Department of Biology

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A study of the microbial diversity of milk products obtained freshly from farmers and in comparison, with urban dairies of tororo municipality
(Busitema University, 2023) Wanzusu, Ezekiel
Microorganisms play a crucial role in various aspects of our lives, including food production and safety. One such area where microorganisms are of significant importance is in the production of milk. Milk is a highly nutritious and widely consumed beverage that serves as a source of essential nutrients for humans. However, it’s also an ideal medium for the growth and proliferation of microorganisms, which can have both positive and negative effects on its quality. This research study aimed at understanding the bacterial spp. composition in fresh milk obtained from two different sources for example that obtained from local milk vendors and that from urban dairies located within Tororo Municipality. The methods that were employed in this study involved an experimental research design in which microbes were cultured in the Busitema University Biology laboratory using different milk samples collected aseptically from Tororo town using an ice box with ice parks to prevent further contamination during transportation. The collection of milk samples involved a random selection of local milk vendors and Diary outlets in which a single sample of 100ml of fresh milk was collected from 3 local milk vendors and 3 dairy outlets within Tororo Municipality plus one milk sample from UV-treated milk from Lato Milk Company. This gave a total of n=7 samples at each time of sampling. Each sample was diluted to make 3 more replicates. 21 petri dishes of Nutrient agar (NA) were each inoculated with microbes from milk samples from all the three sources. Pure cultures of the bacterial colonies made on TSA (Tryptic Soy Agar) were Gram stained before microscopy. Gram staining helped in classifying the bacteria into two groups of Gram positive and Gram-negative bacteria based on their ability to retain crystal violet, the primary stain. The petri plates were incubated at 37°C for 24-48 hours. Colonies on the petri dishes were counted using the total plate count technique and the plates having colonies were recorded. Data collection involved the physical counting of bacterial colonies based on colony color, colony characterization based on phenotypic characteristics such as colony morphology, elevation and shape/form using the Total plate count technique so as to obtain numerical data that was tabulated in statistical tables and graphs. This data was used to calculate the microbial load in all the milk samples. Data was analyzed using Microsoft Excel software where numerical data was entered and different graphs and pie-charts were drawn and used to describe various relationships between variables. It was discovered that milk from local vendors had the greatest microbial diversity of 96.1 CFUs/100ml of sample, milk samples from dairy outlets constituted 56.3 iv CFUs/100 ml of sample meanwhile that from UV-treated milk gave the lowest bacterial load of 15.5 CFUs/100 ml. In conclusion, all stakeholders involved in milk handling and processing were advised to implement proper milk handling practices such as use of clean milking, storage and handling equipment, ensuring proper housing of the animals and regular inspections and education of the people involved in milk production
Sports injury awareness and preventive measures across different sports facilities within tororo district
(Busitema University, 2023) Ayebazibwe Doreen
Introduction: Sports injuries are a significant problem in the world of sports, particularly in developing countries where awareness and preventive measures are often lacking. The purpose of this study was to investigate the awareness and implementation of preventive measures for sports injuries across different sports facilities within Tororo District. Methods and materials: The study employed a mixed-methods approach to gather data from sports participants, coaches, and facility managers. The instrument used in this study was a structured questionnaire which consisted of both closed-ended and open-ended questions designed to elicit information about injury awareness and preventive measures at the sports facilities. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and content analysis to identify the prevalence of sports injuries, the level of awareness of preventive measures, and the factors that contribute to the implementation of these measures. Results: This study found out that 45% reported moderate awareness indicating need for increased education on sport injury. The results showed that the most commonly known sports related injuries were sprains and strains, with 75% of participants reporting high awareness. Athletes were found to have the highest awareness levels, with 50% reporting high awareness, followed by coaches with 40% reporting high awareness. Sports facility managers had the lowest awareness levels, with only 30% reporting high awareness. It was also found that the most common causes of sports injuries were inadequate warm-up and stretching exercises, accounting for 40% of reported injuries. And finally results showed that facilities with proper warm-up and stretching areas had a lower incidence of injuries compared to those without. Conclusion: Valuable insights into the current state of sports injury prevention in Tororo District can inform the development of interventions to improve sports safety. Key words: Sports injury, Awareness, Preventive measures.
