Kampala Research Articles

Lack of trust, insufficient knowledge and risk denial; an in-depth understanding of health workers barriers to uptake of the COVID-19 vaccine at Iganga Hospital Eastern Uganda, and Mengo Hospital Kampala Uganda

COVID 19 Vaccine hesitancy among health workers remains a major hindrance to the governments vaccine roll out plan among health workers and other target populations in Uganda. We conducted 12 focus group discussions and 20 in-depth interviews with health workers (vaccinated and unvaccinated) to understand barriers to vaccine acceptance in their own perspective and context in central and eastern Uganda. Reported barriers to vaccine acceptance included: gross lack of trust, fear of side effects, risk denial and insufficient information about the vaccine amidst negative publicity about the vaccine from the internet and social media platforms. Others were health system inhibition factors and religious beliefs against the vaccine. We recommend a health work context specific information, education and dissemination strategy to create awareness, information and more knowledge about the vaccine to health workers. We also recommend a sustained government media campaign to give more information about the vaccine and also dispel the negative publicity and misinformation about the vaccine. Dialogue with health workers at all levels of care, positive peer influence, use of religious and opinion leaders as well as government ensuring accessibly to various COVID 19 vaccines and putting vaccine posts outside hospital settings to limit exposure to COVID patients could also increase uptake of the vaccine among health workers.

Health workers motivators to uptake of the COVID-19 vaccine at Iganga Hospital Eastern Uganda, and Mengo Hospital Kampala Uganda; A qualitative study

Uganda continues extensive mobilization and administration of the COVID 19 vaccine to its people albeit some vaccine hesitancy with in the population. Amongst the health workers however, approximately 70% had received their first dose while 40% had received their second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine by September 2021 respectively. These figures represent a recognizable acceptance rate among health workers. Exploring motivators to vaccine uptake among health workers is vital for the government’s general population vaccine rollout plan. We conducted 12 focus group discussions and 20 in-depth interviews with health workers (vaccinated and unvaccinated) to understand motivators to vaccine acceptance in their own perspective in central and eastern Uganda. Reported motivators to vaccine acceptance included; risk susceptibility/protection, fear of death and/or cost of treatment and experiences of COVID 1 related grief. Other were trust in the vaccine, call to government policy and vaccine success stories elsewhere, real or perceived benefits of vaccination and peer influence. We recommend intensified dissemination of health worker tailor made tools/guides for information, education and communication about the COVID 19 vaccine. The tools need to emphasize the elicited themes/motivators. We also recommend use of peers who have taken up the vaccine and survived COVID-19 or got a mild form of the disease to elicit positive peer influence about the vaccine amongst health workers. The information dissemination and peer narratives could be done through the health worker’s social media platforms, union or association websites, personal statements, editorials or other media.

The Influence of Social Media on traditional Journalism in Uganda. A case study of Capital Radio

This study examines how social media and traditional journalism interact dynamically within the framework of Uganda's Capital Radio. The research uses a case study technique and focuses on how social media affects news creation, audience interaction, and the potential and challenges for maintaining journalistic integrity. Using existing research on social media's impact on news, audience engagement, and journalistic practices, the study explores Capital Radio's maneuvers through this dynamic media environment. The study utilized a descriptive cross-sectional design, which is appropriate when the problem has a clear definition and the researcher needs the respondents to describe specific aspects of the problem. This study focused on 78 important Capital Radio stakeholders, including senior management, specialists in the field of social media's influence on Uganda's traditional journalism, shareholders, customers, and regulatory agencies. Various stakeholders were selected based on their thorough comprehension and insightful opinions of the topic's applicability to the goals of the research. The results are intended to give light on the transformative effects on news creation processes and the larger media ecosystem, as well as to provide insights into the symbiotic interaction between social media and traditional journalism. According to the report, social media has a big impact on Capital Radio's news creation and journalistic methods. It highlights how important it is to reconsider established journalistic procedures and adjust to the changing media environment. The poll underscores the significance of audience involvement in optimizing content generation and augmenting reporting, underscoring the imperative for news establishments to participate actively in audience engagement. Keywords: Social Media, Traditional Journalism, News Production, Audience Engagement, Media, Capital Radio

