General
Mak DHR Honours Mr. Bazanye Nkangi
Reflecting on his 35 years of service, Mr. Godfrey Bazanye Nkangi confessed that the time he has spent at Makerere University has granted him a profound experience that greatly changed his life and family.
“Looking back on my years at Makerere University I have no regrets, only learning experiences that made me a better person, I have been lucky enough to have what I call the best job and I will walk away from it with great memories,” remarked Mr. Bazanye Nkangi, Deputy University Secretary (Pensions).
Mr. Bazanye Nkangi joined the University service in 1980. He has served in the following positions: Administrative Assistant (1980-1985); Assistant Registrar (1985-1989); Senior Assistant Registrar-Admissions and Records (1989-1990); Deputy Registrar-Admissions and Records (1990-2005); and Deputy University Secretary-Pensions (2005 to date). He committed himself to the noble duty of building for the future, and has over the years significantly contributed his expertise to the realisation of the University’s vision and mission.
Cognizant of the fact that Mr. Bazanye Nkangi would retire from the University service on 12th September 2015, the members of staff in the Directorate of Human Resources generously contributed resources and treated their own, Mr. Bazanye Nkangi and his family, to a surprise farewell party held on 10th September 2015 at the Makerere University Guest House.
The Guest of Honour, Mr. Bazanye Nkangi accompanied by his dear wife, two sons and daughter, were humbled when they arrived at the colourful ceremony.
On arrival, you could feel the breeze of the Makerere University Hill, the ever green Makerere University Guest House Gardens blending so well with the table linen, the members of staff dressed to impress, with wine flowing like a river, plenty of eats and soft drinks, and tactfully selected music to reflect on the 35 years of dedicated service!
With his charming smile, Mr. Bazanye Nkangi said: “Thank you so much to all of you who thought that it was worthy for me being honoured this way. I am excited, humbled, overwhelmed for being honoured this way. Yesterday, I had a presentation, which was part of my handover, but no one in the Directorate of Human Resources mentioned the party. I have appreciated the level of secrecy. This party has truly expressed something unique. That you do really appreciate my efforts and service.”
He revealed to the audience that he succeeded in his career because he was always willing to embrace change, which presented him with opportunities to provide service in critical units of the university. Reflecting on his service in the Department of the Academic Registrar and later on his re-designation in 2005 to the Directorate of Human Resources (Deputy University Secretary-Pensions), Mr. Bazanye Nkangi shared that he enjoyed interacting with people from different walks of life, noting that every interaction brought forth learning experiences.
“I appreciate the years we have been together and I am really glad to have worked with search kind hearted people. There is nothing as good as working with cooperative people,” he added.
The Chief Convener of the surprise farewell party, who is also Mr. Bazanye Nkangi’s immediate supervisor, Mrs. Mary Tizikara applauded Mr. Bazanye Nkangi for his intelligence, energy and zeal, and integrity.
“We respect you for your intelligence, energy and high level of integrity. He is cautious when conducting university business. He follows policies and you will never make him do what he is not supposed to do,” said Mrs. Tizikara.
“We know that Mr. Bazanye Nkangi was working in a challenging office. He has mentored members of staff, and he informed us that he was ready to retire. However, in the Departmental meeting, we agreed that we will be consulting you on a number of issues,” she highlighted.
Mrs. Tizikara utilised the same opportunity to answer the puzzle from the Master of Ceremony, Mr. Lebo Julius, Senior Performance Officer in the Directorate of Human Resources who kept on wondering why Mr. Bazanye Nkangi was clocking 60 years, but looked young and energetic.
“Mr. Bazanye Nkangi looks young and energetic because of the love and support from Mrs. Edith Bazanye. We give credit to Madam, thank you for supporting him,” remarked the Director, Human Resources amidst applause from the audience.
On behalf of the staff in the Directorate Human Resources, the Senior Human Resource Officer, Ms Josephine Apolot Opolot said that Mr. Bazanye Nkangi will always be remembered as a person who gives credit to where it deserves; someone with the ability and capability of maintaining relationships with co-workers and a proficient person in team work building.
“Mr. Bazanye is always a serious person but he has never stopped wearing that smile on his face. A person with integrity, trust worthy, working with firmness amidst all situations,” she said.
“When wealth is lost nothing is lost. When health is lost something, something has been lost. When character is lost everything is lost. Your noble character will always be admired and remembered and as you leave Makerere University,” she remarked.