Investigation of constituents and effects of the different concentrations of hydroquinone in bleaching creams
(Busitema University, 2023) Aloo, Patience
Hydroquinone has been used for decades as a skin lightening agent. The use of skin lightening agents has its drawback in terms of causing harmful effects such as skin disorders like depigmentation, rashes, pimples, discolorations, kidney damage, and cancer, neurological and psychiatric disorders depending on how the agents for skin lightening are used. A total of 3 samples of different skin whitening cosmetics were collected from local market. viii They were analyzed by using thin layer chromatography and spectroscopy for qualitative and quantitative determination of their hydroquinone contents. The hydroquinone was extracted from samples by using 96% ethanol and was subjected to TLC analysis and the exact concentrations. 3 were found to contain hydroquinone.
Assessment of prevalence, psycho-social impact and control strategies of acne vulgaris among youths in kkona village, wakiso district
(Busitema University, 2023) Bagenda, George William
Background: Acne (Acne vulgaris) is a common chronic skin disorder that primarily affects the face but can also appear on the neck, chest, back and shoulders. It causes appearance of pimples, blackheads, whiteheads and sometimes deeper cysts or nodules on the skin. Objective: To examine the current understanding of the prevalence rates, risk factors, and the effectiveness of various control strategies employed by the youths. Methods: In this study, a sample population of 50 respondents from Kkona village, Wakiso District was studied of which 30 were female and 20 males. The respondents were asked to fill a self-reported questionnaire and the presence of acne was determined by clinical observation by a dermatologist. The severity was graded according to the Global Acne Grading System (GAGS) and the impact on Quality of life was assessed using the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI). Results: The overall prevalence of acne was 72%. It was significantly affected by age and gender where it was more in males (80%) as compared to females (66.67%). Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation was recorded in a few cases. A few cases (6) of severe acne were present and the rest had mild or moderate acne. 36.11% of the cases had no effect; 11.11% had a small effect; 33.33% had a moderate effect; 8.33% large effect and 11.11% had extremely large effect on their life quality. At least 70% of the respondents used one or more treatment methods for the acne. Conclusion: Acne is a major problem among the youths as it had at least a large impact on the quality of life in 19.44% of the cases. Recommendation: The youths should be educated on how to control facial acne and how to deal with the problem.
Assessment of the level of feacal contamination in selected open wells in nagongera town council, tororo district.
(Busitema University, 2023) Ngobi, Andrew
Fecal indicator microorganisms such as Escherichia coli (E. coli) and coliform bacteria are widely used to assess the microbiological quality and safety of water, food, and the environment. These microorganisms serve as markers for the potential presence of pathogenic microorganisms that may pose a threat to human health (Edberg et al., 2000). Regulatory agencies establish standards and guidelines to establish acceptable The aim of this study was to assess the level of fecal contamination in open wells in Nagongera Town Council where fecal coliforms specifically E. coli bacteria was used as a bio indicator for fecal contamination where samples of water were collected from three selected open wells and used as an inoculum on Eosin Methyl Blue agar (EMB), where four (4) replicates were made for each sample, cultures were made, incubated for 48 hours and the Colony Forming Units that were formed were counted. The results of this study show a prevalence of fecal coliform bacteria, E. coli in each of the sampled wells for all of the replicates made therefore this being a representative sample of the whole open well population in Nagongera town council, it signals a potential health threat to the local inhabitants.
Prevalence of tomato diseases in buluganya sub county, bulambuli district, uganda
(Busitema University, 2023) Wodamba Christopher
Tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum) are one of the most essential vegetable crops grown all over the world because of their important nutrients. The majority of people in the world eat them on a daily basis. Tomatoes have nutrients like vitamins A, C and lycopene, which are important in human beings for reducing heart diseases and prostate cancer and other age-related diseases. Solanum lycopersicum. is prone to various diseases that can cause significant yield losses. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of tomato diseases in Buluganya Sub County, Bulambuli district and determine the most diseases affecting tomato production. Tomato diseases are significant concern to farmers, and these diseases are mostly caused by fungi, bacteria, virus and other pathogens. The diseases have resulted into significant yield loss, reducing the quality and quantity of tomato fruits. They increase the cost of production due to the need for diseases management practices to ensure sustainable quality production. Specific objectives are: to determine the most diseases affecting tomatoes, to find-out the causes of tomatoes diseases, to find out the management practices use to reduce the effects/losses due to diseases. Field survey was conducted in Buluganya Sub County, Bulambuli district, tomato plants with signs and symptoms of disease were observed and results collected using observation, interviews and questionnaire. The prevalence of tomato diseases was determined, the most common diseases affecting tomato production was identified in Buluganya Sub County, Bulambuli district. On analysis the chi-square (x2) value (1.344) at p-value 0.05, then the null hypothesis (H0) was rejected and the alternative was accepted.
