Browsing by Author "Andama, Morgan"
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Item An ethnobotanical survey of plant species used for medicinal purposes in Amuru district, northern Uganda(Ilia State University, 2024-09-12) Gum, Bornfree; Opoke, Robert; Akwongo, Betty; Oloya, Benson; Omony, John Bosco; Opiro, Robert; Andama, Morgan; Anywar, Godwin; Malinga, Geoffrey MaxwellBackground: Medicinal plants provide health care to rural communities that have limited access to modern medicine in Uganda. Thus, documenting medicinal plants is important for their sustainable utilisation and conservation of medicinal plants and associated indigenous knowledge. Methods: A cross-sectional ethnobotanical survey was conducted in August 2021 to assess the knowledge and use of medicinal plants in Lamogi Sub-County, Amuru district. We randomly sampled and interviewed 334 household heads using semi-structured questionnaires. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics, familiarity index (FI), fidelity level (FL) and informant consensus factor (ICF). Results: Most of the respondents (90%) had knowledge of medicinal plants used for treating ailments in their community (high ICF values above 0.9). Plant with the highest FI value was Gymnanthemum amygdalinum (Delile) Sch.Bip. indicating its wide use in the community. Chi-square tests showed significant associations between the knowledge of medicinal plants and education level, occupation, age, marital status and monthly income of respondents (p < 0.05). Forty-nine medicinal plants from 30 families were documented, with Fabaceae and Asteraceae having the most species. Leaves were the most frequently used plant parts (65.4%), followed by roots (13.6%). Herbal remedies were mostly prepared by crushing and smearing on the body, infusion, decoction and administered orally. Conclusion: The people of Amuru district have rich indigenous knowledge of diverse medicinal plants used for treating ailments. Most medicinal plants are harvested from the wild, threatening their survival and this requires putting in place practical conservation measures.Item Assessing the quality of drinking water from selected water sources in Mbarara city, Southwestern Uganda(Plos one, 2024-03-28) Abaasa, Catherine N.; Ayesiga, Savino; Lejju, Julius B.; Andama, Morgan; Tamwesigire, Imelda K.; Bazira, Joel; Byarugaba, FrederickThis study assessed the physical, chemical, and microbiological quality with emphasis on risk score, source apportionment, geochemistry, feacal coliforms and water quality index of drinking water from selected water sources. A cross-sectional study was conducted in six villages in Mbarara city, south-western Uganda. Each selected source was inspected using a WHO-adopted sanitary inspection questionnaire. Each source’s risk score was calculated. Thirty-seven samples were taken from one borehole, nine open dug wells, four rain harvest tanks, and twenty-three taps. The values for apparent color and phosphate were higher than the permissible level as set by the World Health Organization and Ugandan standards (US EAS 12). The isolated organisms were Klebsiella spp. (8.11%), Citrobacter divergens (62.16%), Citrobacter fluendii (2.7%), E. coli (35.14%), Enterobacter aerogenes (8.11%), Enterobacter agglomerus (5.4%), Proteus spp. (2.7%), Enterobacter cloacae (13.5%), and Proteus mirabilis (2.7%). Twelve water sources (32.4%) had water that was unfit for human consumption that was unfit for human consumption (Grade E), Five sources (13.5%) had water that had a very poor index (Grade D), nine (24.3%) had water of poor index (Grade C), eight (21.6%) had water of good water index (Grade B), and only three (8.1%) had water of excellent water quality index (Grade A). The piper trilinear revealed that the dominant water type of the area were Mgso4 and Caso4 type. Gibbs plot represents precipitation dominance. PCA for source apportionment showed that well, tap and borehole water account for the highest variations in the quality of drinking water. These results suggest that drinking water from sources in Mbarara city is not suitable for direct human consumption without treatment. We recommend necessary improvements in water treatment, distribution, and maintenance of all the available water sources in Mbarara City, South Western Uganda.Item Assessment of Cadmium and Lead in dried sewage sludge from Lubigi feacal sludge and wastewater treatment plant in Uganda(Journal of Water Resource and Protection, 2019) Kyayesimira, Juliet; Ssemaganda, Abbey; Muhwezi, Godfrey; Andama, MorganSludge contains organic and inorganic compounds including traces of heavy metals such as lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu), nickel (Ni), chromium (Cr) and others. These metals restrict the use of sludge in agriculture because their accumulation is harmful to the environment and particularly the food chain. Cadmium and lead are among the most common heavy metals found in municipal wastewater treatment plant sludge. They are capable of bioaccumulation in plant tissues like roots and leaves and are non-biodegradable and therefore they remain in the sludge which is disposed on land or used