Women in Media and the challenges they face in their Work Environment: A Case Study of NBS, NTV, Vision Group, and STV in Kampala District, Uganda

With a focus on NBS, NTV, STV, and Vision Group in particular, this study examined women in the media and their working conditions in a few chosen media firms in the Kampala District of Uganda. The line of investigation aimed to ascertain the ways in which the work environment and obstacles faced by women in media organizations influence their viewpoints, accomplishments, and performance. Several information sources, including scholarly works, journals, articles, websites, and secondary surveys on women in the workplace, were employed in this study. The study became necessary because, in spite of international organizations' global projects and efforts to promote women in the media, stereotypes about women persist and their struggles are frequently unreported, which hinders their ability to progress in their media careers. According to the results of the anonymous surveys, it appears that despite the rise in the number of women working in the media and occupying senior positions within their organizations, these women still feel that they need to prove their worth, are still viewed as the weaker sex, are rigid, and are still objectified sexually. This study therefore suggests that women should be seen as a work force that has worth and can take on duties and tasks with as much aggression and ambition as their male counterparts in an effort to achieve equality and equity in media businesses. Keywords: Women, Media, Television, Workplace, Vision group, Kampala

Support, not blame: safe partner disclosure among women diagnosed with HIV late in pregnancy in South Africa and Uganda

BackgroundHIV partner disclosure rates remain low among pregnant women living with HIV in many African countries despite potential benefits for women and their families. Partner disclosure can trigger negative responses like blame, violence, and separation. Women diagnosed with HIV late in pregnancy have limited time to prepare for partner disclosure. We sought to understand challenges around partner disclosure and non-disclosure faced by women diagnosed with HIV late in pregnancy in South Africa and Uganda and to explore pathways to safe partner disclosure.MethodsWe conducted in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with pregnant women and lactating mothers living with HIV (n = 109), disaggregated by antenatal care (ANC) initiation before and after 20 weeks of gestation, male partners (n = 87), and health workers (n = 53). All participants were recruited from DolPHIN2 trial sites in Kampala (Uganda) and Gugulethu (South Africa). Topic guides explored barriers to partner disclosure, effects of non-disclosure, strategies for safe disclosure. Using the framework analysis approach, we coded and summarised data based on a socio-ecological model, topic guides, and emerging issues from the data. Data was analysed in NVivo software.ResultsOur findings illustrate pregnant women who initiate ANC late experience many difficulties which are compounded by the late HIV diagnosis. Various individual, interpersonal, community, and health system factors complicate partner disclosure among these women. They postpone or decide against partner disclosure mainly for own and baby’s safety. Women experience stress and poor mental health because of non-disclosure while demonstrating agency and resilience. We found many similarities and some differences around preferred approaches to safe partner disclosure among female and male participants across countries. Women and male partners preferred healthcare workers to assist with disclosure by identifying the ‘right’ time to disclose, mentoring women to enhance their confidence and communication skills, and providing professional mediation for partner disclosure and couple testing. Increasing the number of counsellors and training them on safe partner disclosure was deemed necessary for strengthening local health services to improve safe partner disclosure.ConclusionHIV diagnosis late in pregnancy amplifies existing difficulties among pregnant women. Late ANC initiation is an indicator for the likelihood that a pregnant woman is highly vulnerable and needs safeguarding. Respective health programmes should be prepared to offer women initiating ANC late in pregnancy additional support and referral to complementary programmes to achieve safe partner disclosure and good health.

