Skip to main content

John Kabasa

Makerere University, COLLEGE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE ANIMAL RESOURSES AND BIOSECURITY (COVAB), Faculty Member

Followers

57

Following

11

Co-authors

9

Public Views

Maria-João Cebola

Magrate Kaigongi

Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS)

Winchester Mvula

Interests

Uploads

Papers by John Kabasa

Biological screening of Kenyan medicinal plants using Artemia salina L.(ARTEMIIDAE)

Pharmacologyonline, 2011

Medicinal plants constitute important components of flora and are widely distributed in different... more Medicinal plants constitute important components of flora and are widely distributed in different regions of Kenya. Based on ethnopharmacological significance, we collected several medicinal plants from South Coast, Kenya used in traditional medicine to treat malaria and evaluated for their toxicity. In the present study, brine shrimp (Artemia salina) test was used to screen antimalarial plants for their cytotoxicity. A total of 80 crude extracts from 30 plant species distributed among 18 plant families were evaluated for their toxicity against Artemia salina. Cytotoxicity results showed that 23 (57.5%) of organic and 7 (17.5%) of aqueous extracts showed significant toxicity to the brine shrimp (LC50 < 100 µg/ml). Organic extracts obtained from the leaves of Momordica foetida Schumach. (Cucurbitaceae), stem bark of Warbugia stuhlmannii Engl. (Canallaceae) and the root bark of Zanthoxylum chalybeum (Eng) Engl. (Rutaceae) exhibited potent activity with LC50 values of 8, 8 and 11 µg/ml respectively. The toxicity data obtained suggest that some of these plants would not make good malaria treatments, suggesting a need for further in vivo toxicological studies. The present study could be useful in the search for new antitumor compounds from the Kenyan flora.

The Mineral Scoring Technique and Evaluation of Indigenous Browse Species as Natural Mineral Phytocentres for Goats in African Rangelands

Tropical Animal Health and Production, May 1, 2004

The mineral scoring technique and evaluation of indigenous browse species as natural mineral phyt... more The mineral scoring technique and evaluation of indigenous browse species as natural mineral phytocentres for goats in African rangelands. Tropical Animal Health and Production, 36(4), 365^380 ABSTRACT The utilization and evaluation of indigenous browse species as natural mineral phytocentres for goats was examined by the combined use of mineral concentrations, mineral scores, browse accessibility and abundance in the Ankole rangeland, Uganda. The species Grewia bicolor and Carissa edulis with 4140% mineral scores and 470% accessibility were the most valuable mineral phytocentres and were the victims of overgrazing. Acacia albida and Acacia abyssinica with 4130% mineral scores but 530% browse accessibility were valuable for the cut-and-carry feeding system. Species mineral scores at average and maximum dietary recommendations were 560%, highlighting the mineral insu¤ciency of range browse for high-performance goats. Mineral supply potential was highest (35.0%) in the genus Acacia and lowest (5.3%) in Dichrostachys. Browse accessibility was 535% in 69.2% of species. Acacia hockii was the most abundant species (24.5%) but had the lowest mineral score (17.7%). Browse species (90^100%) were de¢cient in Fe, Mn, Cu and Zn. The combined use of mineral concentrations and mineral scoring technique was superior to the use of mineral concentrations alone in de¢ning mineral adequacy, de¢ciency and supply potential, making the mineral scoring technique a valuable tool in browse management.

Experiences with an In-Training Community Service Model in the Control of Zoonotic Sleeping Sickness in Uganda

Journal of Veterinary Medical Education, Sep 1, 2010

By 2006, the acute and zoonotic Tripanosoma brucei rhodesiense sleeping sickness in Uganda was sp... more By 2006, the acute and zoonotic Tripanosoma brucei rhodesiense sleeping sickness in Uganda was spreading northward, leading to fear of a merger with the chronic Tripanosoma brucei gambiese type that affects people in the northwest of the country. Eliminating infection in cattle was urgent because they had been confirmed to be spreading the zoonotic type, and eliminating infection would reduce the animal reservoir and subsequently reduce transmission of sleeping sickness. In this article, we describe how the staff and students of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Makerere University, adjusted their approach to training veterinary students who could provide the urgently needed manpower to enable the community to halt the disease's spread. Because it was not usual for university staff and students to implement disease control activities, the government of Uganda had to delegate this responsibility to Makerere University. In turn, the university had to explore available opportunities in its training and outreach mandates. A model was developed that proved to be an effective hands-on training strategy while helping to control a disease that was threatening the health of people in a community that was just recovering from an armed rebellion. In total, 66 students and supervisors participated in the 10-week-long mass treatment activities in the target area and treated more than 190,000 out of 220,000 targeted (>86%) cattle with diminazene aceturate and deltamethrin. Also, the graduates' performance improved, as indicated by 43.5% of graduates securing employment within less than a month after completing the course.

Condensed Tannins Enhance the Erythron Function and Deter the Development of Anaemia in Pregnant Goats Browsing in an East African Natural Range Land

Public–private partnership works to stamp out sleeping sickness in Uganda

Trends in Parasitology, May 1, 2007

A recent review published in this journal [1] highlighted the serious and worsening situation dev... more A recent review published in this journal [1] highlighted the serious and worsening situation developing in Uganda regarding sleeping sickness. It was reported that since the 1980s large-scale restocking programmes have involved movement of cattle from southeastern Uganda to districts further north. In hindsight, many of those cattle were likely to have been asymptomatic carriers of human-infective Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense. The result was that T. b. rhodesiense sleeping sickness has been introduced into previously disease free (although tsetse infested) districts such as Soroti, Kaberamaido, Apac and Lira.

