LUIR :: Browsing by Author "Akello, Judith Abal"

Browsing by Author "Akello, Judith Abal"

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Adult Learning: An Alternative Gateway to Women's Improved Participation in Children’s Education in Lango Region, Northern Uganda
(International Journal of Education, Training and Learning, 2022) Akello, Judith Abal; Lutwama-Rukundo, Evelyn
This research explored the contribution of Functional Adult Literacy training (FAL) and what it did to women’s involvement in children’s education in Apac District. The main objective of this study was to explore whether and how women participants in Lango Region supported their children’s education from the skills acquired from FAL training. A study of 7 participants based on qualitative interpretive framework intended to examine the benefits reaped by FAL-trained women after their positive perception and support to children’s education. Using individual in-depth and key informant interviews based on qualitative content analysis, the study indicates that women trained in FAL became active agents of their socio and economic development. The study was influenced by Kabeer's socio-economic perspective and Freire's literacy perspective, both of which emphasize the importance of conscientisation in making marginalized non-literates actors of socio-economic progress. Women who participated in FAL obtained abilities that vividly improved their lives, according to the conclusions, which were based on facts or witnessed evidence inductively derived from the participants. Furthermore, the women gained a better understanding of their role and influence on their children's academic achievement, perseverance, and success as a result of the practical skills. Therefore, this study recommends that key stakeholders like, Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, global supporters, (Non-Governmental Organisations) NGOs as well as Civil Society Organisations should prioritise in supporting putting into practice FAL training.
Contribution of Village Saving and Loan Association (VSLA) to Household Welfare Improvement in Bala Sub-County, Kole District, Uganda
(Lira University, 2021) Ocen, Tom; Akello, Judith Abal
The study was conducted to examine the effect of VSLA loan activities on poverty reduction in Bala Sub-County. Specifically, the study examined the effect of lending modality on the household welfare improvement in Bala Sub-County, assessed the effect of financial literacy on the household improvement in Bala Sub-County and assessed the effect of small business financing on the household welfare improvement in Bala Sub-County. The study employed cross sectional design and the approaches used were both quantitative and qualitative; the sample size of the study population was 110 respondents comprising of members of VSLA in Bala Sub-County, the District Commercial Officer and Community Development Officer. From the target population of 110, a sample size of 86 respondents was determined using Krejcie and Morgan. Simple random sampling and purposive sampling techniques were applied to sample the respondents. Questionnaires were used to collect quantitative primary data while interview guide and Focus Group Discussion was employed to collect qualitative data. Data analysis was done using the help of the SPSS version 23. Correlation coefficient was used to test the strength and the direction of the relationship between the variables. The findings of the study revealed that household welfare was positively and significantly correlated with lending modality, financial literacy and small business financing. Finally, the results of the regression revealed that VSLA lending modality, financial literacy and small business financing all had a positive significant effect on the level of household welfare hence poverty reduction among members of VSLA in Bala Sub-County. Based on the findings, the study concluded that all the credit activities of the VSLA that were studied by the researcher affect the level of household welfare among the members of the VSLA in Bala Sub-County. The study therefore recommended that government should support the VSLA activities as it is playing a big role in reducing the level of poverty among the poor people at the grassroot level who can not access credit facilities from the formal financial institutions in Uganda.
