Kasese District Research Articles

Capacity Building and Organisational Performance in Local Government Context, Kasese District, Uganda

Service sector is predominantly increasing in modern economic system raising prominence of staff competences in achievement of corporate goals. This study was conducted to examine the relationship between capacity building and organizational performance in local government context, Kasese district, Uganda. Mixed methods research design was used guided by both objective and subjective assumptions to achieve the research objectives. Data was collected at one point in time from Kasese district employees working in different departments including; Finance, Human resource, engineering, health, education and sports, natural resources and community based. 80 respondents were seen to be representative in study considering the Kabale district local government Human Resource Manual (2021) where the district had a total number of 100 employees. Apparently out of 80 questionnaires distributed only 65 were returned well filled making an acceptable response rate of 81.25%. Stratified and simple random sampling approaches guided this whole process in ensuring that every staff members had equal chances of participation. Questionnaire and interview guide was used to collect both quantitative and qualitative data. Study findings confirmed a positive and significant relationship between capacity building and Organizational Performance at Kasese district. Specifically, results reveal that conducting Induction training (Beta= .657, P<.01) is a significant influencer of performance; on the job training programs (Beta = .175, P<01) impact on organisational performance; and off the job training (Beta= .682, P > 01) significantly predict organisational performance. One key recommendation drawn from this study, linked to human capital theory is that institutional managers should prioritize individual employee learning and earmark resources that sufficiently caters for knowledge and skills enhancement.

Assessment of the Local Strategies Used in Abating Flash Floods for Improvement of Community Livelihoods in Nyamwamba and Bulembia Divisions, Kasese District, Uganda

Floods are intricate events that cause a range of human exposures, including loss of lives, property, and damage to infrastructure of the communities. Flash floods though often blamed on inappropriate development planning and climate variability, floods can be predicted to a reasonable extent, whose scale and nature are often less certain. The study aims at assessing the local strategies used in abating flash floods for improvement of community livelihoods. Specifically, the study explored the challenges the local communities faced during the implementation of the strategies, and also determined the relationship that emanated as a result of implementing the local strategies and community livelihoods. The study adopted a descriptive cross-sectional survey design, collecting both quantitative and qualitative data from 218 respondents and 08 Key Informants that held key responsibilities at the Municipal Council and the community. Information from the respondents and Key Informants were collected using questionnaires which was in form of interviews and face to face interviews respectively. The study shows that some local strategies have been implemented towards controlling flash floods such as, restoration of river banks (69.3%) planting bamboo trees along river banks (66%), use of gabions (65.6%), putting check dams (65.6%) and construction of manmade channels (95.9%) along the hillsides. Putting flood barriers (73%) that floods affect the community livelihoods in various aspects of daily life and the local economy in terms damage of crops (74.8%) risk of diseases (83 %) loss of livestock (60 %), displacement (93%); The challenges faced in implementation of the of local strategies in the study area include financial constraints (81.2%), technical and logistical issues (63%), poor infrastructural design (83.9%), and environmental challenges (66%). A Chi square test showed that the implemented local strategies were significantly related to the community livelihood at P=0.001. Implemented local flood strategies resulted to a positive relationship to the agricultural productivity and protected community property at P<0.05. Overall, effective flood management strategies are able to reduce risks and contribute to a better community health with fewer disruptions to community’s daily life at P<0.05. Local communities should adopt and implement the use of the mentioned local strategies like re-channeling of water pathways along the hill sides and use of gabions for flash floods mitigation since they cost effective. There should be a country-wide implementation of community-initiated mitigation measures for abating flash floods and related climate change disruptions aimed at building and promoting community resilience and livelihoods of people living in flood prone areas.

Indigenous knowledge for climate action at the Ekyisalhalha kya Karoro sacred site, adjacent to Rwenzori mountains national park in Kasese