Ethnobotany, Phytochemistry and Pharmacological Activity of Kigelia africana (Lam.) Benth. (Bignoniaceae)

Plants, Jun 15, 2020

Kigelia africana has been used in the management of human ailments since time immemorial. Ethnobo... more Kigelia africana has been used in the management of human ailments since time immemorial. Ethnobotanists have documented the traditional uses of K. africana, which include treatment of skin disorders, cancer and gynecological complaints, among others. This has interested scientists, who have examined K. africana plant parts for their bioactivity. This review provides an insightful understanding on the ethnobotany, phytochemistry and pharmacology of K. africana. Web search engines Google and Google Scholar, as well as the databases of PubMed, Scopus, JSTOR, HINARI, SID, AJOL and Springer Link, were exhaustively searched using key words and phrases. Institutional reports and conference papers were also consulted. A total of 125 relevant international literature sources meeting the inclusion criteria were included. Kigelia africana has biologically active phytochemicals, many of which have been isolated. Whilst the fruits are most often cited in pharmacological studies, other plant parts are also used in herbal preparations. Commercially available products have been formulated from K. africana, though many have not been fully standardized. Despite many efforts by researchers to scientifically validate traditional uses of K. africana, many remain merely claims, thus the need to conduct more research, scientifically validate other traditional uses, isolate new bioactive phytochemicals and standardize K. africana products.

The Role of Bioactive Tannins in the Postpartum Energy Retention and Productive Performance of Goats Browsed in a Natural Rangeland

Tropical Animal Health and Production, Aug 1, 2004

The role of bioactive tannins in the postpartum energy retention and productive performance of go... more

Isolation and genotyping of<i>Toxoplasma gondii</i>from Ugandan chickens reveals frequent multiple infections

Parasitology, Sep 25, 2007

The genetic make-up of an infecting Toxoplasma gondii strain may be important for the outcome of ... more The genetic make-up of an infecting Toxoplasma gondii strain may be important for the outcome of infection and the risk of reactivation of chronic disease. In order to survey the distribution of different genotypes within an area, free-range chickens act as a good model species. In this study 85 chickens were used to investigate the prevalence, genotype and mouse virulence of T. gondii in Kampala, Uganda. Antibodies were detected in 40 chickens, of which 20 had MAT-titres of 1 : 20 or higher and were also positive by PCR. Genotyping of 5 loci (SAG1, SAG2, SAG3, BTUB and GRA6) showed that 6 strains belonged to genotype I, 8 to Type II and 1 to Type III. Five chickens had multiple infections ; 3 individuals with Type I plus Type II and a further 2 harbouring Types I, II and III. Isolates were obtained from 9 chickens via bioassay in mice, 6 were Type II strains and 3 were from animals with mixed infection. This is the first set of African T. gondii strains to be genotyped at multiple loci and in addition to the 3 predominant lineages we found a small number of new polymorphisms and a high frequency of multiple infections.

Cytotoxicity of selected medicinal plants extracts using the brine shrimp lethality assay from Samburu county, Kenya Journal of Medical Research 4 (5): 249-255

Medicinal plants used in the management of sexually transmitted infections by the Samburu community Kenya

Journal of Pharmaceutical Research, 2015

The study aimed at documenting the use of traditional medicine in management of sexually transmit... more The study aimed at documenting the use of traditional medicine in management of sexually transmitted infections by Samburu traditional healers. The study also documents the methods of diagnosis of Sexually Transmitted Infections/Diseases (STIs/STDs) by the traditional healers. Data on use of plants for management of STIs was obtained using focused group discussions and administration of semi-structured questionnaire to 29 traditional healers from seven divisions in Samburu County. The information on identity of medicinal plants, medicinal preparations, their effectiveness, safety, availability and STIs diagnosis was obtained. The symptoms of STIs as mentioned by the traditional healers were varied and diverse and Samburu community has accumulated reliable ethno-diagnostic skills for diagnosis of STIs on the basis of these symptoms. The commonly used plants species in management of STIs as cited were Clerodendrum myricoides, (93%) with the roots being the most preferred part, Carissa edulis (52%), Myrsine africana,(31%), Rhamnus staddo,(24%) Rhamnus prinoides 17%), Sansevieria enhribergii, (10%) and Psiadia arabica (10%). Clerodendrum myricoides was ranked first in STIs management and is used alone or in combination with the other plants. The purpose of using it in combination with other plants was to increase its efficacy and to decrease toxicity. The medicinal remedies for STIs were prepared mainly as decoctions and given orally, but in chronic cases of STIs, Clerodendrum myricoides is given per rectum. Although Clerodendrum myricoides was ranked as the best plant, toxicity was reported to be acute, severe and often fatal in case of its overdose. The survey showed that Clerodendrum myricoides alone or in combination with other plants is considered an important medicinal remedy for STIs in the Samburu community. However, there is a danger for its eradication since the roots are commonly used. There is need to develop propagation measures in order to ensure sustainability.

Models for University Engagement with Private and Public Sector Employers

This study compares models for university engagement with private and public sector employers in ... more This study compares models for university engagement with private and public sector employers in Africa. It compares engagement models in countries with more developed food systems (South Africa) and a sample of selected African countries with less developed food systems - Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Senegal. The study was conducted in two parts. Part one consisted of desk top review of the available literature in order to identify the available engagement models and development of a conceptual framework for engagement, and part two consisted of conducting structured interviews with selected private agricultural companies and public employers.

