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Welcome to the Uganda Christian University Scholar
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Recent Submissions
Smart e-pocket money (EduWallet AI) an ai-driven digital financial ecosystem for cashless school transactions case study: St. Julian secondary school, Seeta-Mukono, Uganda
(Uganda Christian University, 2026-05-27) Jean Paul Ntigirinzigo; Vanessa Sseguya ; Moses Bakulumpagi ; Yvonne Batwega
Smart E-Pocket Money is a system that helps overcome some key issues in financial management in schools by substituting paper currency with a more advanced AI-powered digital wallet solution. In the current report, we provide an overview of the design, development, deployment, and assessment of an integrated solution designed specifically for St. Julian Secondary School based in Seeta-Mukono, Uganda. It involves building the mobile digital wallet solution, implementing students’ authentication, introducing real-time parent’s governance, spending analytics, anomaly detection, and overall administration features. The cloud-based platform was developed using the following technologies: Next.js 15 for the frontend, Firebase Firestore for the database backend, and an artificial intelligence layer developed using Google Genkit and Google Gemini 2.5 Flash models. Altogether, we managed to develop four different fully functional portals: an Administration portal, a Student Digital Wallet portal, a Parent’s Governance portal, and a Vendor Merchant POS portal. Full prototype testing demonstrated that the entire process chain of governance and transactions is covered in a nine-step test case conducted at St. Julian Secondary School. The system has been proven to apply financial spending policies, parent authorization procedures, and artificial intelligence-based financial guidance. Potential metrics of success are expected to be a 80% decrease in cash theft cases, a 60% decrease in the financial management time of administrators, and a target stakeholder satisfaction score higher than 85% Keywords: Digital wallet, cashless schools, AI financial planning, biometric verification, personal savings account, parent governance, EduWallet AI, financial literacy, Uganda, school finance
AI-Driven Personal Budgeting and Financial Literacy Enhancement for University Students in Uganda
(Uganda Christian University, 2026-06-01) Oscar Odongkara; Precious Wakabi Namaganda; Joseph Mukama
Uganda’s university students face a critical financial management challenge. Despite mobile money reaching 33.8 million registered accounts and daily transaction values exceeding UGX 1.2 trillion, fewer than 25% of students aged 18–30 maintain any form of personal budget, and only 34% demonstrate basic financial literacy. Existing global applications such as Mint, YNAB, and Wallet are designed for structured banking environments and cannot parse the unstructured receipt images, nor do they recognise culturally relevant expenditure categories unique to Ugandan student life. This project presents UniGuard Expense Tracker, an Progressive Web Application (PWA) that integrates artificial intelligence, Receipt OCR parsing, predictive budgeting, and gamified financial education to improve personal financial management and literacy among university students in Uganda. The system implements a Receipt OCR Scanner pipeline with OCR and Random Forest classification to automatically categorise transactions into 18 locally meaningful categories. A hybrid Random Forest anomaly detection architecture optimised via Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) provides accurate spending forecasts from limited historical data. A gamification engine grounded in Self-Determination Theory delivers points, badges, leaderboards, and daily challenges, while a financial literacy Gemini AI Companion provides
context-aware financial coaching. Evaluation of the system produced strong results across all three objectives. The Receipt OCR scanner achieved an overall parse success rate of 96.4% on Ugandan mobile money receipts,
while the Random Forest transaction classifier reached 89.2% accuracy across 18 culturally localised expenditure categories. The PSO-tuned forecasting model recorded a Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) of 8.9%, outperforming both ARIMA and GRU baselines. Usability testing with 25 Uganda Christian University students yielded a System Usability Scale (SUS) score of 83.4, placing the application in the “Excellent” usability category. An 8-week pilot
with 97 students demonstrated a statistically significant 23.9 percentage point gain in overall financial literacy (p < 0.001), with the largest improvement recorded in budgeting confidence (+27.5%). The 28-day user retention rate reached 67.4%, confirming sustained engagement with the gamified learning framework. The total development cost remains within UGX 3,190,000, making the solution practically achievable in the Ugandan tertiary context.
