ghanaopendata/ghanaian-research-english huggingface dataset:
Validation of TRMM and FEWS Satellite Rainfall Estimates with Rain Gauge Measurement over Ashanti Region, Ghana

Satellite rainfall estimates have predominantly been used for climate impact studies due to poor rain gauge network in sub-Saharan Africa. However, there are limited microscale studies within the sub-region that have assessed the performance of these satellite products, which is the focus of the present study. This paper therefore considers validation of Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) and Famine Early Warning System (FEWS) satellite estimates with rain gauge measurements over Ashanti region of Ghana. First, a consistency assessment of the two gauge data products, the Automatic Rain Gauge (ARG) and Ghana Meteorological Agency (GMet) Standard Rain Gauge (SRG) measurements, was performed. This showed a very good agreement with correlation coefficient of 0.99. Secondly, satellite rainfall products from TRMM and FEWS were validated with the two gauge measurements. Validation results showed good agreement with correlation coefficients of 0.6 and 0.7 for TRMM and FEWS with SRG, and 0.87 and 0.86 for TRMM and FEWS with ARG respectively. Probability Of Detection (POD) and Volumetric Hit Index (VHI) were found to be greater than 0.9. Volumetric Critical Success Index (VCSI) was 0.9 and 0.8 for TRMM and FEWS respectively with low False Alarm Ratio (FAR) and insignificant Volumetric Miss Index (VMI). In general, relatively low biases and RMSE values were observed. The biases were less than 1.3 and 0.8 for TRMM and FEWSRFE respectively. These indicate high rainfall detection capabilities of both satellite products. In addition, both TRMM and FEWS were able to capture the onset, peak and cessation of the rainy season, as well as the dry spells. Although TRMM and FEWS sometimes under/overestimated rainfall, they have the potential to be used for agricultural and other hydro-climatic impact studies over the region. The Dynamic Aerosol-Cloud-Chemistry Interactions in West Africa (DACCIWA) project will provide an improved spatial gauge network database over the study area to enhance future validation and other climate impact studies.

Source: KNUST
Valorisation of selected Ghanaian seaweeds for biogas production

ABSTRACT Seaweed biomass has been considered as a promising feedstock for biogas production because it contains high concentrations of biodegradable organic solids. The research aimed at producing biogas from seaweeds. In order to optimize the biogas yields of seaweeds, batch fermentation test was conducted to examine the effects of total solids load and inoculum type on methane content from brown seaweed Sargassum vulgare and green seaweed Ulva fasciata before biogas production of seaweeds were conducted. From the results obtained, the highest methane concentration for brown seaweed and green seaweed were 55.45% v/v and 60.6% v/v using rumen and large intestine contents from cattle respectively. 8% TS (Total solids) of green seaweed inoculated with large intestine contents yielded the highest methane gas (60.6%) whiles 10% TS of brown seaweed inoculated with rumen contents recorded the highest methane gas (55.45%) over a digestion period of 55 days. The 8% TS of green seaweed also gave the highest biogas and methane yields of 608.7 ± 37.84 ml/g VS and 218.22 ± 15.38 ml CH4/g VS respectively whiles 10% TS of brown seaweed gave lower biogas and methane yields of 308.48 ± 4.09 ml/g VS and 106 ± 2.4 ml CH4/g VS respectively compared to green seaweed. However, the biogas and methane yields of green seaweed were both inhibited at 10% TS whiles those of brown seaweed were both inhibited at 12% TS. From the results obtained in this study, both seaweed species have high potential as substrates for biogas production in Ghana.

Source: KNUST
Valuation of Standard Option with Dividend Paying Stock Using Finite Difference Method

Numerical methods form a significant part of the pricing of financial derivatives, especially in cases where there is no closed form analytical solution. The evaluation of American options using the Black-Scholes Model where early exercise is possible and a general closed-form solution does not exist leads to a free boundary value problem. A common way to deal with this problem is to apply numerical methods. In this thesis we price American options with dividend paying stock on a single asset. We start from the Black-Scholes equation with a free boundary value, the free boundary value problem is then transformed into a Linear Complementarity Problem, and an Obstacle Problem. We solve the Linear Complementarity Problem by introducing the method of Finite Difference method. Finite difference methods is discussed quite extensively with a focus on the Crank-Nicolson scheme. This leads to a constraint linear system of equations which is solved on a discrete domain by applying the PSOR method. The simulation results showed that the price of the American option exceeds the analytical solution. The payoff function intersects the European option at lower prices relative to the American option; this gives us the early exercise value. We conclude that the American option with dividend paying stock is preferred to the European option.

