Department of Agriculture, Agribusiness, and Environment Collections

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Effect of Stakeholder Engagement on the Adoption Of Agricultural Technologies by Farmers In Uganda:
(Bishop Stuart University, 2023-06-29) Bernard Tumusiime; Micheal Kiwanuka; Ambrose Rwaheru Aheisibwe; Sylvester Katuromunda
This study assessed how stakeholder engagement strategies used by SNV-TIDE project in planning, capacity building and resource mobilisation influenced the adoption of improved forages in Isingiro District, Southwestern Uganda. A cross sectional survey design was adopted for the study, which covered five purposively selected SNV-TIDE project cooperatives. The data were collected from 50 active cattle farmers and three field supervisors using both a semi-structured questionnaire and an interview guide. Descriptive and inferential analysis including multiple regression techniques were employed to analyse the data. The findings revealed that stakeholder engagement in planning and capacity building contributed 35 and 14.3 percent change respectively, in the adoption of improved forages. Stakeholder engagement in planning and capacity building had a positive significant (p<0.05) influence on the adoption of improved forages among the SNV-TIDE project members. But stakeholder engagement in resource mobilisation had no influence (p>0.05) on the adoption of improved forages. Thus based on the study, it was concluded that engaging stakeholders in planning and in capacity building contributes to the adoption of improved forages. To achieve better results, therefore, stakeholder engagement strategies should put more emphasis on involving stakeholders in the project planning activities and capacity building.
Effect of combined application of cattle manure and mineral fertilisers on the growth characteristics and quality of Pennisetum purpureum fodder
(Department of Agricultural Production, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Makerere University,, 2021) Sylvester Katuromunda; E N Sabiiti; M A Bekunda
Smallholder urban and peri-urban dairy farmers use elephant grass (Pennisetum purpureum) fodder on top of crop wastes for feeding livestock. However, with limited application of soil fertility management techniques, there has been progressive deterioration of soil fertility. Consequently, fodder yields have declined leading to reduced milk output, and in turn, to unstable household incomes and food insecurity. This study investigated whether composted cattle manure alone, or in combination with mineral fertilizers could improve fodder production. Application of cattle manure at low (ML), medium (MM) and high (MH) rates, or in combination with mineral fertilisers at medium (MFM) and high (MFH) rates significantly increased the leaf area indices (LAIs) and dry matter (DM) yields of Pennisetum purpureum fodder. The mean LAIs of treatments ML, MM, MH, MFM and MFH were 3.58, 3.69, 3.31, 3.28 and 3.56 respectively, and were significantly higher than 2.89 for the control which did not receive manure and fertilisers. Fodder yields from these treatments were 7.15, 6.99, 6.74, 6.80 and 7.01 ton ha-1. Fodder obtained from ML, MM and MFH contained greater proportions of leaf than fodder from the control, indicating that there was greater vegetative growth in these treatments than in the control. Since the leaves of plants usually contain less fibre and thus are more easily digested than stems, higher leaf content was an indication of improvement in fodder quality. The in vitro organic matter digestibilities of fodder from all treatments were similar but greater than that of the control
Effect of selected climate smart agronomic practices on maize growth and yield
(Makerere University Journal of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, 2022) Muhangi, Y; Talwana, H; Sylvester Katuromunda
Maize (Zea mays L.) is one of the major food crops grown by majority of smallholder households in Uganda, and it serves as their main source of food and income. But over the years, maize productivity in the area has been gradually declining, especially as a result of climate variability manifested by reduced frequency of rainfall and increased temperature. Maize farmers are encouraged to use improved agronomic practices, commonly referred to as climate smart agronomic practices (CSAPs) to counteract the adverse effects of climate variability, and consequently sustain maize grain yields. However, the effects of these climate smart agronomic practices (CSAPs) as implemented by farmers on maize productivity have not yet been established. Therefore, this study was conducted to validate the effect of CSAPs on maize growth and yield. The treatments included (T1) Maize intercropped with common beans, (T2) maize planted in basins of three maize plants, (T3) maize planted in basins of two maize plants, (T4) maize planted in a plot prepared by minimum tillage, (T5) maize planted in plots mulched with dry grass, and (T6) the untreated control of monocropped maize on a conventionally prepared un-mulched plot. The treatments were laid out in a randomised complete block design with three replications, in two districts in 2019A and 2019B. Planting in basins with two plants, minimum tillage and mulching were the three CSAPs that showed superior growth and yield scores.