PurposeThis case study examines the contribution of Indigenous knowledge (IK) and practices to climate action at Ekisalhalha kya Kororo sacred site, adjacent to Rwenzori Mountains National Park in the Kasese district of Western Uganda. This paper is intended to make a case for IK as an important component of climate change mitigation strategies especially if the knowledge is profiled and publicised. The paper presents aspects of traditional knowledge in terms of ceremonies, rituals, norms and customs that can be re-energised for climate change.Design/methodology/approachThe authors employed mainly a participatory and qualitative data collection methodology. The data were collected in Kasese district largely from the local government officials, cultural leaders, civil society actors and representatives of indigenous minority communities such as the Basongora. Data were collected from both primary and secondary sources, at the desk and through community interactions to collect various narratives based on IK. Primary data were collected during individual interviews, by administering a semi-structured questionnaire and holding focus group discussions with different stakeholders in Kasese, Uganda. The respondents were carefully identified and included cultural leaders, young people, local government authorities and representatives of civil society organisations responsible for implementing climate change mitigation strategies.FindingsClimate change effects are manifest in rising temperatures, flooding, desertification and other natural hazards. The Kasese district, in particular, has faced several climatic change catastrophes and there has been limited use or mainstreaming of the existing IK of the communities in the region in different climate action interventions. Amongst the key research findings was that IK can be utilised to address or mitigate climate change risks/hazards and provide valuable insights into climate adaptation strategies, including rain-water harvesting, weather forecasting and preparedness, and sustainable farming practices. In addition, it is easily accessible, especially in areas that modern science has not reached.Research limitations/implicationsFew elders with IK related to climate change mitigation and the disconnect between young people and IK bearers were limitations encountered during data collection.Originality/valueThe information in the article is an original compilation by the authors based on previous published work from the NetZero Heritage for Climate Action research project.

A Critical Analysis of Women Rights to Inherit Property in Bukonzo East Constituency, Kasese District

ABSTRACT Women in Uganda have made significant strides in achieving the rights to education, employment, and participation in public affairs among others. However, when it comes to the right to inherit property from their parents and husbands, women have been left behind despite Government’s efforts geared towards ensuring that women too are considered for inheritance of property on equal footing with men. The low achievement for women in this area of property inheritance is attributed to traditional customary norms and practices which have created a male-centered and male dominated society across the country. The traditional customary norms and practices favour men as the only persons who can inherit and own property while women are restricted to user rights only. On addition, even when user rights are allowed, the input of a women’s into the development of the property especially land and proceeds derived therefrom are never considered as a contribution that create an interest worth being owned and capable of being bequeathed by a woman. In Uganda, ownership and possession of land especially customary land tenure is dominated by men. This has increasingly put women at a disadvantage. This article identifies the obstacles/causes why women are still being marginalized when it comes to inheritance of property despite the government efforts and the legal framework in place, it also discusses the possible solutions to end the problem, and offers recommendations which includes enhancement of sensitizations and awareness, and closing lacunas that exist in the law.

Remuneration of Teachers in Government-aided Secondary Schools in Kasese District

The research sought to investigate the remuneration of teachers in government- aided secondary schools in the Kasese district of western Uganda. A cohort of 234 teachers from 25 designated schools was selected through purposive and stratified sampling methods. A mixed-methods strategy that combined quantitative and qualitative approaches was utilized for data collection and analysis. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS version 24, while qualitative data were assessed through content analysis. The results indicate that the average level of compensation was relatively high, leading to a positive impact on teachers' performance. It is suggested that policymakers in the education sector concentrate on enhancing compensation packages to enhance teachers' effectiveness in their duties.

Effects of river flooding on human population: A case study of Kyarumba Sub-county along River Nyamuhasana in Kasese District

A natural occurrence that can have catastrophic effects on human populations is river flooding. This study looked at how the flooding of the Nyamuhasana River affected the livelihoods of those who lived close to the river in Kyarumba sub-county. The primary aim of the research was to evaluate the effects of alterations in land use in the catchment areas of the Nyamuhasana River in Kyarumba sub-county, Kasese district. The study also aimed to determine the degree of awareness among the community regarding their impact on the rising frequency of flooding in the Nyamuhasana River. The study also assessed the effectiveness of flood mitigation strategies being implemented by Kyarumba sub-county residents near the Nyamuhasana River. The study used both primary and secondary data and the methods used for data collection were; interviewing, observation, use of questionnaire, focus group discussion, and use of geographical information system (GIS) and remote sensing. The study’s conclusions showed that changes in land use within the river Nyamuhasana catchment zones have greatly raised the frequency and severity of flooding incidents. The community’s lack of awareness of its impact on the rising frequency of Nyamuhasana flooding was another finding of the study. The study also discovered that the flood mitigation strategies used by the people living in the Kyarumba sub-county, which is next to the Nyamuhasana River, are mainly ineffective. The study suggests that to lessen the negative effects of river Nyamuhasana flooding on the way of life for people living in the Kyarumba sub-county, a thorough flood control plan should be created and put into action. Reducing land use changes within river catchment zones, increasing community understanding of flooding causes, and putting in place practical flood mitigation strategies should all be part of the strategy.