as fertilizers on farms. The presence of heavy metal pollutants serves as a great threat to soils and also makes plants grown on such soils unfit for animal and human consumption as they may have detrimental effects to animal and human life. For instance, Pb and Cd are known to be human carcinogens. This study therefore aimed to investigate the levels of Cd and Pb in the treated dry sludge from Lubigi Feacal Sludge and Wastewater treatment plant located in Kawempe division, Kampala city, Uganda so as to ascertain its safety for use on agricultural lands. Two batches of samples were collected and analyzed at Government Analytical laboratory in Wandegeya, Uganda. The acid digested sludge samples were analyzed using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) method. The average concentrations of Pb found in collected sludge samples, batch 1 (11.912 mg/kg dm) and batch 2 (5.304 mg/kg dm) were far below the Environment Protection Agency (EPA) maximum permissible concentration (840 mg/kg) for any land application. Cadmium was not detected in all the sludge samples collected; there is an implication that it is either completely absent in the sludge generated by the plant or present but far below detectable levels. The sludge generated from Lubigi fecal sludge and wastewater treatment plant is therefore safe for application on agricultural lands as far as Pb and Cd concentrations are concerned.Item The biological integrity of streams and channels draining into the Rwizi River system in Western Uganda(East African Journal of Science, Technology and Innovation, 2019) Atwebembeire, Jeninah; Andama, Morgan; Bazira, Joel; Bunny, Julius Lejju; Tumusiime, Julius; Wangalwa, Rapheal; Yatuha, JaneRwizi River, often called the life-line river, supports over five million people in Western Uganda and is a major contributor of freshwater to Lake Victoria. Surrounded by a large and rapidly growing population, the river has suffered anthropogenic disturbances whose impact on the integrity of the system is a subject of concern. Aquatic macroinvertebrates, used globally to monitor both short- and long-term environmental conditions, were thus used to assess the biological integrity of streams and channels draining into the river system. Macroinvertebrates were sampled for six months in 2017 encompassing the wet and dry seasons using the kick net sampling method. The macroinvertebrates were identified morphologically using peer reviewed identification keys and their pollution sensitivity scored using the Tanzanian River Scoring System (TARISS). The Shannon diversity index was computed per site and related to average score per taxon (ASPT). We collected a total of 5442 macroinvertebrates belonging to 54 families dominated by Chironomidae (29.1%). Macroinvertebrate diversity increased with ASPT (r = 0.57; N = 131; P = 0.000). The water quality was generally poor and was not affected by the season (t = 1.03; df = 64; P = 0.303) though sites had different water quality (F = 11.32; df = 20; P = 0.000) attributed the degree of anthropogenic disturbance. We concluded that river Rwizi system is highly degraded and thus recommend restoration of the entire catchment. Aquatic macroinvertebrates are good indicators of long-term conditions but less sensitive to short-term changes. Multiple approaches, biological and chemical, are encouraged during the restoration process.Item Causes of losses and the economic loss estimates at post-harvest handling points along the beef value chain in Uganda(Journal of Agricultural Extension and Rural Development, 2019) Kyayesimira, Juliet; Wangalwa, Rapheal; Kagoro-Rugunda, Grace; Lejju, Julius Bunny; Matofari, Joseph W.; Andama, MorganUganda’s beef industry has been growing slowly and requires sustained monitoring of actors at postharvest handling points in order to decrease public health risks and losses. This study documented causes of losses and estimated economic values at post-harvest handling points along the beef value chain. It was carried out at slaughter houses, transporters and butcher shops in the districts of Western, Central and Eastern Uganda. A cross sectional study was conducted among meat handlers who were interviewed to find out the losses incurred in the value chain. Microbial load from carcass swabs were collected and evaluated using standard microbiological methods to determine microbial contamination of beef. The causes of losses varied at different handling points. The actors at slaughter houses indicated the major losses were due to low beef demand (15.3%), insecurity (13.4%) and poor weight estimation methods (11.03%). Losses at the butchery included, beef waste (22.4%), drip loss (19.7%) and beef spoilage (18.4%). Microbial analysis showed the highest microbial prevalence at the butchery (70-100%) followed by slaughter (50-80%) and lastly transport (30-50%). Microbial contamination on carcass leads to spoilage and hence market loss because exportation does not admit contaminated foods. Actors reported beef waste and drip loss as the major causes of losses at the butchery. To reduce losses, public health care education for meat handlers and adherence to strict standard