Contribution of Village Saving and Loan Association (VSLA) to HouseholdWelfare Improvement in Kole District- Northern Uganda
(European Journal of Business and Management, 2022) Ocen,Tom; Akello, Judith Abal
Abstract The study was conducted to examine the effect of VSLA loan activities on poverty reduction in Bala Sub-county. Specifically, the study examined the effect of lending modality on the household welfare improvement in Bala Sub-county, assessed the effect of financial literacy on the house welfare improvement in Bala Sub-county and assessed the effect of small business financing on the household welfare improvement in Bala Sub-county. The study employed cross-sectional design and the approaches used were both quantitative and qualitative; the sample size of the study population was 110 respondents comprising of members of VSLA in Bala Sub-county, the District Commercial Officer and Community Development officer. From the target population of 110, a sample size of 86 respondents was determined using Krejcie and Morgan. Simple random sampling and purposive sampling techniques were applied to sample the respondents. Questionnaires were used to collect quantitative primary data while interview guide and focus group discussion was employed to collect qualitative data. Data analysis was done with the help of SPSS version 23. Correlation coefficient was used to test the strength and the direction of the relationship between the variables. The finding of the study revealed that household welfare was positively and significantly correlated with lending modality, financial literacy and small business financing. Finally, the results of regression revealed that VSLA lending modality, financial literacy and small business financing all had a positive significant effect on the level of household welfare hence poverty reduction among members of VSLA in Bala Sub-county. Based on the above findings, the study concluded that all the credit activities of the VSLA that were studied by the researcher affect the level of household welfare among the member of VSLA in Bala sub-county. The study therefore recommended that government should support the VSLA activities as it is playing a big role in reducing the level of poverty among the poor people at the grass root level who cannot access credit facilities from the formal financial institutions in Uganda.
Employee Training and Organizational Performance a Case Study of Education Service Sector in Lira District Local Government.
(Lira University, 2021) Angol, Jimmy; Akello, Judith Abal; Opio, Bonny Charles
Background: The study was conducted to examine the effect of training on employee performance in education sector of Lira DLG. Specifically, the study investigated the effect of on- Job training on employee performance, examine the effect of off-job training on employee performance and assessed the effect of induction on employee performance in the health sector of Lira DLG. Methods: The study used cross sectional research design where both quantitative and qualitative approaches were used; the sample size of the study population was 108 and was sampled using simple random sampling and purposive sampling techniques. Questionnaires and interview methods were used to collect data while mean and standard deviation were used to measure the performance of the construct in Lira DLG. Correlation coefficient was used to test the strength and direction of the relationship between training employee performance. Findings: All the constructs were positively correlated to organizational performance. the findings of the study revealed a positive significant effect of on -job training on employee performance in Lira DLG (Coef. 0430, p<0.01). Secondly, the results of on effect of off-job training on employee performance in Lira DLG further revealed a positive insignificant effect (Coef.0153, p > 0.01). Thirdly, the effect of the induction on employee performance of health sector employees in Lira DLG was found to be positive and significant (Coef. 0.430, p < 01). Finally, the results of multiple regressions yielded an adjustment R Square value of 0.372, which meant that training contribute about 37.2% to the performance of education sector employees in Lira DLG. Recommendations: Based on the above findings, the study recommends that Lira DLG should put more emphasis on on-job training and induction of employees in education sector to improve on the performance of the sector in Lira DLG.
Employment Benefit and employee productivity: A Case study of Joint Clinical Research Centre in Lango Sub-Region, Uganda
(Lira University, 2023) Adongo, Mercy Robinah; Akello, Judith Abal
Background: The study examine the effect of employee benefit on the productivity of employees in joint Clinical Research Centre in Lango sub-region. Specifically, the study looked at the effect of medical insurance, financial benefit and career growth on the productivity of employees in Clinical Research Centre. Using a sample of 103 staff drawn from a population of 142 staff of Clinical Research Centre, the study attempts to achieve three specific objectives. The first objective is to examine the effect of medical insurance on employee productivity. The second objective is to examine the effect of financial benefit on employee productivity. The final objective is to empirically assess the effect of career growth on employee commitment in Clinical Research Center. Methods: The study adopted a cross-sectional survey design and employed quantitative and qualitative approaches. The data collected was tested for validity and reliability and analyzed using SPSS Version 23 inform of descriptive statistics, correlation and regressions. Findings: The findings of the study revealed firstly, that medical insurance had a positive significant effect (β=0.592, p <0.01) on employee productivity in clinical Research Centre. Secondly, employee benefits had a positive significant effect (β=0.703, p >0.01) on productivity in Clinical Research Centre. Thirdly, the examination of the effect of career growth on employee productivity in clinical Research Center revealed a positive and statistically significant effect (β=0.579, p < 0.01). Recommendation: Based on the findings of the study, the researcher therefore recommenced that Clinical Research Center should adopt employee benefit practices in order to ensure enhance the level of employee productivity. Keywords: Employment Benefit, and employee productivity:
Financial Rewards and Employee Commitment in Local Governments in Uganda: A Case Study of Apac Municipal Council
(2021) Opio, Gerald; Akello, Judith Abal
The aim of this study is to assess the effect of financial rewards on employee commitment of employees in Apac Municipal Council. The specific objectives of the study were as follows: to determine the effect of financial rewards on affective commitment of employees in Apac Municipal Council; to assess the effect of financial rewards on normative commitment of employees in Apac Municipal Council; to assess the effect of financial rewards on continuance of commitment of employees in Apac Municipal Council. The sample size of the study was 135 which comprised of 132 teachers, Municipal Education Officer, Senior Inspector of Schools, and inspector of schools. Primary data was collected using the questionnaire method while secondary data was collected through documentary review. The data obtained was processed using statistical package for social scientists (SPSS) and was analyzed using both descriptive and inferential statistics. The analyzed data was presented using graphs, charts and tables. Results indicate that there was a fairly positive significant relationship between financial rewards and affective commitment (r=0.506, p<0.05), moderately significant relationship between financial rewards and normative commitment (r=0.307, p<0.05) and moderately positive significant relationship between financial rewards and continuance commitment (r=0.346, p< 0.05). The study found out that financial rewards had a positive significant effect on affective commitment (coef. 0.513, p<0.05), normative commitment (coef. 0.306, p<0.05) and continuance commitment (coef. 0.433, p<0.05) of employees in Apac Municipal Council. The study recommended that Apac Municipal Council should carry out salary reviews in order to develop a reward management structure that is externally competitive, internally fair and consistent with the current acceptable international rates. It was also recommended that the top management in Apac Municipal Council should encourage employees to participate in decision making and they should implement employees’ decisions.
Functional Adult Literacy and Vocational Training: Women's Opportunity for Socio-Economic Development in Uganda. A Case Study of Apac District-Northern Uganda
(2021) Akello, Judith Abal; Bohlinger, Sandra
The study was about women's opportunity for socio-economic development based on their experiences on Functional Adult Literacy (FAL) and integrated vocational training in Apac District-Northern Uganda. The main objective of this study was to explore whether and how women participants in Apac District derived socio-economic benefits from FAL as well as integrated vocational training. The study was informed by agency theory from Freire's literacy theory and Kabeer's socio-economic perspective which contend on the component of awareness or by making marginalised non-literate's agents of socio-economic development. These theories helped to explore and establish the socio-economic transformation experienced by women as a result of their participation in FAL in addition to integrated vocational training. These transformations were captured by comparing the kinds of life led by the women prior to and after FAL and integrated vocational training, in terms of participating in communities, family settings, awareness on the value of training and participating on income generating group projects. The study mainly used qualitative case study research design focusing on the experiences of 35 participants both in the rural and urban setting. Using Focused Group Discussions (FGDs) and key informant interviews, this study revealed the conditions of women before and after benefiting from FAL with integrated vocational skills. The findings of this study inductively generated from the participants revealed that women who acquired FAL in addition to integrated vocational skills significantly transformed their socio-economic lives. Opportunity for FAL and integrated vocational training improved women's daily lives in terms of confidence to participate in community undertakings and local council leadership. In addition, the women became self-employed, profited from income generating group projects, made re-investments of savings from the income generated. In turn, the well-being for themselves and their families greatly improved. Therefore, the study recommends that the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development (MGLSD) which coordinates FAL training in Uganda along with other departments, such as international partners, NGO's and civil society organisations should prioritise, support and strengthen the FAL learning with integrated vocational training policies. [The research was funded by DAAD (German Academic Exchange Service).]