Assessing the preparedness of secondary schools for physical education as a new subject for lower secondary curriculum in kibuku district
(Busitema University, 2023) Musenye, Simon
In 1999, the national sports policy in Uganda was established and stated that Physical Education and Sports are an important activity in the process of Nation building. However, many secondary schools in Uganda have not included Physical Education in their disciplines offered for instance; In Uganda, the ministry of education and sports directed and reinstated teaching of Physical Education in secondary schools in 2009, but by the end of 2018, 2019, 2021, the percentage of schools teaching P.E were 5.0%, 17.5% and 47.5% respectively In 2020, Uganda rolled out the lower secondary curriculum making P.E compulsory for S.1 and S.2 in reference to the directive of the MoES. According to me, each school should have a soccer pitch, netball field with the goals, volleyball pitch, basketball field, athletics equipment, and at least two qualified Physical Education teachers. The purpose of this study was to establish whether secondary schools are prepared to implement Physical Education as stipulated in the new curriculum. After the study, results were recommended for use by ministry of Education and sports (MoES) to the district sports and inspector of schools, private sector and donors Since Kibuku is one of the districts, with the above challenges, the researcher finds it important to intervene and check on the preparedness of secondary schools in the implementations of the new lower secondary curriculum with PES.
The prevalence per variety and control for citrus canker disease in sweet orange (citrus sinensis l), case study of gweri sub county, soroti district
(Busitema University, 2023) Ewagu, Gideon
Citrus canker is a disease caused by the bacterium Xanthomonas axonopodis PV. Citri, which infects all forms of citrus fruits among them includes sweet oranges. The disease is believed to have its origin in Asia from where it spread to all other tropical and sub-tropical citrus growing regions, it does not infect arid citrus growing areas. The study was conducted in Gweri sub county in late July where data was collected using questionnaires from farmers across the three parishes where sweet orange is grown in quite large amounts, the study involved face-to-face interaction and making observations to identify signs of the disease by conducting a random simple zig-zag format of sampling on the lines of orange plants, data obtained was analyzed to calculate the prevalence using the formula in the methodology section. It was found that canker disease was more prevalent in Valencia (26.2%) and least in Washington (7.3%), only 20% of the participants were using the effective control measures, this study, therefore, was aimed at finding out the prevalence per variety, and control of citrus canker disease by farmers of sweet oranges at Gweri sub-county.
Prevalence and management of obesity amongst staff and students of busitema university, nagongera campus in tororo district, uganda
(Busitema University, 2023) Kimaswa, Isaac Philimon
Introduction: Obesity is a growing global health concern with significant implications for individuals and communities. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence and management of obesity among staff and students of Busitema University, Nagongera Campus in Tororo District, Uganda Materials and methods: The study employed a mixed-methods approach, combining both quantitative and qualitative methods. A questionnaire was developed to gather information on demographics, lifestyle factors, dietary habits, physical activity levels, and existing management strategies for obesity. Anthropometric measurements such as weight, height, waist circumference, and body mass index (BMI) were taken from the participants. For measurement of body mass index (BMI), digital weighing scale and stadiometer were used. Interviews were conducted with a subset of participants to obtain qualitative data on their experiences, perceptions, and challenges related to obesity and its management. Data was analyzed using descriptive and thematic analysis. Results: the study found out that there is a significant prevalence of obesity amongst staff (41%) and students (24%) of the area of study; there is high overall awareness of risk factors which can be improved, particularly sedentary lifestyle and poor diet. The study finally found out that the most commonly perceived effective management strategies were regular exercise and a balanced diet. Conclusion: Research findings underscore the need for comprehensive interventions to address obesity among staff and students of Busitema University Nagongera campus.