operating procedures (SOPs) are a key.Item The challenges of reconstructing tropical biodiversity with sedimentary ancient DNA: a 2200-year-long metagenomic record from Bwindi impenetrable forest, Uganda(Frontiers in Ecology and Evolution, 2020-07-10) Dommain, René; Andama, Morgan; McDonough, Molly M.; Prado, Natalia A.; Goldhammer, Tobias; Potts, Richard; Maldonado, Jesús E.; Nkurunungi, John Bosco; Campana, Michael G.Sedimentary ancient DNA has been proposed as a key methodology for reconstructing biodiversity over time. Yet, despite the concentration of Earth’s biodiversity in the tropics, this method has rarely been applied in this region. Moreover, the taphonomy of sedimentary DNA, especially in tropical environments, is poorly understood. This study elucidates challenges and opportunities of sedimentary ancient DNA approaches for reconstructing tropical biodiversity. We present shotgun-sequenced metagenomic profiles and DNA degradation patterns from multiple sediment cores from Mubwindi Swamp, located in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (Uganda), one of the most diverse forests in Africa. We describe the taxonomic composition of the sediments covering the past 2200 years and compare the sedimentary DNA data with a comprehensive set of environmental and sedimentological parameters to unravel the conditions of DNA degradation. Consistent with the preservation of authentic ancient DNA in tropical swamp sediments, DNA concentration and mean fragment length declined exponentially with age and depth, while terminal deamination increased with age. DNA preservation patterns cannot be explained by any environmental parameter alone, but age seems to be the primary driver of DNA degradation in the swamp. Besides degradation, the presence of living microbial communities in the sediment also affects DNA quantity. Critically, 92.3% of our metagenomic data of a total 81.8 million unique, merged reads cannot be taxonomically identified due to the absence of genomic references in public databases. Of the remaining 7.7%, most of the data (93.0%) derive from Bacteria and Archaea, whereas only 0–5.8% are from Metazoa and 0–6.9% from Viridiplantae, in part due to unbalanced taxa representation in the reference data. The plant DNA record at ordinal level agrees well with local pollen data but resolves less diversity. Our animal DNA record reveals the presence of 41 native taxa (16 orders) including Afrotheria, Carnivora, and Ruminantia at Bwindi during the past 2200 years. Overall, we observe no decline in taxonomic richness with increasing age suggesting that several-thousand-year-old information on past biodiversity can be retrieved from tropical sediments. However, comprehensive genomic surveys of tropical biota need prioritization for sedimentary DNA to be a viable methodology for future tropical biodiversity studies.Item Compliance to riverbank regulation guidelines and its impact on the quality of River Enyau in Arua Municipality, Uganda(International Journal of Agriculture, Environment and Bioresearch, 2019) Oloya, Geofrey; Andama, MorganThis study documented the human activities carried out in the protected zones of river Enyau (within 30 m of river’s bank) and their influence on the quality of the river. Human activities in the protected bank of river Enyau and the quality of the river were ascertained during a field survey in March-May, 2019.The diversity of macrozoobenthic invertebrates per site and water pollution levels were determined using Shannon-Weiner (Hʹ) and Biological Monitoring Working Party (BMWP) indices respectively. Fourteen different human activities dominated by housing units (27%) were observed in river Enyau protected zones under study in Arua Municipality. Ozu-Ediofe zone corresponding directly to Arua urban center recorded the highest occurrence of the human activities (65.3%) which greatly reduced the macrozoobenthic invertebrate diversity (Hʹ=1.2) and caused pollution of river Enyau (BMWP=26.0) along that zone. The downstream zones, Onduparaka (Hʹ =2.24, BMWP=68.6) and Onduparaka-Ozu (Hʹ=1.57, BMWP=46.9) sites were both moderately polluted. On the other hand, the upstream zones i.e. Ediofe-Pajulu Bridge (Hʹ=2.52, BMWP=132.9) and Ragem Technical Institute (Hʹ=2.48, BMWP=96.2) were unpolluted and slightly polluted respectively. Hence, the implementation of the existing river bank management guidelines should be strengthened in Arua Municipality to ensure good quality of river Enyau and its sustainability.Item The cyanogenic potential of certain cassava varieties in Uganda and their fermentation-based detoxification(IntechOpen, 2023-04-04) Oloya, Benson; Adaku, Christopher; Andama, MorganCassava is the leading staple food in the developing world, providing an essential diet for about half a billion individuals. However, cassava contains significantly toxic compounds, the cyanogenic glycosides. Ingestion of such toxins in large quantities can lead to acute cyanide poisoning and may cause death in both humans and animals. Therefore, cassava may present a potential health risk to consumers. Information regarding the cyanogenic glycoside content is vital in averting