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Item Adaptive project management practices, team collaboration and project resilience a case of UWEP projects, Amuria district.(Busitema University, 2025) Akurut, Angella.This study examined the mediating role of team collaboration in the relationship between adaptive project management practices and project resilience among Uganda Women Entrepreneurship Projects (UWEP) in Amuria district. Specifically, the study assessed the relationship between adaptive project management practices(APMP) and Project resilience, APMP and Team collaboration, Team collaboration and project resilience, and the mediating role of team collaboration in the APMP-Project resilience link. The study used a cross sectional research design and a quantitative approach. Using the guidelines of Kregcie and Morgan (1970), a sample of 122 projects was derived from a population of 179 UWEP projects. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data from the respondents and a response rate of 68.9% was realized at the level of unit of analysis. Data was analyzed using SPSS Version 22. The tool passed the test for validity and reliability. Following the guidelines of baron and Kenny(1986), the findings revealed that all the conditions required for mediation to occur were fulfilled confirming partial mediation. Based on the findings, the study concluded that team collaboration plays a vital mediating role, transforming adaptive project management efforts into enhanced project resilience, and therefore both elements must be intentionally cultivated for comprehensive project robustness. Therefore, the study recommended that UWEP project managers should integrate approaches that encourage adaptive management and at the same time develop team collaboration to achieve optimal project resilience through the creation of holistic capacity-building initiatives that instill adaptive planning skills and collaborative leadership abilities in project staff, the creation of project frameworks that require stakeholder participation and consultative decision-making, and the allocation of resources to help support both the flexible operation models and team integration efforts Keywords: team collaboration, management practices, project resilience, Amuria district, UWEP projects.Item Agency banking practices, financial literacy, and financial literacy in Pallisa district.(Busitema University, 2025) Olupot, Epiaka EdgarThis study investigated the mediating role of financial literacy in the relationship between agency banking practices and financial inclusion in Pallisa district. Anchored on public good theory and dissatisfaction theory of financial inclusion (Ozili, 2020), the study investigated the relationship between agency banking practices, financial literacy, and financial inclusion. From a population of 300, the study derived a sample of 169 which yielded a response rate of 90.5%. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS v 27. The researcher used descriptive statistics, correlation, regression, and mediation analysis to analyse data. The findings revealed that there is a positive and significant relationship between agency banking practices and financial inclusion (r=0.631, p<0.01). Additionally, financial literacy was significantly associated with financial inclusion (r=0.681, p<0.01) and was positively influenced by agency baking practices (r=0.527, p<0.01). Furthermore, financial literacy mediated the relationship between agency banking practices and financial inclusion. Based on the findings, the study concluded that financial literacy is a mechanism that explains the relationship between agency banking practices and financial inclusion in Pallisa district. Therefore, the study recommends the expansion of the agency banking networks alongside robust financial literacy programs to enhance financial inclusion. Keywords: Agency banking practices, financial literacy, financial literacy, public good theory, descriptive statistics.Item Board role performance, credit management and financial performance of commercial banks in Uganda.(Busitema University, 2025) Kintu, SimonThis study examined the mediation role of credit management in the relationship between board role performance and financial performance of commercial banks in Uganda. The specific objectives of the study were to: examine the relationship between board role performance and financial performance of commercial banks in Uganda, assess the relationship between credit management and financial performance of commercial banks in Uganda, establish the relationship between board role performance and credit management in commercial banks in Uganda and examine the mediating role of credit management in the relationship of board role performance and financial performance of commercial banks in Uganda. The study used a cross-sectional research design and a quantitative research approach. The study population was composed of 24 Commercial Banks in Uganda. Census approach was used to adopt the entire study population as the sample size. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire. The questionnaire tool was tested for validity and reliability using content validity index and Cronbach’s alpha and the results indicated that the tool was valid and reliable. The study obtained a response rate of 91.3%. The study established that board role performance had positive and statistically significant relationship with financial performance and credit management. Credit management had a statistically significant relationship with financial performance, and credit risk management mediates the relationship between board role performance and financial performance of commercial banks in Uganda. Based on the findings, the study concluded that credit management partially mediates the relationship between board role performance and financial performance of commercial banks in Uganda. Therefore, the study recommends that Boards should integrate credit management practices into governance strategies to maximize their impact on financial outcomes. Keywords: Board role performance, credit management, financial performance, commercial banks, specific objectives.Item Budgeting process, internal control and financial performance of secondary schools in Kumi district.(Busitema University, 2024) Oger, DanielThe study explored the mediating effect of internal controls on the relationship between budgeting processes and financial performance of secondary schools in Kumi District. The study was guided by the following specific objectives; to establish the effect of budgeting process on the financial performance of secondary schools in Kumi District; to analyze the effect of internal controls on the financial performance of secondary schools in Kumi District; to find out the relationship between internal controls and the budgeting process of secondary schools in Kumi District; and to examine the mediating role of internal controls in the relationship between the budgeting process and financial performance of secondary schools in Kumi District. The study considered a descriptive research design. The study population of 165 comprised the staff establishment of four (4) secondary schools in Kumi District. The schools included Dr. Aporu Okolo Memorial Secondary School, Kumi Seed Secondary School, Atutur Seed Secondary School, and Wiggin Secondary School. The sample used was 165 respondents obtained by census method out of whom 134 returned completed and usable questionnaires. Descriptive statistics of frequencies and percentages was used to obtain specific findings, while Pearson Product Moment Correlation and regression analyses were used to obtain major findings. Regression results revealed that a) there is a significant effect of budgeting process on the financial performance of secondary schools in Kumi District [β = .879, t = 2.417, p<0.0001]; b) there is a significant effect of internal controls on the financial performance of secondary schools in Kumi District [β = .371, t = 1.993, p<0.0001]; c) there is significant relationship between the budgeting process and internal control practices of secondary schools in Kumi District [r = .354**, p < 0.01]; and d) internal control partially mediates the relationship between budgeting process and financial performance of secondary schools in Kumi District. The study concluded that although the budgeting process itself is a critical factor in determining financial success, its impact is only fully realized when complemented by strong internal controls. These controls act as a safeguard, ensuring that the budget is effectively implemented and financial resources are managed efficiently. The study recommends that schools should adopt a participatory budgeting approach that involves input from key stakeholders, including teachers, parents, and community members. They should formally integrate internal controls into every stage of the budgeting process. Additionally, schools should also establish a system for regularly evaluating both their internal controls and budgeting processes to ensure they are functioning effectively and contributing to desired financial outcomes. Keywords: Budgeting process, internal control, financial performance, population, Kumi district.Item Capital structure, credit management and financial performance in small and medium enterprises in Pallisa business district.(Busitema University, 2025) Oule, George OmodingThe study sought to understand the liaison between capital structure and financial performance and how this relationship is mediated by credit management in Pallisa Business District in Uganda. The specific objectives were; to assess the role of capital structure on financial performance of SMEs in Pallisa Business District; to identify the relationship between capital structure and credit management among SMEs in Pallisa Business District; to examine the connection between credit management and financial performance of SMEs in Pallisa Business district; and to examine the mediating role of credit management on the relationship between capital structure and financial performance of SMEs in Pallisa Business District. A cross- sectional research design was utilized and the findings are based on a sample of 132 SMEs drawn from a population of 200 SMEs using simple random sampling technique. Also 396 questionnaires were administered and 333 were fully filed and returned to the researcher. The study statements were reliable as tested using Cronbach‘s Alpha Coefficient, and were also valid after subjecting them to expert judgment method. Pearson‘ correlation coefficient and linear regression were used for data analysis in SPSS version 23. Study results indicated a positive relation between all study variables. Regression results revealed that capital structure is positively related to financial performance, credit management is positively affected by capital structure, credit management is positively related to financial performance while credit management partially mediates the bond between capital structure and financial performance in Pallisa Business District in Uganda. Thus, it is recommended that SMEs in Pallisa Business district and those in Uganda should ensure adherence to proper management of capital structure and strengthen the credit management mechanisms to enhance financial performance in terms of profitability, turn over and cash flow. Key Words : Capital structure, credit management, financial performance, small and medium enterprises, Pallisa business districtItem Communication, accountability and quality service delivery in local governments in Teso sub region.