Financial Inclusion and Financial Performance of Smes in Uganda: a Case Study of Namataba Town Council
(Uganda Christian University, 2026-05-13) Steven Gganzi Musoke
The study investigated the impact of financial inclusion on the financial performance of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Namataba Town Council of Uganda. Financial inclusion was defined in terms of access, affordability and usage. The study adopted a cross-sectional design and data was obtained from 138 SME owners/managers through structured questionnaires with a response rate of 90.8%. Descriptive findings revealed that mobile money service access was extremely high, with the majority of respondents stating that mobile money agents were conveniently accessible. But access to online loans and credit was low. In terms of use, mobile money was extensively used to receive customer payments and pay suppliers, but the use of formal savings accounts, credit and
financial documents to apply for loans was very limited. The most binding constraint is affordability, with most SMEs finding interest rates unaffordable and high interest rates holding them back from taking loans that could support their businesses.The research suggests affordability is the most binding constraint to financial inclusion for SMEs in Namataba. So setting up a credit guarantee scheme to reduce interest rates, mandating flexible repayment schedules, providing mandatory financial literacy and record-keeping training, and introducing a mobile money fee discount program for businesses is paramount.
Image classification on a smart bin for waste segregation and analytics
(Uganda Christian University, 2026-06-01) Arthur Shalom Yawe; Priscila Denise Muwanguzi; Nicole Mbabazi Mwebembezi
This project addresses the problem of inefficient waste sorting methods currently in use, such as bins with well labelled compartments that rely on users to sort waste correctly. In addition, manual sorting by waste collectors at the point of collection is unsafe due to exposure to hazardous materials. There is also a lack of sufficient data to support effective waste management and decision-making by organizations such as Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) and
National Environment Management Authority (NEMA). To address these challenges, we developed a smart bin with three compartments for paper, plastics, and general waste. The system allows a user to dispose of a single item of waste, after which the bin automatically sorts it into the correct compartment. At the same time, data is collected and sent to a dashboard for analysis of waste trends. The system works by using a camera to capture an image of the waste item. The image is then processed by a VGG16 deep learning model, which classifies the type of waste based on its visual features. The classification result is used to guide the sorting mechanism, and the data is transmitted to an application for further analysis. The backend is built with Node.js and Express, using MongoDB for data storage, while the frontend dashboard is developed with React and Tailwind CSS. The model was trained on a custom dataset of over 500 waste images collected at Uganda Christian University, supplemented by transfer learning from the VGG16 architecture pre trained on ImageNet. Testing demonstrated a classification accuracy exceeding 90% for the targeted waste categories. The integrated system successfully sorts waste into the correct compartments and provides real-time analytics on waste disposal patterns. This solution contributes to improved waste segregation at the source, reduces occupational hazards for waste workers, and provides data-driven insights for institutional waste management.
E-vaccine. A web based vaccination management system case study: Mukono General Hospital
(Uganda Christian University, 2026-05-29) Shawn Geoffrey Lwanga; Bosco Kurre; Luyima Rodine; Odipio Gerald
Vaccination stands as the most successful public health measure which stops infectious diseases while decreasing child death rates. Uganda conducts its immunization efforts through the Uganda National Expanded Programme on Immunization (UNEPI) which implements its vaccination programs. Healthcare facilities need to switch to digital systems because their existing paper-based systems still need to address proper vaccination data management. The
manual systems generate record loss together with incomplete data which creates obstacles for tracking vaccination timelines that result in children missing vital vaccination periods. This project shows how to create and operate an E-Vaccination Management System which allows for better control over vaccination documentation and appointment management and parent-healthcare provider communication. The system enables parents to track their children’s
vaccination schedules, book vaccination appointments, and receive reminders for upcoming vaccinations. Health workers can register parents and children, update vaccination records, and monitor immunization progress, while administrators manage hospitals and healthcare workers within the system. The system used a web-based technology stack which includes HTML, CSS, JavaScript, PHP, MySQL through phpMyAdmin, and PHPMailer for sending automatic email alerts. The project used a structured methodology which included requirement analysis and system design and implementation and testing and evaluation processes. The system demonstrates its ability to enhance record management while decreasing vaccination appointment failures and improving communication between health professionals and parents. System evaluation confirmed that the application meets all three benchmarks through which it assesses its operational performance and user experience and information retrieval process.