health risks associated with cassava consumption. Accordingly, the seven most common local cultivars in Zombo district and six improved cultivars were grown and later characterized based on their cyanogenic potential. Additionally, the root tubers of Nyar-udota and Nyar-papoga were fermented to detoxify them from the cyanogens. The cyanogenic glycoside levels in the selected cultivars surpassed the critical value of 10 ppm established by the World Health Organization. The improved cassava had lower and moderately identical concentrations of HCN, unlike the local varieties. Cyanogenic contents were highest at 8-10 months. Fermentation led to substantial detoxification of the cyanogens, and the decrease varied with the fermentation period. In making choices for the cultivation and consumption of cassava, it is crucial to consider the cultivar, period of harvesting, and detoxification by fermentation.Item Cyanogenic potential of selected cassava varieties in Zombo District, Uganda(International Journal of Nutrition and Food Sciences, 2017) Oloya, Benson; Adaku, Christopher; Ntambi, Emmanuel; Andama, MorganBoth improved and local cassava varieties are widely grown and also, consumed in Zombo district as well as West Nile Sub region and Uganda as a whole. However, all cassava varieties contain cyanogenic glycosides which are toxic, although the amounts in each cultivar may vary considerably. Consumption of such toxins in sufficient quantities poses a health risk since they can cause acute cyanide poisoning and death in humans and animals. As such, information concerning the cyanogenic glycosides content in cassava cultivars is indispensable in averting health risks linked with cassava consumption. In this study, the cyanogenic content of the most common local cassava varieties (Bisimwenge, Nyar-anderiano, Nya-matia, Nya-pamitu, Nya-papoga and Nyar-udota) grown in Zombo district and six improved cassava varieties (NASE 3, NASE 9, NASE 14, NASE 19, TME 14 and TME 204) were investigated. Generally, the improved cassava varieties revealed lower levels (mean value was 108.75 mg/kg) of cyanogens than the local varieties (mean value was 201.65 mg/kg). The concentrations of the cyanogen in all the cultivars investigated were far above the FAO/WHO recommended value (<10mg/kg). Hence, adequate detoxification and reduced frequency of consumption of these cassava cultivars are necessary in order to limit the ingestion of toxic levels of cyanide.Item Detoxification of Nyar-Udota cassava variety in Zombo district by fermentation(2017) Oloya, Benson; Adaku, Christopher; Ntambi, Emmanuel; Andama, MorganFermentation is capable of detoxifying cassava cultivars. Cassava is one of the most important food crops in the world and in Uganda it is the second most consumed food crop after bananas. However, cassava has some toxic compounds, the cyanogenic glycosides such as linamarin and lotaustralin. Ingestion of the toxins in abundant quantities can be harmful to the health of both humans and animals. Cassava may hence, present a potential health risk to the consumers. Information regarding better detoxifying methods and processing conditions of cyanogenic glycosides content in cassava is vital for avoidance of health risks associated with cassava consumption. Accordingly, one local cultivar, Nyar-udota, was subjected to fermentation for detoxification of their cyanogenic content. Fermentation achieved significant detoxification of the cyanogenic glycosides in the cassava cultivar up to 64.7% and the decrease varied with period of fermentation.Item Effect of supply chain planning of liquid nitrogen and frozen semen on the quality of animal breeding public services in the selected cattle corridor districts of Uganda(International Journal of Agricultural Policy and Research, 2020) Lagu, Charles; Kugonza, Sylvester; Nagitta, Oluka Pross; Andama, MorganThe study aimed to explain the effect of supply chain planning of liquid nitrogen and frozen semen on the quality of animal breeding public services in the selected cattle corridor districts (Mbarara, Mubende, Luwero and Soroti) of Uganda. The research filled the gap of supply chain planning in ensuring proficient and viable supply of animal breeding inputs from supply chain points of view compared to the traditional core science orientation which tend to focus on the biological processes of reproductive technologies. The study adopted cross-sectional survey design embracing both qualitative and quantitative approaches. Data was captured using structured questionnaires, review of records, focus group discussions (FGDs) and key informant interviews (KIIs) for farmers, staff of the National Animal Genetic Resources and Data Bank (NAGRC&DB), artificial insemination (AI) technicians, and Field Extension workers. The study points to gender disparity as a key concern at household levels when it comes to land and animal ownership. The study established that there was positive relationship between planning (χ2=4.270; p=0.039; χ2critical=3.841) and animal breeding services in selected cattle corridor districts of Uganda. The study recommends that genetic centres to put in place systems for coordinated