The Stakeholders’ Opinions on the Learner-Centred Pedagogies Used in Competence-Based Curriculum (CBC) in Selected Secondary Schools in Kampala District

The study investigated the Stakeholders’opinions on learner-centred pedagogies used in Competence-Based Curriculum (CBC) in selected Secondary schools A and B found in Kampala District. The Learner-centred Pedagogies (LCP) under the CBC place the learner at the centre of the learning process, promoting active participation and self-directed learning. The study was guided by curriculum implementation theory by Gross et al (1971). The study adopted a qualitative research approach that analysed the learner centred pedagogies from the subjective point of view while involving the study participants’ opinions. The study followed the Interpretivist paradigm which enabled participants to create and construct their social reality in line with the study. The study also adopted a single case study research design in order to get an in-depth understanding of the opinions of stakeholders on CBC. A sample of 22 participants including Headteachers (H), Teachers (T) and Students (S) were selected purposively and used for the study. This enabled the researcher to gather qualitative responses, from the best-fit participants whose responses were relevant to the study. The study employed the use of the interviews for the two headteachers and eight teachers, focus group discussions to students while considering in each group six students from each school and observation method to collect data. Through triangulation the methods enabled the researcher to collect in-depth subjective reality which was analysed using thematic analysis. The findings of the study indicated that; to some extent the learner centred pedagogies used by teachers are good and they should be used when teaching. This was because the methods encourage full participation of learners and development of skills. However, to another extent the finding of the study also revealed that, the learner centred pedagogies used by teachers are not good due to inadequate teaching skills by teachers, limited materials to use and methods are time consuming. The study recommended that, the government of Uganda through the MoES to; train teachers so as to equip them with the necessary skills of teaching, facilitate schools with enough educational facilities and materials to use and continuously monitor, supervise and evaluate CBC practices in schools.

The Stakeholders’ Views on Assessment of Competence-Based Curriculum (CBC) In Selected Secondary Schools in Kampala District

The study investigated the stakeholders ’views on assessment of Competence-Based Curriculum (CBC) in selected Secondary schools A and B found in Kampala District. Assessment under the CBC involves both formative and summative assessments, with formative assessments accounting for 20% and summative assessments accounting for 80% of the evaluation. Teachers should frequently assess the learners using new assessment methods of CBC. Teachers are also required to change from a norm-referenced to a criterion-referenced judgment of learners’ capabilities or competencies to determine their progress. The study was guided by curriculum implementation theory by Gross et al (1971). The study adopted a qualitative research approach that analysed the stakeholders’ views on assessment from the subjective point of view while involving the study participants’ opinions. The study followed the Interpretivist paradigm which enabled participants to create and construct their social reality in line with the study. The study also adopted a single case study research design in order to get an in-depth understanding of the views of stakeholders on assessment in CBC. A sample of 23 participants including a UNEB Official, Headteachers (H), Teachers (T) and Students (S) were selected purposively and used for the study. This enabled the researcher to gather qualitative responses, from the best-fit participants whose responses were relevant to the study. The study employed the use of the interviews for a UNEB Official, the two headteachers and eight teachers and focus group discussions (FGD) to twelve students while considering in each group six students to collect data. Through triangulation the methods enabled the researcher to collect in-depth subjective reality which was analysed using thematic analysis. The findings of the study indicated that, the assessment methods used in CBC were good. They included; activities of integration, continuous assessment, end of term assessment, end of year assessment and end of cycle assessment. However, as the methods were being used, schools were faced by many challenges that included; limited skills by teachers, limited sensitisation from UNEB and NCDC on CBC practices, limited facilities to use, time consuming on the side of teachers, laziness of the learners and big class sizes. The study recommended the government of Uganda through the MoES to; train teachers so as to equip them with the necessary skills of teaching, facilitate schools with enough educational facilities and materials to use and continuously monitor, supervise and evaluate CBC practices in schools.