Factors associated with severe pneumonia among children

BackgroundPneumonia is one of the leading causes of infant mortality globally, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. In Uganda, pneumonia was the fourth leading cause of death in children <5 years in 2018. Analysis of 2013–2022 data for children <5 years from the District Health Information System indicated a high incidence of severe pneumonia in Kasese District, Uganda. We investigated to identify factors associated with severe pneumonia among children <5 years in Kasese District to inform prevention and control strategies.MethodsWe conducted a 1:1 hospital-based case-control study among children aged 2–59 months presenting with pneumonia at five high-volume facilities in Kasese District from January to April 2023. A case was defined as pneumonia with ≥1 of the following danger signs: low oxygen saturation, central cyanosis, severe respiratory distress, feeding difficulties, altered consciousness, and convulsions. Controls were outpatient children aged 2–59 months with a diagnosis of non-severe pneumonia. We reviewed medical records at facilities and used an interviewer-administered questionnaire with caregivers to obtain information on socio-demographic and clinical characteristics. Logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with severe pneumonia.ResultsWe enrolled 199 cases and 174 controls. The odds of severe pneumonia were higher among children with diarrhoea only (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 2.9, 95%CI: 1.7–4.9), or malaria and diarrhoea (aOR = 3.4, 95%CI: 2.0-5.9), than those without a co-existing illness at the time of pneumonia diagnosis. Not being exclusively breastfed for ≥ 6 months (aOR = 2.0, 95%CI: 1.1–3.3) and exposure to indoor air pollution from cooking combustion sources (aOR = 2.9, 95%CI: 1.8–4.7) increased odds of severe pneumonia.ConclusionThe findings highlight the significance of comorbidities, lack of exclusive breastfeeding, and exposure to indoor air pollution in the development of severe pneumonia. Promoting exclusive breastfeeding for ≥ 6 months and advocating for the use of clean energy sources, could mitigate morbidity attributable to severe pneumonia in the region.

Factors Influencing the Uptake of HIV Testing Services among Youths living at Lake Katwe Landing Site, Kasese District

HIV remains one of the most serious global health threats. Globally, 38 million people are living with HIV, 68% of these in Sub-Saharan Africa. The main objective was to assess the factors influencing the uptake of HIV testing services among youths living at the Lake Katwe landing site, Kasese district. A health facility-based descriptive cross-sectional study design among 50 youths living at Lake Katwe landing site, Kasese district. Participants were chosen using a snowball sampling method. The data was collected by using a pretested interviewer semi-structured questionnaire. The collected data was analyzed at two levels (univariate and bivariate) using SPSS version 22.0. Out of 50 participants, it was found that; 40 (80.0%) of the participants had ever tested for HIV, 10(20.0%) had never tested for HIV 34(68.0%) had less than twice tests, 6(12.0%) tested more than twice in a year. Several factors were significantly associated with the uptake of HIV testing services and these include; the participant’s age (Pvalue=0.001*), marital status (P-value=0.003*), participant’s occupation (0.009*), Participant’s preferred site for HIV testing (P-value=0.013*), Participants’ trust towards health workers (P-value=0.000*), Types of services wanted by the participants and Waiting hours when getting the HIV testing services (P-value=0.043*) respectively and Quality of the services provided (P-value=0.033*).Conclusively, the uptake of HIV testing services was low at 20.0% among youth and this low uptake was among youths who were singles and unemployed, however, participants who preferred private clinics and self-testing, lack of trust towards health workers and the quality of the services provided by health facilities were significantly associated with the uptake of HIV testing services. Keywords: Influencing Factors, HIV Testing Services, Youths, Health Care Services

Level of and factors associated with optimal uptake of intermittent preventive treatment for malaria in pregnancy at private-not-for-profit health facilities in Kasese district.

