General
Gov’t contributes $5m to Kibaki Presidential Library at Mak
The Government of Uganda will contribute US $5m towards the construction of the H.E Mwai Kibaki Presidential Library at Makerere University. This pledge was made public by H.E Hon. Edward Kiwanuka Ssekandi, the Vice President of Uganda, who was representing His Excellency President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, at a high profile launch of the aforementioned library on 13th February 2015.
The Vice President commended H.E Kibaki as a true Pan- Africanist who has made tremendous contributions not only in the East African Community but across the continent. Among his achievements, H.E Kibaki has a track record of streamlining Kenya’s finance Ministry and laying a firm foundation for skyrocketing her economy to a middle income country.
Makerere University chose to immortalise H.E Kibaki with a modern state-of-the art twin-tower library estimated to cost US $50m. One of the towers of this library will have 20 storeys and the other 15. In addition, the School of Economics has been renamed ‘H.E Mwai Kibaki School of Economics,’ in recognition of his achievements as the first African student to score a first class degree. At undergraduate level (1951-53), H.E Kibaki studies a Bachelor’s degree in Economics, History and Political Science of Makerere University, before proceeding to the London School of Economics (LSE), where he graduated with a BSc Public Finance with Distinction. He later returned to serve his alma mata as an Assistant lecturer in the Department of Economics between 1958-60.
The Presidential Library will host the Mwai Kibaki Endowed Chair in Economics, and the East African Mwai Kibaki Centre for Leadership, Public Finance and Policy. As part of the day’s proceedings, H.E Kibaki was installed on the symbolic Endowed Chair in Economics by the Makerere University Chancellor, Prof. George Mondo Kagonyera. This was at a colourful ceremony in the historic University Main Hall, where H.E Kibaki clad in his doctoral gown, walked in to a thunderous applause from the congregation. He smiled in acknowledgement of the warm welcome.
According to the Chancellor, the H.E Mwai Kibaki Endowed Chair in Economics will fund and support an internationally credentialed Professor of Economics to teach, research and mentor undergraduate, graduate and post-doctorate students in this field. “The Centre for Leadership, Public Finance and Policy will provide unique opportunities for African Ministers of Finance, Permanent Secretaries and Secretaries to the Treasury to become Scholars-in-residence, research and meet to discourse on Africa’s development agenda,” he said. The Centre will also be a repository of H.E. Mwai Kibaki’s personal papers, authored policy monographs, books, memorabilia of H.E Mwai Kibaki’s 50+ years of public service.
Chancellor Kagonyera was grateful to the School of Economics under the leadership of Dr. Edward Bbaale (Dean) and the College of Business and Management Sciences led by Dr. Eria Hisali (Principal) for embracing the Presidential project.
Earlier in the day, H.E Kibaki unveiled a plate renaming the School of Economics to H.E Mwai Kibaki School of Economics, before proceeding to lay a foundation stone for the construction of the much anticipated Presidential Library at the current Department of Performing Arts and Film grounds.
In his inaugural speech titled ‘Unlocking East Africa’s Intellectual Capital,’ H.E Kibaki challenged the elite to use their intellectual capital to transform the East African Community by inspiring and offering practical guidance to society. He asserted that in this age of advanced communication technologies, intellectuals should aspire to be more practical and not wait for politicians to invite them to make their contribution. “It is important to acknowledge that intellectualism for its own sake is a luxury Africa cannot afford any longer. It is our business to determine our destiny as a bloc. Indeed, our shared circumstances and our common challenges call for a common approach that only a properly integrated East African Community can withstand. It is in this context that the proposed library and policy centre will become relevant to East Africa, Africa and the world,” he added. “That is why my appeal to our intellectuals is to help the society overcome numerous artificial barriers that slot individual East African states into stuffy pigeonholes. East Africa deserves fresh air!” he emphasised.
The Vice Chancellor, Prof. John Ddumba-Ssentamu expressed gratitude to H.E Kibaki for honouring the proposal to construct a Presidential Library in his name at Makerere University. “The Presidential Library will be an outstanding achievement not only for Makerere University but also the entire region and beyond. I thank the Government of Uganda and especially the President Gen. Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for supporting this initiative.” Prof. Ddumba-Ssentamu also appreciated Her Excellency, Angellina Waphakabulo and Kenya’s High Commissioner to Uganda, Maj. Geoffrey Okanga for their support towards the project.
The Chairperson of the Makerere University Council, Eng. Dr. Wana Etyem pledged Council’s support to the successful completion of the project. “I would like to appreciate the contribution of the Vice Chancellor, the Deputy Vice Chancellor in Charge of Finance and Administration Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Mr. George Jalobo Piwang for ensuring that this day comes to pass. The proposed establishment of this project could not have come at a more opportune moment to inspire and energise the first tracking of similar endowed Chairs across Makerere University.”
According to Dr. Edward Bbaale, “the London School of Economics has now moved to Makerere University. The Presidential Library project will go a long way in promoting research in economics.”
This function was graced by the Hon. Minister of Education and Sports Maj. (Rtd) Jessica Alupo, who challenged all Makerere University alumni and well wishers to support this initiative. Other dignitaries who graced the occasion include a high power delegation from Kenya, former Vice Chancellors of Mak, Representatives from the President’s Office, High Commissioners, Members of Staff and Students of Mak, and many other high ranking officials.
Article by Hasifah Kabejja and Marion Alina.
Related article:
All set for HE Mwai Kibaki Presidential Library Launch
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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