Functional Adult Literacy Levels: Relevance to Women’s Improved Income Generation in Apac District- Northern Uganda
(International Journal of Education, Training and Learning, 2022) Akello, Judith Abal; Lutwama-Rukundo, Evelyn
This study explores the experiences of women about the levels of skills acquired by Functional Adult Literacy (FAL) -trained women and their ability to improve their financial status and well-being in Apac District, Northern-Uganda. This was a qualitative case study research design centering on the ability of 31 grassroots’ women and selected men who are family members to the women. The study was underpinned by agency principle from and Freire’s literacy theory and Kabeer’s socioeconomic viewpoint which contend on the awareness or conscientisation by making marginalised non-literate women agents for social and economic development. The study established that reading, writing and numeracy skills contributed to consciousness about the skill of bookkeeping by adult women which has played a significant part to improving their ability to participate in income generating activities. To conclude, Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development (MoGLSD), NGO’s, international donors, as well as civil society organisations, must prioritise and render support in carrying out FAL training.
Functional Adult Literacy: An Alternative Gateway to Grassroots Women’s Improved Income Generation in Lango Subregion, Northern Uganda
(Sage, 2017) Akello, Judith Abal; Lutwama-Rukundo, Evelyn; Musiimenta, Peace
This article presents findings of study on women’s experiences of Functional Adult Literacy (FAL) as a gateway to their financial progress and welfare in Lango region, Northern Uganda. The qualitative study of 45 participants aimed at examining women’s live changes resulting from using their acquired FAL knowledge and skills to participate in Income Generating Activities. The study demonstrates that FAL brings out women’s individual and collective agency through “conscientization” concept and dialogue as tools for marginalized people in the act of social and economic change agents. This argument is grounded within agency concept that portray the power of the oppressed individual as well as collective agency. Findings revealed that FAL training improves women’s livelihood. The article concludes that Government, international development partners, NGOs, and civil society should ensure strong support and implementation of FAL program because it can help women succeed in the contemporary world.
Functional Adult Literacy: The Influence on Women’s Improved Health Promotion Behaviours in Apac District, Northern-Uganda
(Research on Humanities and Social Sciences, 2021) Akello, Judith Abal; Musiimenta, Peace
This article is about women’s experiences of Functional Adult Literacy (FAL) as a means to their improved Health Promotion Behaviours in Apac District, Northern Uganda. The qualitative study of 29 participants aimed at examining women’s improved well-being resulting from using their acquired FAL knowledge and skills to participate in health promotion behaviours. The study was informed by Kabeer’s agency theory and Freire’s literacy perspective which argue on the element of conscientisation or awareness by making marginalised nonliterate’s agents of promoting health behaviours. The findings revealed that from the practical skills, the women experienced more confidence, increased awareness and understanding on health-related issues and improved well-being. Therefore, the study recommends that the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development (MoGLSD), International Donors, Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) and Civil Society should ensure prioritisation, support and implementation of FAL training.
Gender-Specific Entrepreneurship Programs: Understanding the Lived experiences of Rural Women Entrepreneurs In Amolatar Sub-Region, Uganda
(Researchjournali’s Journal of Entrepreneurship, 2024) Akello, Judith Abal; Ebila, Florence; Ejang, Mary; Acanga, Alfred; Ayo, Harriet; Acio, Christine; Kabunga, Amir
Women constitute a significant portion of the global population and play vital roles in economic development through entrepreneurial activities. Despite their potential, female entrepreneurs, especially in developing countries like Uganda, face numerous challenges including limited access to capital, education, and support networks. This study investigates the impact of gender-specific entrepreneurship programs on rural women in the Amolatar Sub-Region, Uganda, focusing on their experiences, challenges, and contributions to economic development. A phenomenological research design was employed to capture the lived experiences of rural women entrepreneurs. The study was conducted in the Amolatar Sub-Region of Uganda, involving 26 beneficiaries of the Uganda Women Empowerment Program (UWEP), two focus group discussions (FGDs), and two key informant interviews with cultural leaders. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, FGDs, and document analysis, and were analyzed using thematic analysis. Five main themes emerged from the analysis: Economic Empowerment and Impact, where women reported significant improvements in their economic status through participation in UWEP, resulting in increased income and financial stability; Skill Development and Acquisition, where participants acquired essential business skills such as financial management and record-keeping, enhancing their ability to run and sustain their enterprises; Challenges and Resilience, where women faced obstacles including poor infrastructure, cultural barriers, and resistance from husbands but demonstrated resilience through group cohesion and adaptability; Gender Dynamics and Family Support, where support from husbands and family members varied, with a gradual shift in cultural attitudes towards women's economic participation; and Community Perception, Support, and Future Aspirations, where there was an evolving positive perception of women's roles, increased community support, and optimism about future business expansion and community development. Gender-specific entrepreneurship programs like UWEP significantly contribute to the economic empowerment of rural women in Amolatar, Uganda. The programs help women acquire crucial business skills, overcome challenges, and gain support from their families and communities. These initiatives are essential for fostering sustainable economic development and gender equality in rural areas. Keywords: Rural Women Entrepreneurs, Gender-Specific Programs, Economic Empowerment, Uganda Women Empowerment Program
