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
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.
Assess abundance and diversity of aquatic insects in odoponyi seasonal stream, nagongera subcounty, tororo district
(Busitema University, 2024) Nyongesa, Philex
Aquatic insects play a fundamental irreplaceable ecological role in the intricate web of biodiversity and ecosystems. Despite the importance of aquatic insects in streams, many human activities such as rice growing, sand mining and cattle grazing affect the aquatic ecosystems changing the water quality which in turn affects the abundance and diversity of organisms. This study investigates the abundance and diversity of aquatic insects in the Odoponyi seasonal stream located in Nagongera sub-county, Tororo district, Uganda. A total of 38 insects from 11 families across five orders were collected using the kicknet method, revealing a stark contrast in insect communities between disturbed and undisturbed sites. The undisturbed site, characterized by intact riparian vegetation, hosted a significantly higher abundance of insects (27 individuals) compared to the disturbed site (11 individuals), although the latter exhibited greater species diversity (Shannon index: 1.594 vs. 0.7545). The Gomphidae family was the most abundant, highlighting its ecological importance in maintaining stream health. Results indicate that anthropogenic activities, including cattle grazing and sand mining, negatively affect aquatic insect populations, emphasizing the need for effective management and conservation strategies. This baseline data is crucial for future studies aimed at preserving aquatic ecosystems in the region and inform local stakeholders about sustainable land use practices.
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
Assessing barriers affecting female participation in physical education and sports in Busitema university Nagongera campus.
(Busitema University, 2026) Nabutiti, Rebecca
Participation in PE and sports is essential for promoting physical fitness, confidence and social well-being among university students. However, female participation in sports remains significantly lower than that of male globally due to social, cultural, and institutional barriers. This study assessed the barriers affecting female participation in physical education and sports at Nagongera campus, Busitema University. Specifically, the study examined infrastructural barriers, institutional factors and strategies for promoting female participation. The study adapted qualitative research approach using a phenomenological case study design. Data was collected through semi-structured interview and focus group discussions from 25 female students 1 sports tutor, 3 coaches and 1 university administrator. Purposive sampling was used. Data was analyzed using thematic analysis guided by Bronfenbrenner’s Ecological system theory. The finding revealed that infrastructural barriers including lack of private changing rooms, inadequate sanitary facilities, insufficient sports equipment, and absence of female sports teams significantly hindered female participation. Institutional factors including weak policy implementation, limited administrative support, inadequate funding and lack female coaches also contribute to low participation. Socio-cultural norms and gender stereotype further discourage female involvement. Strategies recommended include strengthening institutional support, establishing mentorship programs, increasing funding and awareness campaign, building female-friendly infrastructure, recruiting female coaches, establishing female sports teams and providing uniforms and equipment. The study concludes that addressing barriers at multiple ecological levels is essential for promoting gender equity in sports participation,
Assessing medicinal uses of the selected medicinal plants and impact of anthropogenic effects on their distribution in eastern Uganda.
(Busitema University, 2026) Wanjala, Enos
This study assessed the medicinal uses of seven selected medicinal plant species (Zanthoxylum chalybeum, Kigelia africana, Maytenus senegalensis, Warburgia ugandensis, Mondia whitei, Croton macrostachyus and Albizia coriaria) and examined the impact of anthropogenic activities on their distribution in the eastern and north-eastern region of Uganda. A mixed-methods ethnobotanical and ecological approach combined semi-structured interviews and field inventory of 46 informants drawn from six districts (Katakwi, Napak, Moroto, Tororo, Bungokho North and Namisindwa) with transect and quadrat sampling of plant occurrence in relation to land use and environmental variables. Six of the seven targeted species were actively documented; Croton macrostachyus was not encountered during the survey. Kigelia africana was the most frequently cited species (30.4% of use-reports), followed by Zanthoxylum chalybeum (26.1%) and Maytenus senegalensis (21.7%). The documented species were most commonly used to treat malaria (32.6%), measles (28.3%) and stomach pain (26.1%). Roots (65.2%) and bark (50.0%) were the plant parts most heavily harvested, and root digging (43.5%) and debarking (37.0%) were the dominant, and most destructive, harvesting methods. Charcoal/firewood cutting (76.7%) and general habitat loss from land-use change (73.2%) were the anthropogenic threats most widely reported by respondents, followed by agricultural expansion, livestock grazing and invasive species. More than half of respondents (56.5%) confirmed that harvested material entered commercial trade, compounding harvest pressure. The descriptive evidence gathered is inconsistent with the null hypothesis of no relationship between anthropogenic activity and plant distribution, and instead supports the view that harvesting for medicine, fuel wood extraction and land conversion are associated with the observed decline in availability of these species, particularly Mondia whitei and Warburgia ugandensis. Despite this pressure, willingness among respondents to participate in conservation was high (85.4%), with community sensitization the overwhelmingly preferred intervention (73.9%). The study recommends promoting sustainable harvesting techniques, domestication and cultivation of the documented species, community-based sensitization programmes, regulation of fuel wood-driven removal of medicinal trees, and further ecological and phytochemical research to corroborate these perception-based findings.
