Theses and Dissertations

Permanent URI for this collection

https://dir.muni.ac.ug/handle/20.500.12260/370

Browse

Now showing 1 - 15 of 15

Public financial management practices and education service delivery in government primary schools in Paidha town council – Uganda
(Muni University, 2025-11-15) Pithuwa, Albert
The study aims to examine the impact of Public Financial Management (PFM) practices on education service delivery in government primary schools in Paidha Town Council, Uganda. Specifically, it explored how capacity building, political monitoring, transparency, and institutional capacity building influence the quality and efficiency of education services in the region. In terms of Methodology the research is grounded in the Agency Theory and Institutional Theory, the study adopted a correlational research design with a mixed methods approach. Data were collected from 267 respondents, including head teachers, deputy head teachers, political leaders, Town Council officials, and members of School Management Committees and Parent-Teacher Associations. Structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews were used as data collection instruments. Data Analysis: Quantitative data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), while qualitative data were analyzed thematically. Correlation analysis revealed positive and statistically significant relationships between capacity building (r = 0.608, p = 0.000), political monitoring (r = 0.400, p = 0.000), transparency (r = 0.690, p = 0.000), institutional capacity building (r = 0.708, p = 0.000), and education service delivery. The findings demonstrated that effective PFM practices—particularly those enhancing capacity, transparency, institutional strength, and political oversight—significantly contribute to improving education service delivery in government primary schools. Qualitative insights further emphasized the central role of these factors in promoting accountability and performance within the education sector. In terms of limitations of the study was confined to government primary schools in Paidha Town Council, limiting the generalizability of the findings to other regions. Additionally, data relied on self reported responses, which may have introduced respondent bias. The study contributes to the understanding of how PFM practices influence service delivery in the education sector, particularly within rural settings. It provides empirical evidence supporting the integration of capacity-building initiatives, political engagement, transparency mechanisms, and institutional strengthening as essential components for improving educational outcomes in Uganda.
Cost of debt and financial performance of small and medium enterprises (SMES) in Lira city, Uganda
(Muni University, 2025-11-05) Odyek, Christine
This study investigates the relationship between the cost of debt and the financial performance of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Lira City, Uganda. The purpose of this study is to investigate the impact of interest expenses, loan maturity periods, and debt servicing capacity on the profitability, liquidity, and overall financial sustainability of SMEs. Despite the critical role of debt financing in SME growth, the rising cost of borrowing and limited access to affordable credit continue to constrain performance and survival, particularly in developing economies like Uganda. A descriptive and correlational research design was adopted, integrating both quantitative and qualitative approaches. The study targeted a sample of 120 SMEs registered with the Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB) in Lira City. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and key informant interviews, and analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and multiple regression analysis aided by SPSS version 26. The analysis tested the statistical significance of the cost of debt variables on financial performance indicators such as return on assets (ROA), return on equity (ROE), and net profit margin. Findings revealed a significant negative relationship between high cost of debt and SME financial performance, indicating that elevated interest rates and short repayment periods erode profitability and capital efficiency. However, prudent debt management and strategic utilization of borrowed funds were found to moderate this relationship positively. The study was limited by its cross-sectional design, which may not capture long-term financial dynamics, and reliance on self-reported data, which may introduce response bias. Nevertheless, the research contributes to empirical literature by offering context-specific insights into how debt pricing structures affect SME financial health in Uganda, guiding policymakers and financial institutions toward more sustainable lending frameworks.