(Busitema University, 2025) Alungat, Celline MercyThe purpose of the study was to examine the relationship between communication, accountability and quality service delivery among local governments in six selected districts in Teso sub region. Specifically, the study assessed the relation between communication and quality service delivery, communication and accountability, accountability and quality service delivery, and the mediating role of accountability in the relationship between communication and quality service delivery. The study used a cross-sectional research design with a quantitative approach. A population of 103 local governments which included districts local governments, a city, town councils, and sub counties were considered. A sample of 80 local governments was derived based on the guidelines of Kregcie and Morgan (1970). Data was collected using a structured questionnaire. Out of 80 local governments, 65 participated in the study giving a response rate of 82.3%. The findings indicate that accountability mediated the relationship between communication and quality service delivery accounting for 50.6% while the direct effect of communication on quality service delivery accounted for 49.4%. Based on these findings the study concluded that accountability is the mechanism through which communication influences quality service delivery in local governments in Teso sub region. The study has limited ability to track changes over time thus longitudinal suggestion, Self-reported response and researchers encourages citizen satisfaction surveys and geographical limitation which the researcher recommends research in other regions. The study recommends the integration of communication and accountability as a vital tool for enhancing quality of service delivery. Keywords: Communication, accountability, quality service, service delivery, local governments.Item Employee engagement, service quality and customer satisfaction in Kampala metropolitan Uganda:(Busitema University, 2024) Lyomoki, ArafatCustomer satisfaction is critical for ensuring that organizations meet their objectives and maintain customer loyalty, particularly in service-oriented industries. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of employee engagement and service quality on customer satisfaction in focusing on UMEME. The specific objectives of the study were to examine the effect of employee engagement on customer satisfaction; assess the influence of service quality on customer satisfaction; establish the effect of employee engagement on service quality; and investigate the mediating role of service quality on the relationship between employee engagement and customer satisfaction. The study was anchored on the SERVQUAL model, which posits that service quality dimensions such as reliability, responsiveness, and empathy play a significant role in shaping customer satisfaction. A cross-sectional research design was adopted, targeting 617 employees from UMEME's main office in Kampala. A representative sample of 234 employees was selected using simple random sampling. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and analyzed using SPSS, employing descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, hierarchical regression, and mediation analysis using Hayes’ PROCESS macro. The findings revealed that employee engagement has a significant positive effect on customer satisfaction. The study findings reveal that service quality positively influences customer satisfaction. The study also established that employee engagement enhances service quality. The study findings further reveal that service partially mediates the relationship between employee engagement and customer satisfaction outcomes. Based on these findings, it is recommended that UMEME invest in employee engagement initiatives to enhance service quality and, consequently, customer satisfaction. Keywords: employee engagement, service quality, customer satisfaction, UMEME, Kampala metropolitan.Item Financial literacy, financial trust and financial performance of village savings and loan associations in Mbale district, Uganda.