Source: KNUST
Valuation of surrender option using Crank-Nicolson and Hopscotch methods

Most of the insurance contracts in Ghana contains the right to early termination and are also path-depend, due to the presence of path-dependence derivatives and the right to early termination of the contract, can make valuation of Life insurance contract in Ghana come with complexities. These complexities are aggravated with introduction of the new parameter (S). Termination of life insurance contract in Ghana among other factors may come as a result of many factors that policyholders face. This study seeks to modify the Black-Scholes partial differential equation by incorporating risk of being multimorbid, and investigate the suitability of using some existing numerical methods (Crank- Nicolson and Hopscotch) to value life insurance contract. Further comparison between the two methods were done to select an efficient method for the modified model. In line with these objectives, simulations for time of an individual to be multimorbid were performed and the survival for risk of multimorbidity computed. This study revealed that, the modified model is stable, consistent and hence suitable to solve. In the numerical analysis of the option valuation using the original Black-Scholes model, Crank-Nicolson method converges faster than Hopscotch method. On the other hand, numerical analysis of the option valuation using the Black-Scholes model with the incorporated multi-morbid survival rate, Hopscotch method converges faster than Crank-Nicolson method. Further, it is observed that, the Hopscotch method converges much faster and give higher values as the step sizes are increased for Black-Scholes partial differential equation of the life insurance contract in Ghana embedded with surrender option. Hence, making the Hopscotch method favour policyholders who might want to surrender in order to receive the surrender value (payoffs).

Source: KNUST
Value chain and economic analysis of honey production in Nkwanta North and South Districts of the Volta Region

This research analyzed the honey value chain in Nkwanta North and South districts of the Volta region of Ghana with focus on the return on investment (ROI) and major constraints in the beekeeping business. A total of 20 beekeeping communities were purposively selected and 200 beekeepers chosen by systematic sampling method. Snowball sampling method was used to select 50 brokers, 40 wholesalers and 60 retailers totaling 350 respondents. SPSS and Excel were used to analyze the data. The results showed that about 70.6% of the respondents were males. The average age was 40.7years with household size of 5.64 and about 61.1% had formal education. Respondents who were trained in beekeeping business represented 60% with 1-5years experience in beekeeping and 64.3% were members of beekeeping associations. The major actors in the honey value chain were producers, processors, brokers, wholesalers and retailers. Four honey distribution channels were identified but major quantity of honey passed through herbal medicine (38%) and about 54% of the beeswax was used for baiting honeybees. Five marketing channels were identified but about 35% of bee products were mostly sold to wholesalers. The study identified three major types of beehives: clay-pot, KTBH and Langstroth but the common type was KTBH (84.5%). Langstroth hive was more productive with an average annual quantity of 18.70kg per beehive per season. Comparison of yield difference between Langstroth and KTBH was significant at 1% level which means the type of beehive used by beekeepers contributed to the honey yield difference. Economic analysis of beehive types showed that it was more profitable producing with Langstroth hive than KTBH with TR of GH₵122.59, NP of GH₵96.09 and about 362% ROI per hive per season which was also significant at 1% level. Also, producers whose raw material was comb honey obtained higher ROI of 128% compared to processors (53%), wholesalers (23%) and retailers (26%) which was significant at 1% level. The honey value chain was governed by non-codified type of information (62%) where buyers only communicated the requirement to suppliers but did not share the cost of upgrading producers’ skills to meet the requirements. The most encountered constraints during honey production using Kendall’s Coefficient of Concordance were lack of finance for expansion followed by lack of technical assistance with 68% agreement at 1% significant level. The most encountered marketing constraints were competition from imported honey followed by lack of proper records on marketing of bee products with 56% agreement at 1% significant level. The study therefore recommends an increase in supply of Multy-chamber Langstroth hives, capacity building in the use of centrifugal extractors for processing to ensure honey production in both major and minor seasons and the buying of honey combs directly at the farm gates to increase actors’ returns on capital investment.