Leadership styles and business sustainability of small and medium-sized enterprises in Arua city, Uganda
(Muni University, 2025-11-13) Obol, Emmanuel
This study examined the relationship between leadership styles and business sustainability among Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Arua City, Uganda. Specifically, it investigated the relationship between transformational, transactional, laissez-faire, and democratic leadership styles on the sustainability of SMEs. The researcher employed a sequential explanatory design, adopting both quantitative and qualitative approaches to ensure methodological triangulation. Data were collected from a sample of 365 respondents, using an explanatory sequential approach whereby the quantitative results were collected and analyzed first, then augmented by qualitative data. The study adopted simple random sampling techniques for managers, supervisors, and lower level employees, while purposive sampling targeted managing directors. Questionnaires and Interviews were used. Quantitative data analysis employed descriptive statistics involving frequencies, Standard Deviation and percentages and inferential statistics using Spearman correlation, while qualitative data were grouped into themes. Findings revealed a weak positive correlation (r = 0.254) between transformational leadership and business sustainability, a moderate positive correlation (r = 0.332) with transactional leadership, a weak positive correlation (r = 0.138) with laissez-faire leadership, and a weak positive correlation (r = 0.175) with democratic leadership. The results showed that transactional leadership had the strongest influence on business sustainability. It was concluded that leadership styles significantly explained business sustainability among SMEs in Arua City, Uganda. The study recommends that SMEs should prioritize transactional leadership practices in order to strengthen strategic decision-making, improve operational efficiency, and foster long-term sustainability.
Access to finance and economic sustainability of small and medium enterprises in Arua city, Uganda
(Muni University, 2025-10-31) Ndemaru, Patricia
The Economic Sustainability of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) is often affected by Access to finance, especially in developing regions such as Arua City, Uganda. This study investigated the relationship between access to finance and the economic sustainability of SMEs in Arua City, focusing on four specific objectives: To establish the relationship between the availability of financial services and economic sustainability; To assess the effect of affordability on economic sustainability; To determine the contribution of ease of finance access to economic sustainability; and to examine the moderating influence of the regulatory environment on access to finance and economic sustainability. The study employed a mixed-methods approach, utilizing both quantitative and qualitative data collection methods. Findings revealed that Pearson correlation coefficient between the two variables is 0.760 indicating a Strong positive relationship between Availability of Financial Services and Economic Sustainability which implies that financial access plays a critical role in the economic stability and longevity of businesses. Pearson correlation coefficient between Affordability and Economic Sustainability is 0.767 indicating likeliness of businesses to engage, resulting in better financial planning, investment opportunities, and ultimately, improved economic outcomes. Pearson correlation coefficient between Ease of Access and Economic Sustainability is 0.768 this Suggests that improving access to financial services is directly related to the sustainability of economic practices. They are better equipped to manage cash flow, invest in growth opportunities, and plan for the long term. The Moderating influence of Regulatory Environment on Access to Finance and economic sustainability was visible through the Strong positive relationship R-value of 0.779 attributed to the combined influence of the regulatory environment, availability of financial services, ease of access, and affordability. Based on these findings, the study recommends increasing awareness of available financial services and implementing financial literacy programs tailored to SMEs. Additionally, policymakers should strive to develop a regulatory environment that balances financial stability with SME growth by ensuring clear, transparent, and flexible financial regulations. Such measures will help enhance the accessibility, affordability, and ease of access to financial services, ultimately fostering economic sustainability among SMEs in Arua City.
Microfinance services and women empowerment in Maracha district, Uganda
(Muni University, 2025-10-22) Ajadribo, Philliam
This study examined the relationship between microfinance services and women empowerment in Maracha District, Uganda. The objective was to determine the relationship between microloan access, Savings Accounts, Financial literacy training, and women empowerment. A descriptive and correlational design was employed, utilizing both quantitative and qualitative methods to ensure methodological triangulation. Data were collected from a sample of 198 respondents, using an explanatory sequential approach in which qualitative data were collected and analyzed following the quantitative phase to augment the initial findings. Women beneficiaries were selected via simple random sampling, while managers from Savings and Credit Cooperative Organizations (SACCOs) and BRAC were selected using purposive sampling. Data collection methods included questionnaire surveys and Interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Spearman’s rank-order correlation. Qualitative data were examined thematically. The findings revealed a moderate positive correlation between microloans and women empowerment (r=0.355, p<.000), a weak positive relationship between savings accounts and women's empowerment (r=0.203, p<.000), and a moderate positive correlation between financial literacy training and women empowerment (r=0.495, p<.001). The study concludes that microfinance services offered by financial institutions affect women empowerment in Maracha District, Uganda. It recommends mandatory financial literacy training for loan recipients, the integration of savings accounts with microloan programs, and the expansion of financial education to promote long term economic independence for women.