Biological Scree Ig of Ke Ya Medici Al Pla TS Usi G Artemia Sali a L.(ARTEMIIDAE)

unisa.it

Medicinal plants constitute important components of flora and are widely distributed in different... more Medicinal plants constitute important components of flora and are widely distributed in different regions of Kenya. Based on ethnopharmacological significance, we collected several medicinal plants from South Coast, Kenya used in traditional medicine to treat malaria and evaluated for their toxicity. In the present study, brine shrimp (Artemia salina) test was used to screen antimalarial plants for their cytotoxicity. A total of 80 crude extracts from 30 plant species distributed among 18 plant families were evaluated for their toxicity against Artemia salina. Cytotoxicity results showed that 23 (57.5%) of organic and 7 (17.5%) of aqueous extracts showed significant toxicity to the brine shrimp (LC 50 < 100 µg/ml). Organic extracts obtained from the leaves of Momordica foetida Schumach. (Cucurbitaceae), stem bark of Warbugia stuhlmannii Engl. (Canallaceae) and the root bark of Zanthoxylum chalybeum (Eng) Engl. (Rutaceae) exhibited potent activity with LC 50 values of 8, 8 and 11 µg/ml respectively. The toxicity data obtained suggest that some of these plants would not make good malaria treatments, suggesting a need for further in vivo toxicological studies. The present study could be useful in the search for new antitumor compounds from the Kenyan flora.

Isolation and Characterization of Antimicrobial-Resistant <i>Escherichia coli</i> from Retail Meats from Roadside Butcheries in Uganda

Foodborne Pathogens and Disease, Nov 1, 2020

Retail meats are one of the main routes for spreading antimicrobial-resistant bacteria from lives... more Retail meats are one of the main routes for spreading antimicrobial-resistant bacteria from livestock to humans through the food chain. In African countries, retail meats are often sold at roadside butcheries without chilling or refrigeration. Retail meats in those butcheries are suspected to be contaminated by antimicrobial-resistant bacteria, but it was not clear. In the present study, we tested for the presence of antimicrobial-resistant Escherichia coli from retail meats (n = 64) from roadside butcheries in Kampala, Uganda. The meat surfaces were swabbed and inoculated on PetriFilm SEC agar to isolate E. coli. We successfully isolated E. coli from 90.6% of these retail meat samples. We identified the phylogenetic type, antimicrobial susceptibility, and antimicrobial resistance genes prevalence between retail meat isolates (n = 89). Phylogenetic type B1 was identified from 70.8% of the retail meat isolates, suggesting that the isolates originated primarily from fecal contamination during meat processing. Tetracycline-resistant isolates with tetA and/or tetB gene(s) were the most frequently detected (28.1%), followed by ampicillin-resistance genes with blaTEM (15.7%,) and sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim resistance genes with sul2 (15.7%). No extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing isolates were detected. A conjugation assay showed that resistance to ampicillin, tetracycline, and sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim could be simultaneously transferred to recipients. These findings suggest that antimicrobial-resistant E. coli can easily be transferred from farms to tables from retail meats obtained from roadside butcheries.

One Health capacity building in sub-Saharan Africa

Infection ecology & epidemiology, 2016

Background: Africa of late has been faced with challenges that require a multidisciplinary and mu... more Background: Africa of late has been faced with challenges that require a multidisciplinary and multisectoral approach to address them, and academic and non-academic institutions have played a key role in training and conducting research that would promote the One Health approach. Objectives: The objective of this review was to document networks and organizations conducting One Health training, research, and outreach in Africa, as one of a series of articles around the world. Methods: Data for this review were collected from organizations through key contacts of the authors and their knowledge of networks they have worked with. Web searches were conducted using One Health, training, and research as key words for work done in Africa. Results: Africa has major networks involved in One Health training, research, and outreach, with participation of both academic and non-academic institutions. This review highlights an effort in Africa to form networks to conduct multidisciplinary training and research. The main networks include Afrique One, Southern African Centre for Infectious Disease Surveillance (SACIDS), and One Health Central and Eastern Africa (OHCEA). Conclusions: Both academic and non-academic institutions and organizations have shown an interest to conduct multidisciplinary training and research in Africa for managing challenges that Africa is facing currently, especially the outbreak of infectious diseases.

Knowledge, attitudes, and adherence relating to COVID-19 and its prevention measures in high-risk districts of Uganda in 2020

Frontiers in Epidemiology

IntroductionCOVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronav... more IntroductionCOVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. There were no licensed vaccines or explicit medicines available for treatment at the time of conducting this study. Public health and social measures (PHSM) have been widely adopted to reduce the transmission of COVID-19. Hence, assessing people's knowledge, attitudes, and adherence/practices related to the management of COVID-19 is crucial for identifying the factors that may promote or hinder adherence to the implementation of PHSM.MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional study in the Amuru, Kyotera, Wakiso, and Kampala districts of Uganda. We used a simple random sampling technique to select households and conducted face-to-face interviews in selected households. We administered questionnaires to respondents to assess the factors that promote or hinder adherence to and knowledge about PHSM implementation. We used a Likert scale to assess respondents’ attitudes toward COVID-19...

