General
Mak’s ELISA Test Kit could save Uganda from FMDV devastation
The ELISA Test Kit, an in-house innovation developed by Dr. Frank Norbert Mwiine during his PhD Research could help save Ugandan cattle farmers from the devastation caused by the Foot-and-Mouth Disease Virus (FMDV).
The ELISA Test Kit, an in-house innovation developed by Dr. Frank Norbert Mwiine during his PhD Research could help save Ugandan cattle farmers from the devastation caused by the Foot-and-Mouth Disease Virus (FMDV).
Dr. Mwiine made these revelations as he disseminated his research findings at the ninth PhD Dissemination Series, held on Thursday 15th December 2011, and chaired by Associate Professor David Owiny, Acting Deputy Dean, School of Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Bio-Security(CoVAB). The Series are organized by the Office of the Deputy Vice Chancellor in-charge of Academic Affairs as a way of accounting to the Makerere University Community by successful PhD graduates, and as an avenue for sharing with the general public, cutting edge research relevant to their daily needs.
Dr. Barnabas Nawangwe, Principal, College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT) and acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic Affairs) urged all stakeholders present, especially the staff, to maximally utilize all opportunities accorded by the Government’s line Ministries and special programs.
“Government is the most valuable partner if we are to enhance the visibility of Makerere University” he remarked.
Dr. Frank Norbert Mwiine’s PhD study was sponsored by the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF).
As he made his presentation on “Serotype Specificity of Antibodies against Foot-and-Mouth Disease Virus in Cattle in Selected Districts in Uganda”, Dr. Mwiine appreciated the opportunity to conduct his research accorded by MAAIF, noting that FMDV was one of those neglected animal diseases, despite its devastating economic impact.
He noted that whereas vaccines were imported by the Government of Uganda and heavily subsidized to enable farmers vaccinate all their animals, the smaller ruminants i.e. goats and sheep were often neglected and the vaccines were only of the trivalent type.
As revealed by his research, more than five out of the seven known strains of FMDV were prevalent in Uganda, hence rendering the trivalent vaccines completely ineffective against any disease outbreaks. The situation is further aggravated by scarce Government resources, implying that imports that are only made during outbreaks, thus preventive vaccination cannot be carried out.
Dr. Mwiine’s passion to help see the disease eradicated from the country stems from his previous work experience as a Veterinary Officer in Western Uganda. His first-hand account of infected animals practically starving to death as they could neither graze nor walk, drove him to develop the ELISA Test Kit. The kit will be used to detect all seven strains of FMDV and help develop their respective antibodies. The ELISA Test Kit is set to be patented and is currently in production phase so that it may be made commercially available to veterinary officers.
Farmers in Bushenyi District where FMDV prevalence was observed to be low were commended for their good farming practices, which ensured that the farms were fenced and their cattle did not use the communal watering points. Dr. Mwiine however noted the need to sensitize farmers bordering national parks to avoid straying into these, as strains of the serotype A; usually found in buffaloes alone, was recorded in cattle herds around Lake Mburo National Park. He also called on Government to effect a shift in policy from nomadic pastoralism to ranching.
The Guest of Honour Dr. Anna Rose Ademun Okurut, Head, National Animal Disease Diagnostics and Epidemiology Centre-MAAIF, hailed Dr. Mwiine for successfully completing his PhD study and developing the ELISA Test Kit.
She thanked the Danish Government through the Livestock Wildlife Diseases in East Africa Project (LWDEA) Project for helping to provide scholarships to four PhD and 4 MSc students. Dr. Ademun further congratulated her former Faculty of Veterinary Medicine upon the successful transformation from a School to the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Bio-Security(CoVAB).
Dr. Ademun further congratulated Makerere University for continuing to produce world-class innovations, noting that it was the only way to give back to the communities and the nation, “The Government is proud of outputs of the nature of Vaccines, the Kiira-EV and research that informs current policies and activities” she concluded.
Downloads
9th PhD Dissemination by Dr. Frank N. Mwiine: ppt(1,947KB), pdf(1,046KB)
9th PhD Dissemination Dr. Frank N. Mwiine Brief Profile: doc(40KB), pdf(13KB)
9th PhD Dissemination Dr. James O. Acai Brief Profile: doc(34KB), pdf(13KB)
mwamai@admin.mak.ac.ug, Public Relations Office
General
NCBA Commits UGX 1.45 Billion to Makerere Marathon, Pledges Five-Year Support for Inclusive Education
By Eve Nakyanzi and Atwenda Nancy
Makerere University has officially unveiled NCBA Bank Uganda as the platinum sponsor for the 2025 Makerere University Marathon (#MakRun2025), marking a significant milestone in the institution’s journey toward inclusive and sustainable student support. The partnership was formally announced during a colourful event held at the university, attended by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Dr. Maggie Kigozi, Chairperson of the Makerere University Endowment Fund, and NCBA Bank Uganda CEO, Mr. Mark Muyobo.
NCBA Bank Uganda’s UGX 1.45 billion sponsorship over the next five years is the largest corporate contribution to the Makerere Marathon to date. It underscores the bank’s commitment to supporting quality education, community development, and equity. Mr. Muyobo said that, “We are driven by the desire to leave every community better than we found it”. He added that the goal is to empower disadvantaged students to live without limitations, describing this initiative as a bold stride toward establishing a world-class international marathon.