Malaria in pregnancy poses a high risk of poor maternal and neonatal outcomes and WHO recommends IPTp. However, its uptake has remained sub-optimal among mothers who attend antenatal care at private-not-for-profit health facilities. This study determined the level of and factors associated with uptake Intermittent preventive treatment of malaria for pregnant women (IPTp) at private-not-for-profit (PNFP) health facilities in Kasese District, Uganda. This was a cross-sectional study involving 396 postpartum mothers in the postnatal wards of 8 PNFP health facilities in Kasese district was conducted in September 2022. One hospital and 2 Health Centre IVs were purposively selected and 5 Health Centre IIIs selected randomly. Mothers were consecutively selected and interviewer administered semi-structured questionnaires were used to collect the data. Data were entered in epi-data version 3.1, cleaned and analyzed using STATA version 14. Data were adjusted for clustering & modified poison regression was used to determine associations of the factors and the outcome. From the analysis, level of optimal uptake of IPTp was 51.5% CI = (46.6-56.4). Being married (aPR = 1.35, 95% CI = 1.06-1.7, p = 0.014), attending ANC more than 4 Visits (aPR = 1.29, 95%CI = 1.09-1.54, p<0.001) positively influence optimal uptake while not taking IPTp at recommended time intervals (aPR = 0.49, 95%CI = 0.39-0.62 p<0.001) and mothers paying for IPTp drugs themselves (aPR = 0.74, 95%CI = 0.57-0.97, p = 0.031) negatively influence optimal uptake. This moderate uptake of IPTp among pregnant mothers suggests insufficient protection of pregnant mothers against malaria. Efforts to improve Antenatal care attendance, taking IPTp at recommended time intervals, not paying for ITPp drugs and encouraging marriages should be intensified.

Barriers to enrolment of clients into community client led anti-retroviral therapy delivery (CCLAD) in selected health facilities in Kasese district, Uganda.

Community Client Led Anti-retroviral therapy Delivery (CCLAD) Model has been associated with increased community participation and ownership, which leads to better treatment outcomes with reduced workload and increased client satisfaction of health services. To explore the barriers to enrolment of eligible clients into CCLAD in selected health facilities in Kasese District, Uganda. Analytical cross-sectional study utilizing mixed method approach was conducted among 384 PLWHIV attending public health facilities of Kasese District. Sampling was done by simple random sampling method. Data was collected using researcher-administered questionnaire method and interview guide. Most of the respondents 253(65.9%) had not yet enrolled into CCLAD. This was due to some client-related factors such as non-disclosure of HIV sero-status (p=0.040), person to whom HIV sero-status was disclosed to (p=0.009), not having ever heard about CCLAD (p=0.000), incorrect description of CCLAD (p=0.000), limited knowledge of advantages of CCLAD (p=0.000) or disadvantages of CCLAD (p=0.003). Other barriers were; failure to have access to organizations or groups that support PLWHIV to get treatment (p=0.025) and duration of ART refills [AOR=1.637, 95% CI (0.820 - 3.270)]. Adoption of CCLAD model among PLWHIV in Kasese District is still low.

Public-Private Partnership and Early Childhood Education in Kasese District, Uganda

The article’s main purpose was to investigate the relationship between public-private partnership (PPP) and early childhood education in Kasese District, Uganda. The main objectives of the study were to establish the role played by public-private partnerships in making certain that children develop numerical skills and expressive communication abilities. The study was conducted through an Ex Post Facto design study design. The target population of the study was stakeholders for early childhood education in Kasese District, Western Uganda. To ensure fair representation, research subjects were selected from each stratum of stakeholders. The scholar thus used stratified and, later on, random sampling techniques. The sample selected had 312 respondents from an estimated total number of 1.417 ECD stakeholders in Kasese District. Primary data was collected by administering a questionnaire that was designed on a 5-point Likert Scale, ranging from strongly agree to strongly disagree. Face-to-face interviews and an observation checklist were also used in the collection of data. Data collected was presented and analysed with frequency distribution and percentages while the corresponding hypothesis was tested with Chi-square statistic at 0.05 alpha levels. It was found the PPP in ECDs helped in the improvement of numeracy among children. For instance, stakeholders’ work helped in improving children’s counting of fingers on one hand or even copying and drawing shapes amongst young ones. Similarly, respondents indicated that Policy Guideline Formulation due to PPP led children to sort objects by colour and shape. Also, results showed that PPP in ECD enhanced communication ability whereby children were able to put up two words together as per caregiver guidance. It also led a child to pay attention to a simple story being narrated and thereafter answer questions from the account. Similarly, it was also found that Institutional Factors for PPP supported expressive ability in children in that they were in a position to follow a simple command. Besides, the availability of suitable Home Environment Factors was also found to promote communication ability in children. Thus, the study concluded that public-private partnership plays a part in ensuring that children develop numerical concepts. It was also concluded that public-private partnership plays a role in making certain that children develop expressive communication abilities

