating increased agricultural crop yields through pollination and have the belief that modern technology will go some way to improve their capacity in greater skills in farming. Although most beekeepers and discussions reported the deterrent factor of stinging bees, many of them are willing to carry on beekeeping for increasing household incomes. The study identified benefits in beekeeping and these involved getting the honey product that is commercial and of a financial benefit, employment benefits as some people can get involved in honey trade and distribution of beekeeping equipment. Aesthetic values were also identified. Other benefits included medicinal and ecological benefits, Nutritional and security benefits. Despite the benefits accruing from beekeeping, beekeepers faced a multitude of challenges that cut across from apiary establishment especially stinging bees, high cost of farm inputs like the modern hives, unfavourable weather changes. The contribution of beekeeping to people’s livelihood was found to be substantial in that the guiding questions of establishing the status of beekeeping in Masindi district, identification of indigenous knowledge and the benefits in beekeeping were answered. The researcher made the recommendations of increasing sensitisation campaigns, technical trainings and establishing demonstration sites for technologies like queen rearing and commercial colony multiplication in the area and at zonal agricultural research centres for greater improvements in beekeeping. Key words: Bee keeping, Livelihood, SensitizationItem Effectiveness of Natural Protectants in Preserving Dry Bean Seeds against Spoilage by the Common Bean Weevil (acanthoscelides obtectus).(Uganda Martyrs University, 2010) Tibasiima, Kahigwa, ThaddeoItem The Impact of Participatory Approaches on Adoption of Agro-forestry Technologies in Mityana District Agro-ecological Zone.(Uganda Martyrs University, 2010) Ssendiwala, Fredrick, Nsubuga, A.SSENDIWALA FREDRICK .A. NSUBUGA (2010-M152-20058) The Impact of Participatory Approaches on Adoption of Agro-forestry Technologies in Mityana District Agro-ecological Zone This study on the Impact of Participatory Approaches on Adoption of Agro-forestry Technologies was carried out in Mityana District Agro-ecological Zone (AEZ). A cross-sectional survey design was used to collect data on adoption of agro-forestry technologies through the use of participatory approaches. This was adopted since few respondents representing several farmer groups provided the data and collection of relevant data was made easy. The sampling units were the sub-counties of Busimbi and Ssekanyonyi. This was done using a cluster sampling method, eight (8) Agro-forestry Farmers‟ Groups (AFGs) equivalent to 240 farmers were selected to participate in the study out of which 72 individuals were chosen as the sample size through a simple random sampling technique. The sample was selected after stratifying the population into two categories of males and females such that each is represented in the study data. The study findings revealed that many Agro-forestry systems are new in terms of management compared to conventional practices which farmers are more familiar with, and of which they had received trainings for a longer period. Apart from a few organisations or institutions like Vi Agro-forestry project and ICRAF that are involved in awareness creation and building knowledge and skills‟ capacities to manage Agro-forestry systems, generally in Uganda the national extension programmes, human capacity, infrastructure and institutional supports for popularising Agro-forestry systems are low. The study findings provided the following conclusions; Farmer Groups‟ meetings, Co-save, Farmers‟ study tours and community trainings were the most common participatory approaches used. In regards to the level of adoption of Agro-forestry management technologies with participatory approaches in Mityana district Agro-ecological zone, 98.6% of the respondents agreed that agro forestry practices had helped them to get benefits from adoption of technologies. The following recommendations were drawn: more incentives should be provided to farmers to participate in Agro-forestry management technologies. This could be done through helping farmers form and consolidate farmer groups by relevant development partners and facilitating famer groups to make tours and trainings to acquire knowledge (learn new skills) and adopt agro-forestry technologies. The government, extension agents, civil society organisations and farmer group trainers should extend more training to agro-forestry farmers to equip them with better farming technologies for the enhancement and protection of the agro-ecosystem, and all relevant authorities should avail agro-forestry farmers with environmentally friendly measures that can be used to manage pests and diseases of agro-forestry resources, teach them better land management practices, avoid land users conflicts and environmental degradation. Key words: Approach, Adoption, Agro-forestry, Technology, ParticipatoryItem Evaluating the Adoption and Impact of Introduced Technologies/Practices in Banana Production in Uganda: A Case of Wakiso District.(Uganda Martyrs University, 2010) Obukulem, Albert, AseikinOBUKULEM ALBERT ASEIKIN (2010-MI52-20050) Evaluating the Adoption and Impact of Introduced Technologies/Practices in Banana Production in Uganda: A Case of Wakiso District Evaluating the adoption and impact of introduced technologies/practices in Banana production in Uganda. Banana is a very important staple food crop in Uganda. It is leading among other staple foods and highly recognized for its socio-cultural and economic values. However, Banana production in the country has continued to decline, particularly in the central region, initially the hub of its production overtime. The decline in the soil fertility, emergence of pests and diseases, population growth, change in socio-economic livelihood conditions as sited in related studies have been noted and proved to be the contributing factors among others to this observed scenario. The introduced banana technologies and management practices, evaluated