LUIR :: Browsing by Author "Okuna, Victor"

Browsing by Author "Okuna, Victor"

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Accountability as a Precursor to Improving the Performance of Local Governments: A Case in Lira District, Mid-North of Uganda
(International Journal of Developing Country Studies, 2024) Awor, Jennifer Harriet; Okuna, Victor; Mwesigwa, David
Purpose: The purpose of the study was to find out the effect of accountability on the performance of Lira District Local Government. Methodology: The research was conducted this study the Research Designs was cross-sectional and used using quantitative approach. Questionnaire was used for the purpose of collecting primary data from the respondents. Data was analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences where conclusions were drawn from tables, figures from the package. The study took on a sample of 70 employees from a population of 76. Findings: The study findings reveled that administrative accountability positively influences the level of performance of Lira district local government, financial accountability does not while stakeholder engagement negatively influences the level of performance of the district. The study concluded that respondents believe administrative accountability boosts performance, service quality, and cost-effectiveness, but note its effectiveness depends on organizational culture and political factors. Financial accountability is seen as beneficial for organizational performance, but its effective implementation faces a number of challenges. Stakeholders see engagement boosting financial performance, productivity, brand loyalty, and customer satisfaction, but note challenges to effective engagement. Unique contribution to theory, practice and policy: This study contributes to the understanding of the practice and policy of local government performance from the perspective of accountability. The study suggested the need for Lira district to implement strong accountability mechanisms tailored to their organizational culture and political environment so as to enhance performance, service quality, and cost-effectiveness. Also, there is need to strengthen financial accountability mechanisms to enhance organizational performance, while addressing the specific challenges that hinder their effective implementation.
The Effect of Budget Execution on Health Service Delivery in Lira District, Northern Uganda
(International Journal of Development Research, 2022) Ejang, Mary; Okello, Patrick; Obonyo, Jimmy Francis; Okuna, Victor; Obici, Isaac Gilbert; Oboi, Alex; Apio, Sarah Okite
Budget execution is at the core of government businesses globally. This paper examines the effect of budget execution on health service deliver in Lira district, northern Uganda. We sampled two government-aided health Center IVs of Amach and Ogur in Lira district. We adopted a case study design and employed a mixed method approach. We sampled 78 respondents out of 96 health workers which included administrators, finance department, health workers, and health unit management committee. Simple random sampling technique and purposive sampling, were used to select the respondents. We used self-administered questionnaires to collect quantitative data and an interview guide to collect qualitative data. We used descriptive and inferential statistics (correlation and regression) to analysequantitative data andcontent analysisfor qualitative data to supplement quantitative data. The findings revealed a statistically significant positive relationship between budget execution and health service delivery (R = .718; p-value) and 51.5% (R Square = .515) aggregate effect of budget performance on health service delivery. These findings imply that budget performance is likely to register over 51.5% variations in the health service delivery meaning there are other factors that account for about 48.5%. However, budget monitoring is more influential in predicting changes in health service delivery. The findings further revealed that budget execution process and monitoring had significant effects on health service delivery. We conclude that budget performance significantly affects service delivery in health CentreIVs in northern Uganda. This paper contributes an original empiricalevidence of the association between budget performance and health service delivery in northern Uganda. In order to improve health service delivery, Lira district Local Government should considerincreasing financial supportto Health CentreIVs and strengthen budget monitoring.