“This is more than just a sponsorship, it is a strategic partnership built on shared values,” Dr. Kigozi remarked. “With this support, we are positioned to establish a fully equipped Disability Support Unit and a sustainable pool of funds to assist economically disadvantaged students.”
The marathon, slated under the theme “Run the Hills for the Future,” seeks to unify students, alumni, corporate entities, and professional athletes in pursuit of a common cause. At its core, the MakRun2025 promotes active lifestyles, social inclusion, and a sense of communal responsibility.
“It’s not just a race,” Prof. Nawangwe emphasized. “It is a movement to break barriers, change lives, and build a resilient, inclusive university.”
The marathon’s broader impact includes fundraising for students living with disabilities and those facing financial hardship, contributing directly to the university’s Endowment Fund.
A major highlight of the event is the introduction of a full 42.2-kilometer marathon—bringing international standards to the annual run. Organizers have promised a professional, accredited experience with traffic-free routes and ample support for runners.
“This edition will elevate the MakRun into a world-class event,” said Mr. Muyobo. “We are proud to support Makerere University in realizing its dream of a globally recognized marathon that reflects Uganda’s commitment to education and inclusivity.”
Beyond the race itself, the event will feature a vibrant line-up of activities, including music, drama, and games for all age groups. It is designed to foster a festival-like atmosphere that welcomes every member of the community.
Organizers and university leaders have extended an open invitation to students, staff, alumni, corporate partners, and Kampala residents to participate, cheer, or donate to the cause.
“Every step taken is a step towards hope for a student,” Dr. Kigozi stated. “Together, we are building a Makerere that cares, includes, and uplifts.”
The partnership is expected to significantly enhance the university’s ability to support underprivileged students and improve campus infrastructure for students with disabilities. It also sets the tone for future collaborations that align with the values of compassion, excellence, and innovation. The fifth edition of the MakRun is scheduled to take place on August 17th, 2025.
The Writers are Interns in the Public Relations Office, Makerere University
Makerere University has today Wednesday, 9th June 2025 officially unveiled NCBA Bank Uganda as the Platinum Sponsor of the Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF)’s flagship initiative – the Makerere University Marathon. Formerly known as a fun run, the initiative was rebranded on 27th March 2025 during the launch of its Fifth Edition. This year’s event, #MakRun2025, is slated for 17th August 2025 under the theme “Run the Hills for the Future”.
Addressing the Media at a press conference this afternoon, the MakEF Board Chairperson, Dr. Maggie Kigozi remarked, “We are deeply honoured and excited to unveil NCBA Bank Uganda as the Platinum Sponsor of #MakRun2025, with a landmark commitment of UGX 1.45 billion over the next five years.”
Dr. Kigozi further described the unveiling as “a strategic partnership built on shared values and a common vision for inclusive education and sustainable impact,” adding that it would “fast-track the establishment of a fully equipped Disability Support Unit for students living with disabilities, and to build a sustainable pool of funds to support Economically Disadvantaged Students.”
Appreciating the generous sponsorship, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe acknowledged that NCBA Bank had not only made history as the biggest corporate sponsor of #MakRun to date but also aligned with Makerere’s vision to improve the quality of student life. “This is a powerful gesture of trust in our mission and a demonstration of deep corporate citizenship”, he added.
Prof. Nawangwe further thanked NCBA for recognizing that an investment in Makerere University is an indirect investment in the future of Uganda. “The Makerere Marathon is not just a race. It is a movement to establish a fully-fledged Disability Support Unit for students living with various forms of disabilities, and to build a sustainable fund for Economically Disadvantaged Students.”
The Vice Chancellor therefore rallied staff, students, alumni, partners and friends of Makerere to match NCBA’s generous support with vigour and commitment, so as to make #MakRun2025 the most impactful edition since its founding.
The Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Mark Muyobo thanked Makerere University for giving NCBA Bank Uganda the opportunity to play its part in “shaping Uganda’s future one student, one community, one strength at a time,” adding that #MakRun is a symbol of hope for students living with disabilities as it speaks to Makerere’s core values of inclusion, equity, and excellence.
On a rhythmical note, Mr. Muyobo remarked that the #MakRun2025 theme is “not just about finishing lines, it is about opening doors; giving opportunities to those who are disabled. It is about promoting active lifestyle.”
#MakRun2025 will for the first time feature a full 42.2km marathon race with international accreditation and professional timing along a dedicated traffic-free route.
“These are not just upgrades, these are bold steps towards building a world-class international marathon right here in Kampala. We are proud to be the wings at your back as you take this leap because when Makerere University, the beacon of higher learning in Uganda grows stronger, the ripple effects are felt across the region and across the continent” Mr. Muyobo affirmed.
To officially seal the deal, a Memorandum of Understanding was officially signed between Makerere University and NCBA Bank Uganda, and thereafter, a dummy cheque of UGX 1.45 billion was presented to Dr. Maggie Kigozi as the Vice Chancellor, Members of Management and NCBA staff witnessed.
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