in this study, including the use of low-cost soil amendments; soil and water conservation; soil erosion control and; pests and diseases management, as earlier recommended by research scientists in and outside Uganda, have not effectively reversed the banana production decline at least in this study area. This study prioritized and evaluated the adoption and impact of at least seven low cost technologies/practices namely use of pig manure, making and application of compost from organic wastes; application of contour bands to improve water retention in the banana fields and control of soil erosion, trapping and killing adult banana weevils, chopping of pseudo stems, the paring of corms/suckers and hot water treatment before planting. The study perceived this combination fairly for smallholder farmers, to manage and sustain banana production in Uganda. A total of 200 (two hundred farmers), regardless of gender, educational level or training were randomly sampled from at least three rural based sub-counties of Wakiso district namely; Namayumba, Masulita and Kakiri. They were visited and interviewed on their own farms to establish the level of adoption and impact of these selected introduced banana management technologies /practices in the study area. Ten local residents within the study area were identified and inducted as study assistants and these supported in data collection with close guidance from the principle researcher. The required data were collected with a pre-prepared questionnaire and translated into the local language during the interview. Some information was also captured through field observations and in discussions held with local leaders and officials at the district production department. The study established that 37.85% of farmers had adopted these technologies, while 51.5% knew about the technologies, though never applied on their banana farms. Results indicated that farmers got to know these technologies from agricultural institutions, demonstration farms, NGOs and little from media and contact farmers. The size of farmer’s land holdings did not affect adoption suggesting that the new technologies are mostly scale neutral, implying that the adoption may take place regardless of farmer’s scale of operation. The farmers‟ perception of the effects of the introduced technologies did not influence their decisions with regard to technology adoption despite their knowledge of those technologies. The study also found out that technologies and banana management practices varied from farm to farm. The quality and quantity of banana produced mainly depended on the practices and technologies being implemented. Overall, average number of banana bunches harvested per year reduced from 73 bunches to 67.25 bunches per acre on farms that practiced indigenous technologies. At the time of data collection, the number of banana bunches harvested were 82.75 per year per acre on farms that practiced introduced technologies, indicating banana production recovery of 9.75% The study established and concluded that the adoption of these technologies by farmers can increase banana production with improvement in the level of adoption. This is as demonstrated by the above recovery potential found with a few farmers found applying these technologies. There is need to intensify promotion of these technologies and practices to scale out adoption with farmers. This is regardless of the debates for or against genetic modification of the naturally existing banana cultivars. Government established institutions/programmes like NARO and NAADS should strengthen linkages and partner more with other stakeholders in the country to enhance farmer institutional capacity building to make introduced interventions more farmer friendly and farmer owned all through the production value chain for greater outcomes of their efforts to sustain banana production in Uganda and to optimise sustainable outcomes from ongoing research in the country. Key words: Banana, Technologies, ProductionItem Analysis of Adoption of Released Sweet Potato Varieties from 2007 to 2012: A Case Study of Busukuma and Nangabo Sub-counties, Wakiso District.(Uganda Martyrs University, 2011) Namakula, JoweriaNAMAKULA JOWERIA (2011-M152-20019) Analysis of Adoption of Released Sweet Potato Varieties from 2007 to 2012: A Case Study of Busukuma and Nangabo Sub-counties, Wakiso District This study was conducted in Busukuma and Nangabo sub-counties, Wakiso District to examine the analysis of adoption of released sweet potato varieties from 2007 to 2012. The specific objectives of this study were to find out the different released sweet potato varieties grown by farmers from Namulonge Research Institute; to determine the most adopted sweet potato varieties by farmers; to find out the major determinants associated with farmer adoption of the recommended released sweet potatoes. The study reviewed literature related to the adoption of released sweet potato varieties from 2007 to 2012 which was later compared with the study findings. A descriptive research was used where by both qualitative and quantitative methods were used for data analysis. Questionnaires and interviewing were used as major instruments for data collection. The study found that the major economic activity found in Busukuma and Nangabo sub-counties, Wakiso district, was farming and the majority of the people in this area earned their incomes from the sale of output obtained from their farms. Earnings from sweet potato sales were used to buy other food items, provide other basic needs and to pay their children’s school fees consequently improving their business standards. It was, therefore, concluded that sweet potato farming positively contributes to household incomes. The study recommended that the government should intervene by starting more extension services to educate and inform farmers about sweet potato farming, provide agricultural loans to the farmers so as to increase on their production, construct proper roads which ease transportation of products and provide foreign markets for sweet potato output which will finally increase farmers‟ interest in adopting of more sweet potato varieties which will in turn increase incomes from sweet potato growing. Key words: Variety, Adoption, PotatoItem An Investigation into Factors that Limit Soil Fertility Management Practices in Nindye Agro-ecosystem.