Effect of selected climate smart agronomic practices on maize growth and yield
(Makerere University Journal of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, 2022) Muhangi, Y; Talwana, H; Katuromunda, S
Maize (Zea mays L.) is one of the major food crops grown by majority of smallholder households in Uganda, and it serves as their main source of food and income. But over the years, maize productivity in the area has been gradually declining, especially as a result of climate variability manifested by reduced frequency of rainfall and increased temperature. Maize farmers are encouraged to use improved agronomic practices, commonly referred to as climate smart agronomic practices (CSAPs) to counteract the adverse effects of climate variability, and consequently sustain maize grain yields. However, the effects of these climate smart agronomic practices (CSAPs) as implemented by farmers on maize productivity have not yet been established. Therefore, this study was conducted to validate the effect of CSAPs on maize growth and yield. The treatments included (T1) Maize intercropped with common beans, (T2) maize planted in basins of three maize plants, (T3) maize planted in basins of two maize plants, (T4) maize planted in a plot prepared by minimum tillage, (T5) maize planted in plots mulched with dry grass, and (T6) the untreated control of monocropped maize on a conventionally prepared un-mulched plot. The treatments were laid out in a randomised complete block design with three replications, in two districts in 2019A and 2019B. Planting in basins with two plants, minimum tillage and mulching were the three CSAPs that showed superior growth and yield scores.
Growth and Yield Response of Improved Sweet Potato Cultivars to Intercropping with Hybrid Maize and Inorganic Fertilizers
(Science publishing Group, 2021-11-17) Sylvester Katuromunda
A field study was conducted in 2018 to determine the growth and yield response of improved sweet potato cultivars to intercropping with hybrid maize and inorganic fertilizer application using a randomized complete block design in a split-plot arrangement and three replications. Maize was intercropped with NASPOT 1, NASPOT 8 and NASPOT 11 potato cultivars. Sole crops and the potato/maize intercrops were fertilized with graded levels of N, P and K comprising a control without fertilizer, 40-20-30, 80-40-60, 120-60-90 and 160-80-120 kg/ha of N-P-K. Vine lengths, and numbers of vine branches and leaves of potato plants under intercropping were higher (P < .05) than those of plants under sole cropping system. In both systems, NPK fertilizer application didn’t (P >.05) affect the vine lengths and numbers of vine branches compared to the control. But numbers of vine branches of plants under sole cropping for all the fertilizer treatments were higher (P < .0001) than those of plants under intercropping system. Generally, NPK application in the sole potato cropping significantly (P =.02) affected the leaf numbers, and the fertilized potato plants had greater (P < .05) leaf numbers than the control. In both systems, NASPOT 11 produced the highest tuber yield, followed by NASPOT 8. Tuber yields were better (P < .01) under sole cropping (43.36 MT/ha) than under intercropping (33.35 MT/ha). Maize grain yields were also better (P < .0001) under sole cropping than under intercropping. But grain yields from all the fertilized intercrops were greater (P < .05) than those of their corresponding control treatments. In all the intercrops, the land equivalent ratios (LERs) were greater than unity indicating yield advantage of intercropping over sole cropping. It was concluded that applying 120-60-90 kg/ha of N-P-K into the potato/maize intercrops results in better tuber yields compared to the unfertilized control. Also, N-P-K application in quantities greater than 40-20-30 kg/ha does not lead to significant differences in tuber yields between the potato/maize intercropping and sole potato cropping systems indicating that inter-specific competition for nutrients in the intercrops is eliminated by the fertilizer. In addition, the application of 80-120 kg N/ha, 40-60 kg P/ha and 60-90 kg K/ha in the intercrops results in better intercrop performance as revealed by higher LERs indicating that improved potato cultivars and hybrid maize are compatible for intercropping. Therefore, farmers can intercrop improved sweet potato cultivars with hybrid maize and apply 120-60-90 kg/ha of N, P and K in the intercrops to maximize yields.
Growth and Yield Response of Newly Released Cassava Genotypes and Hybrid Maize to Intercropping
(International Journal of Research -GRANTHAALAYAH, 2019-07) Benson Ekwaro; Boniface Wanaku; Sylvester Katuromunda
Cassava/maize intercrops have been reported to be highly productive, mainly because of their different growth patterns. However, there is limited information on the influence of maize planting density in the cassava/maize intercrop on the performance of hybrid maize and improved cassava genotypes in Uganda. Thus, this study determined whether recently released cassava genotypes which are selected on the basis of monocrop performance, would perform equally well when intercropped with hybrid maize varieties. Cassava genotypes NAROCASS 1 and NASE 14 intercropped with Longe 6H maize were evaluated using randomized complete block design and three replications. Treatments were: Sole maize (SM), sole cassava (SC), alternate rows of cassava and maize (1C:1M), and one row of cassava alternating with two rows of maize (1C:2M). Intercropping significantly increased the maize plant heights in the 1C:2M system than in sole maize. Cob length and number of rows per cob decreased as the plant population density increased. Maize grain yield under the 1C:1M system was comparable to that of sole cropping. The 1C:2M system gave significantly reduced grain yields when compared with those at 1C:1M. Cassava root yield decreased in the order (SM>1C:1M>1C:2M). Although the yields of both cassava and maize under sole cropping were higher than their intercrop counterparts, intercropping was more productive than sole cropping as evidenced by the land equivalent ratios.