Exploring the role of NBS TV Uganda in advocating for the rights of children with disabilities through television
(Uganda Christian University, 2026-06-08) Paul Ibanda Mwesigwa
This study explores how NBS TV Uganda uses television to promote the rights of kids with disabilities. The study aims to evaluate how NBS TV Uganda covers issues affecting children with disabilities in its programming, the frequency and consistency of such coverage, and its influence on public awareness and attitudes. The study documents from the network's media channels as well as content analysis of NBS TV shows to look at how children with impairments are portrayed. Qualitative analysis reveals conflicting portrayals, both empowering and stereotyped, while quantitative findings show intermittent coverage with notable surges during Disability Awareness Week. It is noted that there are obstacles such as potential biases in interpretation and restricted access to extensive archives. The goal of the study is to provide suggestions for improving NBS TV Uganda's advocacy work, promoting inclusive programming and successful media representation of children with disabilities. In the end, the study advances public attitudes, media practices, and policy formation in Uganda's media environment.
Impact of credit terms on financial performance of small and medium enterprises: a case study of Mukono Centeral Division
(Uganda Christian University, 2026-06-25) Ivan Agaba
This study examined the impact of credit terms on the financial performance of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Mukono Central Division. The study focused on credit period, cash discounts, and collection policies as the key dimensions of credit terms. A descriptive research design was used, and data were collected from SME owners and managers through questionnaires. The data were analyzed to determine the relationship between credit terms and financial performance. The findings indicated that effective credit terms improve cash flow, reduce bad debts, and enhance profitability. SMEs with clear credit policies and efficient debt collection practices reported better financial performance than those with weak credit management systems. The study concluded that credit terms have a significant influence on the financial performance of SMEs in Mukono Central Division. It recommends that SME owners adopt appropriate credit periods and strengthen debt collection procedures to improve business performance. Key Words: Credit Terms, Financial Performance, SMEs, Mukono Central Division.
Exploratory study on emotion recognition and assistive communication for non-verbal and immobile cerebral palsy patients
(Uganda Christian University, 2026-05-29) Jessy Okellowange Laker; Vivian Atwine; Joanna Otim Laker; Ronald Khauka
This report presents the design, simulation, and evaluation of an affordable, sensor-driven assistive system intended to support the care of non-verbal, immobile children with Cerebral Palsy (CP) in Uganda. The system integrates low-cost heart rate, sound, and motion sensors with an Arduino microcontroller to monitor physiological and environmental signals and provide timely alerts to caregivers. The study also examines existing caregiver practices and challenges to inform system design. Both a simulated model and a physical prototype were developed and assessed for feasibility, usability, and potential impact in institutional care settings. Ethical considerations were incorporated throughout the study, alongside a defined project timeline, budget, and expected outcomes. The implementation and evaluation were conducted at Mukisa Foundation in Kampala, providing practical insights into the system’s effectiveness in real- world caregiving environments.