(Uganda Martyrs University, 2010) Nakitende, Harriet, KigoziNAKITENDE HARRIET KIGOZI (2010-MI52-20044) An Investigation into Factors that Limit Soil Fertility Management Practices in Nindye Agro-ecosystem This work is presented as a direct outcome of the study on factors limiting improvement of soil fertility in Nnindye Parish Mpigi district. The general objective of the study was to explain why available soil improvement technologies are not contributing to solving the problems of declining soil fertility despite the availability of scientifically proven methods elsewhere. The area has had a number of organisations working towards the development of agriculture. Development projects have continued to sensitise communities on the usefulness of local resources and good agronomic practices in the improvement of soil fertility but with no change in the soil status. Mailo land is a predominant land tenure system in the study area that was predicted to be a hindrance to investing in improving land productivity. This formed the basis for the research to find out the kind of crop enterprises managed under different tenure systems, practiced methods of soil fertility improvement as well as what prevents these methods from achieving good soil fertility. The research took a survey approach using mainly qualitative and quantitative research approaches in which farmers were targeted as the study population. Land tenure types do not determine soil fertility improvement practices except in situations where use was for a specified period of time as the case for rented land where agro forestry and soil bunds cannot be used due to temporary ownership. Farmer practices for soil fertility management ranged from use of natural fallows, recycling of garden wastes, compost, crop rotation, farmyard manure, chemicals, integrated nutrient management and use of soil band. These practices were associated with factors that include land fallowing practices, labour, education, and number of animals kept especially cattle, number of enterprises owned and how farmers judged the level of decline of soil fertility. Factors such as short fallow periods, labour problems, inadequacy of manures, high costs of fertilizers both organic and inorganic and excessive removal of material from gardens prevent applicability of available methods for achieving better soil fertility. Soil management methods that are largely depending on use of other resources are inappropriate for the area. Important recommendations including introduction of improved fallows, development of suitable crop rotations and cropping patterns were suggested. Key words: Fertility, Soil, Management, Agro-ecosystemItem Establishing the Contribution of Biogas Fuel Technology in Promoting Sustainable Agro-ecosystems in Malangala Sub-county, Mityana District, Uganda.(Uganda Martyrs University, 2010) Nabisawa, JescaNABISAWA JESCA (2010-M152-20042) Establishing the Contribution of Biogas Fuel Technology in Promoting Sustainable Agro-ecosystems in Malangala Sub-county, Mityana District, Uganda. This study is titled: Establishing the contribution of Biogas Fuel or Technology in Promoting Sustainable Agro-ecosystems in Malangala sub-county Mityana district. The objectives were: to assess the potential benefits of using biogas technology, to identify the challenges faced by respondents in adoption and use of biogas technology and, to recommend possible interventions that would improve adoption of biogas technology as a low cost renewable energy. Literature from previous studies and researches conducted by other scholars that have a bearing on biogas fuel or technology as a low cost renewable energy were presented under three sub-headings that were drawn from the study objectives. The tools that were used in collecting data for the study included: an interview guide, a questionnaire, focus group discussions, library search, observations and interviews. The data were collected from a cross section of respondents such as 80 farmers that have and use biogas in their homes, 2 agency officials that promote the technology, 2 community development officers, 2 NAADS coordinators, 3 opinion leaders, 2 local leaders, 4 extension workers, 4 local artisans and 1 natural resource officer from the district. Purposive sampling strategy was used to choose key respondents of the study. Both qualitative and quantitative data were coded and analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) and qualitative tools respectively. The study revealed the benefits of using biogas fuel or technology that include: It saves time for cooking, provides energy for both cooking and lighting, promotes good sanitation, no smoke, increases food production, saves money on buying firewood and paraffin, improves dairy production, soil improvement, reduces deforestation, ecosystem sustainability. Despite this, the results indicated that the technology faces a number of challenges for enhanced usage and adoption that included; labour intensive, less waste, lack of skilled personnel on the technology, inadequate lamps, it is not easily socially acceptable by other members in the community, not easy to use both at ago. In conclusion, biogas technology has the potential to highly contribute to socio-economic and environmental improvement of the households in the region and beyond. It also has the potential to mitigate against the negative processes of climate change as well as promoting sustainable long term ecosystems in the community. It was recommended that government should provide financial loans to the potential users who may be unable to raise the initial capital for the construction of biogas digesters. Awareness of value of biogas digesters needs to be addressed by government agencies, sub-county authorities, opinion leaders, agency officers that promote the technology, extension workers using different methods of dissemination, such as electronic and printed media, workshops, field days, demonstrations and farmer to farmer contacts. Key words: Biogas, Fuel, Sustainable, Agro-ecosystemItem Genetic Diversity among Pumpkins (cucurbita spp) from Selected Production Zones in Uganda and their Resistance to Powdery Mildew Disease.