Performance Evaluation of NAGRIC Community-Based Animal Breeding Program on Dairy Farming in Kikatsi Sub County Kiruhura District
(East African Nature & Science Organization, 2025-01) Ahimbisa Brian; Bahame David; Dr. Mwebembezi William, PhD
Community-Based Animal Breeding Programs (CBABP) have gained considerable attention recently and are being viewed as a viable approach to increase livestock productivity in low-input and smallholder settings, particularly in Uganda’s cattle corridor in general and Kiruhura district in particular. Despite the implementation of the NAGRIC community-based animal breeding program, there remains a significant gap in the comprehensive evaluation of its performance in dairy farming systems. This study therefore was intended to evaluate the performance of NAGRIC community-based animal breeding program to determine its effectiveness in achieving the desired outcomes. The study specifically aimed at assessing the level of farmer engagement and participation in NAGRIC-CBABP, analysing the influence of NAGRIC-CBABP on cattle-breed improvement and milk production and evaluating the Sustainability of NAGRIC-CBABP in Dairy Farming communities in Kikatsi sub-county, Kiruhuura district. To achieve the objectives, a cross-sectional study design was adopted rooted in the quantitative approach. The study population comprises dairy farmers, government leaders, local leaders and other leaders in Kikatsi Sub County, Kiruhura district. The sample size included 59 respondents. A structured questionnaire with multiple-choice questions was used to collect quantitative data from farmers while semi-structured interviews were held with key informants in this case leaders. The collected data was analyzed by generating descriptive statistics. From the analysis, the study revealed that the level of farmer engagement and participation in NAGRIC-CBABP is still low where about 72.5% of the farmers are still reliant on natural breeding methods with limited participation in modern breeding methods such as artificial insemination. Community-Based Animal Breeding Program had a positive influence on cattle- breed improvement and milk production in Kikatsi Sub County since they are perceived by most farmers to be highly beneficial in terms of genetic improvement, increased availability of quality and improved breeds. However, there was concern among most farmers about the scarcity of highly productive breeds in terms of milk production and the lack of tick and disease-resistant breeds. Other concerns were about the high cost of semen, limited knowledge about artificial insemination and lack of semen that specifically breeds heifers. Despite the Government intervention most dairy communities in Kikatsi Sub County have not sustainably benefitted from NAGRIC-CBABPs since utilization of services provided under this program is still low. Addressing these challenges is therefore critical to improve farmer engagement and participation in NAGRIC-CBABPs hence contributing significantly to the sustainability of these programs. The study therefore recommended Government through the NARO and MAAIF conduct thorough research into the breeds of dairy cattle that are highly productive and resistant to ticks and diseases as well as the most effective acaricides and drugs for ticks and diseases respectively. The Government should also provide subsidies on the cost of semen used in artificial insemination and train and employ more agriculture extension officers to scale up sensitization.
Performance Evaluation of NAGRC Community-Based Animal Breeding Program on Dairy Farming in Kikatsi Sub County Kiruhura District
(Bishop Stuart University, 2024-12) Ahimbisa Brian
Community Based Animal Breeding Programs (CBABP) have gained considerable attention recently and are being viewed as a viable approach to increase livestock productivity in low-input and smallholder settings particularly in Uganda’s cattle corridor in general and Kiruhura district in particular. Despite the implementation of NAGRIC community-based animal breeding program, there remains a significant gap in the comprehensive evaluation of its performance in dairy farming systems. This study therefore was intended to evaluate the performance of NAGRIC community based animal breeding program to determine its effectiveness in achieving the desired outcomes. The study specifically aimed at assessing the level of farmer engagement and participation in NAGRIC-CBABP, analyse the influence of NAGRIC-CBABP on cattle-breed improvement and milk production and evaluate the Sustainability of NAGRIC-CBABP in Dairy Farming communities in Kikatsi sub-county, Kiruhuura district. To achieve the objectives, a cross- sectional study design was adopted rooted in the quantitative approach. The study population comprises of dairy farmers, government leaders, local leaders and other leaders in Kikatsi Sub County, Kiruhura district. The sample size included 59 respondents. A structured questionnaire with multiple-choice questions was used to collect quantitative data from farmers while semi- structured interviews were held with key informants in this case leaders. The collected data was analyzed by generating descriptive statistics. From the analysis, the study revealed that the level of farmer engagement and participation in NAGRIC-CBABP is still low where about 72.5% of the farmers are still reliant on natural breeding methods with limited participation in modern breeding methods such as artificial insemination. Community-Based Animal Breeding Program has had a positive influence on cattle-breed improvement and milk production in Kikatsi Sub County since they are perceived by most farmers to be highly beneficial in terms of genetic improvement, increased availability of quality and improved breeds. However, there was concern among most farmers about scarcity of highly productive breeds in terms of milk production and lack of tick and disease resistant breeds. Other concerns were about the high cost of semen, limited knowledge about artificial insemination and lack of semen that specifically breeds heifers. Despite of the Government intervention most dairy communities in Kikatsi Sub County have not sustainably benefitted from NAGRIC-CBABPs since utilization of services provided under this program is still low. Addressing these challenges is therefore critical to improve farmer engagement and participation in NAGRIC-CBABPs hence contributing significantly to the sustainability of these programs. The study therefore recommended Government through the NARO and MAAIF to make thorough research into the breeds of dairy cattle that are highly productive and resistant to ticks and diseases as well as the most effective acaricides and drugs for ticks and diseases respectively. The Government should also provide subsidy on the cost of semen used in artificial insemination and train and employ more agriculture extension officers to scale up sensitization.