Determinants of financial behavior among households in Uganda: An empirical analysis of Parish Development Model exposure
(Uganda Christian University, 2026-06-23) Lucia Malesh Aniende
In the study, the determinants of financial behavior of households in Uganda were explored, especially the impact of exposure to the Parish Development Model (PDM). This study used a quantitative research design and analysed survey data from 1576 households to explore how PDM exposure, access to credit and their savings status interacted with household headship. The empirical analysis was based on linear regression models to measure the effect of such factors on
financial outcomes. The findings showed that sub regional classification and male headship status were statistically significant predictors for all models. The overall explanatory power, however, was still quite low, indicating the presence of other latent socioeconomic factors. All the variables were tested for multicollinearity as part of the diagnostic testing, which showed no multicollinearity, ensuring the robustness of the estimates. The study found that exposure to PDM had a statistically significant effect on participation in household financial decision making, which was used to inform policy adjustments, and provide empirical evidence to support the policy changes, that would enhance financial inclusion and economic outcomes of rural households in Uganda. This will be achieved by using a set of keywords: Financial behavior, Parish Development Model, household saving, credit access, Uganda, financial inclusion.
Assessment of accountants knowledge attitude and practices towards electronic data management at Uganda Martyrs Hospital Mukono District
(Uganda Christian University, 2026-06-16) Martyrs Elizabeth
The rapid digitalization of financial processes has made EDM a critical component of modern accounting practice. This study investigates the KAP OF Accountants towards EDM with the aim of assessing their preparedness to operate in a technology driven financial environment Using a descriptive cross sectional research design, data was collected from professional accountants. The study was anchored on the Technology Acceptance Model to explain the factors influencing EDM adoption Findings reveal that many accountants possess basic to moderate Knowledge of EDM tools such as cloud accounting software, electronic document management systems and data analytics platforms, significant knowledge gaps exist regarding data security protocols, regulatory compliance for e-records and advanced features of accounting information systems. The study concludes that inadequate training, limited organizational IT support and weak enforcement of e- record regulations are major barriers to effective EDM among accountants. It recommends targeted continuous professional development programs by integration of EDM modules in accounting curricula and stronger instructional policies on data governance to bridge the knowledge practice gap.
The effect of financial management practices on the financial performance of small and medium enterprises in Wakiso District
(Uganda Christian University, 2026-06-15) Sheeba Matina Nabusido
The study aimed at examining the effect of financial management practices on the financial performance of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Wakiso district. It specifically focused on; examining the relationship between budgeting practices and financial performance of SMEs, establishing the relationship between working capital management and financial performance of SMEs, and exploring the relationship between financial record keeping and financial performance of SMEs in Wakiso district. The study was conducted using cross-sectional survey research design, where quantitative research approach was also used. During the data gathering process, simple random sampling method was used. A sample size of 133 SMEs located in Bweyogerere, Wakiso district was use although 120 of them responded to the questionnaires. The study found out that there is a significant relationship between financial management activities
such as budgeting, working capital management, and record keeping and the financial performance of small businesses operating in Wakiso district. Budgeting practices positively influence planning, cost control, and decision-making processes (r = .766**, p < .05). Working capital management practices have been found to improve business efficiency and liquidity (r = .792**, p < .05), while financial record keeping improves accountability and informed decision-making (r
= .785**, p < .05). Finally, the study recommended that small and medium enterprises operating in the district of Wakiso should adopt sound financial management by developing sound budgets, reviewing and revising their budgets, managing their working capital using efficient cash flow management
techniques, and collecting their receivables efficiently. Moreover, small and medium enterprises should develop sound financial policies as well as sound financial record keeping systems. These recommendations will result into improved financial performance.
The relationship between social work home visitations and the wellbeing of children: a case study of Kasaka Child Development Centre in Gomba District
(Uganda Christian University, 2026-06-23) Caroline Kyarisiima
This study examined the relationship between social work home visitations and the well-being of children, with a focus on Kasaka Child Development Centre in Gomba District, Uganda. The study was guided by three objectives: to explore the learning experiences of social work students during home visitations, to assess how fieldwork contributes to the development of professional competences, and to examine challenges faced during home visits and their effect on learning. A qualitative case study design was adopted, using documentary analysis as the main data collection method. Data were obtained from home visitation reports, field journals, monitoring forms, and institutional records collected during the internship period. The data were analyzed using qualitative content analysis guided by Ecological Systems Theory. Findings revealed that home visitations provide rich experiential learning opportunities for social work students, enhancing skills such as communication, assessment, problem-solving, and ethical practice. The study also found that home visits positively contribute to children’s well-being through improved school attendance, better hygiene practices, and increased caregiver awareness. However, challenges such as caregiver resistance, transport constraints, emotional stress, and limited resources affected both learning and service delivery. The study concluded that home visitations are a vital tool in both social work training and child welfare interventions. It recommends strengthening monitoring frameworks, improving fieldwork supervision, and increasing institutional support for community-based interventions.