Fiscal decentralization and revenue performance of Paidha town council local government in Uganda
(Muni University, 2025-10-29) Kermu, Jasinto
This study investigates the influence of fiscal decentralization on revenue performance in Paidha Town Council Local Government, Uganda, with a particular focus on the roles of revenue autonomy, expenditure responsibility, intergovernmental transfers, and the moderating effect of institutional capacity. The purpose of the study is to generate actionable insights into how devolved fiscal powers can enhance local government financial sustainability. A mixed methods research design was employed, integrating quantitative data from revenue records and surveys with qualitative insights from interviews with local officials and key stakeholders. Quantitative data were analyzed using regression and correlation techniques, while qualitative responses were thematically coded to capture nuanced perceptions of fiscal decentralization practices. Findings reveal that revenue autonomy significantly improves local revenue performance, with locally generated taxes, fees, and charges contributing approximately 60% of the council’s total revenue. Intergovernmental transfers accounted for nearly 40%, although their reliability was questioned by respondents. Institutional capacity emerged as a critical moderating factor, amplifying the positive effects of fiscal decentralization in councils with robust administrative structures. The study highlights that granting local government’s greater discretion over revenue sources and tax rates, coupled with reduced central government bureaucratic constraints, can substantially enhance financial sustainability. Strengthening institutional capacity through targeted training and resource allocation is essential to fully realize the benefits of fiscal decentralization. The limitations of the study include the study’s focus on a single local government, which may affect the generalizability of the findings. Nonetheless, the research contributes to policy and academic debates by providing empirical evidence on the mechanisms through which fiscal decentralization impacts local revenue performance in emerging economies.
Human resource management practices and health worker performance in Zombo district, Uganda
(Muni University, 2025-11-10) Jakisa, Mike
The purpose of the study was to examine the relationship between Human Resource Management (HRM) practices and health worker performance in Zombo District, Uganda, focusing on how challenges such as inadequate training, poor supervision, and insufficient reward mechanisms hinder optimal performance. Guided by the Resource-Based View and Human Capital theories, it assessed the influence of HRM practices on health worker performance indicators, including productivity, job satisfaction, service delivery efficiency, and timeliness. Methodologically, a cross-sectional survey design was employed. Quantitative data were collected from 215 health workers using structured questionnaires, while qualitative insights were obtained from 11 key stakeholders through interviews. Data was analyzed using statistical correlation analysis using SPSS examined the relationships between HRM practices and health worker performance, while thematic analysis of qualitative data identified recurring themes regarding motivation and performance. Findings revealed significant positive correlations between performance management practices (r = 0.724, p < 0.01), training practices (r = 0.668, p < 0.01), and rewards management practices (r = 0.671, p < 0.01) and health worker performance. Qualitative findings emphasized the importance of regular capacity building, clear goal-setting, and recognition systems in fostering motivation and performance. The study was limited to Zombo District and employed a cross-sectional design, which restricts the ability to infer causality. Additionally, the relatively small qualitative sample may not fully capture all perspectives on HRM challenges in the district. Research Contributions: The findings provide actionable insights for policymakers and practitioners aiming to strengthen rural health systems through strategic HRM interventions. Enhancing performance management, training, and rewards systems can substantially improve health worker performance and overall health service delivery. The study also highlights the need for coordinated efforts between local and central governments to support sustainable HRM reforms.