The Effectiveness of Brainstorming in Developing Students’ Creative and Critical Thinking. A Case of Kakungulu Memorial School Kibuli in Makindye Division Kampala District

This qualitative study was conducted at Kakungulu Memorial School-Kibuli in Makindye Division, Kampala District, to assess the effectiveness of brainstorming in developing learners’ critical and creative thinking. The target population was all students from grades one to three where the competence-based curriculum had been implemented. The researcher used a convenient sampling technique to select all the one hundred (100) Form 2 history students to participate in the intervention. The technique was preferred because in Uganda, history is a compulsory subject from one to four, implying that all students in Form 2 were potential participants in the study. The researcher did this to avoid the influence of external factors that could be a threat to the validity of the study. The majority of the groups worked within the principles of cooperative learning to include positive interdependence, face-to-face promotional interaction, individual and group accountability, and displayed relevant social skills such as effective communication, leadership, and meaningful decision-making. However, a number of groups were not well informed about managing conflicts in groups. Brainstorming sessions can be a useful strategy to encourage genuine collaboration and interaction in the classroom. Putting together a well-stated problem and careful planning strategies can lead to meaningful idea generation and idea building, which can be used in solving problems or addressing specific courserelated issues. Keywords: Brainstorming, Creative Thinking, Critical Thinking, Learners

The Impact of Breast Cancer Awareness Campaigns on Women's Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices in Uganda's Kampala District

In Uganda, breast cancer affects 116 out of every 100,000 women. Worldwide, the yearly incidence rate of breast cancer (BRCA) is more than 1 million cases and more than 411,000 deaths. In underdeveloped nations, the survival rate is less than 50%, while in industrialized nations, it is 90%. Studies have shown that this is caused by delayed diagnosis and identification of breast cancer (BRCA), as well as by inadequate understanding, attitudes, and practices about BRCA, its causes, risk factors, and screening methods. Since the success of these campaigns to raise awareness, alter negative attitudes toward BRCA prevention and treatment, and improve the use of screening methods is highly dependent on their influence, the MTN Foundation, National Breast Cancer Coalition, Breast Cancer Action, and Miss University Uganda campaigners have resorted to aggressive awareness and sensitization programs aimed at increasing knowledge, changing attitudes, and improving the practice of all necessary screening procedures. To determine the degree of awareness and exposure, knowledge level, attitude, and screening practice among women in Kampala District, a survey and in-person interviews were employed. The causes of unhealthy habits and their effects were explained by the Health Believe Model and the Attitude Change Theory. The results showed a cursory understanding of BRCA symptoms, causes, genetic testing, BSE, and CBE. Strongly negative emotional and psychological beliefs also impact that attitude. As a result, the study stressed the need of preventive rather than curative methods and acknowledged the contribution of breast cancer campaigns to the cause. Keywords: Breast cancer, Campaigns, Self-examination, Risk factors.

The Unequal Economic and Livelihood Impacts of COVID-19 Lockdowns: Qualitative Evidence from Uganda.

Lockdowns were a key policy response to the COVID-19 pandemic. While they were viewed as a necessary intervention, concerns were raised about their potential for harmful economic and livelihood impacts. However, few studies have addressed the unequal economic and livelihood impacts of lockdowns. Our article reports findings from a qualitative study conducted in Uganda on economic and livelihood impacts of COVID-19 lockdowns in urban and rural settings. This study used 14 focus group discussions, 40 household, and 31 key informant interviews in both urban (Kampala district) and rural (Wakiso district) areas in central Uganda. Data analysis was conducted thematically with NVivo 2020 (QSR International). The findings emphasize the unequal impacts of the COVID-19 lockdowns across a range of dimensions: informal sector activities, formal employment, fluctuating prices alongside scarcity and surpluses, food insecurity, and government interventions. Wealthier households in urban areas were least affected, with urban households reliant on informal sector activities experiencing the most significant impacts. Our findings also suggest that longer-term development strategies, such as increased food self-sufficiency and informal sector interventions can support future pandemic preparedness and response. To address these impacts, policymakers should provide targeted support, alongside protecting key productive sectors, and supply chains.

Good School Toolkit-Secondary Schools to prevent violence against students: protocol for a pilot cluster randomised controlled trial

IntroductionNo whole-school interventions which seek to reduce physical, sexual and emotional violence from peers, intimate partners and teachers have been trialled with adolescents. Here, we report a protocol for a...