Source: KNUST
Value addition and determination of 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) in seeds of Griffonia simplicifolia

The aromatic amino acid. 5-1-lydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) is naturally present in seeds of Griffonia simplicifolia. a West African medicinal plant found principally in Ghana. Ivory Coast and Togo. The overwhelming advantages it has over synthetic anti-depressants and tryptophan in alleviating the numerous effects o serotonin deficiency syndrome such as anxiety, depression, insomnia, and migraine headaches among others have attracted the commercialization of Griffonia simplicifolia seeds. However effective commercialization of the seeds requires quality control checks in order to be sure that the active drug substance, 5-HTP is present at high levels and stable in the harvested seeds. In this research work the 5-1ITP content in the seeds of Griffonia simplicifolia was determined by using HPLC. Using an ODS column with dimension of 4.6mm x 25cm. a mobile phase of 3% methanol in 0.005M NaH2PO4 buffer (pH 4.8), a flow rate of I .5ml/min and UV detector at 275nm, 5-HTP eluted at an average retention time (Rt) of 6.60mm. This is important for quick assays of bulk batches of samples for quality control checks and export purposes. The levels of 5-HTP in Griffonia simplicifolia seeds collected from various locations a Ghana were found to be between 14.1 8 - I 8.24%w/w of seed weight when freshly harvested. The level of 5-HTP in harvested seeds of Griffonia simplicifolia was found to decrease at a rate of 4.62%w/w per month of storage under tropical atmospheric conditions. However, stability studies showed that refrigeration could not preserve 5-HTP in seeds. Cold storage was found to decrease the content of 5-HTP at an average rate of 6.77%w/w per month. On the other hand, it was found that heating seeds at 60°C for 30mm is enough to inactivate enzymes and hence preserve 5-HTP in Griffonia simplicifolia seeds. The average rate of fall in 5-HTP content was l.79%\w/w per month.

Source: KNUST
Value chain assessment of two indigenous leafy vegetables (Amaranthus And Corchorus Spp.) in Kumasi Metropolis

Indigenous leafy vegetables are known to provide essential minerals and vitamins for consumers. Their consumption is on the ascendency especially in urban communities where they are produced under urban horticulture systems. For sustained production, appropriate handling and quality has to be assured. It is also important that assessment of profitability and wealth distribution along the value chain is documented. Unfortunately, there is insufficient information on indigenous vegetables grown in urban communities in Kumasi. A survey was conducted to assess the value chain and official standards were used to address the nutritional composition The study showed that most (88%) indigenous vegetable producers cultivated indigenous leafy vegetables such as Corchorus spp. commonly called “Ayoyo” and Amaranthus spp. also known as “Aleefu”. Producers had an average of 1- 4 acres of land and used farmer saved seeds for production. River water was the main source of water for irrigation and harvesting was done late in the evening to meet dawn market. Precooling by sprinkling of water, sorting, grading and packaging were postharvest activities observed by both producers and traders. Amaranthus and Corchorus spp. were sold between GH ₵0.50p to GH ₵ 2.00 per bunch and between GH ₵10-100 per bed while traders sold their produce for GH ₵1.00 per bunch or GH ₵ 80-100 per sack. Challenges mostly faced by producers and traders were glut during the rainy season which led to faster deterioration of the leaves while consumers complained of scarcity during the dry season which caused an increase in prices of produce. Proximate analysis conducted on the Amaranthus and Corchorus spp. showed that the leaves were good sources of protein (33% and 33%), ash (22% and 16.8%), fibre (16.75% and 10.88%) and carbohydrate (33.75% and 46.91%) but less in fat (6.5% and 6.0%) respectively vi which was healthy for consumption. They were also found to be rich in minerals such as Magnesium (2.75% and 2.53%), Potassium (2.27% and 1.44%), Calcium (39.2% and 43.80%), Iron (163.52mg/kg and 164.96mg/kg) and Zinc (26.8mg/kg and 17.28mg/kg). A total production of 7759.44kg/acre and 14,896.44kg/acre for Amaranthus spp. and Corchorus spp. respectively are produced in Kumasi Metropolis and a producer also generated approximately GH₵2090.00 per acre (GH₵49.76 per day for an acre) as against the trader who makes approximately GH₵1530.00 per acre (GH₵510.00 profit per day) of produce bought. Generally, production of Amaranthus and Corchorus spp. is very lucrative and a major source of income especially for traders. Their consumption should be therefore be promoted as they are major source of minerals.