The impact of financial benefits on employee productivity: A case study of the joint clinical research centre in Lango Region, Northern Uganda
(International Journal of Social Sciences Perspectives, 2023) Adong, Mercy Robinah; Akello, Judith Abal
This study investigates the impact of financial advantages on staff productivity within the Joint Clinical Research Centre. It aims to explain the relationship between financial benefits and employee performance, highlighting their significance in enhancing engagement. Employing a mixed-methods approach, this research combines quantitative data gathered through a structured questionnaire with qualitative insights derived from interviews. The study utilizes cross-sectional survey methodology, sampling 142 participants, including team leaders and various staff categories affiliated with the Joint Clinical Research program. Data analysis involves descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and regression analysis for quantitative data and content analysis for qualitative data. The study reveals a significant positive correlation between financial benefits and employee productivity, indicating that adequate financial incentives motivate employees to perform better. Regression analysis demonstrates that financial benefits can explain approximately 40.9% of the variability in employee productivity. The t-test results confirm a statistically significant association between financial benefits and employee productivity, rejecting the null hypothesis. Qualitative findings from key informants corroborate the importance of financial incentives in motivating employees and improving productivity. The study underscores the vital role of financial incentives in improving employee engagement and performance. Organizations, particularly in healthcare research, can leverage these insights to design strategies that enhance staff motivation, ultimately leading to increased productivity and better healthcare outcomes
Internal Control System and Revenue Collection in Local Governments A Case Study of Lira District Local Government
(Lira University, 2021) Okidi, Mike; Akello, Judith Abal; Opio, Bonny Charles
The study assessed the effect of internal control system on revenue collection in lira district local government. The main objective was to assess the effects of internal control system with emphasis on control environment, control activities and monitoring of controls on revenue collection. Specific objectives were to: examine the influence of control environment on revenue collection; assess the effect of control activities on revenue collection; and determine the effects of monitoring on revenue collection. The research adopted cross-sectional research design with descriptive and quantitative approaches., and employed both primary and secondary method of data collection with 93 respondents selected from the population of district staffs and executives. To determine the reliability of research instruments a pilot study was conducted before the actual data collection and further split half method was carried out to calculate Cronbach alpha. A value of above 0.899 was obtained and confirmed the reliability of the research instruments. The data was analyzed using both inferential (multiple regression and correlation) and descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages, mean and standard deviation) and was presented by use of tables and charts. The study findings indicated that that control environment and monitoring has no significant effect on revenue collection (coefficient=0.542, p=0.005). The study recommends that, Lira district local government should ensure compliance with laws, regulations and operational controls in their internal control systems. Finally, there is need to avail competent internal and external professionals who have responsibilities of making an effective and efficient control environment as well as ensure effective control activities in their institution
Internal Control System and Revenue Collection in Local Governments. A Case Study of Lira District Local Government
(Research Journal of Finance and Accounting, 2021) Okidi, Mike; Akello, Judith Abal; Opio, Bonny Charles
The study assessed the effects of internal control system on revenue collection in Lira District local government. The main objective was to assess the effects of internal control system with emphasis on control environment, control activities and monitoring of controls on revenue collection. Specific objectives were to: examine the influence of control environment on revenue collection; assess the effects of control activities on revenue collection; and determine the effects of monitoring on revenue collection. The research adopted cross-sectional research design with descriptive and quantitative approaches, and employed both primary and secondary method of data collection with 93 respondents selected from the population of district staff and executives. To determine the reliability of research instruments a pilot study was conducted before the actual data collection and further split half method was carried out to calculate Cronbach alpha. A value of above 0.899 was obtained and confirmed the reliability of the research instruments. The data was analyzed using both inferential (multiple regression and correlation) and descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages, mean and standard deviation) and was presented by use of tables and charts. The study findings indicated that that control environment and monitoring had no significant effect on revenue collection whereas control activities had significant effect on revenue collection (coefficient =0.542, p=0.005). The study recommends that, Lira district local government should ensure compliance with laws, regulations and operational controls in their internal control systems. Finally, there is need to avail competent internal and external professionals who have responsibilities of making an effective and efficient control environment as well as ensure effective control activities in their institution.