Assessing the abundance of soil microorganisms in three specific gardens within busitema university's nagongera campus
(Busitema University, 2024) Okot, Brian Innocent
Introduction: Soil microorganisms play a crucial role in ecosystem functioning, nutrient recycling, and plant health. This study investigates the abundance of fungi and bacteria in the soil of three different gardens: pine, cassava, and eucalyptus garden. Soil samples were collected from each garden and microbial abundance was assessed using plate counts. The abundance of soil microorganisms is critical to maintaining soil heath, influencing nutrient cycling, organic matter decomposition, and plant productivity (Smith and Paul, 2020). This study aims to assess the abundance of soil microorganisms in different garden; that is to say pine garden, eucalyptus garden, and cassava garden. The findings suggest that gardens with greater plant diversity and organic amendments have a significantly higher microbial count (Brown and Thompson, 2021). METHODS: Three gardens in Busitema University Nagongera Campus were selected and soil samples were picked from them and taken to the biology laboratory for further investigation on the abundance of microorganisms like fungi and bacteria in each garden. The methodology undertaken was plate count technique and staining technique. The plate count technique is a widely utilized method for estimating the abundance of viable microorganisms in soil samples. This method is particularly useful in quantifying bacteria and fungi, which play essential roles in soil health and fertility. RESULTS: The results show significant differences in microbial abundance between the gardens, with the cassava garden having the highest bacteria abundance, followed by the pines garden with the higher bacterial abundance and lastly the eucalyptus garden with the least bacterial abundance. The pine garden with the highest fungal abundance, followed by the cassava garden with higher fungal abundance and lastly with eucalyptus garden with the least fungal abundance. CONCLUSION: From the study it was observed that cassava garden having the highest abundance of bacteria while pine garden having the highest fungal abundance that could be influenced by various factors, including soil composition, moisture levels, temperature, PH levels, and the presence of organic material.
Assessing the diversity and abundance of aquatic insects odoponyi seasonal stream in nagongera subcounty, tororo district
(Busitema University, 2024) Kuloba, Isaac
Aquatic insects are fundamental components in aquatic ecosystems due to their significant roles that they play in these habitats which mainly ecosystem health bio-monitoring. This study aimed to assess the diversity and abundance of aquatic insects in Odoponyi seasonal stream in Nagongera Subcounty, Tororo District. Sampling was conducted at multiple sites, above 100m apart and insect samples were identified upto family level and quantified. A total of seventy-four (74) insects has been collected from the selected sites of Odoponyi seasonal stream in Nagongera Subcounty which includes three orders and eleven families. Across this aquatic habitats, hemiptera(30) and Odonata (33) were more at site 1 than site 2 and 3, while the least order recorded was coleoptera with nine (11) insect species collected. Results on family relative abundance indicate that Notonectidae family had the greatest relative abundance (36.49%) among the aquatic insects collected, followed by Coenagrionidae and Libellulidae family (18.92%), dysticidae(9.46%), corduliidae(4.05%), Aeshinidae, Nepidae and Gyrinidae(2.70%) and finally Gerridae, Hydrophilidae and and Hydraenidae with the least relative abundance (1.35%) along the stream. The diversity indices indicate higher dominance of aquatic insects at site 1 (0.4386) than site 2 (0.3633) and site 3 (0.36). However, site 2 and site 3 had higher diversity (1.055) and evenness (0.954) than site 1 (0.9038) and evenness (0.823). Further efforts should be fostered in terms of duration for data collection and using other methods for data collection since this data was collected using kick net method. Preferably for better results, a hydraulic sampling device ought to be used.