Teachers’ Continuous Professional Development Programs and Work Performance in Government Aided Secondary Schools of Kashaari South Constituency, Mbarara District, Southwestern Uganda
(Bishop Stuart University, 2025-09) Simon Twinamatsiko
The study was titled Teachers’ Continuous Professional Development Programs and work performance in government aided secondary schools in Kashaari South Constituency Mbarara District. The study was guided by three objectives; to determine the effectiveness of teachers’ continuous professional development programs in government aided secondary schools, to measure the level of teachers’ work performance in government aided secondary and to establish the relationship between Teachers’ Continuous Professional Development Programs and their work performance in government aided secondary schools. The study adopted a sequential research design to gather information from the respondents. A sample of 165 respondents participated in the study. Data was collected from primary and secondary data sources. Questionnaires and interview guides were used as data collection instruments. Quantitative data was analyzed using Pearson correlation, linear regression model and ANOVA. Qualitative data was analyzed using thematic content analysis. From the findings, it was revealed that there is a significant positive effect of teachers’ continuous professional development programs on their work performance in government aided secondary schools. Findings also revealed that the level of teachers work performance is moderate in government aided secondary schools in Kashaari South Constituency Mbarara District while teachers’ continuous professional development programs showed a positive and significant relationship with teachers’ work performance in government aided secondary schools in Kashaari South Constituency Mbarara District. It was concluded that there is a positive and significant relationship between teachers continuous professional development programs (TCPDPs) and teachers’ work performance in government aided secondary schools in Kashaari South Constituency in Mbarara District. It was recommended that government-aided secondary schools in Kashaari South Constituency Mbarara District should offer regular opportunities for professional growth and skill enhancement and that headteachers should foster a sense of community belonging among staff members, encourage teamwork, and recognize and celebrate teachers’ achievements.
The effectiveness of Coffee Cooperative Unions and Coffee Value Chain Performance of coffee cooperatives in greater Bushenyi
(Bishop Stuart University, 2025) Ahikire Ambroseahikire Ambrose
The study investigated the effectiveness of coffee cooperative unions on improving coffee value chain performance in greater Bushenyi district. It was limited to; identifying the role of value chain actors and coffee cooperative unions on enhancing coffee value chain performance in the study area, analyzing factors influencing the effectiveness of coffee cooperative unions in improving the coffee value chain performance and examine the effect of coffee cooperative unions on coffee value chain performance. The study employed a cross-sectional research design and primary data was collected from 208 respondents. The data was analysed using SPSS version 22.0. The study used questionnaires and interview guide to collect data. The study reveals that value chain actors and cooperative unions play a critical role in enhancing coffee value chain performance particularly training, quality enhancement, market access and input access lead to significant improvements in value chain performance. The results show that the effect of coffee cooperative unions in improving coffee value chain performance is significantly influenced by access to financial resources, market accessibility, provision of quality inputs, collaboration with value chain actors, and strong member engagement. The study concludes that market linkage, input support, training access, and credit services all have a statistically significant positive effect on performance, with market linkage having the strongest impact. The study recommends that; cooperative unions should foster transparency, democratic governance, regular meetings, and inclusive decision-making processes to encourage active member involvement, efforts should still be made to advocate for clear coffee sector policies, subsidies, and regulatory frameworks to create an enabling environment, Government in partnership with private sector actors should collaborate with cooperative unions to build their institutional capacity and accountability, and provide a policy environment that enables cooperatives to thrive as effective agents in improving coffee value chain performance
The Effectiveness of Coffee Cooperative Unions and Coffee Value Chain Performance :
(Science Publishing group, 2025-07) Ahikire Ambrose; Nkuuhe Douglas; Kahoza Richard
The study investigated the effectiveness of coffee cooperative unions on improving coffee value chain performance in greater Bushenyi district. It was limited to; identifying the role of value chain actors and coffee cooperative unions on enhancing coffee value chain performance in the study area, analyzing factors influencing the effectiveness of coffee cooperative unions in improving the coffee value chain performance and examine the effect of coffee cooperative unions on coffee value chain performance. The study employed a cross-sectional research design and primary data was collected from 208 respondents. The data was analysed using SPSS version 22.0. The study used questionnaires and interview guide to collect data. The study concludes that value chain actors and cooperative unions play a critical role in enhancing coffee value chain performance particularly training, quality enhancement, market access and input access lead to significant improvements in value chain performance. The study concludes that the effectiveness of coffee cooperative unions in improving coffee value chain performance is significantly influenced by access to financial resources, market accessibility, provision of quality inputs, collaboration with value chain actors, and strong member engagement. The study concludes that market linkage, input support, training access, and credit services all have a statistically significant positive effect on performance, with market linkage having the strongest impact. The study recommends that; cooperative unions should foster transparency, democratic governance, regular meetings, and inclusive decision-making processes to encourage active member involvement, efforts should still be made to advocate for clear coffee sector policies, subsidies, and regulatory frameworks to create an enabling environment.