Notes from the field: Descriptive Exploration of childhood tuberculosis frequency and risk factors of zoonotic bovine tuberculosis in Moroto district, Uganda

Background: Tuberculosis (TB) in children below 15 years is a public health problem in Uganda. Pa... more Background: Tuberculosis (TB) in children below 15 years is a public health problem in Uganda. Pastoral communities in Moroto district have close association with cattle and have a high burden of TB. This study assessed the frequency of TB among children below 15 years and investigated their anti-TB drug completion rate. In addition, we assessed the knowledge level of community members in pastoral communities on bovine tuberculosis and its risk factors in Moroto district. Methods: We reviewed registers of TB from five health care centers in Moroto district between September 2020 to May 2021 and data on childhood TB cases was extracted. Community members from pastoral villages were interviewed with a structured questionnaire to assess their knowledge levels on bovine tuberculosis and its risk factors. Results: A total of 746 tuberculosis cases were recorded in the five TB treatment centers of which, 352 (47 %) cases occurred in children below 15 years. The anti-TB drug completion rat...

Using the Kolb’s experiential learning cycle to explore the extent of application of one health competencies to solving global health challenges; a tracer study among AFROHUN-Uganda alumni

Globalization and Health

Background The Africa One Health University Network (AFROHUN) with support from the United States... more Background The Africa One Health University Network (AFROHUN) with support from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), has since 2012 conducted pre and in-service One health (OH) trainings with the objective of improving global health security. These trainings aim to build competencies that, enhance a multidisciplinary approach to solving global health challenges. Despite the investment in OH trainings, there is limited documentation of the extent of acquisition and application of the OH competencies at workplaces. This tracer study explored the extent of acquisition and application of the OH competencies by the AFROHUN-Uganda alumni. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among a random sample of 182 AFROHUN-Uganda alumni of 2013–2018 cohorts. A blended approach of interviewer-administered and self-administered questionnaires was used. Virtual platforms such as Zoom, Microsoft teams, and Skype, and phone interviews were used to collect data when face...

Using the Kolb’s Experiential Learning Cycle to Understand the Application of One Health Competencies to Solving Global Health Challenges; A Tracer Study Among AFROHUN-Uganda Alumni

BackgroundThe Africa One Health University Network (AFROHUN) with support from the United States ... more BackgroundThe Africa One Health University Network (AFROHUN) with support from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), has since 2012 conducted pre and in-service One health (OH) trainings with the objective of improving global health security through a well-trained multidisciplinary health workforce. These trainings aim to build OH competencies among participants with the ultimate goal of promoting a multidisciplinary approach to solving global health challenges. Despite these trainings, there is limited documentation of the extent of acquisition and application of the One Health competencies at workplaces. This tracer study established the extent of acquisition and application of the One Health competencies by the AFROHUN-Uganda alumni.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted among a random sample of 182 AFROHUN-Uganda alumni of 2013-2017. A blended approach of interviewer and self-administered was used during data collection. Virtual interviews using z...

Employment status of AFROHUN-Uganda One Health alumni, and facilitators and barriers for application of the One Health approach: a tracer study

BackgroundThe One Health (OH) approach integrates multiple competencies in the prevention and con... more BackgroundThe One Health (OH) approach integrates multiple competencies in the prevention and control of disease outbreaks. Through a range of OH competence-based activities, the Africa One Health University Network (AFROHUN) built the capacity of selected students at Makerere University and Mbarara University of Science and Technology. This study applied the Systems Theoretical Framework (STF) of career development to establish the employment status of AFROHUN-Uganda alumni, and the facilitators and barriers for application of the OH approach in their organisations.MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional study using mixed methods to collect and analyse data from a random sample of 182 OH alumni of the 2013-2018 cohorts. For quantitative data, descriptive statistics were computed using Stata 14.0 statistical software. A total of 12 in-depth interviews were conducted, and NVivo 12 Pro was used to organise data during thematic analysis.ResultsWhile the majority, 87.4% were or got employ...

Microbiological Quality of Traditionally Smoked Fish from Lake Victoria Crescent, Uganda

Microbiological quality of traditionally smoked fish was assessed to ascertain the effectiveness ... more Microbiological quality of traditionally smoked fish was assessed to ascertain the effectiveness of traditional smoking process and handling conditions for smoked fish shelf-life and safety. Fish smoking is a popular preservation method in Uganda. Although fish smoking is a widely used method of preservation, the presence of spoilage and pathogenic bacteria in smoked fish and food borne illnesses remain a threat in developing countries. However, little is known about microbial quality of fish smoked from Uganda. In light of this, the status of spoilage, hygiene and pathogenic indicator organisms in fish (Nile perch) was investigated. A total of 75 randomly selected fresh, freshly smoked, and on shelf smoked fish from landing sites and markets respectively, were obtained for microbial and moisture content analysis. Descriptive statistics was used to present the data, while ANOVA and Tukey tests were used to analyze the data. The study revealed that, the smoking process significantly (P<0.05) reduced microbial load in freshly fish to levels acceptable for consumption, despite the high levels of moisture content in the range of 59.2% to 66.5%. The mean microbial load (log of cfu/g) of indicator organisms for samples from different sites varied from; 9.97 to 10.18; 7.39 to 8.19 (aerobic mesophilic bacteria or TPC), 5.18 to 5.27; 0 to 4.28 (total coliforms), 2.73 to 5.55; 0 to 0.85 (E. coli), 4.97 to 7.32; 0 to 3.11 (S. aureus), and 2.21 to 4.56; 0 to 0.82 (Yeasts and molds), for fresh and smoked fish samples respectively. Additionally, mean microbial load for on shelf smoked fish from markets varied from; 8.2 to 10.57 (TPC), 2.8-6.63 (total coliforms), 0 to 6.11 (E. coli), 6.74 to 8.89 (S. aureus), and 0 to 5.51 (Yeasts and molds). Although findings showed that, traditional fish smoking was somewhat effective in reducing microbial load to acceptable levels, the microbial status of on shelf smoked fish indicated poor fish handling and storage. Therefore, proper fish handling during and post-smoking as well as cooking before consumption, are highly recommended for assured shelf-life and safety of smoked fish for consumption in Uganda.