Microfinance Loans and Performance of Small and Medium Size Enterprises A Case Study of Lira City
(Lira University, 2021) Akite, Magdalene; Akello, Judith Abal; Opio, Bonny Charles
The study examined microfinance loans and performance of small and medium size enterprises in Lira City. SMEs in Lira City have created employment; it is a source of income and reduced poverty. SMEs have continued to decline for several factors like limited loan amount, short loan period, untimely disbursement of loans and high interest rates on loans from the microfinance institutions. The study was conducted in Lira City. The overall objectives of the study was to examine Microfinance loans and performance of small and medium size Enterprises in Lira City. The study used questionnaires and interviews as methods of data collection and the design used was causal research designs using qualitative and quantitative approaches. The results showed that there was low Level of low accessibility by SMEs In Lira City. There is low level of Performance of SMEs in Lira City and Microfinance (loan amount, loan interest, timeliness of loan disbursement and the loan period) contribute to performance of SMEs in Lira City. Loan amount contributes 20.2% to Performance of SMEs in Lira City. Loan interest contributes 13.6% to Performance of SMEs in Lira City. Timely loan disbursement contributes 2.9% to Performance of SMEs in Lira City and loan period contribute 41.5% to Performance of SMEs in Lira City. The conclusion is that Microfinance loans contributes of SMEs in Lira City. MFIs should increase provision of non-financial services for SMEs such as trainings on managerial skills to enhance entrepreneurial capability, savings and insurance so as to improve on their performance. MFIs to revise their policies on loan period which contributes 41.5% to performance to a longer period compared to the 12 months to enable these enterprises perform. MFIs should increase the amount of loan given to SMEs which is very crucial in their performance in Lira City. Further study ought to be led on how best SMEs can utilization of financing by equity, for example, Venture Capital, Business Angels and government funding to SMEs in Lira City. It is also important for future studies to be carried out on the impact of Microfinance Loans on the growth of SMEs in Lira City
Microfinance Loans and Performance of Small and Medium Size Enterprises in Lira City, Northern Uganda
(Asian Journal of Sustainable Business Research, 2022) Akite, Magdalene; Akello, Judith Abal; Opio, Bonny Charles
The study examined microfinanc e loans and the performance of small and medium size enterprises (SMEs) in Lira City. Data was collected using questionnaires and interviews and the design used was causal research designs using qualitative and quantitative approaches. The results showed t hat there was low Level of loan accessibility and performance by the SMEs. The study concludes that Microfinance loans contribute to performance of SMEs. Microfinance Institutions should increase provisions of non financial services, revise policies on loa n period and increase amount of loan given to SMEs to enhance entrepreneurial capability, savings and insurance so as to improve on their performance.