(Uganda Martyrs University, 2010) Mutebi, Douglas, JjembaMUTEBI DOUGLAS JJEMBA (2010-MI52-20040) Genetic Diversity among Pumpkins (cucurbita spp) from Selected Production Zones in Uganda and their Resistance to Powdery Mildew Disease This study was set to evaluate the diversity and resistance to powdery mildew disease among pumpkins in Uganda. Fruits were collected from five production zones in Uganda and subjected to morphological and molecular characterisation, and evaluated for resistance to powdery mildew in a field trial. Results showed considerable variation among the pumpkin accessions in terms of morphological traits, molecular characterisation and resistance to powdery mildew disease. For genetic diversity, multivariate analysis was utilised. The cluster analysis based on morphological characteristics grouped the accessions into two major clusters mainly on the basis of fruit ribs, flesh colour, seed width and secondary skin colour pattern. The matrix plot of eigen vectors for the 10 fruit traits showed a high positive correlation between seed length and seed width, seed width and weight per 10 seeds, primary skin colour and flesh colour, and fruit size and primary colour. Low correlations were recorded between fruit ribs and fruit size, primary skin colour and secondary skin colour, secondary skin colour and seed thickness, seed thickness and weight per 10 seeds, and seed width and fruit size. The UPGMA cluster analysis results from combined SSR and AFLPS data sets showed that accessions were grouped into three clusters according to species for UK pumpkins (controls) and morphological characteristics for Uganda pumpkins. The UK accessions already classified in three species of C.maxima, C.pepo and C.moshata were represented in cluster 1, cluster 2 and cluster three respectively. Two Uganda accessions R2 and N2 clustered with UK accessions TT and OTM (C. maxima). The remaining Uganda accessions (18) clustered with the UK accession BT (C.moshata). No Uganda accession clustered with UK varieties HD and SS (C.pepo) implying that the accessions in the collection of Uganda pumpkins subjected to molecular analysis belonged to only C.maxima and C.moschata species. In terms of response to the powdery mildew infection, there was great variation ranging from susceptibility to complete resistance. The place of origin played a significant role in disease resistance. All UK pumpkins developed disease symptoms and were more susceptible than local (Uganda) pumpkins. Some Uganda accessions did not develop any disease symptoms. In this report some conclusions and recommendations are made. Key words: Genetic, Pumpkins, Mildew, ResistanceItem The Influence of Human Activities on the Functioning of the Wetland Ecosystem in Rubindi Sub-county, Mbarara District.(Uganda Martyrs University, 2010) Mutayomba, Amos, Justus M.MUTAYOMBA AMOS JUSTUS. M. (2010-M152-200038) The Influence of Human Activities on the Functioning of the Wetland Ecosystem in Rubindi Sub-county, Mbarara District The study was carried out to assess the influence of human activities on the functioning of the wetland ecosystem in Rubindi sub-County, Mbarara district. The study was guided by these objectives, to find out the human activities that are taking place in the wetland ecosystems of Rubindi sub-county, to establish the extent of human activities carried out in the wetland ecosystem in Rubindi subcounty and to find out the effect of the human activities on the wetland ecosystems functions in Rubindi sub-county. The researcher used both qualitative and quantitative research designs to collect data from the field. The researcher used key informants, Farmers, Religious Leaders, political leaders and traders in Rubindi sub-county as study respondents while a representative sample of 122 respondents was used to represent the entire study population. Focus group discussions, transect walk, questionnaires, and interview guides were used as tools of data collection for primary data while secondary data made use of documents and other written sources that the researcher identified to get current information regarding the study. The study concluded that human activities influence the functioning of wetland ecosystems both negatively and positively. Positively, the human activities influence the functioning of wetland ecosystems mainly through such activities as; gathering, tourism, fishing and art and crafts while negatively it is mainly through such activities as waste disposal, urbanisation, mining and farming operations which include; overgrazing, overharvesting, continuous bush burning, construction of drainage channels, use of invasive species as well as dumping. The study further concluded that there are many more human activities with a negative influence on the functioning of the wetland ecosystem than those with positive influence and that this is why wetland encroachment increasing. The study recommended that techniques of wetland conservation will improve as scientists gather more information about the processes that take place in wetlands and about the similarities and differences among the functions of different types of wetlands. In order to develop public support and to encourage enlightened policy decisions and regulations, it is critical to create and maintain a data base of wetland characteristics in which the data is kept reliable, comparable, and repeatable at periodic intervals in order to monitor long-term trends. Key words: Wet lands, Ecosystem, UrbanizationItem The Quality of Raw Milk of Cattle from Uganda Martyrs University Equator Valley Farm: Quantification of Salmonella and Escherichia Coli Compared with Uganda National Bureau of Standards(Uganda Martyrs University, 2011) Murongo, Marius, FlarianMURONGO MARIUS FLARIAN (2011-M152-20016) The Quality of Raw Milk of Cattle from Uganda Martyrs University Equator Valley Farm: Quantification of Salmonella and Escherichia Coli Compared