Biological screening of Kenyan medicinal plants using Artemia salina L.(ARTEMIIDAE)

Pharmacologyonline, 2011

Medicinal plants constitute important components of flora and are widely distributed in different... more Medicinal plants constitute important components of flora and are widely distributed in different regions of Kenya. Based on ethnopharmacological significance, we collected several medicinal plants from South Coast, Kenya used in traditional medicine to treat malaria and evaluated for their toxicity. In the present study, brine shrimp (Artemia salina) test was used to screen antimalarial plants for their cytotoxicity. A total of 80 crude extracts from 30 plant species distributed among 18 plant families were evaluated for their toxicity against Artemia salina. Cytotoxicity results showed that 23 (57.5%) of organic and 7 (17.5%) of aqueous extracts showed significant toxicity to the brine shrimp (LC50 < 100 µg/ml). Organic extracts obtained from the leaves of Momordica foetida Schumach. (Cucurbitaceae), stem bark of Warbugia stuhlmannii Engl. (Canallaceae) and the root bark of Zanthoxylum chalybeum (Eng) Engl. (Rutaceae) exhibited potent activity with LC50 values of 8, 8 and 11 µg/ml respectively. The toxicity data obtained suggest that some of these plants would not make good malaria treatments, suggesting a need for further in vivo toxicological studies. The present study could be useful in the search for new antitumor compounds from the Kenyan flora.

The Mineral Scoring Technique and Evaluation of Indigenous Browse Species as Natural Mineral Phytocentres for Goats in African Rangelands

Tropical Animal Health and Production, May 1, 2004

The mineral scoring technique and evaluation of indigenous browse species as natural mineral phyt... more The mineral scoring technique and evaluation of indigenous browse species as natural mineral phytocentres for goats in African rangelands. Tropical Animal Health and Production, 36(4), 365^380 ABSTRACT The utilization and evaluation of indigenous browse species as natural mineral phytocentres for goats was examined by the combined use of mineral concentrations, mineral scores, browse accessibility and abundance in the Ankole rangeland, Uganda. The species Grewia bicolor and Carissa edulis with 4140% mineral scores and 470% accessibility were the most valuable mineral phytocentres and were the victims of overgrazing. Acacia albida and Acacia abyssinica with 4130% mineral scores but 530% browse accessibility were valuable for the cut-and-carry feeding system. Species mineral scores at average and maximum dietary recommendations were 560%, highlighting the mineral insu¤ciency of range browse for high-performance goats. Mineral supply potential was highest (35.0%) in the genus Acacia and lowest (5.3%) in Dichrostachys. Browse accessibility was 535% in 69.2% of species. Acacia hockii was the most abundant species (24.5%) but had the lowest mineral score (17.7%). Browse species (90^100%) were de¢cient in Fe, Mn, Cu and Zn. The combined use of mineral concentrations and mineral scoring technique was superior to the use of mineral concentrations alone in de¢ning mineral adequacy, de¢ciency and supply potential, making the mineral scoring technique a valuable tool in browse management.

Experiences with an In-Training Community Service Model in the Control of Zoonotic Sleeping Sickness in Uganda

Journal of Veterinary Medical Education, Sep 1, 2010

By 2006, the acute and zoonotic Tripanosoma brucei rhodesiense sleeping sickness in Uganda was sp... more By 2006, the acute and zoonotic Tripanosoma brucei rhodesiense sleeping sickness in Uganda was spreading northward, leading to fear of a merger with the chronic Tripanosoma brucei gambiese type that affects people in the northwest of the country. Eliminating infection in cattle was urgent because they had been confirmed to be spreading the zoonotic type, and eliminating infection would reduce the animal reservoir and subsequently reduce transmission of sleeping sickness. In this article, we describe how the staff and students of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Makerere University, adjusted their approach to training veterinary students who could provide the urgently needed manpower to enable the community to halt the disease's spread. Because it was not usual for university staff and students to implement disease control activities, the government of Uganda had to delegate this responsibility to Makerere University. In turn, the university had to explore available opportunities in its training and outreach mandates. A model was developed that proved to be an effective hands-on training strategy while helping to control a disease that was threatening the health of people in a community that was just recovering from an armed rebellion. In total, 66 students and supervisors participated in the 10-week-long mass treatment activities in the target area and treated more than 190,000 out of 220,000 targeted (>86%) cattle with diminazene aceturate and deltamethrin. Also, the graduates' performance improved, as indicated by 43.5% of graduates securing employment within less than a month after completing the course.

Condensed Tannins Enhance the Erythron Function and Deter the Development of Anaemia in Pregnant Goats Browsing in an East African Natural Range Land

Public–private partnership works to stamp out sleeping sickness in Uganda

Trends in Parasitology, May 1, 2007

A recent review published in this journal [1] highlighted the serious and worsening situation dev... more A recent review published in this journal [1] highlighted the serious and worsening situation developing in Uganda regarding sleeping sickness. It was reported that since the 1980s large-scale restocking programmes have involved movement of cattle from southeastern Uganda to districts further north. In hindsight, many of those cattle were likely to have been asymptomatic carriers of human-infective Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense. The result was that T. b. rhodesiense sleeping sickness has been introduced into previously disease free (although tsetse infested) districts such as Soroti, Kaberamaido, Apac and Lira.