Performance Evaluation of NAGRC Community-Based Animal Breeding Program on Dairy Farming in Kikatsi Sub County Kiruhura District
(Bishop Stuart University, 2024-12) Ahimbisa Brian
Community Based Animal Breeding Programs (CBABP) have gained considerable attention recently and are being viewed as a viable approach to increase livestock productivity in low-input and smallholder settings particularly in Uganda’s cattle corridor in general and Kiruhura district in particular. Despite the implementation of NAGRIC community-based animal breeding program, there remains a significant gap in the comprehensive evaluation of its performance in dairy farming systems. This study therefore was intended to evaluate the performance of NAGRIC community based animal breeding program to determine its effectiveness in achieving the desired outcomes. The study specifically aimed at assessing the level of farmer engagement and participation in NAGRIC-CBABP, analyse the influence of NAGRIC-CBABP on cattle-breed improvement and milk production and evaluate the Sustainability of NAGRIC-CBABP in Dairy Farming communities in Kikatsi sub-county, Kiruhuura district. To achieve the objectives, a cross- sectional study design was adopted rooted in the quantitative approach. The study population comprises of dairy farmers, government leaders, local leaders and other leaders in Kikatsi Sub County, Kiruhura district. The sample size included 59 respondents. A structured questionnaire with multiple-choice questions was used to collect quantitative data from farmers while semi- structured interviews were held with key informants in this case leaders. The collected data was analyzed by generating descriptive statistics. From the analysis, the study revealed that the level of farmer engagement and participation in NAGRIC-CBABP is still low where about 72.5% of the farmers are still reliant on natural breeding methods with limited participation in modern breeding methods such as artificial insemination. Community-Based Animal Breeding Program has had a positive influence on cattle-breed improvement and milk production in Kikatsi Sub County since they are perceived by most farmers to be highly beneficial in terms of genetic improvement, increased availability of quality and improved breeds. However, there was concern among most farmers about scarcity of highly productive breeds in terms of milk production and lack of tick and disease resistant breeds. Other concerns were about the high cost of semen, limited knowledge about artificial insemination and lack of semen that specifically breeds heifers. Despite of the Government intervention most dairy communities in Kikatsi Sub County have not sustainably benefitted from NAGRIC-CBABPs since utilization of services provided under this program is still low. Addressing these challenges is therefore critical to improve farmer engagement and participation in NAGRIC-CBABPs hence contributing significantly to the sustainability of these programs. The study therefore recommended Government through the NARO and MAAIF to make thorough research into the breeds of dairy cattle that are highly productive and resistant to ticks and diseases as well as the most effective acaricides and drugs for ticks and diseases respectively. The Government should also provide subsidy on the cost of semen used in artificial insemination and train and employ more agriculture extension officers to scale up sensitization.
Perceived Effects of Coffee Wilt Disease on Coffee Yields and Income among Farmers in Bushenyi District, Uganda
(Bishop Stuart University, 2025-09) Atukwatse Evas
This study investigates the socioeconomic and agricultural impacts of Coffee Wilt Disease (CWD) on household income among coffee farmers in Bushenyi District, Uganda. Through a mixed methods approach, the research addresses three key objectives: (1) Assessing CWD-induced destruction levels in coffee plantations, (2) Analyzing yield-revenue relationships before and after\ CWD incidence, and (3) Evaluating alternative livelihood strategies adopted by affected farmers’ households. Quantitative data from 252 farmers, analyzed using R software (v4.5.1), revealed widespread CWD prevalence (91.7% of farms), with infestation severity ranging from low (<20% yield loss; 68.7% of farms) to severe (>50% loss; 1.6% of farms). A significant mean yield reduction of 27.2% (919.42 kg/ha to 669.09 kg/ha) corresponded with substantial income declines (11,952,403 UGX to 8,698,182 UGX), intensifying household vulnerability. While farmers demonstrated adaptive measures, notably uprooting infected plants (95.6%) and using resistant varieties (65.9%), systemic barriers persisted, including limited technical knowledge (87% of farmers), inadequate financial aid (98.4%), and minimal market access (94%). Qualitative insights highlighted partial efficacy of current strategies, with 81% rating them as "somewhat effective" (χ² = 261.02, p < 0.001), underscoring gaps in integrated pest management (IPM) adoption (pesticides: 3.6%; crop rotation: 2.4%). The study identifies a critical knowledge implementation disconnect, exacerbated by weak institutional support (84.5% reported insufficient government assistance). These findings necessitate a stratified intervention framework: (1) scaling up farmer education through participatory IPM training, (2) subsidizing resistant varieties and sanitation inputs, (3) revitalizing extension services to bridge knowledge gaps, and (4) promoting livelihood diversification. Policy reforms must prioritize context-specific solutions, combining biotechnical controls with financial safety nets to enhance resilience. The study contributes to the discourse on sustainable phytosanitary crisis management by demonstrating how localized disease dynamics intersect with broader socioeconomic vulnerabilities in smallholder systems.