Assessing the effect of fall armyworm on maize in namwaya village, nagongera sub-county, tororo district.
(Busitema University, 2024) Kibet, Daniel
The invasion of fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda, has posed a significant threat to maize production globally. This study aimed to assess the effect of fall armyworm on maize crops in Nagongera Sub- County, Tororo District, with a focus on quantifying its prevalence and examining its impact across different levels of infestation. Two maize gardens were selected for the study, and data were collected to determine the prevalence of fall armyworm infestation. The objectives of the study were to quantify the prevalence of fall armyworm and to survey and examine its impact on maize crops. Data collection involved systematic sampling and examination of maize plants in the selected gardens. The percentages of fall armyworm infestation were recorded for four categories: low, moderate, high, and non-affected maize crops, in both garden 1 and garden 2. The results revealed varying levels of fall armyworm prevalence across the two gardens. In garden 1, the percentages of infestation for low, moderate, high, and non-affected maize crops were recorded as 14.5%, 19.0%, 28.4%, and 38.1% respectively. Similarly, in garden 2, the percentages were 14.9%, 21.1%, 28.1%, and 35.8% for the same categories of infestation. These findings highlight the significant prevalence of fall armyworm in maize crops within Nagongera Sub- County, Tororo District. The variation in infestation levels between the two gardens underscores the importance of localized assessments and targeted interventions to mitigate the impact of fall armyworm on maize production. Further research is recommended to explore integrated pest management strategies tailored to the specific needs of affected areas, with a focus on sustainable solutions to ensure food security and agricultural resilience in the face of pest threats.
Assessing the effect of food type and feeding frequency on blood glucose levels among children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes at Tororo general hospital.
(Busitema University, 2026) Owino, Charles
Type 1 diabetes mellitus is a chronic condition that requires appropriate dietary management and insulin therapy to achieve optimal blood glucose control among children and adolescents. This study assessed the effect of food type and feeding frequency on blood glucose levels among children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes attending Tororo General Hospital. Specifically, the study determined the commonly consumed food types and their consumption frequency, assessed insulin dosing practices and meal-feeding frequency, and established the association between food-type consumption patterns and glycemic control. A cross-sectional analytical study design was employed involving 17 children and 16 adolescents with type 1 diabetes receiving care at Tororo General Hospital. Data was collected through structured questionnaires and a review of participants' medical records. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the data, while the Chi-square test was used to determine the association between food-type consumption patterns and HbA1c categories at a 5% level of significance. The findings revealed that carbohydrate-rich staple foods, particularly cassava and posho, were the most frequently consumed foods, while beans and dodo were the most commonly consumed protein and vegetable sources, respectively. Most participants administered insulin 10-15 minutes before meals; however, consistent use of carbohydrate counting and structured meal planning remained limited. The study further established a statistically significant association between food-type consumption patterns and HbA1c categories (X2 = 3.969, p = 0.021), indicating that participants consuming predominantly high-carbohydrate staple diets were more likely to have poorer glycemic control than those consuming relatively lower-carbohydrate dietary patterns. The study concludes that dietary practices significantly influence glycemic control among children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes. Strengthening individualized nutrition counselling, promoting balanced diets, improving carbohydrate counting skills and enhancing caregiver education are essential for improving blood glucose control and reducing the risk of diabetes-related complications.
Assessing the effect of sunlight on terrestrial grasses in both open and shade areas in nagongera town council, tororo district.
(Busitema University, 2024) Wabendo Boniface
Light is an essential factor for the growth and development of plants, including grasses. The effects of light on grasses can vary depending on whether they are exposed to open areas or shaded environments. Grass receives direct sunlight for the majority of the day in open locations. They are able to carry out photosynthesis, which is how they turn sunlight into energy, thanks to the abundance of light. Because of this, grasses in open spaces typically grow to a shorter height and have a higher biomass than those in shaded locations. Moreover, the increased light exposure encourages the synthesis of chlorophyll, the pigment that gives plants their green color. Conversely, because of trees or other structures, grasses in shadowed areas receive less sunlight. Their growth and development are impacted by this decreased availability of light. Compared to their open counterparts, grasses in shaded regions are often tall and have a lower biomass. Moreover, their chlorophyll concentration is reduced. Furthermore, the effects of light on grasses extend beyond their physical characteristics. Light also influences the reproductive processes of grasses, such as flowering and seed production. In open areas, grasses are more likely to produce flowers and seeds due to the ample sunlight. In contrast, grasses in shaded areas may have limited or no flowering and seed production.