Performance Appraisal and Employee Performance in Lira Regional Referral Hospital in Lira City
(Lira University, 2021) Oree, Molly Grace; Olang, Ferdinand; Akello, Judith Abal
This study sought to establish the Effect of Performance Appraisal on Employee performance at LRRH in Lira City. The study was guided by three objectives namely: to identify the procedures used in performance appraisal, to assess the level of employee performance appraisal at LRRH, to determine the Effect of performance appraisal on employee performance at LRRH in Lira city. Literature was reviewed in line with the objectives. The study used a Cross Sectional Design which employed both Qualitative and Quantitative Approaches. The study targeted a population of approximately 63 employees with a sample size of 52, Simple Random and Purposive samplings were used. Data was collected using a closed ended 5-Point Likert Scale Questionnaires and Key Informant Interview Guide. The Validity of the instrument was tested using Content Validity Index. The Validity Index of 0.80 was obtained. The reliability of the instrument was also tested to assess the clarity of the items in the Questionnaires and Interview Guide for effectiveness. The Response rate of the respondents was found to be 100%. The Democratic characteristics of the respondents revealed that there were more females (50.9%) which means that the most of the people who serve and handle clients well are Females who are said to be more productive than the males with the highest percentage being the youth (23.1%) aged between 251-35 majority of the respondents were Diploma Holders (44.2%) though other levels were also represented. According to the respondents, the greatest number were married employees (59.6) and most of the respondents had taken 3-4 years (23.1%) . Various procedures of performance appraisal were used but with varying percentages; Goal setting (Mean 44.2% in the Likert Scale), Performance Planning (Mean 34.26), Performance Review(4.15) and Feedback(4.14). The findings revealed that the most used procedure of Performance Appraisal was Performance Planning. A positive significant relationship was revealed between the Independent and Dependent Variables. It was recommended that LRRH should follow all the procedures of performance appraisal to enhance employee performance.
Phenomenology of Induced Abortion in Northern Uganda Among HIV-Positive Women Following an Unintended Pregnancy
(Open Access Journal of Contraception, 2023) Kabunga, Amir; Acanga, Alfred; Akello, Judith Abal; Nabasirye, Caroline Kambugu; Namata, Halimah; Mwesigwa, David; Auma, Anna Grace; Kigongo, Eustes; Udho, Samson
Background: More than half of pregnancies in Uganda are unintended, and nearly a third of these end in abortion. However, little research has focused on women living with HIV’s subjective experiences following induced abortion. We explored how women living with HIV subjectively experience induced abortions in health facilities in Lira District, Uganda. Materials and Methods: This was a descriptive-phenomenological study between October and November 2022. The study was conducted among women of reproductive age (15–49 years) who were HIV positive and had undergone induced abortion following an unintended pregnancy. Purposive sampling was used to sample 30 participants who could speak to the research aims and have experience with the phenomenon under scrutiny. The principle of information power was used to estimate the sample size. We conducted face-to-face, in-depth interviews to collect data. Data were presented as direct quotes while providing a contextual understanding of the lived experiences of the study participants. Results: The results showed that the major causes of induced abortion were financial constraints, concern for the unborn babies, unplanned pregnancy, and complex relationships. Regarding induced abortion-related experiences, three themes emerged: loss of family support, internalized and perceived stigma, and feelings of guilt and regret. Conclusion: This study highlights the lived experiences of women living with HIV following an induced abortion. The study shows that women living with HIV had induced abortions due to numerous reasons, including financial concerns, complicated relationships, and a fear of infecting their unborn babies. However, after induced abortion, the women living with HIV faced several challenges like loss of family support, stigma, and feelings of guilt and regret. Based on HIV-infected women who underwent induced abortion and an unexpected pregnancy, they may need mental health services to reduce the stigma associated with induced abortion.