The efficacy of Merit-based Recruitment in Amolatar district in Northern
(CARI Journal, 2024) Ocwer, Bruno; Okuna, Victor; Mwesigwa, David
Purpose: This study aimed to assess the success of merit-based recruitment in Amolatar District Local Government Administration, Uganda. Methodology: A case-study research design was adopted backed by quantitative and qualitative analysis that involved a careful and in-depth investigation of a particular unit or events under study for the purposes of generalization. It was conducted in Amolatar District. We chose this area because merit-based recruitment had failed as a result of weak decision-making processes by the district service communion and the influence-peddling by political leaders in the district. We took a sample of 60 respondents and interviewed 52 respondents living within the District Headquarters and in Amolatar Town Council. Findings: The results revealed that the success of merit-based recruitment in Local Government Administration is very essential in terms of stakeholder responsibility, enhancing citizen confidence in the local government institution, and enabling the district service commission to recruit the best human resources for the provision of quality service. Contribution to Theory, Policy and Practice: This study is central as it strengthens the merit-based recruitment model over and above other models of recruitment as well as enabling local governments to prioritize meritocracy over political patronage in every staff recruitment cycle. Keywords: Recruitment, merit-based, meritocracy, local government, system
Employee Safety Measures as a Means for Enhancing Occupational Health among Casual Laborers in the Manufacturing Industries of Lira City, Uganda
(Human Resource and Leadership Journal, 2024) Auma, Morine; Okuna, Victor; Mwesigwa, David
Purpose: Occupational health remains a public health concern worldwide and given that occupational health hazards are disproportionately high among casual workers in the manufacturing industry, this study aimed to assess the efficacy of employee safety measures on the occupational health of casual workers in the manufacturing industries of Lira City. Methodology: This study employed a descriptive cross-sectional research design using quantitative methods to assess and describe the efficacy of employee safety measures on occupation health of casual workers in Mt. Meru Millers, which is an Agri-processing company dealing mainly in processing of Soya, Sunflower, among other agricultural products into oil, soap, fuel and animal feeds. A sample size of 58 respondents was reached using semi-structured questionnaires. Also, a univariate logistic regression test was used to estimate the bivariate level of association between the dependent and independent variables. Findings: The results revealed that majority of the respondents (60.8%) reported to have experienced work-related accidents caused by chemical reactions (49.0%), machines (33.3%), sharp objects and falls. The overall occupation health of casual workers in Mt. Meru millers was poor with the biggest occupational health problem being disruption of social relationships as well as violation of workers’ ethical, moral and cultural values. Unique contribution to theory, practice and policy: This study contributes to the understanding of occupational health risks and hazards affecting majorly the low-level laborers who contribute much to the global manufacturing industry (especially those that are still relying on crude methods of production) despite being less-valued by a number of industrialists.
“From rain-fed farms to irrigated farms”: Irrigation technology for smart farming in Lira city, mid-north Uganda
(International Journal of Interdisciplinary Research and Innovations, 2021) Okuna, Victor; Mwesigwa, David
Smart farming offers a potentially beneficial prospect for farming in Uganda and beyond. Nonetheless, there is no adequate methodical inquiries on what smart farming essentially denotes and the different openings through which it can be boosted in this perspective. This study aimed to look at one of the different opportunities by which smart farming can be enhanced in mid-north Uganda, that is, irrigation technology, through an experiential analysis of the success stories and observed patterns of those that have implemented the technology. The outcomes appear to describe fundamentally interrelated and reciprocally underpinning components that facilitate irrigation technology to enhance smart farming even where several issues of socioeconomic background remain restrictions. The issues involve initial capital investment as well as abilities and information necessary to operate as well as sustain the technology. Also, the source of water, pipe used to direct the water to the sprinkler, the pump used and the sprinkler used to irrigate the land are key attributes for keeping irrigation technology afloat while at the same time enhancing the much sought for smart farming. We conclude that the above elements echo with the ideas of food security as well as sustainable agricultural practices. This study offers a valued abstract for agricultural extension workers serving local communities in Uganda to promote ecologically responsive farming technologies.
Impact of the Digital Revolution on Indigenous Technical Knowledge of Land Managers in Kole District, Northern Uganda
(Akali, A., Okuna, V., & Mwesigwa, D. (2024). Impact of the Digital Revolution on Indigenous Technical Knowledge of Land Managers in Kole District, Northern Uganda. Journal of Agricultural Policy, 7(1), 48–61. https://doi.org/10.47941/jap.2386, 2024) Akali, Alfred; Okuna, Victor; Mwesigwa, David
Purpose: Considering the various challenges and the evidence of the dwindling agricultural productivity among a good number of farmers in Uganda, the focus of this paper was on how Ugandan farmers can produce higher yields for the exploding national and regional population. Methodology: A desk review method was adopted on selected definitions and earlier models of indigenous technical knowledge are discussed as a basis gauging the consequence of digital revolution on indigenous technical knowledge. Findings: The outcomes suggest that as a result of advancement in technology, there has been an increasing shift; that the traditional conservation wisdom in the cultural and artistic elements of communities in the development and management of biodiversity and its strategies and policies has no proper application in these modern times. Likewise, traditional knowledge systems in the cultures of people do not have any correlation with the scientific conservation models used in modern farming societies. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: It is encouraged that an increase in the number of agricultural workers, involvement of higher institutions of learning and proper acknowledgement of land managers for their unique indigenous technical skills should be prioritized by the government of Uganda. With global connectivity, technological advancement and data driven decision making, an improvement in efficiency of production and way of thinking of land managers will culminate in the best resource utilization of agricultural resources in Kole district.