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.
Assessing the prevalence and preventive measures of dental caries among children attending selected primary schools in Nagongera town council.
(Busitema University, 2026) Balaba, Emmanuel
This study assessed the prevalence and preventive measures of dental caries among 133 children aged 6-10 years attending selected primary schools in Nagongera Town Council, Tororo District. A quantitative cross-sectional design was employed, combining clinical oral examinations (using WHO DMFT/dmft criteria) and structured questionnaires for parents/ guardians. The prevalence of dental caries was found to be 86.5% (115 out of 133 children), with a mean DMFT score of 3.48±2.41. Only 22.5% of children brushed their teeth twice, and 63.2% brushed daily, while sugary consumption was high. Significant associations were observed between poor oral hygiene practices, high sugar intake, and caries prevalence. The condition resulted in substantial school absenteeism (263 total days missed). The findings indicate a high burden of dental caries in this rural setting. Urgent school-based oral health education, promotion of fluoride toothpaste use, and dietary interventions are strongly recommended.
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.
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 medicinal plants used in treatment of peptic ulcers in nagongera sub county, tororo district.
(Busitema University, 2024) Bwambale, Lawrence
Peptic ulcer is a lesion of gastric mucosa and submucosa or duodenum caused by increased secretion of gastric acid due to alcohol consumption, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, continuous and prolonged hunger, continued stresses, Helicobacter pylori infection, and poor diet. Symptoms include abdominal pain with severity relating to mealtimes, after around 3 hours of taking a meal; bloating and abdominal fullness; nausea, and copious vomiting; loss of appetite and weight loss etc. Plants increasingly continue to form the basis of primary health care in many parts of the world (Tomlinson & Akerele, 2015). In many developing countries, a large proportion of the population relies on the traditional medicine to meet their primary health care need (Kim, Kim, Shin, Jang, & Ko, 2020). Interestingly, medicines of plant origin are known to be among the most attractive sources of new drugs and have shown promising results in treatment of various diseases including peptic ulcers (Boakye-Yiadom, Kumadoh, Adase, & Woode, 2021). Many researchers have documented some of the medicinal plants used by traditional healers in most parts of the country and worldwide for treatment of peptic ulcers but due to the increased use of medicinal plants by the increasing population, plants may easily go to extinction without information documented. Also, most of the traditional healers are old and may easily lead to loss of information before documentations. Therefore, this research is aimed at documenting the medicinal plants used for ulcer treatment and management by people of Nagongera town council, Tororo district, how the plants are used in combating of ulcer disease including the plant part used, mode of preparation of the remedies, dosage, mode of administration and how long the treatment is used plus the most commonly used plant, also finding out the phytochemicals found in each of the plants used in ulcer treatment. The required information is to be obtained using open interviews, semi-structured questionnaires, and focus group discussions, transect walks and respondents identified using snowball and purposive sampling technique. Using the above methods and materials as well as techniques, I expect to establish the medicinal plants used in the treatment of peptic ulcers as well as the plant parts used and the mode of preparation of these remedies.
Assessment of medicinal plants used in treatment of ring worm infections in magamaga town council mayuge district
(Busitema University, 2024) Isabirye Derrick
Medicinal plants are highly used by local people in treating many infectious diseases in Uganda and form the basis of health care systems in Uganda. This study was aimed at documenting the medicinal plants used in the treatment of ringworm infections by the people of Magamaga town council Mayuge district, Uganda. An ethnobotanical study was conducted between May and July 2024 in 12 villages of Magamaga town council. Information was obtained from 26 respondents identified using snowball and purposive iv v sampling techniques and interviewed using semi-structured questionnaires and schedules. Descriptive statistics were used to present the data and quantitative analysis of data was done using percentage respondent knowledge (PRK) indices. A total of thirty-five (16) medicinal plants were recorded. The plant species classified into 9 families with the predominant ones being Asteraceae and Fabaceae. Asteraceae was the most represented with seven species (4) species. Plant remedies were mainly prepared crushing the plant leaves then mixed with paraffin or ash solution and 100% administered by direct rubbing of the infected skin part with the paste. Plant leaves were highly used in treatment of ringworm infections (60%) followed by plant sap and then flowers. This study recorded plant species with the potential to treat ring worm infections and this is reflected in the high diversity of the recorded species for the medicinal ringworm treatment purpose.