with Uganda National Bureau of Standards The study on the “quality of raw milk from Uganda Martyrs University Equator Valley Farm: quantification of salmonella and Escherichia coli compared with Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) was done with three objectives; to establish the colony forming units of Salmonella in raw milk; to establish Coliform counts in raw milk, and; to determine the class of milk produced from the farm in relation to UNBS. The study followed an experimental research design. The parameter was the standard plate count for salmonella and E.coli. The samples purposively collected at respective milking times included; eleven samples from healthy milkers according to the university farm records, one sample from mixed milk, one sample from the university cooler, one sample from a vendor who retails milk from the farm, and one sample from the hotel operator who prepares milk from the farm for final consumption. The samples were tested in a laboratory setting using serial dilutions of 10.000mls and 100.000mls for E.coli and Salmonella respectively. The pour plate method using McConkey and Dulcitol Selenite as agar media for E.coli and Salmonella, respectively, was employed. Plates were incubated at 350C and data collected after 48hours. Statistical procedures were used to analyse the results. The correlation coefficient between study results and UNBS standard figures was (0.9) for both salmonella and E.coli. Hence, there was a positive relationship between the national standards and farm standards. Determination of the class of milk with respect to Salmonella placed all the samples in Grade “A” and “B” with non-compliance for Grade “C”. With respect to E.coli, the tested samples complied with “Very good” class compared with the National standards. The numbers of salmonella (0.301) and E.coli (0.1206) from the t-test at the different raw milk handling levels were significantly not different (P=0.05), and statistically not significant to disprove the null hypothesis. It was concluded with certainty then that Salmonella and E.coli exist in raw milk produced from the farm in quantities that vary. However, the counts are not significant to affect the quality of raw milk when compared to national standards. The study recommended that the farm’s stakeholders provide routine milker training and assign responsibilities for all areas of prevention of contamination. Periodic milk testing was recommended to provide microbiological count records on the prevalence of E.coli and Salmonella. Key words: Milk, Cattle, Farm, Salmonella, Escherichia, StandardsItem Smallholder Farmers’ Perception of Agricultural Credit Access and Utilisation in Iyolwa Sub-county, Tororo District.(Uganda Martyrs University, 2011) Lwanga, Kiggundu, Mugerwa, JosephLWANGA KIGGUNDU MUGERWA JOSEPH (2011-M152-20013) Smallholder Farmers’ Perception of Agricultural Credit Access and Utilisation in Iyolwa Sub-county, Tororo District. The study examined the smallholder farmers‟ perception of agricultural credit access and utilisation in Iyolwa sub-county, Tororo district. The major objective of this study was to examine the smallholder farmers‟ perception of agricultural credit access and utilisation, after observing that despite the availability of financial institutions and the agricultural credit facilities they offer, the Smallholder farmers‟ in Iyolwa sub-county, still raised concerns about inadequate finance for agricultural production which clearly indicated lapses in access and utilisation of agricultural credit in this area. The methods of data collection included household survey questionnaires that comprised of perception statements whose reliability (measure of internal consistency) was ascertained using factor analysis and Cronbach‟s Alpha (Cronbach, 1951). Key informant interviews were also conducted with local leaders and financial institution Heads in the study area. The findings revealed that smallholder farmers perceived agricultural credit as a facility for the rich. Further still, farmers perceived that bank pressure during repayment, inadequate collateral, and too much bank documentation were denying them chance to access agricultural credit. The report concludes by giving recommendations with emphasis on creating awareness to change the attitude among smallholder farmers so that they ably access and utilise agricultural credit. Key words: Farmers, Smallholder, Credit, PerceptionItem Impact of Deforestation on Food Production in Kamengo Sub-County, Mpigi District.(Uganda Martyrs University, 2011) Lubega, GeraldLUBEGA GERALD (2011-M152-20012) Impact of Deforestation on Food Production in Kamengo Sub-County, Mpigi District This study was conducted in Kamengo sub-county in Mpigi district. It was titled, “The Impact of deforestation on food production.” The study was guided by three major objectives that is; to establish the rate of deforestation at household level, the relationship between deforestation and food availability at household level and, the ways in which people at household level have coped with this increasing deforestation in the area. This study, therefore, was conducted as an historical research designed on household level. The data were collected from farmers in the area who proved to have spent good years in the area. Therefore, in the course of the study, it was established that the deforestation rate in the area stood at 12% and it was majorly caused by farmers who want to expand their land for agriculture. So, it was established that agriculture had caused 42% of the deforestation in the area. This had impacted the environment majorly through water loss, strong winds which blew down most of the crops as well as soil erosion. Therefore, at the end it was established that deforestation had a negative contribution to food production in the area. Many farmers had started reacting by terracing their land, seeking for greener pastures in other economic activities like cattle keeping and afforestation. The study concluded that there is a need for a community-based intervention to fix the overall problems of deforestation in the area. Key words: Deforestation, FoodItem Evaluation of Performance of Carrot under Conservation Agro-ecosystems in Kakiika Sub-county, Mbarara District.