and integrated planning to facilitate outreach for AI services in Uganda.Item Effect of supply-chain sourcing and delivery of liquid nitrogen and frozen semen on the quality of public animal breeding services in the selected cattle corridor Districts of Uganda(Journal of Supply Chain Management Systems, 2020-08-18) Lagu, Charles; Kugonza, Sylvester; Oluka Nagitta, Pross; Andama, Morgan;The study focused on the effect of supply-chain sourcing and delivery of liquid nitrogen and frozen semen on the public animal breeding services in selected cattle corridor districts (Mbarara, Mubende, Luwero & Soroti) of Uganda. The research adopted a cross-sectional survey with mixed methods that involved concurrently collecting both quantitative and qualitative data using a structured questionnaire, focus group discussions (FGD) guide, together with interviews of key informants in the case of the Uganda National Animal Genetic Resources and Data Bank (NAGRC&DB). Extant records review was deployed throughout. The study hypothesised that there was a positive relationship between supply-chain sourcing and delivery of liquid nitrogen and frozen semen and the quality of animal breeding public services in selected cattle corridor districts of Uganda. The findings showed a positive relationship between sourcing (?2 = 13.895, p = 0.003, ?2 critical = 7.815), delivery (?2 = 20.900, p = 0.013, ?2 critical = 16.919), and animal breeding services in selected cattle corridor districts of Uganda. This research contributes to theory through improving business dexterity, bolstering hierarchical learning objectives, and improving operational engagements for chain actors. In practice, it helped put in perspective the genetic centre’s evaluation of operational engagements, and contrasting organisational execution with benchmark information. The study concludes that sourcing and delivery are pivotal segments in supply chains that determine the associated dynamics for the key breeding inputs in the animal resources sector. The study recommends the interplay of value-chain actors working in a coordinated system facilitated by some level of knowledge, skills, and interests, operating within acceptable standard operating procedures (SOPs). The research recommends further studies to examine the effects of supply chain collaboration performance and organisational capabilities on the delivery of animal breeding services in Uganda. Likewise, top management commitment of the animal genetic centre to Total Quality Management (TQM) and organisational supply-chain ambidexterity in the delivery of animal breeding services in Uganda needs further empirical investigation.Item Effectiveness of traditional processing techniques in reducing cyanide levels in selected cassava varieties in Zombo District, Uganda.(International Journal of Food Science and Biotechnology, 2017) Andama, Morgan; Oloya, BensonThe root tubers of cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) contain varying amounts of cyanogenic glucosides which liberate toxic hydrogen cyanide with the resultant effect of poisoning especially the highly cyanogenic cultivars. These include some of the local and improved cassava varieties grown in Zombo district, Uganda among others. Therefore, this study explored the effectiveness of some traditional processing techniques used singly and in combination to reduce cyanide levels in highly toxic root tubers of selected local (Nyar-anderiano, Nyar-papoga, Nyar-udota, Nyar-pamitu, Bisimwenge, Nyar-matia) and improved (NASE 3, NASE 9, NASE 14, NASE 19, TME 14 and TME 204) cassava varieties grown in Zombo District, Uganda. The processed and the fresh cassava tubers were analysed for Hydrogen cyanide (HCN) by the standard titration method. The results indicated that heap fermentation followed by sun-drying reduced the cyanide levels in all the selected improved varieties to WHO safe levels for consumption (below 10mg/kg) in the dried chips. Mixed processing methods combining soaking, fermentation and sun-drying reduced the cyanide concentrations in the local varieties (Nyar-udota, Nyaranderiano) and improved variety (NASE 19) to World Health Organisation (WHO) safe levels. None of the processing techniques used singly reduced the HCN levels in the root tubers of the selected cassava varieties to safe levels. Hence mixed strategies combining several traditional cassava processing techniques should be adopted to detoxify the selected cassava varieties of cyanogens. The local cassava varieties (Bisimwenge, Nya-matia, Nya-pamitu, Nya-papoga) would require modifications of the combined traditional processing techniques or other more complex processes to detoxify them of HCN before human consumption.Item Ethno-varieties and Distribution of jackfruit tree (Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam.) in Uganda: implications for trade, food security and germplasm conservation.