(Busitema University, 2025) Wabuteya, MacmillanVillage savings and loan associations (VSLAs) ought to drive strong financial performance so as to continue extending financial service to the communities. The current study sought to establish the mediation effect of financial trust on the relationship between financial literacy and financial performance of VSLAs in Mbale District, Uganda. The specific objectives of the study were: to examine the effect of financial literacy on the financial performance of Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLAs) in Mbale District; to assess the effect of financial literacy on financial trust among VSLAs in Mbale District; to establish the effect of financial trust on the financial performance of VSLAs in Mbale District, and to determine the mediating effect of financial trust in the relationship between financial literacy and the financial performance of VSLAs in Mbale District. A cross-sectional design was used and data was collected at one point in time. To ensure the validity and reliability of the research instruments, the study tested for content validity index and cronbach alpha coefficient and the data was valid and reliable. With a target population of 116 VSLAs, a sample of 90 VSLAs was selected using Yamane’s formula, and data were collected from VSLAs. The study used a structured questionnaire to gather data from VSLA members. The study was anchored on the theory of planned behavior to explain the relationship between the study variables. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation and regression analysis. The findings revealed that financial literacy positively influence both financial trust and financial performance. Additionally, financial trust was a significant predictor of financial performance. The results further that financial trust partially mediates the relationship between financial literacy and financial performance. The study concluded that enhancing financial literacy and building financial trust within VSLAs can significantly improve financial performance. It is recommends that fostering financial education and trust-building practices within VSLAs can strengthen group cohesion and ensure sustained financial success. Keywords: Financial literacy, financial trust, financial performance, village savings, loan associations.Item Financial management, capacity building and the effectiveness of government programmes : a case of nusaf programmes in Budaka DLG.(Busitema University, 2024) Museule, SiirajiThe main purpose of the study was to examine the influence of financial management and the effectiveness of government programmes and how this relationship is mediated by capacity building in Budaka DLG in Uganda. The study specific objectives were; to assess the effect of financial management on the effectiveness of government programmes in Budaka DLG; to examine the connection between financial management and capacity building of government programmes in Budaka DLG; to establish the link between capacity building and the effectiveness of government development programmes in Budaka DLG; and to assess the mediation effect of capacity building on the relationship between financial management and the effectiveness of government programmes in Budaka DLG. The study employed a quantitative approach and a cross-sectional design; a study population of 95 NUSAF community programmes were considered. Krejcie and Morgan table (1970) was used to obtain a sample of 76 NUSAF community programmes; using a simple random sampling technique, the researcher accessed the sampled programmes. 76 community NUSAF programmes were the unit of analysis while 304 were the unit of inquiry. The study findings revealed that financial management has a positively significant impact on effectiveness of government programmes, financial management and capacity building, capacity building and the effectiveness of government programmes while capacity building partially mediates the connection between financial management and effectiveness of government programmes. Thus, in reference to the study findings, it was recommended that the government should ensure proper financial planning and budgeting that considers adequate capacity building of beneficiaries for proper programme implementation. Similarly, funds allocated to capacity building should be rightly used and this should be ensured by emphasizing and empowering programmes managers to properly adapt, lead and manage to ensure compliance to programme terms of reference. Key words : Financial management, capacity building, effectiveness of government programmes, Budaka DLG, NUSAF programmes.Item Innovative work behavior among academic staff in public universities in Uganda.(Busitema University, 2025) Wanyana, Mercy MugonolaHigher education in underdeveloped countries like Uganda has changed over the past 20 years, and innovation is crucial to addressing these changes. Based on the combined theoretical perspective of: Social exchange theory, Denison’s organizational cultural model and Spritzer’s empowerment model, the present study examines the relationship between perceived organizational support (POS), servant leadership (SL), organizational culture (OC), and innovative work behavior (IWB) among academic staff in Uganda’s public universities. Specifically, this study focused on examining the relationships between: i) POS and IWB ii) SL and IWB iii) OC and IWB iv) POS and psychological empowerment (PE) v) SL and PE vi) the mediating effect of PE on the relationship between POS and IWB vii) the mediating role of psychological empowerment on the relationship between SL and IWB. To achieve the study’s objectives, a cross sectional and mixed-method study approach- which combines quantitative and qualitative methods was adopted using a sample of academic staff from Uganda’s public universities. Based on 308 valid observations, the quantitative data analysis included structural equation