Qualitative study on stigma as a barrier to emergency contraceptive pill use among university students in the Lango subregion, Uganda
(BMJ Open, 2024) Kabunga, Amir; Kigongo, Eustes; Acanga, Alfred; Tumwesigye, Raymond; Auma, Anna Grace; Musinguzi, Marvin; Kambugu, Caroline Nabasirye; Okalo, Ponsiano; Akello, Judith Abal; Namata, Halimah; Mwesigwa, David
Objective The aim of the current study was twofold: to understand the nature and extent of stigma and to learn the reasons behind the decision not to use emergency contraceptive pills among university students in the Lango subregion of Uganda. Design An exploratory qualitative study design. Setting The study was carried out among university students in Lango subregion of Uganda. Participants 40 female university students across four universities. Main outcome measures Stigma. Results Participants (n=40) aged 19–26 exhibited generally positive attitudes towards emergency contraceptive pills, recognising them as empowering and essential. Stigma, however, emerged as a substantial barrier manifested in societal judgements and negative perceptions. Themes included the positive attitude towards emergency contraceptive pills, perceptions of peers and the general public, and perceptions of health service providers. Conclusion Stigma significantly impedes emergency contraceptive pill use among university students in the Lango subregion, Uganda. Positive attitudes towards the pills contrast with societal judgements and provider stigmatisation. Tailored interventions addressing knowledge gaps, societal perceptions and healthcare system challenges are crucial for improving emergency contraceptive pill acceptability and utilisation among university students.
Results-Based Financing, Motivation, And Satisfaction of Health Workers at Lower Level Primary Health Care Facilities in Lira District
(Lira University, 2022) Orec, Isaac; Akello, Judith Abal
Background: Globally, Results-Based Financing consists of monetary or non-monetary transfers made to national or subnational governments, managers, providers, or consumers of health services contingent on verified attainment of predefined results within the context of Maternal Child and Newborn Health. In Uganda, monitoring of Results-Based Financing activities at lower level public health facilities in Lira district, involves the use of quality assessment tool to verify performance against predefined health indicators on a quarterly basis. Both quality and quantitiy scores are to determine payment of the health workers. However, no attempt is made towards the assessment of health workers’ motivation and their job satisfaction in realation to results-based financing programs. Overall Objective: To assess the contributions of Results-Based Financing strategy on health workers’ motivation and job satisfaction in Lira District Method: The study design was a descriptive cross-sectional using mixed-method approaches Systematic random sampling technique using lottery method was used to sample the professional health workers where the Kth interval was obtained by dividing the N by the sample size. Purposive sampling technique was used to sample the health administrators as key informants of the study. Data analysis: Data were analyzed using STATA version 17. Every questionnaire was checked for completeness at the end of each interview. Data were scanned for out-of-range and missing values before commencing data analysis. Linear regression analysis was run and then data analyzed as; Univariate analysis to analyze categorical variables and was presented in percentages and frequencies. Bivariate analysis to model the relationship between the independent variables and the dependent variable was also carried out using limear regression. The results were expressed at 95% confidence interval and statistical significance set at a P-value of 0.05. Results: Results of the study indicated that 50.4% of health workers were satisfied with their current job and close to half (49.6%) were dissatisfied. The overall motivation score of health workers in this study was 59.9%. The results show that the predictors of job satisfaction were providing autonomy in decision making at facility level (aOR 4.68, 95% CI: 2.21-7.15; p<0.001) and rapid changes at facility (aOR 2.93, 95% CI: 1.37-4.47; p<0.001) . Further still, the findings indicated that the predictors of motivation were age of the participant (aOR 2.53, 95% CI: 1.26-3.80; p<0.001) and enchaning support supervison (aOR 2.67, 95% CI: 1.42-3.94; p<0.001). Conclusion: The overall level of health professionals’ job satisfaction was 50.4%, suggesting that many health professionals close to half of health workers at lower level primary health care facilities are not satisfied with their current job. The findings from this study provided suggestive evidence that the two autonomy in decision making at facility level and rapid changes at facility became important predictors of health workers’ job satisfaction at the backdrop of lira district’s current health system reform. Age of the respondents was found to be a strong predictor of motivation among health workers additionally, enchaning support supervison was a predictor of motivation among health workers. This suggests that supportive supervision increases health worker motivation, including performance and quality of care. The study recommends that the management of the health care facilities should determine the provide incentives that the health workers are interested in. This would motivate the healthcare workers since they are provided with what they need.

Browsing by Author "Akello, Judith Abal"

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