(East African Journal of Science, Technology and Innovation, 2019) Nakintu, Justine; Olet, Eunice; Andama, Morgan; Lejju, JuliusArtocarpus heterophyllus Lam. is a fruit tree crop largely grown in tropical regions for its edible fruits. Though listed among underutilized crops, the demand for jackfruit in Uganda has increased. Amidst the increase in demand, the crop faces strong selective pressure and yet there is no documentation of the varieties and distribution of the crop in the country. This study therefore aimed at determining the varieties and distribution of jackfruit in Uganda using folk knowledge to provide a baseline for its production, booming market and conservation. A cross-sectional survey involving 349 participants comprising of 205 jackfruit traders and 144 jackfruit farmers from three political regions and three agro-ecological zones was conducted. Data were collected through face to face interviews using a semi-structured questionnaire and direct observations. Classification of jackfruit varieties, geographical location of the source of jackfruits for traders and the time of harvest of the fruit by the farmers were investigated. Occurrence of varieties per household was determined through on-farm visits. Data analysis techniques involved descriptive, chi-square and Cramer’s V measure of association analyses. Traders mainly obtained jackfruit from Central (46.0%) and Eastern (37.6%) political regions, Lake Victoria Crescent and Mbale Farmlands (41.1%) and Southern and Eastern Lake Kyoga Basin (30.0%) agro-ecological zones. Jackfruit varieties were classified basing on fruit texture and pulp colour, revealing four ethno-varieties, soft (Serebera), firm yellow (Kanaanansi), firm red (Namusaayi) and firm white (Namata). Namata and Serebera registered the lowest occurrences political regions and agro-ecological zones. Farmers harvested jackfruit throughout the year with a peak season in December and January. Folk knowledge provided baseline information for jackfruit variety categorization. Selection pressure exerted on Serebera and Namata demands for germplasm conservation. Since jackfruit thrives in a wide range of climatic conditions, its cultivation should be encouraged to ensure food security and sustain the increasing demand.Item Ethnobotanical study of medicinal plants utilized in the management of candidiasis in Northern Uganda(Springer Nature, 2022-10-14) Akwongo, Betty; Katuura, Esther; Nsubuga, Anthony M.; Tugume, Patience; Andama, Morgan; Anywar, Godwin; Namaganda, Mary; Asimwe, Savina; Kakudidi, Esezah KyomugishaThe emergence of resistant Candida species to antifungal drugs has led to resurgence in herbal usage globally. However, little is known about anti-candida plants. This study explored ethnomedicinal plants as treatment option for candidiasis in Pader, Northern Uganda. A cross-sectional survey of potential anti-candida plants was conducted using questionnaires, focus group discussions and field observations in March 2022. Sixty-three respondents were selected by snowball technique. The frequencies of respondents/responses were analyzed, associations of respondents’ socio-demographics with indigenous knowledge of herbal usage established by Chi-square (χ2) test using SPSS 27. Informant Consensus Factor was computed to establish level of agreement on herbal usage, and thematic analysis done for focus group discussions. Candidiasis is still common and troublesome in Pader. All herbalist had equal chances of receiving and treating candidiasis patients irrespective of herbalist’s gender, age, education level, occupation, marital status and religion (p > 0.05). About 39.7% of herbalists received candidiasis patients weekly (p < 0.01). All herbalists had knowledge on candidiasis. Death (56.8%) and discomfort (36.8%) were the major health risks of oropharyngeal candidiasis (OPC) and vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC), respectively. A total of 32 potential anti-candida plant species in 18 families were identified. Families of Fabaceae (9 species) and Asteraceae (5 species) had most plant species. Trees (50.0%) and herbs (43.8%) were the dominant life forms. The commonest plants by frequency of mention were: Momordica foetida (26), Sansevieria dawei (20), Khaya anthotheca (15), Piliostigma thonningii (10), Clerodendrum umbellatum (7), Hallea rubrostipulata (5) and unidentified plant, ‘Agaba/daa layata’ in Acholi dialect (5). Plant parts mainly used were roots (56.3%) and stem barks (15.6%) harvested majorly by cutting (46.9%) and uprooting (12.5%). Most respondents (females, 95%) preferred herbal to western medication (p < 0.01) due to its perceived effectiveness. There was high consensus among herbalists on herbal remedies for OPC and VVC (FIC = 0.9). Pader communities have diverse indigenous knowledge on candidiasis and prefer herbal medicines to orthodox treatment for candidiasis. However, the herbalists use unsustainable harvesting techniques like uprooting whole plants and cutting main roots. Hence, the need to document such indigenous knowledge before being lost for community usage and scientific validation.Item Evaluation of productivity of Chloris Gayana under soils of varying composition in South Western Uganda.