modeling, zero order correlations, and descriptive statistics using SPSS 19 and AMOS V.21 TM. For mediation analysis, the bootstrap approach using AMOS was used. The qualitative data was collected from 10 universities; the point of saturation was reached after 28 senior managers and analysed using the Gioia methodology with the aid verbatim quotes to account for the emerging themes. The findings of direct effects confirmed a positive relationship between POS, SL, OC and IWB. The findings also established that the relationship between POS, SL and IWB is positively and partially mediated by PE. This study concludes that the alternative path to improvements in IWB integrates individual (perceived organizational support, servant leadership, and psychological empowerment) and organizational perspectives (organizational culture), especially in public university setting. The results provide support to the theoretical grounding of this research. Based on the study’s findings, policymakers- that is, the NCHE, the Ministry of Education, and Sports, as well as other relevant government agencies, ought to prioritize development of IWB. To accomplish this, governments and organizations can foster a psychologically enabling environment, promote collaboration and information exchange, provide employees with development and growth opportunities, and reward and acknowledge creative thinking. Innovation can also be further stimulated by encouraging open communication, accepting different viewpoints, and questioning assumptions. From the theoretical viewpoint, this study emphasizes the role of the individual level factors in IWB studies, and the mediating influence of PE in explaining the relationship between POS and SL with IWB. This study is not without limitations. First, it was based on cross-sectional research design. Since cross-sectional studies are inherently prone to common methods bias, a longitudinal approach in the replication of the study is advised to explore the development of IWB construct over time. Also, this study solely considered POS, SL, OC and PE as factors explaining IWB. We suggest that other factors and dimensions should be the focus of future studies. Keywords: Perceived Organizational Support, Servant Leadership, Organizational Culture, Psychological Empowerment, Innovative work Behavior.Item Internal controls, organizational culture and financial accountability in Uganda :(Busitema University, 2024) Okiria, Silvester.Financial accountability was crucial for individuals, businesses and government entities alike, to manage their financial sources and expenditures prudently, without it, there would be endless financial problems. Despite the extensive researches carried out on the effects of internal controls on financial accountability Ong’gunya & Kalenzi, (2019); Bainomugisha et al., (2023). Most researchers have focused on internal controls and financial accountability in government public hospitals, higher institutions of learning and foreign countries Adeyemi & Olarewaju, (2019). This calls for further research on why there is lack of compliance with internal controls and financial accountability in local governments in Uganda. A cross-sectional research design was adopted for this study. Primary data was collected from a sample of 70 local governments from North Bukedi sub region with 65 local governments responding giving a response rate of 92%. Closed-ended questionnaires were used to collect data and SPSS was used to analyse data. The correlation results revealed that internal controls positively and significantly affect financial accountability. In addition, the study indicated that internal controls had a positive and significant effect on organization culture. The findings further showed that organization culture, positively and significantly affects financial accountability. whereas the regression results showed, internal controls had a significant and positive effect on financial accountability, a unit change in internal controls causes a unit change in financial accountability. Internal controls and organisation culture, the results showed that internal controls had a significant and positive effect on organisation culture, implying a unit change in internal controls causes a unit change in organisation culture. Organisation culture and financial accountability, the results showed that organisation culture had a significant and positive effect on financial accountability, a unit change in organisation culture causes a unit change in financial accountability. Finally, the results showed that organisation culture partially mediates the relationship between internal controls and financial accountability. It was therefore recommended that, district local governments in Bukedi North Sub Region needed to align organization cultures with internal controls in order to enhance financial accountability, through training their staff regularly on the importance of internal controls and financial accountability. The study was anchored on the agency and accountability theory. The agency theory prescribes the process of establishing and managing organizations, businesses and entities where one person (principal) defines the duties to be performed by another person (agent) with the objective to make the best use of the principal’s interest. The accountability theory is justified for making people to feel accountable for their actions or inactions towards others and for the processes by which decisions and judgement have been reached. Keywords: Internal controls, organizational culture, financial accountability, financial sources, financial problems.Item Management control system, interpersonal trust and financial management in Busoga sub-region local governments.