Assessment of the Growth Performance of Indigenous Mubende and Kigezi Goat Kids
(Bishop Stuart University, 2025) Kyokwijuka Peter
The study, “Assessment of Growth Performance of Indigenous Mubende and Kigezi Goat Kids,” explored the comparative growth dynamics of these breeds under controlled conditions at Ruhengyere Field Station, Uganda. The main objective was to evaluate their growth rates from birth to sexual maturity. Specific objectives were: To determine the growth rate of indigenous Mubende and Kigezi goat kids, and to assess the factors influencing the growth performance of indigenous Mubende and Kigezi goat kids from birth to sexual maturity. The study employed a completely randomized design (CRD), monitoring 94 goat kids under uniform feeding and management. Data on weight, body measurements (Body length (BL), height at withers (HW), chest girth (CG), chest width (CW), and scrotal circumference (SC), Live body weight (BW), pre-weaning daily gain (DWG), weaning weight (WW), and post- weaning average daily gain (ADG) and reproductive traits (age at 1st sexual maturity (males & females)) were analyzed using Canonical Discriminant Analysis (CANDISC) and Statistical Analysis System (SAS). Mubende kids exhibited a higher pre-weaning daily weight gain,peaking at 57.14 g/day at 8 weeks, while Kigezi kids had a slightly lower peak of 53.57 g/day at the same age. At weaning (8 weeks), Mubende kids reached 9.0 kg, whereas Kigezi kids weighed 8.5 kg. Post-weaning, Mubende kids maintained a relatively stable 42.86 g/day weight gain until 24 weeks before experiencing a decline, while Kigezi kids sustained a 35.71 g/day gain up to 34 weeks before gradually decreasing. Additionally, Mubende goats demonstrated better drought and heat tolerance, while Kigezi goats showed resilience in disease-prone, cooler climates, according to quantitative results from goat farmers. The study revealed that Mubende goat kids exhibited superior growth rates and earlier sexual maturity compared to Kigezi kids, with better drought/heat tolerance, while Kigezi goats demonstrated resilience in disease- prone, cooler climates. To enhance productivity, tailored feeding and genetic research are advised to optimize breed-specific management.
Comparative Assessment of Growth Performance between Indigenous Mubende and Kigezi Goat Kids from Birth to Sexual Maturity at Ruhengyere Field Station
(American Research Journal of Humanities & Social Science (ARJHSS), 2024-07) Kyokwijuka Peter; Bahame David; Osiru David
The study assessed the comparison between the growth performances of Indigenous Mubende and Kigezi goat kids from birth to sexual maturity in Ruhengyere Field Station. The objectives of the study were; to determine the growth rate of Indigenous Mubende and Kigezi goat kids in the same environment from birth to sexual maturity at Ruhengyere Field Station; to assess the factors responsible for the differences in the growth performance of Mubende and Kigezi goat kids from birth to sexual maturity at Ruhengyere Field Station; and to establish the differences in the growth performance of Mubende and Kigezi goat kids from birth to sexual maturity at Ruhengyere Field Station. An experimental study methodology was employed where both qualitative and quantitative data approaches were used to collect data. An experiment was carried out on both breeds of goat kids and details recorded at every stage of development to identify the differences in the growth and performance of the breeds of goat kids. Ninety four (97) goats were included in the final analysis where 48 were from Mubende and 46 were Kigezi goats. The data collected was mainly on kid’s body weight, sex, height, length, and scrotum circumference, observation of any sexual sign, development of beards plus feed rations and their varieties. Microsoft Office Excel 2013 was used to enter all quantitative and coded qualitative data for later analysis using the Statistical Analysis System Version 9.2, the analysis of the growth performance attributes of the kids was done with the kids' sex, type of birth, and dam's parity acting as fixed effects. According to the results of the study, Mubende goats perform better in growth, while Kigezi goats are well adapted to the conditions but perform less compared to Mubende in their growth performance. Mubende goats were the heaviest at birth, with an average live weight of 2.70±0.05 kg, followed by Kigezi goats at 2.42±0.05 kg. At 90 days of age, the average live weights of the two goat types was nearly equal, despite the significant (p<0.05) difference in average birth weight. However, Kigezi goat kids' overall growth rate began to show a retarding trend after 90 days of age, while Mubende goat kids continued to be superior after 90 days of age.The study recommended that differences in environmental characteristics need to be considered during breed choice so that a breed is raised in a zone where its production efficiency can be maximized.