The Effect of Transformational Leadership on Academic Performance of Primary School Pupils in Social Studies in Munkunyu Sub County Kasese District

Educating a nation is crucial for the development of society in the developing world. This study used a cross-sectional survey design, employing both quantitative and qualitative approaches. Quantitative data were collected and processed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS 22.0). The data were coded, entered into a computer, and summarized using frequency tables to identify errors and make necessary edits. The study included a total of 208 participants, with the findings presented as percentages. The study revealed that the number of female teachers was lower compared to male teachers, with females accounting for 45% and males for 55%. This disparity was attributed to the fact that many schools in villages had fewer female teachers, who often had spouses or lived separately in towns, resulting in limited teaching availability. Additionally, 43.4% of respondents had been in the same school for 4-7 years, while 26.6% had been in the same school for at least 10 years, suggesting a potential repetition of experiences year after year. Furthermore, 16.6% of teachers were separated and 20% were single, which could potentially interfere with their duties and impact student performance. Among the respondents, 8.4% were widowed and 5% had divorced, indicating that they had to handle everything on their own, potentially leading to less focus on their assigned duties in the classroom and resulting in poor student performance. Additionally, 50% of respondents were married, although some were not located in the same workplace as their spouses, making it challenging to concentrate on school assignments. The study emphasized the importance of equipping head teachers with leadership knowledge and skills in order to exert influence on their schools and academic work. Keywords: transformational leadership, academic performance, primary school, pupils and social studies

The Effect of Laissez-Faire Leadership Style on Academic Performance of Primary School Pupils in Selected Primary Schools in Kasese District

Education plays a crucial role in the development of society, particularly in the developing world. The purpose of this research is to assess the impact of a laissez-faire leadership style on the academic performance of primary school students in selected schools within Kasese district. The study utilized a cross-sectional survey design, employing both quantitative and qualitative methodologies. Quantitative data was processed by coding and entering it into a computer program called the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS 22.0). This data was then summarized using frequency tables, allowing for the identification of errors and necessary revisions. Among the respondents, 27 (45%) disagreed with the statement, indicating that teachers appreciate the leadership style that grants them freedom. This lack of accountability can have negative consequences. Conversely, 24 (40%) agreed that head teachers adopt a hands-off approach, empowering teachers to independently solve problems, while 60% disagreed with this statement. Additionally, 17 (28.3%) of head teachers spend the majority of their time outside the school, with their presence on campus being rather casual. This evidence suggests that head teachers do not perceive their presence as significant, failing to recognize its positive impact on academic performance. In Kasese District, the Primary Leaving Examination (PLE) results for 2018 and 2020 revealed a disappointing pass rate of only 47%. Therefore, it is crucial to examine various factors, such as the leadership styles of head teachers, in order to address this issue effectively. Keywords: laissez-faire leadership, academic performance, primaryschool, pupils, social studies.

The Effect of Transactional Leadership on Academic Performance of Primary School Pupils in Social Studies in Munkunyu Sub County Kasese District

Education plays a crucial role in the development of societies in the developing world. The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of transactional leadership on the academic performance of primary school students in social studies in Munkunyu sub county, Kasese District. The study utilized a cross-sectional survey design, combining quantitative and qualitative approaches. The quantitative data was processed by coding and entering it into SPSS 22.0. The data was then summarized using frequency tables to identify errors and make necessary edits. The correlation between the variables was found to be r=0.338; p=0.003. This indicates a significant correlation between transformational leadership and learners' performance. A value of r=0.338 suggests a strong contribution. Based on the evidence at the 5% significance level, the researcher concludes that transformational leadership significantly contributes to learners' performance. The study also revealed that although respondents acknowledged the impact of leadership style on academic performance, headteachers did not gain enough confidence from stakeholders to implement strategies that could enhance the quality of teaching and learning. Keywords: transactional leadership, academic performance, primary school, pupils, social studies.

RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN INCENTIVES AND `STAFF PERFORMANCE IN GOVERNMENT AIDED PRIMARY SCHOOLS IN MALIBA SUB-COUNTY A CASE STUDY IN KASESE DISTRICT- UGANDA. A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.