The experiences of people with disabilities regarding housing conditions in Gumbo Payam, Shirikat, South Sudan
(Uganda Christian University, 2026-06-23) Nyantiop Mach Kuol Garang
This study investigated the experiences of people with disabilities regarding housing conditions in Gumbo Payam, Shirikat, South Sudan. The study was guided by three specific objectives: to examine the housing conditions experienced by people with disabilities, to identify the barriers to accessing adequate and accessible housing, and to explore possible solutions to improve housing conditions. A qualitative research design was adopted, and data was collected from a sample size of 63 respondents using interviews and thematic analysis. The findings revealed that people with disabilities live in poor and inadequate housing characterized by weak structures, overcrowding, lack of accessibility features such as ramps and wide doorways, and limited access to basic services like water, sanitation, and electricity. The study further established that financial constraints, lack of accessible infrastructure, land tenure insecurity, social discrimination, and weak implementation of government policies are the major barriers to adequate housing. The findings also indicated that possible solutions include provision of financial support, adoption of inclusive housing designs, community sensitization, and improvement of infrastructure. The study concluded that housing conditions for people with disabilities in Gumbo Payam are largely inadequate and are influenced by a combination of economic, social, and structural factors, which negatively affect their wellbeing and independence. The study recommends that the government should strengthen the implementation of inclusive housing policies and provide financial support to people with disabilities to improve their living conditions.
The impact of parental alcohol abuse to domestic violence and child neglect in Pakwach Town Council, Pakwach District
(Uganda Christian University, 2026-06-11) Sunday Patrick Jamundu
The research examined the impact of parental alcohol abuse on domestic violence and child neglect in Pakwach Town Council, Pakwach District. The research was guided by social learning theory and ecological theory. The researcher used a descriptive survey design with mixed methods. Data was collected from 60 respondents including parents, children, social workers, probation officers and community leaders through questionnaires and interviews. Findings revealed that parental alcohol abuse in Pakwach Town Council was influenced by poverty, stress, social acceptance of drinking, easy availability of alcohol, peer influence and weak law enforcement. The research showed that alcohol abuse contributes to domestic violence through increased conflicts between partners, physical aggression, emotional suffering and children witnessing violence. It further contributes to child neglect through failure to provide basic needs such as food and clothing, lack of proper supervision, school absenteeism and emotional neglect.The research concludes that parental alcohol abuse significantly contributes to
domestic violence and child neglect and recommends strengthened control policies, community sensitization, family counseling services and child protection
interventions.