(Busitema University, 2025) Kakungulu, David KigenyiThis study examined the mediating role of interpersonal trust in the relationship between management control system and financial management in Local Governments in the Busoga sub region, Uganda; relying on the agency and stewardship theories. A cross-sectional survey approach was adopted targeting 120 local governments. Data were analyzed using SPSS v.27 and MedGraph v3. The study found a relationship between management control systems and financial management, established that interpersonal trust partially mediated the link between management control systems and financial management, and lastly, found that management control systems correlated with interpersonal trust. This study makes the following important contributions to the financial management literature: organisational leadership should endeavor to reinforce the existing management control systems because they are strong pillars that contribute to the stability and success of financial management in Local Governments, institutional managers should ensure that the interpersonal is promoted, since it builds group cohesion and later, galvanises teamwork that if it is well harnessed, heightens the existing quality of institutional financial management. The study limitations and areas for further research were: common method bias in self-reported data makes it challenging to accurately determine causal effect relationships. Future research should use multiple source data, such as supervisor subordinate dyads, to obtain independent ratings on management control systems, interpersonal trust, and financial management; also, the study's findings, based on Accounting Officers, which may not apply to other organisations or local populations, prompting future research with employees in other sectors, and finally, the research used a quantitative approach to explain financial management in Local Governments, but a hybrid approach with qualitative elements could provide deeper insights. Keywords: Management Control Systems, Interpersonal Trust, Financial Management, Busoga sub-region, organisational leadership.Item Promotional mix, brand image and customer satisfaction in Opportunity bank Uganda limited, Soroti branch.(Busitema University, 2024) Okello, Francis XavierThe study explored the mediating effect of brand image on the relationship between promotional mix and customer satisfaction in Opportunity Bank Soroti Branch. The study was guided by the following specific objectives; to establish the relationship between promotional mix and customer satisfaction in Opportunity Bank, Soroti Branch; to determine the relationship between brand image and customer satisfaction in Opportunity Bank, Soroti Branch; to analyse the effect of promotional mix on brand image in Opportunity Bank, Soroti Branch; and to examine the mediating effect of brand image in the relationship between promotional mix and customer satisfaction in Opportunity Bank Soroti Branch. The study considered a descriptive research design. The study population of 39,825 comprised clients of Opportunity Bank in Soroti Branch. The sample used was 379 respondents obtained by use of the Krejcie & Morgan’s table out of whom 254 returned completed and usable questionnaires. Descriptive statistics of frequencies and percentages was used to obtain specific findings, while Pearson Product Moment Correlation and regression analyses were used to obtain major findings. Regression results revealed that a) there is a significant effect of promotional mix on customer satisfaction in Opportunity Bank Soroti Branch [β = .423, t = 1.853, p=0.000]; b) there is a significant effect of promotional mix on the brand image of Opportunity Bank Soroti Branch [β = .529, t = 2.231, p=0.000]; c) brand image partially mediates the relationship between promotional mix and customer satisfaction in Opportunity Bank Soroti Branch. The study concludes that brand image plays a critical intermediary role. The promotional mix—comprising sales promotions, direct selling, and public relations directly influences customer perceptions, but its full impact on customer satisfaction is significantly enhanced through the bank’s brand image. A well-crafted promotional mix creates awareness, engagement, and positive associations with the bank, which strengthens its brand image. The study recommends that the bank should increase its focus on targeted digital marketing efforts through social media platforms, mobile banking apps, and email campaigns. By personalizing advertisements based on customer demographics and preferences, the bank can improve engagement, enhance customer awareness, and better meet the specific needs of its diverse clientele, leading to increased satisfaction. Keywords: brand image, customer satisfaction, Opportunity Bank Uganda, Promotional mix.Item Quality planning, quality control, and project quality management in NGO projects in Iganga district.