Ethnobotany, Phytochemistry and Pharmacological Activity of Kigelia africana (Lam.) Benth. (Bignoniaceae)

Plants, Jun 15, 2020

Kigelia africana has been used in the management of human ailments since time immemorial. Ethnobo... more Kigelia africana has been used in the management of human ailments since time immemorial. Ethnobotanists have documented the traditional uses of K. africana, which include treatment of skin disorders, cancer and gynecological complaints, among others. This has interested scientists, who have examined K. africana plant parts for their bioactivity. This review provides an insightful understanding on the ethnobotany, phytochemistry and pharmacology of K. africana. Web search engines Google and Google Scholar, as well as the databases of PubMed, Scopus, JSTOR, HINARI, SID, AJOL and Springer Link, were exhaustively searched using key words and phrases. Institutional reports and conference papers were also consulted. A total of 125 relevant international literature sources meeting the inclusion criteria were included. Kigelia africana has biologically active phytochemicals, many of which have been isolated. Whilst the fruits are most often cited in pharmacological studies, other plant parts are also used in herbal preparations. Commercially available products have been formulated from K. africana, though many have not been fully standardized. Despite many efforts by researchers to scientifically validate traditional uses of K. africana, many remain merely claims, thus the need to conduct more research, scientifically validate other traditional uses, isolate new bioactive phytochemicals and standardize K. africana products.

The Role of Bioactive Tannins in the Postpartum Energy Retention and Productive Performance of Goats Browsed in a Natural Rangeland

Tropical Animal Health and Production, Aug 1, 2004

The role of bioactive tannins in the postpartum energy retention and productive performance of go... more

Isolation and genotyping of<i>Toxoplasma gondii</i>from Ugandan chickens reveals frequent multiple infections

Parasitology, Sep 25, 2007

The genetic make-up of an infecting Toxoplasma gondii strain may be important for the outcome of ... more The genetic make-up of an infecting Toxoplasma gondii strain may be important for the outcome of infection and the risk of reactivation of chronic disease. In order to survey the distribution of different genotypes within an area, free-range chickens act as a good model species. In this study 85 chickens were used to investigate the prevalence, genotype and mouse virulence of T. gondii in Kampala, Uganda. Antibodies were detected in 40 chickens, of which 20 had MAT-titres of 1 : 20 or higher and were also positive by PCR. Genotyping of 5 loci (SAG1, SAG2, SAG3, BTUB and GRA6) showed that 6 strains belonged to genotype I, 8 to Type II and 1 to Type III. Five chickens had multiple infections ; 3 individuals with Type I plus Type II and a further 2 harbouring Types I, II and III. Isolates were obtained from 9 chickens via bioassay in mice, 6 were Type II strains and 3 were from animals with mixed infection. This is the first set of African T. gondii strains to be genotyped at multiple loci and in addition to the 3 predominant lineages we found a small number of new polymorphisms and a high frequency of multiple infections.

Cytotoxicity of selected medicinal plants extracts using the brine shrimp lethality assay from Samburu county, Kenya Journal of Medical Research 4 (5): 249-255

Medicinal plants used in the management of sexually transmitted infections by the Samburu community Kenya

Journal of Pharmaceutical Research, 2015

The study aimed at documenting the use of traditional medicine in management of sexually transmit... more The study aimed at documenting the use of traditional medicine in management of sexually transmitted infections by Samburu traditional healers. The study also documents the methods of diagnosis of Sexually Transmitted Infections/Diseases (STIs/STDs) by the traditional healers. Data on use of plants for management of STIs was obtained using focused group discussions and administration of semi-structured questionnaire to 29 traditional healers from seven divisions in Samburu County. The information on identity of medicinal plants, medicinal preparations, their effectiveness, safety, availability and STIs diagnosis was obtained. The symptoms of STIs as mentioned by the traditional healers were varied and diverse and Samburu community has accumulated reliable ethno-diagnostic skills for diagnosis of STIs on the basis of these symptoms. The commonly used plants species in management of STIs as cited were Clerodendrum myricoides, (93%) with the roots being the most preferred part, Carissa edulis (52%), Myrsine africana,(31%), Rhamnus staddo,(24%) Rhamnus prinoides 17%), Sansevieria enhribergii, (10%) and Psiadia arabica (10%). Clerodendrum myricoides was ranked first in STIs management and is used alone or in combination with the other plants. The purpose of using it in combination with other plants was to increase its efficacy and to decrease toxicity. The medicinal remedies for STIs were prepared mainly as decoctions and given orally, but in chronic cases of STIs, Clerodendrum myricoides is given per rectum. Although Clerodendrum myricoides was ranked as the best plant, toxicity was reported to be acute, severe and often fatal in case of its overdose. The survey showed that Clerodendrum myricoides alone or in combination with other plants is considered an important medicinal remedy for STIs in the Samburu community. However, there is a danger for its eradication since the roots are commonly used. There is need to develop propagation measures in order to ensure sustainability.

Models for University Engagement with Private and Public Sector Employers

This study compares models for university engagement with private and public sector employers in ... more This study compares models for university engagement with private and public sector employers in Africa. It compares engagement models in countries with more developed food systems (South Africa) and a sample of selected African countries with less developed food systems - Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Senegal. The study was conducted in two parts. Part one consisted of desk top review of the available literature in order to identify the available engagement models and development of a conceptual framework for engagement, and part two consisted of conducting structured interviews with selected private agricultural companies and public employers.