The Contributions of Rumen8-Formulated Balanced Rations on the Performance of Lactating Crossbreed Cows in Rukungiri District, South Western Uganda
(Science Publishing Group, 2025-03-11) Joan Atukunda; Gershom Nuwemuhwezi; Bahame David
This study investigated the contributions of Rumen8 software-formulated balanced rations on the performance of lactating crossbreed cows in Rukungiri District, Southwestern Uganda. The study aimed to assess the level of awareness and utilization of Rumen8 software among dairy farmers for formulating balanced rations, evaluate the perceived benefits and challenges of implementing Rumen8-formulated rations, and identify the factors influencing the adoption or rejection of the software. A cross-sectional survey design was employed, and data were collected from 124 respondents using structured questionnaires and key informant interviews. Descriptive and inferential statistics, including chi-square tests, were used to analyze the data. The results showed that the level of awareness of Rumen8 software among dairy farmers was moderate, with 58.1% of respondents aware of the software. However, only 42.7% of farmers actively utilized it to formulate balanced rations, indicating limited adoption. The perceived benefits of using Rumen8 were significant, with 77.4% of respondents reporting increased milk yield, 67.7% observing improved cow health, 55.6% noting better reproductive performance, and 54.8% perceiving more consistent feed quality. Furthermore, 50.0% of respondents reported a reduction in feeding-related diseases, while 22.6% indicated cost savings on feed. Results established the key challenges to utilization of Rumen8 software as resistance to change from traditional feeding practices (p=0.000), technical difficulties with the software (p=0.021), difficulty in understanding ration recommendations (p=0.044), and limited access to necessary technology such as computers and smartphones (p=0.036). Additionally, lack of technical support (p=0.007) emerged as a significant barrier, while the high cost of recommended ingredients (p=0.124) was the least significant challenge. Results established the most significant the factors influencing the adoption or rejection of Rumen8-formulated balanced rations among dairy farmers as access to extension services (P=0.000), peer influence (p=0.001), education levels and availability of trainings (p=0.008), Income levels (p=0.006), access to information (p=0.000), understanding software benefits (p=0.000) and the leas significant factor as farm size (p=0.648). while Rumen8 software offers substantial benefits in improving milk yield, cow health, and overall dairy farm productivity, its adoption is constrained by both technological and behavioral challenges. The study recommends enhancing farmer access to extension services, improving technical support, and conducting comprehensive training programs to boost the adoption and utilization of Rumen8 among dairy farmers in Rukungiri District. These efforts would contribute to the sustainable improvement of dairy production and livelihoods in the region.
The Contributions Of Rumen8-Formulated Balanced Rations On The Performance Of Lactating Crossbreed Cows in Rukungiri District, South Western Uganda
(Bishop Stuart University, 2025) Joan Atukunda
This study investigated the contributions of Rumen8 software-formulated balanced rations on the performance of lactating crossbreed cows in Rukungiri District, Southwestern Uganda. The study aimed at assessing the level of awareness and utilization of Rumen8 software among dairy farmers for formulating balanced rations, evaluating the perceived benefits and challenges of implementing Rumen8-formulated rations, and identifying the factors influencing the adoption or rejection of the software. A cross-sectional survey design was employed, and data was collected from 124 respondents using structured questionnaires and key informant interviews. Descriptive and inferential statistics, including chi-square tests, were used to analyze the data. The results showed that the level of awareness of Rumen8 software among dairy farmers was moderate, with 58.1% of respondents aware of the software. However, only 42.7% of farmers actively utilized it to formulate balanced rations, indicating limited adoption. The perceived benefits of using Rumen8 were significant, with 77.4% of respondents reporting increased milk yield, 67.7% observing improved cow health, 55.6% noting better reproductive performance, and 54.8% perceiving more consistent feed quality. Furthermore, 50.0% of respondents reported a reduction in feeding-related diseases, while 22.6% indicated cost savings on feed. Results established the key challenges to utilization of Rumen8 software as resistance to change from traditional feeding practices (p=0.000), technical difficulties with the software (p=0.021), difficulty in understanding ration recommendations (p=0.044), and limited access to necessary technology such as computers and smartphones (p=0.036). Additionally, lack of technical support (p=0.007) emerged as a significant barrier, while the high cost of recommended ingredients (p=0.124) was the least significant challenge. Results established the most significant factors influencing the adoption or rejection of Rumen8-formulated balanced rations among dairy farmers as access to extension services (P=0.000), peer influence (p=0.001), education levels and availability of trainings (p=0.008), Income levels (p=0.006), access to information (p=0.000), understanding software benefits (p=0.000) and the least significant factor as farm size (p=0.648). while Rumen8 software offers substantial benefits in improving milk yield, cow health, and overall dairy farm productivity, its adoption is constrained by both technological and behavioral challenges. The study recommends enhancing farmer access to extension services, improving technical support, and conducting comprehensive training programs to boost the adoption and utilization of Rumen8 among dairy farmers in Rukungiri District. These efforts would contribute to the sustainable improvement of dairy production and livelihoods in the region.