Effect of Covid 19 on butchers and their coping strategies in Kampala district

Effect of Covid 19 on butchers and their coping strategies in Kampala district

The impact of urban mobility on air pollution in Kampala, an exemplar sub-Saharan African city

This paper analyses the impact of urban mobility (UM) on air pollution by studying the effects of an intervention on local air quality. The study focuses on the PM2.5 levels in Kampala, the capital of Uganda, and considers COVID-19 as an unintentional intervention. The PM2.5 level of the city was obtained from a network of low-cost calibrated sensors, while UM is characterized by open-access Google reports. The period under consideration excludes the weeks immediately before and after the first lockdown. PM2.5 data were deweathered using the machine learning technique of random forest (RF) to exclude the variation of meteorological factors, seasonality, and weekday-weekend effect, and then the impact of the pandemic was parametrised. The traffic pattern is discussed, and air mass clustering and pollution polar plots are used to analyse the distribution of long- and short-range sources, respectively. The percentage change from the baseline (PCfB) of the average of UM dimensions is then assessed against that of deweathered PM2.5 level to investigate the impact of UM on the PM2.5 level. Our analysis shows a strong correlation between urban mobility and roadside PM2.5 levels and a weaker relationship with urban PM2.5 levels. The profile of long-range emission sources was consistent over the study period, with more than 61% of the modelled air masses that arrived in Kampala first passing over Kenya and Tanzania. Overall, the COVID-19 pandemic reduced PM2.5 levels in Kampala by about 10%, which is relatively small compared to many other cities that have been studied around the world.

Spatial distribution and temporal trends of tuberculosis case notifications, Uganda: a ten-year retrospective analysis (2013–2022)

BackgroundUganda has a high incidence and prevalence of tuberculosis (TB). Analysis of spatial and temporal distribution of TB is an important tool for supporting spatial decision-making, planning, and policy formulations; however, this information is not readily available in Uganda. We determined the spatial distribution and temporal trends of tuberculosis notifications in Uganda, 2013–2022.MethodsWe conducted a retrospective analysis of routinely-generated program data reported through the National TB and Leprosy Programme (NTLP) surveillance system. We abstracted data on all TB cases diagnosed from 2013 to 2022 by district and region. We drew choropleth maps for Uganda showing the TB case notification rates (CNR) per 100,000 and calculated the CNR using the cases per district as the numerator and individual district populations as the denominators. Population estimates were obtained from the 2014 National Population and Housing Census, and a national growth rate of 3% was used to estimate the annual population increase.ResultsOver the entire study period, 568,957 cases of TB were reported in Uganda. There was a 6% annual increase in TB CNR reported from 2013 (134/100,000) to 2022 (213/100,000) (p-value for trend p < 0.00001). Cases were reported from all 12 Ministry of Health regions during the entire period. The distribution of CNR was heterogeneous throughout the country and over time. Moroto, Napak and Kampala districts had consistently high CNR throughout the ten years. Kalangala district had lower CNR from 2013 to 2018 but high CNR from 2019 to 2022. Moroto region, in the northeast, had consistently high CNR while Mbale and Soroti regions in Eastern Uganda had the lowest CNR throughout the ten years.ConclusionThere was an overall increasing trend in TB CNR from 2013 to 2022. We recommend that the National TB program institutes intensified measures aided by more funding to mitigate and reverse the negative impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on TB.