(Uganda Martyrs University, 2010) Kyomukama, ImmaculateKYOMUKAMA IMMACULATE (2010-M152-20030) Evaluation of Performance of Carrot under Conservation Agro-ecosystems in Kakiika Sub-county, Mbarara District An on-farm experiment was conducted in Kakiika sub-county, Mbarara District from March to July 2012 to evaluate the performance of carrot under conservation tillage systems with Nantes variety. The experimental design used was Randomised Complete Block Design (RCBD) with one block composed of three plots replicated three times with two treatments and a control. Treatments comprised of Zero tillage and Potholing tillage system. The dug-up field was the control. Crop growth parameters included; the leaf length and plant height whereas the yield parameter included; tuber weight, tuber girth size and tuber length. Results indicated significant difference (P≤ 0.05) in carrot growth and yield in zero tillage and potholing tillage systems as well as the control. However, results did not show significant effect (P≥ 0.05) of tillage systems on tuber girth size and tuber length. The study showed that all treatments significantly affected the leaf length and plant height with crops under zero tillage system growing faster than those under potholing and the dug-up field. The tillage systems significantly affected the weight of carrot tuber with those planted under zero tillage and potholing being more than those in the dug-up field. However, there were no significant effects between the replicates. The study also found out that zero tillage and potholing systems attracted more insects compared to the dug-up field and, therefore, this shows that they have significant impact on biodiversity. In general, the experiment found out that zero tillage and potholing conservation tillage systems can significantly improve growth and yields of carrots. It also revealed that crops under the conservation tillage systems had better resilience in the dry period, due to increased water holding capacity in the soil, compared to the dug-up field. Basing on the findings, the study recommends that more trials need to be carried out on carrots based on conservation tillage systems for longer time with elaborate assessment of the factors at play such as soil nutrient levels and, pests and diseases. Key words: Performance, Carrot, Conservation, Agro-ecosystemItem The Impact of Agro-tourism on Sustainable Agricultural Production in Rakai Agro-ecological Zone.(Uganda Martyrs University, 2010) Kule, SylvesterKULE SYLVESTER (2010-M152-20028) The Impact of Agro-tourism on Sustainable Agricultural Production in Rakai Agro-ecological Zone This research study on the impact of agro-tourism on sustainable agricultural production was carried out in the Rakai district agro-ecological zone. The study used both qualitative and quantitative methods to collect data from the respondents. The study was majorly guided by three research objectives, which included; examining agro-tourism practices in Rakai agro-ecological zone; to find out the benefits of agro-tourism on sustainable agricultural production in Rakai agro-ecological zone and; to establish the challenges of agro-tourism in Rakai agro-ecological zone. Both primary and secondary data were collected using observation, oral interviews and a questionnaire. This was done because the researcher had a big sample population of 119 which was selected from the farmers who are involved in different agro-tourism enterprises in the study. From the analysis of both qualitative and quantitative data, the findings revealed that 70% of the people in Rakai agro-ecological zone are involved in agro-tourism as one of their major economic activities and source of income, although they experience so many challenges such as poor market, poor transport zone and limited support from the government. The study concluded that agro-tourism is a good farming practice that builds visiting farmers‟ experiences, confidence & morale, thus enabling/encouraging farmers to increase their productivity and marketing skills. Enterprise mix is characteristic of most agro-tourism farmers visited (Bananas, coffee, cattle, sheep, poultry, maize beans, Vegetables, fruits, Apiary). Basing on the research findings, the researcher recommended that farmers need more help in the use of indigenous knowledge, synthetic pesticides, chemicals and herbicides to control pests, diseases and weeds respectively; there is need for agro-tourism farmers to access credit from micro-finance institutions at reasonable interest rates. There is need for government support through favourable policies, provision of security and other financial help to be provided among farmers in Rakai agro-ecological zone to boost the agro-tourism sector, improve their well-being and contribute to the development of their area. Key words: Agro-tourism, Production, SustainableItem An Evaluation of Organic Certification System on Agro-ecosystems Interactions and Smallholder Farmers’ Livelihoods: A Case Study of Smallholder Organic Farming Agro-ecosystems in Luwero District in Central Uganda.(Uganda Martyrs University, 2010) Kugonza, Bamugaya, IreneKUGONZA BAMUGAYA IRENE (2010-M152-20027) An Evaluation of Organic Certification System on Agro-ecosystems Interactions and Smallholder Farmers’ Livelihoods: A Case Study of Smallholder Organic Farming Agro-ecosystems in Luwero District in Central Uganda This research was carried out within the months of April, May, June and July 2012 in Kyampisi, Lusanja and Bwaziba villages found in the central district of Luwero, where certified Organic farming has been modified to suit the small holder farmer’s conditions. The research looked at the suitability of organic certification for the livelihood improvement of the resource poor smallholder farmers of Uganda as a learning process. The resource poor smallholder farmers are those with neither adequate financial resources, labour nor land. The purpose of this research was to assess the impacts of organic standards and their resultant certification on both the on-farm Agro-ecosystems