Ascertaining the usage of plant growth regulators among tomato and orange growers, a case study of kakoli sub-county, budaka district uganda
(Busitema University, 2023) Mulolo, Steven
Plant growth regulators (phytohormones) are organic substances produced naturally in higher plants controlling growth or other physiological processes at a site distant from its production site except ethylene and are active in minute amounts. They include auxins, gibberellins, cytokinins, ethylene, abscisic acid (ABA), growth regulators and retardants. Phytohormones are vital agents in integration of developmental activities. They influence various plant processes for example, Auxins promote lateral and adventitious root formation, control fruit drop and fruit quality, gibberellins stimulate stem elongation, determine sex, control fruit growth, seed development and germination. The low and poor quality and quantity of fruit yields have called for substantial use of PGRs whose use in the right amounts, at right stages during plant growth can improve fruit produce together with optimum provision of other factors affecting plant growth and yield. Great research had been conducted on the usage and effects of plant growth regulators on large scale fruit plant production; however small-scale farmers had often been left out. Therefore, this study investigated the usage of PGRs among tomato and orange growers. Observations, interviews and schedules were used to gather information about the study. Text analysis was significantly used to analyze, treat and interpret the obtained data so as to create meaning of it. This study obtained relevant data about the usage of PGRs used by small-scale fruit growers in the study area.
Medicinal plants used in the treatment of coccidiosis disease among poultry birds, a case study of kwapa subcounty tororo district.
(Busitema University, 2023) Ekisa, Faith
Coccidiosis is known to be an expensive parasitic disease for the poultry industry worldwide which has led to great economic losses by causing poor growth rate and feed efficiency among poultry birds leading to high mortality rate. As a result, large sums of money are being used in vaccination and inclusion of synthetic drugs in the diet of poultry birds. In the recent years, the development of resistance to coccidiostats resulted to high costs of systematic vaccination and coccoidal synthetic drugs. Anticoccidial properties of various medicinal plants such as Moringa Oleifera (Moringa), Carthamus tinctorius (sun flower), Azidirachta indica (Neem), Bidens Pilosa (Black jack) and Aloe Vera supplements have been reported (Ljiljana Kostadinovic, 2019). This research was aimed at discovering the various medicinal plants used by the poultry farmers in kwapa Sub County to treat coccidiosis disease. The methods were employed in data collection include; blended questionnaire-guided interviews with a checklist Use of check list.
The effect of water and light gradients on the distribution of camelina erecta and benghalensis species in nagongera campus tororo district, uganda
(Busitema University, 2024) Kamatei Evans
Camelina species are plant resources full of promise as future food and feed that thrive in diverse ecosystems (Runyambo et al., 2022). They are medicinal plants, leafy vegetables, forage for ruminants, feed for cricket insects, crop protection, and fuel. (Wilson, 1981). Both species are commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions, exhibiting a wide distribution range. However, their distribution patterns are influenced by different environmental factors, particularly light and water availability (Duke, Ball, & Ellison, 1998). Light plays a crucial role in the growth and development of plants. Commelina erecta is a shade tolerant species that thrives in partially shaded areas, such as the understory of forests (Thompson, 1985). It exhibits a preference for lower light intensities, as excessive sunlight can lead to leaf damage and reduced growth (Roberts & Paul, 2006). In contrast, Commelina benghalensis is a sun-loving species that requires high light intensities for optimal growth (Greene, 1980). It is commonly found in open areas, such as grasslands and disturbed habitats. Water availability also plays a significant role in determining the distribution of these two species. Commelina erecta is more tolerant of drought conditions and can survive in areas with lower water availability (HAROON et al., 2023). It has adapted mechanisms to conserve water, such as rolling its leaves to reduce transpiration. On the other hand, Commelina benghalensis requires higher water availability and is commonly found in areas with higher rainfall or near water bodies (Sabila, 2008).
Assessment of faecal contamination in selected fish ponds within nagongera area with emphasis on minimizing health risks to fish consumers.