Credit management and financial performance of savings and credit co-operative societies in Moyo district, Uganda
(Muni University, 2025-09-20) Drale, Cherubin
This study examined the impact of credit management on the financial performance of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Moyo District, Uganda, with a particular focus on Savings and Credit Cooperative Organizations (SACCOs). Specifically, it assessed how credit assessment and approval, credit monitoring and collection, and credit risk management influence SME financial outcomes, while considering institutional factors—governance, institutional capacity, and organizational culture—as moderating variables. In terms of methodology, a cross-sectional survey design was employed, involving 120 respondents selected from SACCOs in Moyo District. Data were gathered using structured questionnaires and key informant interviews. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential methods, including Pearson correlation and multiple regression analysis, to test the relationships between variables and the moderating effects of institutional factors. Results revealed a significant positive relationship between credit assessment and approval and financial performance (r = 0.612, p < 0.01), indicating that comprehensive credit evaluation enhances profitability and liquidity. Credit monitoring and collection also had a strong positive effect (r = 0.659, p < 0.01), while credit risk management exhibited the highest positive association (r = 0.703, p < 0.01). Institutional factors significantly moderated the relationship between credit management and financial performance (β = 0.247, p < 0.05), implying that effective governance, strong institutional capacity, and a supportive organizational culture amplify the impact of sound credit management practices. The study was limited to SACCOs in Moyo District, restricting the generalizability of findings to other regions or financial institutions. Additionally, the cross-sectional design did not capture long-term effects. This research contributes to the understanding of how integrated credit management practices and institutional dynamics jointly influence SME financial sustainability. It provides empirical evidence to guide policymakers and SACCO managers in strengthening credit processes, risk management frameworks, and institutional capacities to improve SME performance.
Record management practices and service delivery in the secretariat of diocese of Ma’di west-nile, Uganda
(Muni University, 2025-10-22) Candiru, Keren
This study examines the relationship between records management practices and service delivery within the Secretariat of the Diocese of Ma’di, West Nile, Uganda. The research examines four key areas: secure record storage, records retrieval, records retention, and training, and their impact on the efficiency of service delivery. This study employed a cross-sectional research design, utilizing both quantitative and qualitative approaches. A cross-sectional design was chosen for its efficiency in employing mixed methods, leading to actionable recommendations for improving record management. Correlation analysis revealed a moderate positive relationship between secure records storage and service delivery (Pearson r = 0.508, p = 0.000), indicating that enhanced security in record storage is associated with improved service delivery. Similarly, a positive correlation was found between records retrieval and service delivery (Pearson r = 0.357, p = 0.000), suggesting that efficient retrieval practices contribute to better service outcomes. Furthermore, a strong positive correlation was observed between staff training and service delivery (Pearson r = 0.580, p = 0.000), highlighting the critical role of capacity building in organizational performance. All correlations were statistically significant at the 0.01 level, leading to the rejection of the null hypotheses in each case. The finding recommends streamlining incident management for secure record storage, investing in advanced security measures, and integrating digital and physical records via an upgraded Electronic Document Management System (EDMS) to enhance retrieval efficiency. The Secretariat should adopt automated systems for lifecycle tracking and ensure strict adherence to archiving schedules.
Records management practices and students’ academic achievement at Muni University in Uganda
(Muni University, 2025-10-22) Asio, Annet
In response to the rapid growth of student enrollment in intuitions of higher learning, and the corresponding increase in academic records. The effective management of records within universities become increasingly critical. This study examined the relationship between records management practices and students’ academic achievement at Muni University in Arua City, Uganda. A cross-sectional study design was employed, utilizing both quantitative and qualitative approaches with a sample of 173 respondents. Simple random sampling was used to select participants. Data collection involved a survey conducted via Google Forms, supplemented by documentary analysis from University management and observational notes. The survey's validity was 0.854, and the Cronbach Alpha Index was 0.824. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequencies and percentages) and Pearson's correlation (SPSS), while qualitative data were analyzed using an interview guide. The Findings from the study indicate that, there was positive correlation between records management practices and students’ academic outcomes. It was therefore concluded that records management practices significantly affect students’ academic performance. The study recommends that institutions focus on improving records management through staff training, regular professional development, and adherence to national standards to ensure the accuracy, accessibility, security, and proper retention of academic records. Further research is suggested to explore factors affecting records accessibility and its impact on academic performance across various disciplines, potentially through multi-institutional or longitudinal studies