interactions and livelihoods of rural smallholder organic farmers in Luweero. In each village certified organic farmers and those in conversion were sampled. Certified organic exporting company staff and other key stakeholders were interviewed on agro-ecosystems interaction aspects such as environmental conservation, natural resource management, social capital vis-à-vis organic standards and certification issues. Random sampling from the list of farmers provided was used; comparisons were also made for certified farmers before and after actively being involved in certification of organic projects. In addition, five certifying bodies (Bureau VERITAS, IMO, Ugocert, UNBS and Ceres) currently actively involved in certification and monitoring of certified projects in Uganda, were also interviewed. The data collected were analysed and assessed with the help of statistical tests to evaluate the significant differences in agro-ecosystems interactions on certified organic and non-organic certified smallholder farmer livelihoods. Results of the research indicated that, there were significant differences in the Agro-ecosystems interactions and livelihood components of organic smallholder farmers that are not yet certified and those that are certified organic. The research confirmed that the alternative hypothesis was true that organic smallholder farmers have a dynamic traditional knowledge that has constantly been changing and being updated with time. This is the knowledge that they have been using to grow their traditional crops. If this knowledge is re-activated, and updated by incorporating it with scientific lessons learnt from the organic certification and used to grow crops organically, this resultant farming system can lead farmers out of dependency on chemicals result in livelihood improvement, and better Agro ecosystems interactions. The study also concluded that organic certification had increased market accessibility and income of certified households. Furthermore, that organic farming had improved household skills and knowledge about farming practices at household level and that traditional farming knowledge played a key role in organic agriculture and could complement scientific knowledge. It also showed that organic agriculture certification promoted a farming system that brought back crops that were getting extinct and helped to restore food and nutritional security. Lastly, the study concluded that organic agriculture increased the farmers‟ networking and social capital in their communities. Key words: Organic, Livelihoods, Certification, FarmingItem Determining the Sustainability of Utilisation of Low External Input Postharvest Handling Practices in the Commercial Production of Common Beans in Kyotera County, Rakai District.(Uganda Martyrs University, 2010) Kasekende, JosephKASEKENDE JOSEPH (2010-M152-20022) Determining the Sustainability of Utilisation of Low External Input Postharvest Handling Practices in the Commercial Production of Common Beans in Kyotera County, Rakai District The study was to identify and determine the effectiveness and level of awareness of use of low external input post-harvest handling practices that can sustainably be used in commercial production of common beans. It was conducted basing on the importance of the common beans to the people in the low developing countries as a major source of protein and calories. And, the very poor post-harvest handling that was estimated at a loss of 40% in Uganda challenges Beans. It was a survey research conducted in Kyotera County, Rakai district (Uganda). Two sub-counties, two parishes per selected sub-county and one village per the selected parish were randomly selected using purposive sampling. Sample size of eighty respondents was obtained using Slovin’s formula. The data were collected using two research instrument tools; structured interview and observation check list and it was analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) computer programme. The results of the study indicated that constant sun drying, use of chilies (Capsicum frutescens) and cedro (cupressus lusitanica) are the most used and effective low external input post-harvest handling practices for sustainable commercial production of beans. Other low external input postharvest handling technologies for storage of beans found, known, and used by commercial farmers were; wood ash, Tephrosia spp, soil dust, marigold (Tagetes spp), banana juice, honey, tobacco (Nicotianaspp), storing beans with chaff, ant-hill soils, cow dung ash, wild basil (Ocinum spp), onions and Neem. Farmers were obtaining bean postharvest handling information from fellow farmers (friends), extension workers, parents and buyers. The study recommended a combination of chilies, cedro leaves and constant sun drying as the best cost effective and environmentally safe alternative for commercial bean farmers to preserve produce for a long period not less than three months. Key words: Post harvest, Commercial, Beans, ProductionItem Efficacy Evaluation of Selected Biorational Combination in the Management of Tomato Blight.(Uganda Martyrs University, 2011) Kamoga, GeraldKAMOGA GERALD (2011-M152-20007) Efficacy Evaluation of Selected Biorational Combination in the Management of Tomato Blight This experiment was conducted in Katabi sub-county in Wakiso district. The topic was: Efficacy evaluation of selected biorational combinations in the management of tomato blight. These biorationals were picked from the locally used plant materials used as natural pesticides. They included Carica papaya, Phytolacca dodecandra, Jatropha curcas, Capsella Bursa-pastoris and Tephrosia vogelli.This research was guided by two major objectives that is; to determine the biorational combinations that reduces tomato blight to levels below economic injury thresholds and to establish the optimum concentration of biorationals used in controlling tomato blight. This research used a completely randomised research design in which three treatments were made at varying biorational concentrations (25%, 50%, and 75%). The data were collected from all treatments and efficacies for each treatment evaluated. It was established that treatments of Carica papaya with Phytolacca dodecandra were more effective in managing tomato blight below economic injury thresholds. This research recommended that Carica papaya with Phytolacca dodecandra should be used by farmers in the management of tomato blight. Key words: Blight, Tomato, EfficacyItem Assessment of the Impact of Goat Production on the Environment in Mijwala and Lwebitakuli Sub-counties in Sembabule District.