(Busitema University, 2024) Owor, Emmanuel
Aquaculture, also known as fish farming is the cultivation of aquatic organisms such as fish, shell fish, and plants in controlled environment and stands as a vital component of global food security, playing a pivotal role in suppling protein to burgeoning populations yet the safety of fish products remains a critical issue. Aquaculture has gained much attention as a fast-growing sector of global food production and source of animal protein in the world today (Olsen & Hasan, 2012). (Olsen & Hasan, 2012). However, microorganisms contribute a significant fraction of importance in the aquatic ecosystem and they have been observed to be among the factors that can cause the emergence of infectious diseases in aqua cultural practices (Santos & Ramos, 2018). The prevalence of infectious diseases has been observed to depend on the interaction between fish pathogens and the aquatic environment (Arkoosh et al., 1998). Hence, the need to quantify and monitor microbial population in this sector. This study delved into the assessment of faecal of contaminations in fish ponds within Nagongera areas in Tororo district. Faecal matter introduces various contaminants into fish ponds, posing risks not only to consumers but also to the sustainability of aquaculture ecosystems. The general objectives of this study were to assess the extent of faecal contamination in fish ponds within Nagongera. Specific objectives were, to identify the sources and types of faecal contamination in selected fish ponds to, determine the concentration of faecal indicator bacteria (E. coli) in the fish and growing waters, determining contamination levels in water, and fish samples, and proposing targeted mitigation strategies. The study employed a rigorous sampling design, selecting fish ponds randomly around Nagongera areas. Three fish ponds were randomly selected as sampling sites, water and fish samples were randomly collected over a four-month period between April and August. Collection of water, and fish samples formed the basis for microbiological analyses. Water samples were collected aseptically with sterile 500 ml capped bottles, labelled appropriately and transported to the laboratory within 1 hour. Fish samples were collected using conventional hook and thereafter placed in sterile polythene bags with appropriate labelling and were transported to the laboratory within 1 hour. Serial dilution was conducted to prepare water and fish samples. A series of sterile dilution tubes (test tubes) were labelled numerically, 10-1 to 10-6 to indicate the dilution factor.
Assessment of awareness of the importance of physical exercise and proper nutrition among pregnant women, case study at tororo general hospital.
(Busitema University, 2024) Khanakwa, Rebecca Wamboka
This research project aims to assess the awareness of the importance of physical exercises and proper nutrition among pregnant women at Tororo referral hospital Physical exercises are movements and activities done to keep your body healthy or make it stronger. Proper nutrition refers to a balanced diet of safe, functionally, directed, high-quality products that allow the human body to grow, develop and stay healthy. The methodology involved use of questionnaires given randomly to pregnant women who had come for ante-natal services in Tororo referral hospital in order to collect qualitative data on the awareness of the importance of physical exercises and proper nutrition among pregnant women. The results revealed that all participants (100%) are aware of the benefits of physical exercises during pregnancy. This universal awareness indicates a high level of knowledge about the importance of physical exercises, maintaining maternal and fetal health. Regarding engagement in physical exercises, 97% of the pregnant women who reported actively participating in exercises and only 3% do not. The high rate of engagement reflected a strong commitment to applying their awareness practically, which is consistent with findings from other studies that highlight a positive correlation between awareness and actual health behavior changes. The highest percentage (75%) of pregnant women participate in walking. However, the researching also revealed some of the barriers that hinder pregnant women from participating in physical exercises for example. Regarding food consumption, kaalo, a staple in Ugandan cuisine, is consumed by 89 women, indicating its central role in the diet summarized in the pie chart (Figure 4.6). Also, they accompany their meals with fruits, oranges being eaten by the largest number of participants followed by mangoes. In conclusion, the results revealed a high level of awareness regarding the benefits of physical exercises. Nutritionally, this data highlighted the preference for staple foods and fruits such as oranges, mangoes, kaalo and matooke for both cultural practices and nutritional choices. To enhance awareness, I recommend professional -led education, interactive workshops, increase accessibility and support and strengthen community-based efforts.
Determination of the diversity and abundance of insect pollinators, case study in west bugwe central forest reserve in uganda.
(Busitema University, 2024) Mateya, Costant
A field survey was carried out in West Bugwe Central Forest Reserve with the aim of determining the diversity and abundance of insect pollinators found in this forest reserve with comparison to those ones found at the forest edges. Sampling was done after two days for a period of one month viii using sweep nets, scan sampling and pan traps. Insects pollinators collected were sprayed with insecticides to immobilize them before pinning and dried in the cage. Representative specimen was taken to the biology laboratory for pinning and analyzing A total of 706 insect pollinators belonging to 11 families and 5 orders were recorded. The largest number of insect pollinators were recorded from order Lepidoptera (415), followed with order Hymenoptera (211), then order Diptera (35) followed by order Hemiptera (28) and lastly Coleoptera had the least number recorded with a total of 17 insect pollinators. Among these orders, only two orders were analyzed to family level that is Lepidoptera and Hymenoptera, under Lepidoptera, the family Nymphalidae showed the highest abundance 265(64%), followed by Pieridae 75(18%), Papilionadae 32(6%), Hesperidae 26(3%) with Rhiodinadae having the least number 5(1%). Under order Hymenoptera, family Apidae had the most abundant number 147(82%) followed by Vespidae 17(9%) Megachilidae 5(3%), Colletidae 4(2%) and Halictidae (1%) recorded the lowest relative abundance. The highest species diversity was observed in the order Lepidoptera (H’ =1.1107), while orders Hemiptera and coleopteran had the least (H’=0). However, the habitat with the highest species evenness was the forest interior (0.5658). This information shows that West Bugwe Central Forest Reserve is an ecosystem hotspot for abundance and diversity of insect pollinators and therefore it should be conserved by the stakeholders and concerned bodies for the continued ecosystem health.