Strategic management and business economic sustainability in small and medium-sized enterprises in Arua city, Uganda
(Muni University, 2025-10-22) Apio, Angela
This research investigates the relationship between Strategic Management and Business Economic Sustainability in Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises in Arua City, Uganda. The study objectives were: To investigate the relationship between strategy formulation and business Economic sustainability in SMEs in Arua City, Uganda; To examine the relationship between strategy implementation and business Economic sustainability in SMEs in Arua City, Uganda. To explore the relationship between continuous monitoring and business Economic sustainability in SMEs in Arua City, Uganda. The study used Explanatory Sequential Design, adopting both quantitative and qualitative approaches to ensure methodological triangulation. Data were collected from a sample of 191 respondents. The research used simple random sampling techniques and purposive sampling techniques. Findings revealed a strong positive correlation (0.735) between strategy formulation and business economic sustainability, a strong positive correlation (0.756) between strategy implementation and business economic sustainability, and a very strong positive correlation (0.830) between continuous monitoring and business economic sustainability. The coefficient of determination, R 2 = 0.697, accounted for 69.7% of the variation in business economic sustainability. Strategy Formulation (coefficient =.026, t=0.317, p=.752) was not statistically significant, whereas Strategy Implementation (coefficient =.203, t=2.656, p=.009) \showed a linear relationship, and Continuous Monitoring (coefficient =.639, t=7.122, p< .001) emerged as the strongest predictor of economic sustainability. The study concluded that strategic management significantly explains business economic sustainability in Small and medium-sized enterprises in Arua City, Uganda. The study recommends that business leaders should enhance inclusive strategy formulation by involving employees and stakeholders to strengthen alignment and market responsiveness; policymakers should improve strategy implementation through stronger risk management, resource optimization, and supportive policy frameworks; and academic institutions should advance continuous monitoring by adopting technology-driven systems and evidence-based models to boost adaptability, efficiency, and long-term sustainability of SMEs in Arua City.
Destination marketing and competitiveness of the tourism sector in Westnile subregion, Uganda
(Muni University, 2025-11-25) Amen, Elizabeth
The purpose of this study is to investigate the influence of Destination Marketing on the Competitiveness of the Tourism Sector in Uganda’s West Nile sub region, with a particular focus on the moderating role of Government Policies and Support. The research aimed to examine how Unique Selling Propositions (USPs), targeted marketing strategies, and destination branding collectively enhance tourism competitiveness under varying levels of government intervention. In terms of methodology a descriptive and correlational research design was adopted, employing a mixed-methods approach that integrated quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews. Data were collected from 169 respondents, including tourism operators, local government officials, and key tourism stakeholders. Quantitative data were analyzed using regression and moderation analyses, while qualitative responses were examined through thematic content analysis to triangulate and enrich the findings. Findings revealed a positive and significant relationship between USPs and tourism competitiveness (β = 0.412, p < 0.01), confirming that distinctive market propositions strengthen regional appeal. Targeted marketing strategies (β = 0.387, p < 0.01) and branding and image management (β = 0.426, p < 0.01) were also found to significantly enhance competitiveness. Furthermore, government policies and support demonstrated a moderating effect (β = 0.295, p < 0.05), amplifying the impact of destination marketing initiatives. Qualitative evidence highlighted persistent challenges, including policy inconsistency, limited financial facilitation, and weak institutional coordination. In terms of limitations, the study was geographically confined to the West Nile sub region and relied partly on self-reported data, which may limit the generalizability of the findings across Uganda’s broader tourism landscape. This research contributes empirically to the discourse on tourism competitiveness in emerging destinations, demonstrating that integrated marketing strategies—when reinforced by coherent government support—can substantially elevate destination performance. The study further provides a conceptual model linking destination marketing dynamics with tourism competitiveness, offering a valuable framework for policymakers and practitioners seeking to strengthen Uganda’s regional tourism competitiveness.