Biological Scree Ig of Ke Ya Medici Al Pla TS Usi G Artemia Sali a L.(ARTEMIIDAE)

unisa.it

Medicinal plants constitute important components of flora and are widely distributed in different... more Medicinal plants constitute important components of flora and are widely distributed in different regions of Kenya. Based on ethnopharmacological significance, we collected several medicinal plants from South Coast, Kenya used in traditional medicine to treat malaria and evaluated for their toxicity. In the present study, brine shrimp (Artemia salina) test was used to screen antimalarial plants for their cytotoxicity. A total of 80 crude extracts from 30 plant species distributed among 18 plant families were evaluated for their toxicity against Artemia salina. Cytotoxicity results showed that 23 (57.5%) of organic and 7 (17.5%) of aqueous extracts showed significant toxicity to the brine shrimp (LC 50 < 100 µg/ml). Organic extracts obtained from the leaves of Momordica foetida Schumach. (Cucurbitaceae), stem bark of Warbugia stuhlmannii Engl. (Canallaceae) and the root bark of Zanthoxylum chalybeum (Eng) Engl. (Rutaceae) exhibited potent activity with LC 50 values of 8, 8 and 11 µg/ml respectively. The toxicity data obtained suggest that some of these plants would not make good malaria treatments, suggesting a need for further in vivo toxicological studies. The present study could be useful in the search for new antitumor compounds from the Kenyan flora.

Isolation and Characterization of Antimicrobial-Resistant <i>Escherichia coli</i> from Retail Meats from Roadside Butcheries in Uganda

Foodborne Pathogens and Disease, Nov 1, 2020

Retail meats are one of the main routes for spreading antimicrobial-resistant bacteria from lives... more Retail meats are one of the main routes for spreading antimicrobial-resistant bacteria from livestock to humans through the food chain. In African countries, retail meats are often sold at roadside butcheries without chilling or refrigeration. Retail meats in those butcheries are suspected to be contaminated by antimicrobial-resistant bacteria, but it was not clear. In the present study, we tested for the presence of antimicrobial-resistant Escherichia coli from retail meats (n = 64) from roadside butcheries in Kampala, Uganda. The meat surfaces were swabbed and inoculated on PetriFilm SEC agar to isolate E. coli. We successfully isolated E. coli from 90.6% of these retail meat samples. We identified the phylogenetic type, antimicrobial susceptibility, and antimicrobial resistance genes prevalence between retail meat isolates (n = 89). Phylogenetic type B1 was identified from 70.8% of the retail meat isolates, suggesting that the isolates originated primarily from fecal contamination during meat processing. Tetracycline-resistant isolates with tetA and/or tetB gene(s) were the most frequently detected (28.1%), followed by ampicillin-resistance genes with blaTEM (15.7%,) and sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim resistance genes with sul2 (15.7%). No extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing isolates were detected. A conjugation assay showed that resistance to ampicillin, tetracycline, and sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim could be simultaneously transferred to recipients. These findings suggest that antimicrobial-resistant E. coli can easily be transferred from farms to tables from retail meats obtained from roadside butcheries.

One Health capacity building in sub-Saharan Africa

Infection ecology & epidemiology, 2016

Background: Africa of late has been faced with challenges that require a multidisciplinary and mu... more Background: Africa of late has been faced with challenges that require a multidisciplinary and multisectoral approach to address them, and academic and non-academic institutions have played a key role in training and conducting research that would promote the One Health approach. Objectives: The objective of this review was to document networks and organizations conducting One Health training, research, and outreach in Africa, as one of a series of articles around the world. Methods: Data for this review were collected from organizations through key contacts of the authors and their knowledge of networks they have worked with. Web searches were conducted using One Health, training, and research as key words for work done in Africa. Results: Africa has major networks involved in One Health training, research, and outreach, with participation of both academic and non-academic institutions. This review highlights an effort in Africa to form networks to conduct multidisciplinary training and research. The main networks include Afrique One, Southern African Centre for Infectious Disease Surveillance (SACIDS), and One Health Central and Eastern Africa (OHCEA). Conclusions: Both academic and non-academic institutions and organizations have shown an interest to conduct multidisciplinary training and research in Africa for managing challenges that Africa is facing currently, especially the outbreak of infectious diseases.

Knowledge, attitudes, and adherence relating to COVID-19 and its prevention measures in high-risk districts of Uganda in 2020

Frontiers in Epidemiology

IntroductionCOVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronav... more IntroductionCOVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. There were no licensed vaccines or explicit medicines available for treatment at the time of conducting this study. Public health and social measures (PHSM) have been widely adopted to reduce the transmission of COVID-19. Hence, assessing people's knowledge, attitudes, and adherence/practices related to the management of COVID-19 is crucial for identifying the factors that may promote or hinder adherence to the implementation of PHSM.MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional study in the Amuru, Kyotera, Wakiso, and Kampala districts of Uganda. We used a simple random sampling technique to select households and conducted face-to-face interviews in selected households. We administered questionnaires to respondents to assess the factors that promote or hinder adherence to and knowledge about PHSM implementation. We used a Likert scale to assess respondents’ attitudes toward COVID-19...

Notes from the field: Descriptive Exploration of childhood tuberculosis frequency and risk factors of zoonotic bovine tuberculosis in Moroto district, Uganda

Background: Tuberculosis (TB) in children below 15 years is a public health problem in Uganda. Pa... more Background: Tuberculosis (TB) in children below 15 years is a public health problem in Uganda. Pastoral communities in Moroto district have close association with cattle and have a high burden of TB. This study assessed the frequency of TB among children below 15 years and investigated their anti-TB drug completion rate. In addition, we assessed the knowledge level of community members in pastoral communities on bovine tuberculosis and its risk factors in Moroto district. Methods: We reviewed registers of TB from five health care centers in Moroto district between September 2020 to May 2021 and data on childhood TB cases was extracted. Community members from pastoral villages were interviewed with a structured questionnaire to assess their knowledge levels on bovine tuberculosis and its risk factors. Results: A total of 746 tuberculosis cases were recorded in the five TB treatment centers of which, 352 (47 %) cases occurred in children below 15 years. The anti-TB drug completion rat...