Integrated Financial Management System and Financial Control in Uganda: A Review of Issues and Concerns
(American Journal of Strategic Studies, 2024) Akidi, Stella; Okuna, Victor; Mwesigwa, David
Purpose: This study aimed to analyze the issues and concerns within the government’s policy on Integrated Financial Management System as a financial control in Uganda. Methodology: The study adopted a literature review approach in which the reviewers identified, assessed and studied obtainable literature from a variety of sources majorly on line and from the government libraries. Results: The review indicated that IFMS contributed to financial control in many ways, such as enhanced internal controls, improved budget execution and control as well as strengthened cash and debt management. However, a number of challenges emerged mid-way viz, resistance to change, inadequate user training, technological challenges and weak project management. To counter, the challenges there is need to strengthen change management strategies, enhance capacity building and training, improve technological infrastructure and integration, strengthen governance, and ensure strong political commitment and support. Unique contribution to theory, practice and policy: This review contributes to the understanding and further appraisal of the government policy on IFMS learning from its successes as a way of thwarting the emerging threats and failures. The review encourages for a deliberate investment in comprehensive training programs for users at all levels to ensure they understand FMIS functionalities and can utilize them effectively; regularly reporting on the IFMS performance and sharing lessons learned with key stakeholders so as to promote transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement; Developing a robust and resilient IT infrastructure and establishing robust data quality assurance processes to validate the accuracy and reliably of information entered into IFMS, ensuring decision making is based on reliable data.
Motivation and Employee Job Performance in the Private Sector: A case Study of Mukwano Group of Companies, Lira Branch
(Lira University, 2023) Okuna, Victor; Oryang, Alex Chono
Background: The purpose of the study was to investigate on employee job performance in the private sector with a case study of Mukwano group of companies Lira Branch. The study was based on the following objectives; to investigate the effects of the monetary factors on employee’s job performance in Mukwano group of companies Lira Branch, to analyze the non-monetary factors on employee’s job performance in Mukwano group of companies Lira Branch and finally to examine the effects of organization motivational policy on employee’s job performance in Mukwano group of companies Lira. Methods: The study used a cross-sectional research design. The study employed both quantitative and qualitative methods to collect and analyze data. A total of 95 respondents were interviewed. The study findings revealed that; monetary factors were not satisfactory to the employees and the non-monetary factors were neglected by the company. Results: The study revealed that the company employs various motivational policies though recruitment policy affects worker’s performance most since it comes with very good promises. The study also revealed that there is a direct strong and positive relationship between employee motivation and their performance. As far as policies are concerned, the company implements recruitment policy more than other policies. Conclusions: The study concludes that there is a very strong positive relationship between motivation and job performance. Recommendations: The study recommends that; the company should improve on non-monetary rewords. The study also recommended that there should be performance appraisal as a tool for proper management and that there should be timely payment of salaries to the employees. Keywords: Motivation, Job Performance, Private Sector, Mukwano Group of Companies, Lira City
Non-Monetary Rewards and Job Satisfaction among Primary School Teachers in Uganda: a Review of Kole District in Mid-North Uganda
(South Asian Journal of Development Research, 2020) Okuna, Victor; Opok, James Bond; Mwesigwa, David
This study aimed to assess the contribution of non-monetary rewards on job satisfaction among primary school teachers in Kole District. Data were collected using documentary analysis. The findings reveal that promotions are rare in Kole District Local Government. Study findings for the second question reveal that recognition does not only motivate regular teachers but also Head teachers in Kole district with a response rate of 65%. And, that 80% of primary school teachers point to personal growth as the major source of non-financial motivation. Majority of the teachers were not satisfied with their job. However, there are issues regarding teamwork, limited promotion opportunities, political interference and apathy. It is recommended that there is need for Kole District to come up with clear promotion procedures, staff development to enhance productivity and promote self-fulfilment. There is a need to improve on supervision of the employees at all levels of the District Council. Funds for training should be made more adequate to meet workers training needs. There is need to provide adequate transportation for official duty. A system that rewards high performance and discourages low and mediocre performance should be put in place. Participation of primary school teachers at Kole District Local Government should be given priority henceforth teachers participation; in the decision-making process must be institutionalized
The Role of Community Saving Initiatives in Poverty Reduction: An Appraisal of Saving Groups in Alebtong District, Mid-North Uganda
(International Journal of Poverty, Investment and Development, 2023) Okuna, Victor; Acanga, Alfred; Mwesigwa, David; ;