Background The study was about the relationship between incentives and `staff performance in government-aided primary schools in Maliba Sub-County a case study in Kasese District- Uganda. Methodology Data was obtained from 107 respondents including teachers and administrators in three secondary schools, where 80 teachers and 27 administrators participated in the survey which was part of the data collection required for the study. A correlational descriptive research design was used through both qualitative and quantitative approaches. The qualitative approach was used to describe variables that are not measurable in quantitative terms while the quantitative approach was used in testing the hypotheses using inferential statistical measures. The study adopted a mixed-method approach to be able to address the objectives of the study. The study used both self-administered questionnaires and structured interviews as data collection instruments. Results The dominant age group was 30 to 39 years with 38.3 percent, closely followed by the 30 to 40 years age group with 29.9 percent, the third was the 40 to 49 years age group with 18.7 percent. A Pearson correlation coefficient, r = 0.168, p-value &gt; 0.05, for the relationship between incentives and teachers’ performance was observed. However, the Pearson correlation was not flagged as significant. The correlation between personal characteristics and teachers’ performance was r = 168; p-value = 0.085, which was not flagged as significant. Conclusion Incentives impact teachers’ job performance, so much so that school performance in terms of enrolment, and national examination results show a never-ending decline each year. Recommendation There is a need for urgent increments of allowances and other fringe benefits for staff to boost their morale and performance. The administration should consider setting up a regime of packages to be given to exceptional performers, which can encourage meaningful beneficial competition among the staff.

Investigating Infection Prevention and Control Practices among Healthcare Workers in Kasese District, Uganda: Factors and Implications for Ebola Preparedness

The World Health Organization (WHO) African region often faces numerous public health emergencies, with a significant proportion caused by infectious diseases. Ebola virus disease (EVD) is a high-consequence pathogen of particular concern due to its high mortality rate and potential for global transmission. The study aimed to investigate infection prevention and control (IPC) practices with factors associated with the practice among health care workers (HCWs) in Kasese district, Uganda. The study design was cross-sectional, utilizing both qualitative and quantitative methods. The study population consisted of HCWs working in six selected Health Centre III facilities in sub-counties bordering the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). A sample of 106 HCWs was purposively selected and data collection involved structured questionnaires, and then data analysis was done using descriptive statistics and logistic regression. The study reveals that a majority of HCWs were female (55.7%), worked in outpatient departments (49.1%), had 6-10 years of service (43.4%), held certificates as their highest education level (48.1%), and were predominantly nurses (53.8%). IPC practices were found to be low, with 72.6% of participants exhibiting inappropriate IPC practices. Individual factors influencing low IPC practices included the duration of IPC training, knowledge, attitude towards IPC, and education level, all statistically significant (P &lt; 0.05). Similarly, health facility factors such as the accessibility of IPC guidelines and personal protective equipment (PPE), availability of sanitizer/soap, and proper and continuous IPC training/continuing medical education (CME) were associated with low IPC practice (P &lt; 0.05). In conclusion, the study highlights a low level of IPC practice among HCWs in Health Centre Threes in Kasese District, with both individual and health facility factors contributing to this issue. Recommendations include training HCWs in IPC and organizing regular cascade training, providing IPC knowledge as part of their daily duties, ensuring confidence in managing Ebola during outbreaks, maintaining IPC strategies implemented during EVD outbreaks, and supplying IPC materials to healthcare facilities. These efforts, coupled with increased staffing, can significantly enhance protection and performance in public healthcare services.

From Margins to Mainstream: Microfinance Strategy and Rural Women’s Economic Advancement in Kasese District’s Kyarumba Sub-County, Uganda

Rural women’s economic empowerment is a crucial element of sustainable development, as it strengthens their ability to support their households and contribute to their communities while advancing gender equality. This study explored the influence of microfinance strategies on fostering economic empowerment among rural women in Kyarumba Sub- County, Kasese District, Uganda. The research drew on Microfinance Theory and employed a quantitative research approach using correlation and survey designs. A sample of 197 respondents was determined from a target population of 390 through Yamane’s formula. Structured questionnaires facilitated the collection of primary data. Stratified random sampling and simple random sampling were used to select the sample. Data analysis involved descriptive statistics to address the research questions, while simple regression, correlation, and multiple regression analysis examined the relationship between the variables. The results revealed a significant positive relationship between microfinance services and rural women’s economic empowerment (t=4.478; p=0.000; p&lt;0.05). The findings affirmed the essential role of microfinance in empowering rural women economically, contributing to gender equity and broader socio-economic progress. The study recommended expanding access to microfinance services as a core strategy to enhance rural women’s economic empowerment and advance gender equity in rural areas. This study provides valuable insights for policymakers, highlighting the importance of prioritizing microfinance services to drive gender equality and improve the socio-economic well-being of rural women.