Socio-economic determinants of household food security in Uganda: an econometric analysis of the UNHS 2023/24 dataset
(Uganda Christian University, 2026-06-11) Timothy Loyo
Food insecurity remains a persistent development challenge in Uganda, affecting approximately four in ten households. While previous studies have identified income, education, household size, and asset ownership as important determinants, they have largely relied on caloric intake or hunger-experience indicators (e.g., HFIAS) that do not capture dietary diversity and micronutrient adequacy. Furthermore, most existing studies report average effects without testing
for heterogeneity across regions or between urban and rural areas, and none have directly compared the explanatory power of Sen’s Entitlement Approach (income and assets) versus Becker’s Household Production Theory (education) within a single model. This study examines the socio-economic determinants of household food security in Uganda using the Food Consumption Score (FCS), a multidimensional measure of dietary diversity, and the latest Uganda National Household Survey (UNHS) 2023/24 sub-sample of 1,527 households (weighted population 926,574). A generalised ordered logit (partial proportional odds) model was estimated with cluster-robust standard errors and sampling weights to account for the complex survey design. Average marginal effects (AMEs) were computed for the probability of achieving acceptable food security.The results show that 73.6% of households have acceptable food security, 21.4% borderline, and 5.0% poor. Income is the only main independent variable statistically significant at the 5% level: a 1% increase in income is associated with a 0.000128 (0.0128 percentage point) increase in the probability of acceptable food security (p < 0.001), supporting Sen’s Entitlement Approach. Secondary education is marginally significant at the 10% level (p = 0.080), and its association appears indirect via income. Adult-equivalent household size shows a positive borderline
association (p = 0.052), contrary to the resource dilution hypothesis. Asset ownership is not significant (p = 0.293). Married heads, female heads (after income control), and urban residence show positive supplementary associations. Regional disparities are enormous: the predicted probability of acceptable food security ranges from 89% in Ankole to 43% in Karamoja.The study concludes that income is the most robust correlate of dietary diversity, while education and assets operate indirectly. Policies should prioritise income-raising interventions combined with complementary programmes and geographically targeted strategies, especially for Karamoja. The Parish Development Model should consider regionally differentiated allocations and support for vulnerable unmarried heads and female-headed households. Keywords: Food security, Food Consumption Score (FCS), socio-economic determinants, household income, Uganda, UNHS 2023/24, ordered logit, marginal effects .
Supplier relationship management and organizational perfomance: a case study of Mukono District local Gorvernment
(Uganda Christian University, 2026-06-11) Ritah Nakayondo
This study examined the effect of Supplier Relationship Management (SRM) on organizational operations in Mukono District Local Government, with a focus on supplier collaboration, supplier communication, and supplier trust. The study was guided by Transaction Cost Economics Theory, which explains that procurement performance is influenced by the costs incurred in managing transactions such as coordination, monitoring, and contract enforcement.
The study adopted a cross-sectional descriptive survey design, combining quantitative and qualitative approaches. Data were collected from employees in key departments of Mukono District Local Government and selected suppliers using structured questionnaires and interview guides. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS, where descriptive statistics and inferential analyses were used to determine relationships between SRM practices and organizational
operations, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically. The literature and empirical evidence suggest that supplier collaboration leads to greater efficiency due to better coordination and fewer delays, supplier communication promotes better procurement and operating performance from better information flow and decision making, and supplier trust fosters more effective procurement, as it reduces monitoring costs and increases reliability. But factors like inadequate systems, low transparency and procedural and administrative inefficiency in procurement were also found to be barriers to the efficient implementation of
SRM. The study finds that the SRM practices are significantly affecting the working of public sector institutions. It suggests strengthening supplier collaboration, improving communication systems and developing trust-based relationships for improving procurement efficiency, service delivery and overall operational performance in the context of local government.
Entrepreneurship and graduate unemployment in Lira city west
(Uganda Christian University, 2026-06-10) Jenny Mirriam Atedo
Graduate unemployment remains a persistent challenge in Uganda, where universities produce approximately 700,000 graduates annually yet only about 90,000 secure formal employment. In Lira City West, limited industrial activity and a narrow formal private sector have pushed many graduates into entrepreneurship as a survival strategy. This study examined entrepreneurship as a coping strategy for graduate unemployment in Lira City West, focusing on the extent of engagement, the factors influencing participation, the economic outcomes realized, and the challenges encountered. A descriptive cross-sectional survey design was adopted, with data collected from 35 unemployed graduates using a structured questionnaire. Data was analyzed in SPSS using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and chi-square tests at a significance level of α = 0.05. Four null hypotheses were tested. The study concluded that entrepreneurship is the dominant livelihood coping strategy for unemployed graduates in Lira City West, generating modest but meaningful economic improvements under challenging structural conditions. The study recommended targeted financial product innovation by lending institutions, restructuring of government youth entrepreneurship programs, and curriculum reform in higher education to prioritize practical entrepreneurship training.
