Microbiological Assessment of Abattoir Effluent and Its Impact on the Receiving Water Body in Nkwo Nnewi Metropolis, Anambra State, NigeriaPDF
Awari, V. G1., Agu, K. C*2. Ogbonna, U. S. A2. Ifediegwu, M. C. 2, Ebo, P. U. 1, Anazodo, C.A. 2, Abana, C. C. 2, Chidubem-Nwachinemere, N. O. 2, Egurefa, S. O. 3 and Nwosu, J. C. 4
In Nigeria, human activities impact the quality of the natural environment. One such activity is the indiscriminate location of abattoirs around residential areas in developing countries as a result of a lack of effective monitoring and regulation. The abattoir industry an important constituent of the livestock industry provides domestic meat supply to the teaming population and employment opportunities for a large number of people in Nigeria. Most abattoirs are sited close to a water body, to make provision for sufficient water to carry out their activities. Facilities for the treatment of abattoir solid waste and wastewater are lacking, compared to developed countries where these facilities are adequately provided. Abattoir waste which comprises organic and inorganic solids, blood, fat, long hair, faeces, undigested feed materials, microorganisms when released into the environment without treatment could result in an increased number of pathogenic organisms, pollution, and alteration of the physicochemical properties of the receiving water bodies, deteriorating the quality of the water bodies, the environment, and can cause adverse effects on the health of humans, animals, plants, soil, and aquatic life. Bacteria from abattoir waste can subsequently absorb into sediments, when the bottom water body is disturbed, the sediment releases the bacteria, contaminating the water bodies, thus, presenting long-term environmental and health hazards. Medical experts have also reported that fungi associated with abattoir activities cause diseases such as pneumonia, diarrhea, typhoid fever, asthma, wool sorter diseases, and respiratory and chest diseases. This study can help define future abattoir wastewater treatment and management practices for environmental sustainability in Nigeria hence, the need to investigate the bacteriological, physicochemical, and mycological quality of abattoir effluents and receiving water bodies to create awareness of the negative impacts on public health and environment.
HALAL NON-LABOR SOURCES OF INCOME: THE EXPERIENCE OF EMPLOYEES OF THE ISLAMIC UNIVERSITY IN UGANDAPDF
Hakimu Buyondo, Jamil Serwanga
Institutions often seek a nexus between the desire for sufficient employee income and efficient performance. Recognizing the importance of halal investments and non-labor income sources, it is imperative to ascertain empirical studies to guide economic planners and institutional managers to support initiatives where employees may earn income without compromising their performance in their primary jobs. This study examines the participation in and feasibility of halal non-labor income sources using the experience of the employees of the Islamic University in Uganda, (IUIU). The research identifies primary motivators for participating in halal non-labor income activities, such as additional income, religious beliefs, financial security, and retirement planning. Preferred income sources include joint business ownership, rental properties, agriculture, retail businesses, and investments in halal financial instruments. The findings reveal a significant interest and involvement in halal non-labor income activities among IUIU employees, underpinned by the alignment with Islamic finance principles. However, challenges like inadequate initial capital, financial literacy, time constraints, and regulatory issues pose barriers to broader participation. The study suggests recommendations to enhance participation, including financial support for startups, promoting Savings and Credit Cooperative Organizations (SACCOs), training on Islamic principles, mentorship programs, providing affordable loans, information dissemination, and favorable working hours. In conclusion, halal non-labor income sources play a crucial role in improving the socio-economic status of IUIU employees while adhering to religious and ethical guidelines. The study calls for further research on the applicability of Islamic financing models in passive investments to better support the socio-economic advancement of employees