Attitudes towards physical education amongst lower secondary students (senior three students) in selected secondary schools in kapchorwa district uganda
(Busitema University, 2024) Siwa, Wuseiri
Physical education (PE) is an essential component of the school curriculum as it promotes physical fitness, health, and well-being of students. However, the attitude of students towards PE can significantly impact their participation and engagement. In Kapchorwa district, Uganda, the attitude of students towards PE is not well documented. Therefore, this study aims to explore the attitude of students towards PE and the levels at which learners are embracing the PE curriculum in secondary schools. Among the objectives of study include; to describe the attitude of students towards physical education. To find out the levels at which learners are embracing the physical education curriculum in secondary schools. This study employs mixed-methods research design, which involve both quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis. The study population comprised of secondary school students in Kapchorwa district. A sample size of 200 students was selected using stratified random sampling. A questionnaire was used to collect quantitative data, while in-depth interviews and focus group discussions was used to collect qualitative data. The collected data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. The study provided insights into the attitude of students towards PE and the levels at which learners are embracing the PE curriculum in secondary schools. The findings helped to identify the challenges and opportunities in promoting PE in Kapchorwa district and inform the development of effective strategies to enhance student participation and engagement in P.E.
Assess insect pollinator diversity and relative abundance in west bugwe central forest reserve, busia district
(Busitema University, 2024) Kitayi, Solomon
The pollination of plants by insects is one of the most important and essential ecosystem services in natural and agricultural landscapes. This is because they mediate the transfer of pollen from the anther to the stigma leading to fertilization. This study aims at determining insect pollinator diversity and abundance along forest edges of West Bugwe Central Forest Reserve. Three methods of insect collection were employed during the study period that is, sweep netting, pan traps and scan sampling. A total of 808 insect pollinators were collected from the various sampling points that were identified using the Global Positioning System. Specimens collected were preserved in bottles containing 70% alcohol, identified using appropriate keys and later pinned in insect cages. The most abundant order was Hymenoptera (51%) followed by Lepidoptera (39%) and Diptera (1%) was the least abundant order. The most dominant families were Apidae (43%) and Nymphalidae (23%) while the least abundant families were Papilionidae (0.51%) and Stenotritidae (0.22%). The results showed that the forest edge habitat had a higher diversity and abundance of insect pollinators (H’=0.5624) and lower in the forest interior habitat. Therefore, it was concluded that different types of habitats affect the diversity and abundance of insect pollinators. Keywords: Forest edge, diversity, abundance, insect, pollinator
Enhancing the shelf life of fresh cassava roots through combination of the post-harvest preservation methods in nagongera town council, tororo district
(Busitema University, 2024) Nabaya, Job Mazaki
Introduction This research aimed to address the persistent challenge of post-harvest losses in cassava production within Nagongera Town Council, Tororo District. Despite the key role cassava plays in the local economy and nutrition, the prevalence of post-harvest losses has emerged as a significant obstacle within the Nagongera area based on vivid observance from the nearby cassava growers and sellers, affecting both food security and economic stability. The primary objective of this research was to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of a combination of post-harvest preservation methods tailored to fresh cassava roots in this specific geographical context. Methods The technical evaluation involved rigorous experimental trials on two cassava varieties which are locally called Narocus and Pumba to assess the efficacy of a combination of the two mostly used preservation methods that’s to say; use of Simple bag material and Wetting the Cassava Roots. Anticipated outcomes included the identification of the most effective preservation methods for fresh cassava roots, a detailed understanding of their economic viability. The experimentation was done for a period of ten days, of which the first five days were for the individual cassava preservation methods that is storage in the bag material and wetting, this was followed by combination of the preservation methods; in the first case, the cassava which were in the bag material were transferred to the trays for wetting and vice versa. In the entire study, results on attributes like weight, texture, physical appearance of the two cassava varieties Narocus and Pumba for the individual and combined preservation methods were obtained and tabulated. Conclusion Based on the results, the sequential combination of simple bag storage method of cassava preservation followed by wetting was the most effective method as compared to sequential combination of wetting followed by simple bag material method of preservation. Keywords: Cassava, Preservation, Storage, shelf life.