Using the Kolb’s experiential learning cycle to explore the extent of application of one health competencies to solving global health challenges; a tracer study among AFROHUN-Uganda alumni

Globalization and Health

Background The Africa One Health University Network (AFROHUN) with support from the United States... more Background The Africa One Health University Network (AFROHUN) with support from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), has since 2012 conducted pre and in-service One health (OH) trainings with the objective of improving global health security. These trainings aim to build competencies that, enhance a multidisciplinary approach to solving global health challenges. Despite the investment in OH trainings, there is limited documentation of the extent of acquisition and application of the OH competencies at workplaces. This tracer study explored the extent of acquisition and application of the OH competencies by the AFROHUN-Uganda alumni. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among a random sample of 182 AFROHUN-Uganda alumni of 2013–2018 cohorts. A blended approach of interviewer-administered and self-administered questionnaires was used. Virtual platforms such as Zoom, Microsoft teams, and Skype, and phone interviews were used to collect data when face...

Using the Kolb’s Experiential Learning Cycle to Understand the Application of One Health Competencies to Solving Global Health Challenges; A Tracer Study Among AFROHUN-Uganda Alumni

BackgroundThe Africa One Health University Network (AFROHUN) with support from the United States ... more BackgroundThe Africa One Health University Network (AFROHUN) with support from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), has since 2012 conducted pre and in-service One health (OH) trainings with the objective of improving global health security through a well-trained multidisciplinary health workforce. These trainings aim to build OH competencies among participants with the ultimate goal of promoting a multidisciplinary approach to solving global health challenges. Despite these trainings, there is limited documentation of the extent of acquisition and application of the One Health competencies at workplaces. This tracer study established the extent of acquisition and application of the One Health competencies by the AFROHUN-Uganda alumni.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted among a random sample of 182 AFROHUN-Uganda alumni of 2013-2017. A blended approach of interviewer and self-administered was used during data collection. Virtual interviews using z...

Employment status of AFROHUN-Uganda One Health alumni, and facilitators and barriers for application of the One Health approach: a tracer study

BackgroundThe One Health (OH) approach integrates multiple competencies in the prevention and con... more BackgroundThe One Health (OH) approach integrates multiple competencies in the prevention and control of disease outbreaks. Through a range of OH competence-based activities, the Africa One Health University Network (AFROHUN) built the capacity of selected students at Makerere University and Mbarara University of Science and Technology. This study applied the Systems Theoretical Framework (STF) of career development to establish the employment status of AFROHUN-Uganda alumni, and the facilitators and barriers for application of the OH approach in their organisations.MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional study using mixed methods to collect and analyse data from a random sample of 182 OH alumni of the 2013-2018 cohorts. For quantitative data, descriptive statistics were computed using Stata 14.0 statistical software. A total of 12 in-depth interviews were conducted, and NVivo 12 Pro was used to organise data during thematic analysis.ResultsWhile the majority, 87.4% were or got employ...

Microbiological Quality of Traditionally Smoked Fish from Lake Victoria Crescent, Uganda

Microbiological quality of traditionally smoked fish was assessed to ascertain the effectiveness ... more Microbiological quality of traditionally smoked fish was assessed to ascertain the effectiveness of traditional smoking process and handling conditions for smoked fish shelf-life and safety. Fish smoking is a popular preservation method in Uganda. Although fish smoking is a widely used method of preservation, the presence of spoilage and pathogenic bacteria in smoked fish and food borne illnesses remain a threat in developing countries. However, little is known about microbial quality of fish smoked from Uganda. In light of this, the status of spoilage, hygiene and pathogenic indicator organisms in fish (Nile perch) was investigated. A total of 75 randomly selected fresh, freshly smoked, and on shelf smoked fish from landing sites and markets respectively, were obtained for microbial and moisture content analysis. Descriptive statistics was used to present the data, while ANOVA and Tukey tests were used to analyze the data. The study revealed that, the smoking process significantly (P<0.05) reduced microbial load in freshly fish to levels acceptable for consumption, despite the high levels of moisture content in the range of 59.2% to 66.5%. The mean microbial load (log of cfu/g) of indicator organisms for samples from different sites varied from; 9.97 to 10.18; 7.39 to 8.19 (aerobic mesophilic bacteria or TPC), 5.18 to 5.27; 0 to 4.28 (total coliforms), 2.73 to 5.55; 0 to 0.85 (E. coli), 4.97 to 7.32; 0 to 3.11 (S. aureus), and 2.21 to 4.56; 0 to 0.82 (Yeasts and molds), for fresh and smoked fish samples respectively. Additionally, mean microbial load for on shelf smoked fish from markets varied from; 8.2 to 10.57 (TPC), 2.8-6.63 (total coliforms), 0 to 6.11 (E. coli), 6.74 to 8.89 (S. aureus), and 0 to 5.51 (Yeasts and molds). Although findings showed that, traditional fish smoking was somewhat effective in reducing microbial load to acceptable levels, the microbial status of on shelf smoked fish indicated poor fish handling and storage. Therefore, proper fish handling during and post-smoking as well as cooking before consumption, are highly recommended for assured shelf-life and safety of smoked fish for consumption in Uganda.