(Uganda Martyrs University, 2010) Kakooza, Omar, UmarKAKOOZA OMAR UMAR (2010-M152-20020) Assessment of the Impact of Goat Production on the Environment in Mijwala and Lwebitakuli Sub-counties in Sembabule District. The study aimed at finding out assessment of the impact of goat production on the environment of Lwebitakuli and Mijwala sub-counties of Sembabule district. The study was guided by three objectives: To identify the goat production practices used by farmers of Lwebitakuli and Mijwala sub-counties of Sembabule district, to find out the negative and positive effects of goat production practices, to find out the most preferred production practices in the environment. The research design involved the use of various tools to gather information from different categories of respondents. The tools were questionnaires, interview guides, observation, and literature review. It was intended to have 90 goat farmers and 15 key informants, district officials, farmer’s associations, leaders and local government administrators to be interviewed, but only 83 respondents were interviewed. Twenty four percent (24%) reported negative environmental effects in some areas due to overgrazing. Goats on free range system cause crop destruction as said by 17.5% of the farmers, who reported that continued farming activities resulted into climatic change and this has reduced rainfall. Moreover, 12.2% of the farmers believe that goats are a source of zoonotic diseases like brucellosis and anthrax. Some farmers were observed spraying their goats around water sources which polluted water bodies. Bush burning is also a common practice and results into destruction of biomass, micro and macro organisms and plant species. It was established that 73% of the farmers think goat production has a high positive effect on the environment through the use of manure which improves on soil fertility. Furthermore, 82% of the farmers said goats are a source of income to the community. Fifty five percent (55%) of the farmers control weeds by feeding them to their goats. In conclusion, goat production contributes to the economic development of Lwebitakuli and Mijwala sub-counties of Sembabule district through the provision of food, incomes, manure and employment to the community. Despite this, however, it impacts negatively on the environment due to over grazing that leads to destruction of the vegetation cover. It was recommended that corporate bodies both at lower and district level be formed to put policies in place that could regulate goat production practices so that the environment is preserved. Policy makers should put by-laws so that farmers spray their goats away from water sources. This will prevent water pollution. Technical knowledge should be extended to farmers to reduce levels of illiteracy in managing goat production and reducing the incidence of zoonotic diseases. Key words: Goat, Environment, ProductionItem Adaptation to the Effects of Climate Change: A Case Study of Arabica Coffee Farmers of Mt. Elgon Washed Arabica Project.(Uganda Martyrs University, 2010) Kafuko, FredKAFUKO FRED (2010-M152-20018) Adaptation to the Effects of Climate Change: A Case Study of Arabica Coffee Farmers of Mt. Elgon Washed Arabica Project The study aimed at finding out the smallholder Arabica coffee farmers’ knowledge, challenges, adaptation and recommendations to the effects of climate change. To achieve the above, a case study research which involved 170 respondents from the two ecological areas of Busano and Manafwa, among which were 30 service providers, was adopted. Thematic analysis for qualitative data where codes were assigned to different themes and then the numerical codes fed into the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) was also used. The data obtained from various sources, such as documentations and interviews, helped to connect varied ideas about the same subject and assisted in verifying the results. This helped in improving the validity and reliability of the findings. Frequencies, percentages, mean, standard deviations and variances were generated. It was noted that majority of the farmers reported that climate change fluctuates coffee yields in such a way that sometimes the yields get boosted while on other occasions they decline. There are those that observed that climate change only caused a decline in yields. New pests and diseases, unpredictability of the seasons, hailstorms, and drop in available irrigation water with sometimes really drying of such natural water sources were observed to have been caused by climate change. It was observed that farmers developed some adaptation mechanisms either from indigenous knowledge, learning from fellow neighbours or being trained by service providers. Several adapted practices were seen to solve (mitigating, preventing of adapting to) various difficulties. Agro-forestry and afforestation were the most adapted practices that seemed to help the farmers adapt to climate change. Trees were seen as an alternative source of income, provided shade to the coffee plants, acted as windbreakers against strong winds and hailstorms, acted as carbon sink, on farm source of fuel wood, among other benefits. The identified practices obtained through training by the service providers included; stumping and pruning whose purpose were to keep the coffee fields clean and less prone to pests and diseases, and hence curbing the effects of climate change brought about by the latter. Planting the cover crops which reduce the effects of high temperatures, less rainfall, and or prolonged drought and the farmers also positively adopted agro-forestry and planting of the improved varieties of coffee. Key words: Change, Coffee, Arabica, Climate