Domestic waste management and community awareness about its public health implication at nagongera town council in tororo district, eastern uganda.
(Busitema University, 2024) Akello, Joan
The study was conducted to investigate the different domestic waste management practices employed at Nagongera town council and the effects of the domestic waste management practices on the local people’s general health, and also to find out the challenges faced by Nagongera town council in management of its wastes/garbage. This study adopted a combination of qualitative and quantitative designs to get deeper understanding of underlying issues of domestic waste management in Nagongera town council. The study focused on the nature of domestic waste generated at Nagongera town council, practices employed in domestic waste management and the hindrances faced by the local people in managing the domestic waste. The objectives of the study were to identity the types of domestic waste generated, to examine the present domestic waste management practices, and to assess the community awareness about the public health implications of poor domestic waste management practices. The study used random sampling technique to determine a sample size of 120 respondents. Mostly, qualitative data was obtained from questionnaires, observation schedules and interview guides which were coded, interpreted and entered into SPSS. Further data was analyzed to give it a broader and more meaningful picture of the sample in addition to generating frequency tables, pie charts and bar graphs for further interpretation. The study findings revealed that biodegradable materials (food remains), Ashes and dust, Paper and cardboard, Plastics, and unclassified debris like wood/leather were the types of domestic waste generated by Nagongera town council. Field findings also indicated that Nagongera town council employed various practices to control and minimize the domestic waste generated which included; recycle, reuse, energy recovery, dumping and other domestic waste management practices. It was recommended that Nagongera town council improves employment conditions as well as access to support services. Markets of recycling industries need to participate in waste management by separating their waste at source point. build broad-based support for composting and recycling through the ‘’garbage is money’’ poster campaign, Nagongera town council management authority needs to have a deliberate policy that encourages the community and various stakeholders to play a role in developing garbage-related policies, environmental education to the communities should be taken seriously authorities to work with private companies
Assessment of the physico-chemical and biochemical status of selected ponds with emphasis on improving conditions for fish rearing in nagongera town council, tororo district.
(Busitema University, 2024) Mumbere, Michael
Ponds are water resources that provide food in form of fish in both rural and urban places all over the world, countries that lack natural water resources like lakes and rivers for fish rearing such as Singapore utilize and rely on ponds for fish production. Many fish farmers worldwide lack adequate knowledge on fish pond management and this leads to low production in the pond. There is limited research study in ponds hence poor managerial skills and need for urgent interventions by governments and non- governmental organizations such as WHO to calm the situation. There is need for technological advancement in fish pond management monitoring strategies for the physical-chemical and bio-chemical status to improve fish rearing conditions. In Africa there is much low technological use in pond management strategies to ensure pond status is kept ideal for fish rearing e.g. the use of sensor networks to monitor physical and biochemical pond status Uganda fish rearing is a lucrative venture currently though more sensitization and education of farmers about fish farming is very low hence farmers lack adequate skills in pond management to rear good quality fish. In Nagongera, ponds support a dynamic and rapidly growing population of people with income and food in form of fish. Tororo district in particular Nagongera has no major lake that can provide adequate fish supply apart from importing from outside the district, from a few rivers and ponds. Ponds suffer anthropogenic disturbances for example, poor fishing methods e.g. poisoning whose impact on the integrity of the pond systems is a subject of concern farmers in Nagongera also face challenges of floods which sweep their fish away and destroy the ponds, lack of adequate labor, lack of a variety of fish species, thieves who fish without permission. Mantainace of biochemical and physical chemical parameters confers good fish living conditions conditions that is to say temperature, pH, turbidity, nutrient loading i.e., phosphates. These can be used to assess the biological status of the ponds at both local and global level with an intention of discovering the effect of the variations in the parameters on fish rearing to improve its quality. In this research selected water parameters we're measured and used to assess pond water quality and predict the fish living conditions. Using the set optimal level the, the results measured were compared and conclusions made

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