The Supporting Policy Engagement for Evidence-based Decisions (SPEED); a five-year European Union-supported initiative implemented by six partners in Africa and Europe project has been launched at Makerere University. Focusing on Universal Health Coverage (UHC), the School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences (CHS), Makerere University will be the centre of action for the implementation.
With funding to a tune of about 3.2 million Euros from the EU and close to 800,000 Euros to be contributed by partners, SPEED aims to strengthen capacity of policy analysis, advice and influence at Makerere UniversitySchool of Public Health and contribute to accelerating progress towards UHC and health systems resilience in Uganda.
Launching the initiative on 19th March 2015 at Makerere UniversityCollege of Health Sciences’ Davis Lecture Theatre, the Head of Delegation of the European Union to the Republic of Uganda, Ambassador Kristian Schmidt said that public health is about “making informed decisions. Decisions that are based on evidence. Decisions that are taken by those who are responsible and accountable for the results and impact. Decisions that are informed by the local reality; and decisions that can be implemented with available resources”.
Ambassador Schmidt said that SPEED will provide national health authorities and stakeholders with evidence-based and locally adapted policy advice, training and support for policy that is rooted in reality rather than the ideal. He added that although there are positive developments in achievements registered under the MDGs, other issues like rapid population growth and new health hazards put all that has been achieved at risk. He however cautioned the implementation team against moving too fast on Universal Health Coverage, saying the trend is that with universal health services, the quality normally goes down.
The Director General of Health Services, Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng in her remarks noted that policy analysis and policy advice are key ingredients of sound people-centred development and was happy to note that the SPEED initiative will be focusing its efforts in this area.
Dr. Aceng pointed out that the Ministry of Health and broadly government of Uganda have been involved in several interventions aimed at improving health outcomes for all. These include; instituting a process for coordination to and work as ne, to among other things increase coverage of effective interventions, reduce wastage through duplication of activities and roles; recruit more health workers, increase mobilization and allocation of resources for improvement of infrastructure, equip health managers with leadership skills and provide bursaries and scholarships to essential cadres of health workers. She added however, that there are still challenges related to financial constraints, lack of coordination of the relevant sectors and poverty which is still a major contributor to ill-health and access to services.
The Acting Principal, College of Health Sciences Dr. Isaac Okullo let it be known that SPEED as an initiative will be building on past and current efforts focused on policy advice and policy influence.
The SPEED Principal Investigator/Team Lead, Associate Professor Freddie Ssengooba said the initiative will support the building of capacity for policy analysis, advice and influence at the School of Public Health as well as grow a culture of collaborative planning and implementation of health-related policies across sectors.
In his vote of thanks, the Director, Mulago National Referral and Teaching Hospital, Dr. Baterana Byarugaba, pointed out that the SPEED initiative is very important for improved delivery of services.
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.
Left to Right: Mr. Mark Muyobo, Dr. Maggie Kigozi and Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe pose for a photo at the Main Building entrance.
“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.”
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe poses with the #MakRun2025 photo frame.
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.
Officials pose with runners in the Freedom Square.
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 Government of Uganda and AFRISA in Collaboration with Makerere University invites applicants for Diploma and Certificate programs tenable at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Bio-security (COVAB).
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”.
MakEF Board Chairperson, Dr. Maggie Kigozi.
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. Maggie Kigozi shows her support for #MakRun2025.
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. Barnabas Nawangwe makes his remarks.
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.
Mr. Mark Muyobo makes his remarks at the press conference.
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.”
Runners get flagged off for an evening run after the unveiling ceremony.
#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.
Mr. Mark Muyobo (L) and Dr. Maggie Kigozi (R) pose with the signed MoU.
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.
Left to Right: Mr. Mark Muyobo, Dr. Maggie Kigozi and Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe pose for a photo at the Main Building entrance.