The potential of farmers’ markets: the Uganda case

PurposeIn Uganda, smallholder farmers produce about 70% of the food but receive very low prices on the sales channels they use. To improve farmers' livelihoods, other innovative sales channels such as farmers' markets (FMs) have to be explored. Therefore, the study aimed to determine the potential of establishing farmers' markets in Uganda, focusing on Kampala district.Design/methodology/approachA qualitative methodology was used to understand farmers' perceptions and the factors that could influence the success of the farmers' markets. In addition, the potential of FMs has been analyzed through the components of the Localized Agri-Food System (LAFS).FindingsThe respondents had a positive perception of the farmers' markets, and farmers have an urgent need for other sales channels that could be profitable for them. Factors that could influence the success of the FMs were highlighted, including infrastructure in the marketplace, transportation and taxation by the government.Research limitations/implicationsThe study had a limited sample size of the farmers, and it was carried out in 3 divisions of Kampala district, an urban area; thus, the findings cannot be generalized to fit the other regions of Uganda.Originality/valueThe LAFS showed that the foundation for establishing FMs is available; however, it has to be strengthened through the coordination of different stakeholders that work with the farmers.

Personal traits and formalization of entrepreneurial ventures: insights from a developing country

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to explore how the personal traits of the informal entrepreneurs influence their formalization decisions.Design/methodology/approachThis study adopted a qualitative approach using a multicase design in which 28 informal entrepreneurs situated in Kampala district, Uganda, were engaged. An interview guide, recorders and note books were used in data collection.FindingsThe results indicate that the traits of informal and semiformal entrepreneurs are distinct. Informal entrepreneurs have been noted to be more courageous and resilient, while their semiformal counterparts have greater passion for their businesses. It is thus observed that the formalization prospects are higher for the semiformal entrepreneurs than for their informal counterparts. Entrepreneurs that would be willing to formalize their businesses are discouraged by distance, technology and the cost of involving middlemen. Whereas the resilient entrepreneurs are noted to work through these challenges, the passive ones in both the informal and semiformal categories will not formalize their businesses by giving such excuses.Originality/valueThis study contributes to the extant literature on informal entrepreneurship by providing initial empirical evidence on how the personal traits of the entrepreneurs influence their formalization decisions specifically.

Effects of Construction Contracts on Performance: The Case of Construction Firms in Kampala, Uganda

The study aimed to investigate the influence of construction contracts on the overall performance of selected construction firms in Kampala district. Specifically, it sought to assess the impact of formally contracting personnel, evaluate the effect of special contract conditions, and examine the role of surety bonds on firm performance within the construction industry. A descriptive design utilizing quantitative methods was utilized. The study utilized purposive and random sampling techniques to select relevant respondents from various positions within construction firms, ensuring a comprehensive analysis of the subject matter. A sample size of 76 respondents was involved in the study. Data collection was facilitated through a structured questionnaire comprising Likert scale type questions, piloted to ensure relevance and logical flow. The study achieved an 88.3% response rate, with 80 questionnaires returned and analyzed. The study found that there exist a significant controlling effect on the relationship between (i) contracted (temporary) personnel and performance of construction firms (r=0.778, p=0.000), (ii) special conditions of contract and performance of construction firms (r=892, p=0.000) and (iii) surety bonds and performance of construction firms (r=0.830, p=0.000). Analysis of performance indicators highlighted the importance of factors such as adherence to construction codes, client satisfaction, and innovative practices in determining firm success. In conclusion, the study underscored the critical role of construction contracts in shaping the performance of construction firms in Kampala district. To optimize firm performance, it is recommended that firms prioritize the recruitment and retention of skilled personnel, adhere meticulously to construction contracts, and leverage surety bonds for risk mitigation. These findings provide valuable insights for construction industry stakeholders, guiding strategic decision-making to enhance operational efficiency and project outcomes.

The Stakeholders’ Attitudes on the Transition from Knowledge-Based Curriculum (KBC) to a Competence-Based Curriculum (CBC) in Selected Secondary Schools in Kampala District