(International Journal of Agriculture, Environment and Bioresearch, 2019) Andama, Morgan; Lagu, Charles; Muzira, RobertThis study therefore evaluated the productivity of Chloris gayana under varying soils in South Western Uganda. The productivity of Chloris gayana in selected districts in South Western Uganda (Kiruhura, Ibanda, Mbarara, Isingiro, Sheema) was already established by Lagu et al (2017). The present study profiled the soils in the above districts where the Chloris gayana was grown for total organic matter, available phosphorus, extractable bases (potassium, sodium, magnesium and calcium), total nitrogen and textural classes (sand, clay, silt) following standard procedures described by Okalebo et al (2002). The results showed that the highest quantity of seeds and biomass per acre of Chloris gayana grass is attained if only all the essential primary soil nutrients (N, P, K) are above the critical levels. Hence, Kiruhura district having soils with the highest levels of essential soil nutrients, N (4.00±0.77%), P (33.73±12.98ppm) above the critical levels (N, 2%; P, 15ppm) recorded the highest quantity of Chloris gayana seeds harvested per acre (18.03±3.03 kg per acre) and hay bales per acre (311.11 kg/acre) compared to the other districts. Hence, efforts towards soil testing and soil amendments with essential nutrients (NPK) need to be intensified for increased productivity of Chloris gayana in South Western Uganda.Item Exploring the genetic diversity of jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam.) grown in Uganda based on SSR markers(Genetic Resources and Crop Evolution, 2019) Nakintu, Justine; Albrecht, Christian; Müller, Christina M.; Kagoro-Rugunda, Grace; Andama, Morgan; Olet, Eunice A.; Lejju, Julius B.; Gemeinholzer, BirgitArtocarpus heterophyllus Lam. is an economically important tree crop that is widely cultivated in Uganda for its fruit. Despite its economic importance, little is known about the genetic diversity of jackfruit in the country. This puts the crop’s genetic resource at risk as farmers selectively grow varieties based on market demand. The study analyzed the genetic diversity of A. heterophyllus trees from 12 districts belonging to three agro-ecological zones and three political regions of Uganda. Ten SSR loci were used to assess the genetic relationship among 200 trees, 197 from Uganda and 3 out-group individuals. All SSR loci were polymorphic with an average of 10.9 alleles per locus. STRUCTURE analysis proposed two genetic clusters: Cluster 1 was composed of samples from Eastern and neighboring Central districts, and Cluster 2 which constituted out-groups and samples from Western and neighboring Central districts. Results of STRUCTURE analysis were confirmed by PCoA. Mbarara District exhibited the highest genetic diversity (He = 0.79, I = 1.71), while Kamuli (He = 0.61, I = 1.08 and Pallisa (He = 0.59, I = 1.12) displayed the lowest genetic diversity despite high abundances of jackfruit trees. Molecular variation was higher within populations than among populations. Moderate and significant genetic differentiation was registered among geographical zones, while varietal differences displayed little insignificant genetic differentiation. Soft and white pulped varieties, considered inferior on the market, harbored private alleles which may be genetically valuable resources. Therefore, sustainable utilization and conservation efforts of the jackfruit genetic resource should consider preserving inferior varieties for future crop improvement.Item Forecasting inputs demands on the quality of animal breeding public services in Uganda : a supply chain perspective(Journal of Agriculture Food and Development, 2020-09-29) Lagu, Charles; Kugonza, Sylvester; Nagitta, Oluka Pross; Andama, MorganThe study focused on supply chain forecasts for inputs on the quality of animal breeding public services in selected cattle corridor districts (Mbarara, Mubende, Luwero and Soroti) of Uganda. The key question was, what effect key breeding inputs (liquid nitrogen and frozen semen) had on quality of animal breeding services. The research adopted cross-sectional survey design embracing quantitative approaches. Data was captured using review of records from the Genetic Centre, Artificial Insemination (AI) technicians, and Field Extension workers. The work included forecasting and trend analysis for liquid nitrogen and frozen semen production and costs for the period 2019-2023 at the current level of inputs and manpower at the National Animal Genetic Resources Centre and Data Bank. The study established that 77.3% of the produced liquid nitrogen will be utilized by the year 2023. In the same vein, 62.6% of the frozen semen produced will be utilized by the year 2023. The study predicted the costs related to production, maintenance and repairs for liquid nitrogen plants and projected semen production, maintenance of the bulls, and veterinary costs. Other forecasted costs were for semen importation per annum for breeds and genetic diversity in the country. The study guides NAGRC&DB and other players in the animal resources value chain to undertake forecasts and trend analysis for better planning, budgeting, strategy and delivery of quality animal breeding services in selected cattle corridor districts of Uganda. The topic of operational efficiencies for the circulation and usage of