Internal organization environment and civil servants performance in Arua city council, Uganda
(2025-10-22) Aduvuku, Albert
This study investigated the effect of the internal organizational environment on the performance of civil servants in Arua City Council, Uganda. It focused on four key environmental factors: bureaucratic, supportive, innovative, and competitive environments. A mixed-methods case study design was employed, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews. From a population of 250 staff members, a sample of 151 was selected using purposive and simple random sampling techniques. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and in-depth interviews. Quantitative analysis revealed that all four environmental factors had statistically significant positive correlations with civil servant performance. The supportive environment showed the strongest relationship (r = .348, p < .01), followed by the innovative (r = .334, p < .01), competitive (r = .308, p < .01), and bureaucratic environments (r = .232, p < .01). These findings suggest that professional support, creativity, fair incentives, and role clarity all contribute to improved performance. Qualitative findings reinforced these results, with respondents emphasizing the value of supportive supervision, recognition, innovation, and clearly defined roles. However, concerns were raised regarding excessive bureaucracy and pressure from unmanaged competition. The study concludes that optimizing employee performance in local government requires a balanced organizational environment maintaining clear structures while fostering support, innovation, and healthy competition. The findings offer practical implications for policy and management in public sector institutions, contributing to the broader understanding of how internal environments influence civil servant performance
Internal control systems and performance of PNFP health facilities in Nebbi district. (Case study of Angal St. Luke hospital)
(Muni University, 2025-10-22) Adongo, Brenda
The purpose of this study was to assess the relationship between the internal control system and the performance of Private Not-for-Profit (PNFP) health facilities in Nebbi District, using Angal St. Luke Hospital as a case study. The specific objectives were to determine the relationships between internal control activities, control environment, risk assessment, information and communication, and monitoring with the performance of the hospital. The study adopted a quantitative research approach and a case study design. Data were collected from a target population of 170 staff members at Angal St. Luke Hospital, with a sample of 118 respondents determined using Krejcie and Morgan’s (1970) sampling table. A descriptive and inferential design was applied to analyze the data. Data were analyzed using SPSS, employing Pearson correlation and multiple linear regression techniques to examine the relationships between internal control components and hospital performance. The study found that control activities, risk assessment, and monitoring had a moderate positive and significant relationship with hospital performance (r = .316**, r = .330**, r = .375**; p < 0.01), whereas control environment and information and communication exhibited weak but significant positive relationships (r = .190*, r = .235*; p < 0.05). These results highlight the critical role of internal controls in enhancing hospital performance. The study was limited to one PNFP health facility in Nebbi District, which may affect the generalizability of the findings to other health facilities in Uganda or beyond. This study contributes to the understanding of how internal control systems influence performance in PNFP health facilities, providing evidence-based recommendations for improving financial accountability, operational efficiency, and service delivery. It underscores the need for enhanced control activities, a robust control environment, regular monitoring, and effective information and communication systems.
Internal control and financial accountability in local governments in Uganda (case of Arua district)
(Muni University, 2025-10-11) Abizu, Stephen
The purpose, the study was to examine internal control as a mechanism to enhance financial accountability in local governments of Uganda, with a specific focus on Arua District Local Government (DLG). The objectives were to examine the relationship between the control environment, control activities, and monitoring controls on financial accountability. Methodology, the study adopted a cross-sectional descriptive survey design and was anchored on stewardship and agency theories. Quantitative data were collected from 134 respondents using a structured questionnaire containing closed-ended items. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20 to generate descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviation) and inferential statistics. Pearson correlation analysis was performed to determine the relationship between internal control components (control environment, control activities, and monitoring controls) and financial accountability. Findings indicated a strong and positive significant relationship between internal control mechanisms and financial accountability in Arua DLG. Specifically, the control environment (r = 0.861, p < 0.01), control activities (r = 0.778, p < 0.01), and monitoring controls (r = 0.817, p < 0.01) were all significantly associated with improved financial accountability. The study concluded that effective internal control systems enhance financial accountability in local governments. The study was limited to one district (Arua), which may affect the generalizability of the findings to other districts in Uganda. Additionally, the reliance on self-reported data might have introduced some response bias. This study contributes to the understanding of how internal control mechanisms influence financial accountability in local governments in developing countries. It offers empirical evidence supporting the adoption and strengthening of internal control systems to improve transparency, stewardship, and fiscal discipline in public sector financial management.

Browse

Recent Submissions