Community-Driven Poverty Eradication Strategy: Lessons from Kasese District, Uganda – A Sub-County Level Analysis

Poverty eradication continues to pose a significant global challenge, impacting millions and hindering sustainable development. Effectively addressing poverty necessitates comprehensive strategies that extend beyond merely tackling economic disparities, emphasizing the need to empower communities for active participation in their development. In rural Uganda, poverty alleviation remains a critical issue. This study explored the effectiveness of the community empowerment approach in reducing poverty within the Bwera, Karusandara, and Karambi sub-counties of Kasese District in Uganda. Grounded in community development theory, the research employed a quantitative approach using both correlation and survey research designs. Researchers selected a sample size of 130 respondents from a target population of 192 through stratified random sampling and simple random sampling techniques. They gathered primary data using structured questionnaires and analyzed the data with descriptive and inferential statistics via SPSS version 26. Findings from simple linear regression and correlation analyses revealed a significant positive relationship between community empowerment and poverty alleviation (t=2.805; P=.006; r = 0.446; p &lt; 0.01; p &lt; 0.05). The study illustrates a substantial positive connection between community empowerment and poverty alleviation, demonstrating that enhancing community capacity leads to better poverty outcomes. Policymakers should prioritize community empowerment initiatives as a central strategy for poverty alleviation, promoting local participation and resource access to improve sustainable development outcomes. This study’s significance for policymakers lies in its evidence that community empowerment is essential for effective poverty alleviation, informing the development of targeted strategies that enhance local participation and resource access, ultimately fostering sustainable and impactful poverty reduction efforts.

The Causes of Workplace Conflicts among Teachers’ Performance: A Case Study of Government - Aided Secondary Schools in Bukonzo County, Kasese District

The study sought to establish the effects of workplace conflicts on teachers’ performance in the government –aided secondary schools in Bukonzo County, Kasese District. It focused on establishing the categories, causes and the effects of workplace conflicts on teachers’ performance in the government –aided secondary schools in Bukonzo County Kasese District. A non-experimental descriptive survey design was adopted which used interviews and structured self-administered questionnaires to collect data from a sample of 178 participants. The head teachers, deputy head teachers and directors of studies were sampled using purposive sampling and the teachers were sampled using stratified random sampling. This sample comprised of 11 head teachers, 11 deputy head teachers, 11 directors of studies and 145 teachers. The schools were sampled using census sampling. The causes of workplace conflicts are said to be scarcity of resources, misappropriation of funds and role ambiguities. In light of the above findings, the following recommendations were made; school administration should find out the root causes of workplace conflicts in the government -aided secondary schools and involve all the stakeholders in the school management in order to enhance discipline for effective conflict management strategies to be put in place. Keywords: Causes, workplace, hazards, conflicts, secondary schools, Uganda

Staff Retention and Organizational Performance in Kasese District in Western Uganda

The pragmatic study evaluated the association between Staff Retention and Organizational performance in Kasese District in Western Uganda. The inquiry study utilized a cross sectional survey research design with quantitative and qualitative mockups. A sample of 148 participants were carefully chosen from 240 individuals using a table developed by Morgan &amp; Kreijcie (1970). Information was assembled by means of questionnaires and interview schedules. Data was appraised using frequencies, percentages, Pearson linear correlation coefficient (PLCC) for quantitative measurements and thematic analysis was engaged for organizing qualitative proof. The study verdicts came up with a significant relationship between Staff retention and Organizational Performance in Kasese District in Western Uganda. The project team concluded that Staff Retention is vital for increasing the productivity of an organization especially in local governments because it conventions with issues to do with stability of tenure of office. If the employees are well retained in an organization, they can be a source of motivation for socio-economic development of local governments at large. From the research project results, the academics recommended that Staff Retention in Kasese district sub-national government in Uganda should continuously put in place better conditions of work such as descent accommodation, free medical care, payment of overtime allowances and giving scholarships for those who want go for further studies. This can be done through putting in place operational committees to make sure that government policies on staff retention are well cherished and implemented. The government of Uganda should increase on the budget meant to facilitate staff retention function in Human Resource Department so that a big number of local government employees can be retained for effective service delivery in Kasese District local government.