key breeding inputs dependent on farming system and agro-ecology should be explored in Uganda.Item Heavy metal pollution in the main rivers of Rwenzori region, Kasese District South-Western Uganda(Octa Journal of Environmental Research, 2020) Mukisa, Wilber; Yatuha, Jane; Andama, Morgan; Aventino, KasangakiCurrent study established heavy metal pollution of rivers Mubuku, Rwimi and Nyamwamba in Kasese district, Western Uganda. Their integrity is important because communities depend on them for water resources. No recent information is known on rivers' quality status yet traverse a densely populated area with agricultural activities and a history of copper/cobalt mining as heavy metals pose high health risks. The study was conducted from October 2019 to December 2019 and quantified levels of Cu, Zn, Pb and Co in water and fish to estimate the rivers quality. Water samples were randomly collected in sterilised bottle while fish samples were collected using non selective net method, dissected and dried to a constant mass. The total heavy metal load was determined using atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Results showed that, apart from Lead, the levels of Cu, Zn and Co in the waters were all within WHO limits except Co at one site on R. Nyamwamba with 0.233±0.009mg/L above the limit 0.05mg/L for drinking water. The overall mean for Pb was 0.030±0.006mg/L and 0.047±0.003mg/L at R. Nyamwamba, 0.053±0.003mg/L at R. Mubuku and 0.067±0.003mg/L at R. Rwimi, all above the WHO limit of 0.01mg/L. In fish tissues, Cu was within WHO limit; however, Pb and Zn were above limits (Pb, 2.0ppm; Zn, 100ppm) for fish. The average concentration for Pb was 29.05±4.85ppm, 69.23±9.25ppm and 32.33±5.93ppm at R. Nyamwamba, Rwimi and Mubuku respectively and for Zn, 115.05±8.12ppm, 117.47±8.65ppm and 118.69±8.79ppm at R. Nyamwamba, Rwimi and Mubuku respectively. Similarly, for all the three rivers, physico-chemical parameters; pH, temperature, electro-conductivity and dissolved oxygen were within the WHO limits but turbidity, 12.02±0.39NTU was above the limit of 5.0NTU. Therefore, there is need for management intervention to control further contamination of rivers with heavy metals and controlled use of water bodies as washing baysItem In vitro antifungal activities of medicinal plants used for treatment of candidiasis in Pader district, Northern Uganda(Springer Nature, 2024-11-13) Akwongo, Betty; Kakudidi, Esezah K.; Nsubuga, Anthony M.; Andama, Morgan; Namaganda, Mary; Tugume, Patience; Asiimwe, Savina; Anywar, Godwin; Katuura, EstherBackground: The emergence of multidrug resistant Candida species to available drugs has led to renewed interest in the use of herbal medicines globally. This study scientifically verified antifungal effectiveness of five commonly used plant species in Pader district, against selected pathogenic candida strains. Methods: Powdered roots of Momordica foetida, Sansevieria dawei and Distimake dissectus; and stem barks of Khaya anthotheca and Mitragyna rubrostipulata were extracted sequentially using petroleum ether and methanol, respectively; and total water extraction at 24.4 °C (maceration), 60 °C (decoction) and boiling water at 87 °C (hot water infusion). Extracts and their combinations, positive controls (amphotericin B, and fluconazole) and negative control (80% dimethyl sulfoxide, verified to be tolerable concentration to the tested Candida species) were screened and verified for their antifungal activity against Candida albicans (ATCC: American Type Culture Collection reference strain 10231, ATCC 90028, 0770a and 0796), C. glabrata (VVc 004, ATCC 2950) and C. tropicalis (ATCC 750 and 0210) using agar well diffusion and broth micro-dilution, respectively. Results: Aqueous extract (24.4 °C) of M. rubrostipulata (ZOI: 18.00 ± 1.00 to 38.33 ± 0.17; MIC: 3.13 ± 0.00 to 20.83 ± 4.17; MFC: 12.50 ± 0.00 to 200.00 ± 0.00), methanol extract of K. anthotheca (10.11 ± 0.31 to 15.11 ± 0.65; 1.04 ± 0.26 to 12.50 ± 0.00; 12.50 ± 0.00 to 100.00 ± 0.00), and combination of aqueous extract (60 °C) of D. dissectus + methanol extract of K. anthotheca (7.89 ± 0.26 to 19.67 ± 0.37; 0.78 ± 0.00 to 50.00 ± 0.00; 12.50 ± 0.00 to 200.00 ± 0.00) exhibited broad spectrum antifungal activities and were fungistatic against all tested Candida species, which comprised 8 clinical/control and susceptible/resistant strains. None of the conventional drugs used demonstrated broad spectrum antifungal activity across all tested Candida species/strains. Conclusion: Methanol extract of K. anthotheca, aqueous extract (24.4 °C) of M. rubrostipulata, and combination of aqueous extract (60 °C) of D. dissectus + methanol extract of K. anthotheca could be effective in the treatment of candidiasis. They demonstrated potential broad spectrum antifungal activity against different species and strains of tested Candida than the fluconazole and amphotericin B drugs. Their fungistatic nature showed their ability to inhibit fungal growth. Hence, these extracts/extract combination can offer better treatment option for candidiasis if they are standardized and also their active curative compounds isolated and made into antifungal drugs.