Assessment of pathogenic bacterial loads in black soldier fly larvae (hermetia illucens) reared on food waste substrates.
(Busitema University, 2026) Icariat, Emmanuel Pius
The bioconversion of organic wastes using Black soldier fly larvae (Hermetia illucens) is an emerging sustainable feed solution in Uganda, yet it presents significant microbial safety challenges. This study evaluated bacterial safety and pathogen diversity in BSFL and resulting frass when reared on local organic wastes. Larvae were reared feed formulation of 5 kg brewer's waste + 1 kg maize bran + 2 kg hotel waste with 2 kg larvae per bin. Microbial bioburdens specifically Total Aerobic Bacterial Counts (TABC), coliforms/Escherichia coli, presumptive Salmonella/Shigella spp., and Staphylococcus spp. were quantified using culture-dependent techniques and biochemical profiling. Sampling spanned six distinct matrices: raw substrate, live 5th instar larvae, non-feeding prepupae, blanched larvae (100°C for 15 minutes), thermally dehydrated larvae (70°C for 1 hour), and raw versus heated frass. Raw substrates harbored high baseline bacterial loads (> 8.9 Log10 CFU/g), which directly colonized the un-processed live larvae (9.40 Log10 CFU/g). Natural gut evacuation during the prepupal stage failed to significantly reduce this bioburden (9.29 Log10 CFU/g, p = 0.983). While Gram-negative enteropathogens and spore-forming Bacillus spp. persisted throughout the life cycle and processing stages, Staphylococcus aureus was uniquely suppressed post-ingestion, suggesting effective competitive exclusion and antimicrobial peptide activity within the larval gut. Mild post-harvest thermal processing (short blanching and oven drying) yielded statistically significant microbial reductions; however, residual total viable counts (8.91 Log10 CFU/g) and presumptive Salmonella spp levels (> 6.8 Log10 CFU/g) remained critically above the UNBS and EU maximum limits (≤ 5.0 Log10 CFU/g and zero tolerance in 25 g, respectively). Pathogen loads in BSFL strongly correlated with the initial bioburden of their organic rearing media. The standalone mild thermal kill-steps currently utilized by smallholder farmers are insufficient to guarantee microbiological safety. To mitigate zoonotic transmission risks and achieve market compliance, the adoption of rigorous, multi-stage thermal processing protocols and substrate pre-treatment is essential.
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 seasonal farm- based challenges facing fish farmers and adaptive strategies being used in nagongera sub- county tororo district
(Busitema University, 2024) Ngolobe, Silas K
Introduction Fisheries sector plays an important role in Uganda's economy. Contribution of the sector to the nation's economy can be increased if challenges in the industry are minimized and the benefits explored. Uganda is blessed with numerous opportunities for large-scale aquaculture; however, the challenges seem to override these opportunities. Constraints to production in the industry have been identified as recurrent high-cost fish feed, poor water quality management, poor quality fish seed, technical know-how etc. Beyond the constraints to production are more pertinent factors responsible for un-sustainability of fish farm operation as business ventures. This research focused on seasonal farm-based challenges and how different farmers were managing such challenges in the study area of Tororo. Methods The total number of fish farmers sampled were 11, all coming from different parishes in Nagongera sub-County. The instructions used in data collection were informant’s interview guides and structured observation methods. The study adopted a cross-sectional research design because it helped to measure the prevalence of different challenges with a fish farm whose study samples were obtained by purposive and simple random sampling. Results The study showed that majority of the fish farmers, 30.77% are male adults of above sixty years who only archived elementary studies. Majority being elderly and of primary level, the key challenges faced include the following; Predatory birds, drought, shortage of fish feeds in dry season and siltation, emigration of fish, rapid growth of weeds in wet season. viii ix Conclusion Most farmers in the study are dependent largely on local technologies and natural sources of feeds for their fish, in addition to natural sources of water. Most challenging season recorded was dry season

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