Source: KNUST
Value for money procurement and performance of public Sector organisations

This study was motivated by the need to examine value for money procurement and performance in public health organizations in ghana. With public procurement accounting for a substantial portion of government expenditure, ensuring value for money is imperative for judicious resource utilization and optimal service delivery. The main objective was to assess the factors and mechanisms that promote value for money (vfm) and their relationship with vfm procurement. The theoretical framework drew on the resource-based view and institutional theory to hypothesize positive linkages between promoting factors, regulatory mechanisms, and vfm outcomes. A quantitative, survey-based approach was utilized, collecting data from 120 employees in public health organizations. Statistical analysis techniques including regression examined the hypothesized relationships. The key findings revealed that transparency, accountability, competitiveness, and professionalism have a significant positive relationship with vfm procurement, highlighting their role in enhancing value. Additionally, mechanisms like regulatory compliance, equity, efficiency, and process controls displayed a positive association with vfm procurement, underscoring the importance of structural levers in improving value. In conclusion, both intrinsic, normative factors and extrinsic, regulatory mechanisms significantly influence value for money in public sector procurement. The results provide actionable insights for policy makers and public managers to strengthen vfm procurement through multifaceted organizational and procedural interventions. The study makes a meaningful contribution by elucidating significant determinants of vfm procurement in the under-researched context of ghana's public healthcare system

Source: KNUST
Value of rapid information and accounting practices; evidence from ghana

This study evaluates the value of rapid information and accounting practices in Ghana. However, three goals serve the foundation of the study; examining the consequence of rapid information on accountants' financial transaction reports, considering the difficulties in adopting rapid information in the accounting profession in Ghana and examining importance of rapid information in making timely, accurate and reliable decision. The research tool used for this study is a-5 point Likert scale designed questionnaire, provided to selected members of the targeted population. The study utilises the structural equation modelling method of partial least squares (PLS-SEM) in analyzing the research data using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26.Findings from the path coefficient analysis presented showed a strong positive correlation between rapid information system adoption, rapid information competency and rapid information confidence and accounting practice. The study recommends that accounting firms should incorporate training programs that focus on using technological tools relevant to accounting tasks. This could include workshops on data analytics, accounting software, and cloud-based platforms, helping accountants improve their ability to handle information effectively

Source: KNUST
The value of visual art in deaf education-investigating visual teaching in some schools for the deaf

Students who are deaf typically lack the language of the hearing world. Their hearing handicap presents serious academic challenges that require visual teaching. It is not clear whether visual teaching is practised in the various Schools for the Deaf hence the need to ascertain through research, the present teaching and learning challenges facing the deaf, the practice of visual teaching in Schools for the Deaf and then to suggest how certain visual tools can be used effectively to facilitate visual teaching in Schools for the Deaf. The qualitative research method with a focus on the descriptive cum multiple case study approaches was used for the study. The selected schools for the study included State School for the Deaf at Adjei-Kojo near Ashaiman; Demonstration School for the Deaf at Akuapem Mampong; Senior High/Technical School for the Deaf at Akuapem Mampong; Sekondi School for the Deaf at Inchaban, and Ashanti School for the Deaf at Jamasi. Purposive sampling technique was used to get the accessible population and a three-tier research strategy involving observation, in-depth interview and focus group discussion was used to gather data for the study. The researcher was literate in Sign Language. The findings of the research were that: the teaching and learning techniques employed in the Schools for the Deaf are the same traditional methods used in regular schools and this poses a number of challenges. Although the teachers were aware of the visual teaching needs of the deaf, they did not adequately practise visual teaching in a way that meets the academic needs of the deaf. Presently, there is the need to adapt and modify traditional methods of teaching to promote quality, purposeful and appropriate education for the deaf. Visual teaching should, as a matter of expediency, be the focal point of every education formulated for the deaf.

Source: KNUST
The value of health management information system a case studies in Tema metropolis.

Health management information system is a system whereby there is an integration of data collection, data processing and use of the information generated. it is useful as tool to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of health services.The research was to assess the value of the utilization of health management information system as a tool for decision-making and to make recommendations for improvement using the Tema Metropolis Health Services in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana as a case study. A cross sectional study design was used. Convenient purposive sampling technique was employed in obtaining thirty five (35) health care professionals purposively working in the capacity as metro director of health services, data collectors, four staffs from Metro Health Management Team core members (MHMT)and heads of facility comprising, sub-district heads, administrators, and midwives in charge, and records assistants of all the health facilities in the Tema Metro. Private and government institutions were also visited. The results of the research showed there were existing problems such as poor procedure of gathering data, poor quality of data, poor processing of data, poor use of data and lack of timely reporting......

Source: KNUST