Climate Change Effects, Adaptation Strategies and Factors Influencing Their Adoption among Smallholder Farmers in Kagadi Sub-County, Uganda
(Bishop Stuart University, 2025-09-23) Desire Mparana
This study examines climate change effects and adaptation strategies among smallholder farmers in Uganda through a qualitative and quantitative methods combining survey data (N=348) with statistical analyses. The research had three key objectives: assessing climate change effects, identifying adaptation strategies, and analyzing adoption factors. Findings revealed that farmers experience severe climate impacts, with 82.2% reporting prolonged droughts and 79% facing soil erosion. Agroforestry emerged as the most widely adopted strategy (88.5%), followed by early planting (63.5%) and use of early-maturing varieties (67.5%). However, technologies like rainwater harvesting (37.9%) and irrigation (50%) showed lower adoption rates. Regression analysis identified extension services (p<0.001), education level (p=0.020), and household labor availability (p=0.005) as significant factors influencing adoption decisions. The study highlights critical gaps in resource access and knowledge dissemination that hinder effective adaptation. These findings suggest the need for integrated interventions combining financial support, capacity building through extension services, and improved climate information systems to enhance smallholder resilience. The research contributes to the growing literature on climate-smart agriculture by providing empirical evidence on adoption patterns and barriers in Uganda's smallholder farming context.
Climate Change Effects, Adaptation Strategies and Factors Influencing their Adoption among Smallholder Farmers in Kagadi Sub-County, Uganda
(International Journal for Multidisciplinary Research (IJFMR), 2025-09-18) Desire Mparana; Nagawa Mary Goretty; Tumwesigye Wycliffe
This study examines climate change effects and adaptation strategies among smallholder farmers in Uganda through a mixed-methods approach combining survey data (N=348) with statistical analyses. The research had three key objectives: assessing climate change effects, identifying adaptation strategies, and analyzing adoption factors. Findings revealed that farmers experience severe climate impacts, with 82.2% reporting prolonged droughts and 79% facing soil erosion. Agroforestry emerged as the most widely adopted strategy (88.5%), followed by early planting (63.5%) and use of early-maturing varieties (67.5%). However, technologies like rainwater harvesting (37.9%) and irrigation (50%) showed lower adoption rates. Regression analysis identified extension services (p<0.001), education level (p=0.020), and household labor availability (p=0.005) as significant factors influencing adoption decisions. The study highlights critical gaps in resource access and knowledge dissemination that hinder effective adaptation. These findings suggest the need for integrated interventions combining financial support, capacity building through extension services, and improved climate information systems to enhance smallholder resilience. The research contributes to the growing literature on climate-smart agriculture by providing empirical evidence on adoption patterns and barriers in Uganda's smallholder farming context.
Effectiveness of Radio Agricultural Programmes in Scaling Up Farming Activities of Smallholder Farmers in Bushenyi District
(Science Publishing Group, 2024-07-28) Duncan Musinguzi; Edward SSemakula; Gershom Nuwemuhwezi
The study was about effectiveness of radio agricultural programmes in scaling up farming activities of smallholder farmers in Bushenyi district. The specific objective was to; (i) determine the factors associated with radio listenership and application of the knowledge gained through agricultural radio messages. The study was a descriptive-cross sectional survey employing both quantitative and qualitative approaches to data collection and analysis. Data was gathered from a sample of 360 respondents across 18 listener groups of agricultural extension programs using questionnaire and interview guide. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 20.0 to generate both descriptive and inferential statistics. The study concluded that that age bracket (39 – 48), radio ownership, place of residence, negative attitudes and perceptions, limited agricultural spaces, media exposure and investment capital were some of the factors associated with radio listenership and application of the knowledge gained through agricultural radio messages in the area. The study concluded that agricultural extension radio programmes have a wider coverage and have been so pertinent to smallholder farmer’s activities, however listenership and application of the knowledge gained through agricultural radio messages is still hampered by certain impediments that call for urgent address. This study therefore recommends that the programme should be changed to evening when most farmers are available in their houses. Radio producers and program hosts should do this through programme planning which informs the selection of topics, presentation of the topics on radio with interviews from selected experts and farmers.

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