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Item Varietal Turnover and Diversity in Banana Production Systems in Uganda(not published yet, 2024-12-19) Ajambo, Susan; Erima, Rockefeller; Hakizimana, Desire; Okurut Asher Wilson; Okot, Francis; Omondi, Bonaventure Aman OduorThis study investigates varietal turnover dynamics in Ugandan banana farming systems by assessing diversity, examining the adoption and discontinuation rates of recently introduced varieties, and exploring the factors influencing turnover at the farm level. This addresses a critical knowledge gap in understanding the long-term retention and discontinuation factors of the improved varieties. Varietal diversity and turnover were analysed for 399 farmers using the Shannon Diversity Index (H') and the Four-Square Method, along with descriptive statistics to capture farm-level and regional variations. The results demonstrated variations in regional and farm-level banana diversity. Farmers cultivate an average of nine varieties in their fields, and farm-level diversity patterns do not mirror the regional patterns. The Shannon Diversity Index (H=2.006) and Equitability Index (EH=0.450) indicated a moderate variety range, but uneven distribution, with the Eastern and Northern regions exhibiting the highest varietal diversity and evenness. FHIA 17 was the most prevalent improved variety but experienced some decline. Regional variations in varietal turnover exist, with the eastern region leading to the introduction of improved varieties and the central region exhibiting the highest discontinuation rates. The study emphasises local contexts in banana variety management and improvement strategies, highlighting the need for breeding programs that balance agronomic performance with consumer preferences to ensure the sustainable uptake of improved varieties. We recommend implementing a varietal replacement strategy with clear targets and incentives to encourage farmers to adopt improved varieties, improve varietal tracking using digital platforms and surveys to monitor progress and inform decision-making, and strengthen the seed value chain to ensure a sustainable supply of high-quality planting materials.Item Socio-Demographic Factors Influencing Banana Seed Demand among Smallholder Farmers in Uganda: A Cluster Analysis(not published yet, 2024-12-20) Ajambo, SusanSeed systems facilitate farmers’ access to desirable crop cultivars; hence, a means of investment in improved and adaptable cultivars, and the delivery of genetic gains from breeding and selection of crops. They also support plant health security by using clean planting materials to minimise seed degeneration. Sustainable seed systems must align with the needs of farmers, while presenting opportunities for seed producers to sustain seed supply. Understanding the underlying factors influencing seed demand can enhance the efficiency of banana seed systems to meet the diverse context-specific needs of farmers. Therefore, this study investigates the sociodemographic factors affecting smallholder farmers' perceptions of banana seed demand and their seed acquisition behaviour in Uganda. Understanding the perceived seed demand and seed acquisition patterns could reveal the determinants of banana seed demand. A cluster-based approach was used to study these factors and provide insights into the determinants of off-farm seed sourcing. Multinomial and Tobit regression models were applied to data from 137 banana farmers in Central and Eastern Uganda. Banana seed demand is influenced by both the physical availability of seeds and farmers' sociodemographic characteristics. We identified three farmer clusters with varying perceived seed demands. Perceived seed demand influences farmers’ information-seeking behaviour and seed source diversification, shaping their acquisition strategies. Income, household size, and the sex of the household head were significant predictors of perceived seed demand. A unit increase in income led to a 21.26 unit increase in perceived seed demand (p < 0.001). With each additional household member, the perceived seed shortage reduced by 12.78 units (p = 0.041). Male-headed households experienced a 55.86 units greater perceived shortage than female-headed households did (p = 0.001). These results reveal the underlying heterogeneity in seed demand determinants, which could shape farmer-centric and gender-transformative interventions that address the heterogeneity of smallholder farmers and advocate for a comprehensive multidimensional approach to improve banana seed systems. Our cluster-based analysis introduces a novel approach to studying banana and VPC seed systems.Publication HUMAN-COMPUTER INTERACTION: AI-DRIVEN GESTURE RECOGNITION(2024-10-20)The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in human-computer interaction (HCI) has significantly transformed how users engage with technology, particularly through gesture recognition. This paper explores the advancements in AI-driven gesture recognition systems, emphasizing their potential to enhance user experience across various applications, from gaming and virtual reality to accessibility tools and smart environments. We analyze the underlying algorithms and machine learning techniques that facilitate real-time gesture detection and interpretation, highlighting the importance of accuracy and responsiveness in user interactions. Additionally, the paper discusses the challenges faced in developing robust gesture recognition systems, including variability in user behavior, environmental factors, and the need for extensive training data. By examining case studies and recent innovations in the field, we illustrate the growing impact of AI-driven gesture recognition on user interfaces and the future of interactive technology. Ultimately, this research aims to provide insights into the transformative role of gesture-based interactions in creating more intuitive, immersive, and inclusive digital experiences.Item Africa PID Alliance Digital Object Identifiers Registration Concept Note(2023-05-11) Ksibi, Nabil; Owango, Joy; SaraPersistent Identifiers are the pillars of an interoperable, persistent and reliable Open Research Infrastructure. This is the reason why a lot of countries/regions and organizations took the initiative to contribute to this network and help promote the use of PIDs through their academic and publishing ecosystems.