The study investigated the Stakeholders’ attitudes on the transition from knowledge-Based Curriculum (KBC) to Competence-Based Curriculum (CBC) in selected Secondary schools A and B found in Kampala District. The implementation of CBC was driven by the need for Uganda to move away from rote memorisation and focus on practical skills and knowledge that will be useful in the workforce. The study was guided by curriculum implementation theory by Gross et al (1971). The study adopted a qualitative research approach that analysed the case of CBC from the subjective point of view while involving the study participants’ opinions. The study followed the Interpretivist paradigm which enabled participants to create and construct their social reality in line with the study. The study also adopted a single case study research design in order to get an in- depth understanding of the stakeholders’ attitudes on the transition from KBC to CBC. A sample of 23 participants including a UNEB official (U), Headteachers (H), Teachers (T) and Students (S) were selected purposively and used for the study. This enabled the researcher to gather qualitative responses, from the best- fit participants whose responses were relevant to the study. The study employed the use of the interviews to one UNEB Official, two headteachers and eight teachers and focus group discussions to twelve students while using a group of six students from each school to collect data. Through triangulation the methods enabled the researcher to collect in-depth subjective reality which was analysed using thematic analysis. The findings of the study indicated that; to a greater extent stakeholders had a positive attitude towards the transition from KBC to CBC. This is because CBC had led to development of skills and it is more practical compared to KBC. However, the findings of the study also revealed a negative attitude of stakeholders on a transition from KBC to CBC while stressing that, CBC is expensive and time for preparation was not enough. The study recommended the government of Uganda through the MoES to; train teachers so as to equip them with the necessary skills of teaching and assessment methods, facilitate schools with enough educational facilities and materials to use and continuously monitor, supervise and evaluate CBC practices in schools.

Rate of Exclusive Breastfeeding Among Postpartum Mothers at Hoima Regional Referral Hospital's Postnatal Clinic

Despite active promotion, Uganda reports that 36% of children under 6 months are not exclusively breastfed, impacting infant health. This study focuses on 428 interviews within the Kampala district's informal sector, aiming to understand exclusive breastfeeding practices among mothers with infants aged 0–5 months. Results indicated a 41.1% prevalence of exclusive breastfeeding. Factors linked to this practice included attending antenatal care at least four times, intending to breastfeed exclusively for six months or more, adopting proper breastfeeding techniques, and the age of the infant. Notably, working in lower positions was associated with a lower likelihood of exclusive breastfeeding. Recommendations emphasize the importance of antenatal care in educating mothers about exclusive breastfeeding's advantages, enabling informed decisions. Additionally, enforcing maternity leave benefits outlined in Uganda's Employment Act within the informal sector can support women in practicing exclusive breastfeeding. Keywords: Exclusive breastfeeding, Children below 6 months, Antenatal care, Maternity leave

Impact of Leadership Styles on Government Construction Project Success: A Structural Equation Modeling Approach

Government construction projects play an important role in both developed and developing countries. They contribute about 80% of total capital assets, 10 % of GDP, and more than 50% of the wealth invested in fixed assets and employment opportunities. As such, several countries like Sweden in Europe, Indonesia in Asia, South Africa and Kenya in East Africa have invested heavily and succeeded in construction projects. Similarly, Uganda has also invested heavily in construction projects; however, most of these projects have been unsuccessful, yet projects contribute to economic development. This study aimed to determine the contribution of leadership styles to the success of government construction projects in Uganda. The study was cross-sectional with a quantitative research design. A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data from a sample of 100 Kampala Capital City Authority construction projects from a population of 120 projects that were stratified according to the five divisions of Kampala district. Four respondents were selected from each of the 100 projects selected, resulting in a total of 400 respondents for the study. Structural Equation Modelling was conducted using SPSS. Results show that leadership styles, especially communication and participation are positively and significantly associated with government construction project success. Therefore, government project managers should communicate effectively and involve stakeholders at every stage of the project cycle to realise project success. It is recommended that the path-goal theory be adopted for replicating the study. Also, government ministries must adopt the proposed model as it is a valuable resource for researchers and practitioners, especially those involved in government construction projects. Similarly, the government, through the Ministry of Works and Transport, should constantly remind government project managers to ensure adequate internal and external communication and allow the participation of stakeholders during the implementation of government projects. Keywords Communication, Government Construction Projects, Leadership styles, Participation, Project Success, Structural Equation Modeling, Uganda