Impact of procurement practices on supply chain performance in manufacturing firms: a case study Roofings Uganda limited
(Uganda Christian University, 2026-06-10) Anna Sandra Namboozo
This study examined the impact of procurement practices on supply chain performance in manufacturing organizations with Roofings Uganda Limited as a case study. The paper discussed four basic procurement practices supplier selection, contract management, e procurement, and sustainable procurement and their impacts on main performance indicators like efficiency, costeffectiveness, reliability, and the overall supply chain outcomes. To determine the connections between these practices and supply chain performance, a mixedmethods research was utilized, as it used quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews. Findings showed that successful supplier selection improves the quality of inputs and reliability of suppliers, whereas good contract management promotes compliance, accountability, and risk mitigation. It was discovered that e-procurement systems enhanced procurement processes making it more efficient, transparent and quick. Sustainable procurement helped in saving costs in the long run, environmental stewardship, and increased reputation of the organization. The research confirms that strategic procurement advances in the form of improved supplier evaluation, effective contract management, digital transformation, and sustainability integration have a strong impact on improving supply chains.
The impact of support services on the mental well-being of teenage mothers at Jinja Pregnancy Care Center
(Uganda Christian University, 2026-06-11) Rebecca Chloe Ayero
The study assessed the influence of support services on the mental health of young mothers attending Jinja Pregnancy Care Centre. In particular, the objectives were to evaluate the influence of psychological support services, to study the impact of health support services and to assess the function of social support services on the mental well-being of adolescent mothers. A study was done on 63 respondents and data was obtained using questionnaires and
interviews. The results indicated that psychological support services had a mixed effect. 54%of the respondents believed that counseling helps in managing stress, anxiety and depression and 62% said that it lowers loneliness. But 75% disagreed that it improved self-esteem and confidence, showing gaps in efficacy. Health support services were generally positive with 56% saying that prenatal and postnatal care reduces anxiety and 80% felt that access to healthcare providers brings reassurance and emotional comfort. However, 56% disagreed that health education enhances confidence in managing pregnancy and childcare. The most significant impact was from social support services, with 37% of respondents receiving assistance from family, 25% from partners and 21% from NGOs, underscoring the importance of social networks in increasing emotional stability and coping abilities. Overall, the study reveals that the support services have a good impact on the mental health of teenage moms although the effectiveness of these programs varies with major inadequacies in psychological empowerment and health education. To boost the long-term mental well-being of young moms, the study suggests the government should improve integrated support systems by upgrading the quality of counselling services, boosting practical health education, and increasing community-based and peer support programs.
The effect of cultural tourism on the preservation of local heritage and traditions in Karamoja
(Uganda Christian University, 2026-06-10) Oliver Atim
This study examines the effect of cultural tourism on the preservation of local heritage and traditions in Karamoja, a region in northeastern Uganda known for its rich cultural diversity and unique traditional practices. The research aims to examine the role of cultural tourism in preserving indigenous culture in terms of customs, cultural sites, traditional dances, crafts, languages, and other cultural values of the people of Karamoja. The study seeks to identify if the growth of tourism in the area has been beneficial in maintaining local heritage or has brought about changes to the culture and the commercialisation of the area. Descriptive research design was adopted and data collection methods were both qualitative and quantitative. The information was collected by means of interviews, questionnaires, observation and literature search. The results show that, cultural tourism has contributed to awareness creation of the Karamojong culture, creation of income for the local communities and promotion of the conservation of cultural practices and historical sites. The study revealed however, issues of cultural commodification, loss of authenticity and external influences that can pose a threat to traditional values. The study ends that cultural tourism can be an effective means of safeguarding the traditions and heritage of the people of Karamoja with proper management. It suggests better community involvement, government support, cultural education and sustainable tourism policies to ensure that tourism development is responsive to the needs of the community and preserves its cultural identity for the future.