(Busitema University, 2025) Ssebowa, Joshua. SThis study set out to examine the mediating role of quality control in the relationship between quality planning and project quality management among NGO projects in Iganga District. The study used a cross sectional research design with a quantitative approach. A population of 109 NGO projects. Based on the guidelines of Yamane (1967), a sample of 86 NGO projects was derived. The study used a structured questionnaire to collect data from the respondent and attained a response rate of 62.5% at the level of unit of inquiry and 84.4% at level of unit of analysis. The findings indicate that quality control mediated the relationship between quality planning and project quality management in project quality management of NGO projects in Iganga District. The indirect role of quality control in the relationship between quality planning and project quality management was 40.1% while 59.9% was as a result of the direct relationship. Based on the findings, the study concluded that quality control is a significant mediating factor through which quality planning translates into enhanced project quality management. The researcher therefore recommends that NGOs integrate quality control protocols directly into project planning documentation making them a required component of work plans, budgets, and implementation strategies. Keywords: Quality planning, quality control, project quality management, NGO projects, Iganga district.Item Stakeholder involvement, risk management and sustainability of UWEP projects in Kumi district.(Busitema University, 2025) Akello, Deborah.This study investigated the influence of stakeholder involvement and risk management on the sustainability of Uganda Women Entrepreneurship Programme (UWEP) projects in Kumi District. Specifically, the study examined the effect of stakeholder involvement of project sustainability; assessed the effect of stakeholder involvement on risk management; determined the effect of risk management on project sustainability; evaluated the mediating role of risk management in the relationship between stakeholder involvement and project sustainability. The study was anchored on the agency theory and stakeholder theory. The study adopted a cross-sectional design and employed a quantitative approach. The population comprised 192 UWEP projects, from which a sample of 127 projects was drawn, and 88 usable questionnaires were returned representing a response rate of 69.2%. Prior to data collection, the research instrument was tested for reliability and validity to ensure accuracy and was found to be both valid and reliable. Collected data were analyzed using SPSS, employing descriptive statistics, correlation, regression, and mediation analyses. Findings revealed that stakeholder involvement and risk management significantly influence project sustainability. The findings also revealed that stakeholder involvement significantly affect risk management. The findings further indicated that risk management partially mediates the relationship between stakeholder involvement and project sustainability. The study concludes that active stakeholder participation and effective risk management are critical drivers of sustainable project outcomes. These results provide empirical insights for policymakers and practitioners seeking to enhance the sustainability of development projects through stakeholder-centered and risk-informed approaches. Keywords: Stakeholder involvement, risk management, sustainability, Women Entrepreneurship, development projects.Item The mediating role of trust in the relationship between financial literacy and financial inclusion of vulnerable :(Busitema University, 2024) Okiror, Ismael.The study aimed at examining the mediating role of trust in the relationship between financial literacy and financial inclusion of vulnerable groups, a case of youth and women groups in Pallisa district. A cross-sectional study design was adopted and the quantitative approach was applied. Data was solicited through a survey tool from a sample of 175 groups in Pallisa district out of the population target of 320 vulnerable groups of women and youth basing on Krejcie and Morgan(1970). The study sought to examine whether (i) the relationship between financial literacy and financial inclusion exists; (ii) the relationship between financial literacy and trust exists; (iii) the relationship between trust and financial inclusion exists; (iv) the mediation role of trust in the relationship between financial literacy and financial inclusion exists. The results revealed a positive and significant relationship between the variables; financial literacy and financial inclusion; financial literacy and trust; trust and financial inclusion. Also, the findings depict trust as a partial mediator in the relationship between financial literacy and financial inclusion. The study on the account of the findings recommends that financial literacy education and approaches to community groups should be put in place to improve financial services at all levels of society by conducting periodic education training as this helps to understand the various kinds of financial products and services increasing on the social inclusivity and their general welfare. Also, vulnerable groups should foster deeper connections and build long term partnerships with financial institutions and other funding bodies through trust, as this helps to achieve conscious efforts to develop solid relationships with them on general financial wellbeing. Keywords: financial literacy, financial inclusion, vulnerable, women groups, groups.