Purpose: This study examined the significance of saving groups on poverty reduction in Alebtong district. Three objectives guided the study, viz. (i) to determine the effect of shares provided by saving groups towards community development in Amugu sub-county; (ii) to assess the implication of saving groups towards poverty reduction in Amugu sub-county; and (iii) to discuss the challenges faced by saving groups in Amugu sub-county. Methodology: The study employed a cross-sectional research design and data was collected using a structured questionnaire. Data was analysed in terms of descriptive statistics and correlational analysis using SPSS version 20 in order to ascertain the relationship between saving groups and poverty reduction. Results: The study revealed that there is a significant positive relationship between saving groups and poverty reduction (r=0.389, p<0.01). This is realised through employment creation, access to financial services, quality education, quality health services, improvement in household resources, improved nutrition and acquisition of household assets. Shares provided by group members contribute towards community development through promoting access to loan, improving households living condition, promote access to quality education when borrowed, quality health care services, group members earn a lot of money at the end of every year and they get a lot of interest. It was further uncovered that several challenges affect saving groups, for example, inadequate capital, maltreatment from leaders, inadequate funding, corruption, less government support, high competition from the formal sector, inadequate training among group leaders and illiteracy. It was inferred that increased support, from the government of Uganda towards saving groups can promote normal functionality besides financial security. And espousing community capacity development can enhance the effectiveness of financial management among saving groups in Alebtong district.Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy and Practice: It was recommended that the government should increase support for saving groups, specifically targeting financial support, capacity building, and security for finance among the saving groups. Also, there is need for local governments to improve the degree of supervision among saving groups besides community sensitization.
Theorizing E-Governance: A Review of The World Bank’s 3-Stage Model Versus The Model Of Pc Utilization
(International Journal of Development Research, 2024) Adoko, Ketty; Anume, Gloria; Okello, Nelson Mandela; Okullu, Daniel; Anyono, Jenifer; Akidi, Eva; Alemo, Mike; Angwen, Sarah Jenniffer; Abuka, Geoffrey Alex; Were, Andrew; Owera, Francis; Okello, Daniel; Okuna, Victor; Mwesigwa, David
Over the recent decades, governments, both in the global north and the global south, have been undergoing and continue to counter several challenges in delivering services to citizens given the everburgeoning human population interposed with/by escalating community demands as well as rapid urbanization. A few of these challenges have been addressed through better scientific innovation and digitization of governance. Even though there are several models through which digital governance can be executed, in this paper, we have made a comparative review of two models (the World Bank’s 3- stage model and the PC utilization model) with the view of unpackaging the intricacies involved in each and how they have been addressed. We have exposed the parallels between the two models with perceptions drawn from the environments of governments in the global south before presenting potential interventions. Our central view emerged from our own practical experiences drawn from our places of work that are largely rural-based, and knowing that, while Uganda boosts of promoting a comparatively higher number of municipalities to city-status within a short period, the situation in those cities remains, almost, semi-rural or sub-urban and so, digital governance presents rather unvarying challenges entwined in ruralism. While we did not present particular cases due to dearth of primary studies, our arguments can be supportive in guiding the country’s policy makers as they contend with a pseudo-digital governance phase.
Working Conditions and Employee Performance in Lira city, Northern Uganda: A Twin Challenge to Service Delivery
(American Journal of Strategic Studies, 2024) Akoko, Susan; Okuna, Victor; Mwesigwa, David
Purpose: This study aimed to examine the effect of working conditions on employee performance in Lira City, Northern Uganda. Methodology: A descriptive research was adopted among a population of primary school teachers in both public and private schools in Lira city as the main study participants, other stakeholders were the City Education Officer, the Head teachers of the schools and the chairperson school management committee of the schools and pupils. The study was gender sensitive, both male and female participants were involved women account for 48% and 52% for male. Findings: The results revealed that prompt payment was not enforced, this vacuum accounted for 50% in many private schools where payment is even made after three month and you are paid a salary for one this demoralizes many teachers and it has resulted in to large numbers of teachers’ turnover. Furthermore, management have weak administrative skills and capacity to manage people they lead due to incompetence, ignorance about rule of law and the need for working together, failure to balance between position, responsibility and work. Contribution to theory, policy and practice: The findings of this study are vital to both school managers and education planners at the macro-level to evolve policies and frameworks that prioritize working conditions rather than merely focusing on salaries. Further, the findings will help re-awaken school managers to balance environmental conditions that are conducive for both work and education for children. Recommendations: We implore the need for evidence-based and/or targeted capacity building, strengthening available labor laws and policies, in addition to enforcing compulsory implementation of school feeding program in every school.

Browsing by Author "Okuna, Victor"

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