In the context of the surprise farewell party, some of the surprise guests present included: The Vice Chancellor, Prof. John Ddumba-Ssentamu; the Acting University Secretary-Mr. Charles Barugahare; the Acting University Librarian-Dr. Helen Byamugisha; Senior Legal Officer-Mr. Goddy Muhumuza and the Senior Public Relations Officer, Ms Ritah Namisango.
Mr. Barugahare congratulated Mr. Bazanye Nkangi upon reaching his retirement age and thanked him for dedicating his time to serve Makerere University community.
“The University appreciates your efforts and we are grateful for the mentorship you have given to our staff. I believe you have already mentored the person who is going to succeed you. We appreciate the kind heart you have showed us all along,” he said. He then presented to him a special gift- a token of appreciation for the good work.
On behalf of the Makerere University community, and the surprise guests present, Prof. John Ddumba-Ssentamu commended Mr. Bazanye Nkangi for his selfless service, which included working in some of the most challenging offices. I thank you for resilience, ability to remain calm and principled.
“We are very grateful for the service you have rendered, may the good Lord bless you abundantly for all the energies you have put in to see to it that the University achieves it vision and mission. Thank you for having a big heart. You have been working in one of the most challenging office here, but I appreciate the way you have handled and contained all the situations. I know that you have at times been blamed for matters beyond your control, but you remained principled and strictly followed policies of the University,” he remarked.
“I must admit that we have not been able to bid farewell to a number of staff due to the financial challenges faced by the University. I remain optimistic that when the financial situation improves, the University Management will consider this aspect of recognizing and officially bid farewell to staff who diligently serve this great institution,” said the Vice Chancellor.
Prof. John Ddumba-Ssentamu who thanked the members of staff in the Directorate of Human Resources for extending to him an invitation to attend the surprise farewell party, drew the audience into laughter, when he highlighted to everyone present; that the special gift he was presenting to Mr. Bazanye Nkangi was from Prof. John Ddumba-Ssentamu-the surprise guest, and not the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University.
Emotionally touched by the level of secrecy that climaxed with the surprise farewell party, Mr. Bazanye Nkangi urged his workmates to always keep secrets, conduct university business with the highest level of confidentiality, and to respect everyone in their execution of duty. Mr. Bazanye Nkangi emphasised that confidentiality at the work place does not only win trust and cooperation among workmates but also projects a favourable image of the organisation among its publics.
He equally cautioned the workers to always be careful when dealing with people at their work place, saying that some of them could have ill intentions that could tarnish their reputation.
“We should always know the people we are working with. The years I have spent in Makerere University, I have learnt people’s behaviours and this has saved me from many problems,” he said emphatically.
Speaking about Mr. Bazanye Nkangi, his jovial wife, Mrs Edith Bazanye said: “My husband is a loving and caring gentleman who always considers his family as the first priority. I consider myself among the lucky wives in this country; you have been there and still there for us Mr. Bazanye. You are the greatest gift God sent to us. We love you so much.”
Giving the vote of thanks, Mr. Bazanye Nkangi’s daughter, Mrs. Lindah Mpanga thanked Makerere University and the Directorate of Human Resources for loving their Dad.
“The love you have showed my Dad can never be underestimated. We are really grateful and I believe my Dad will testify this love and care to his grandchildren,” she remarked.
The Labour and Welfare Officer in the Directorate of Human Resources, Ms. Janet Nabukeera thanked all the members who voluntarily contributed toward the success of the farewell party in form of finances and advice. “We have assembled here because you contributed to this worthy cause of honouring our very own. Everyone is happy. The act of giving is good, thank you for this generous support. May God bless you,” she said.
Mr. Bazanye Nkangi opened the dance with his dear wife, joined by his children, invited guests and members of staff from the Directorate of Human Resources. The tactfully selected music comprised songs with irresistible rhythms that forced many on the dance flow.
Written by: Ritah Namisango and Proscovia Nabatte, Mak Public Relations Office
Mastercard Foundation Scholars have been encouraged to embrace mentorship programmes as a way of maximising opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Mentorship is a professional relationship in which an experienced person (the mentor) supports another (the mentee) in developing specific skills and knowledge that enhance both professional and personal growth.
While speaking at a Mentor–Mentee matching session held on Saturday at the Central Teaching Facility, Mr Steven Langa, a counsellor and director at Family Life Network, told scholars that mentorship plays a pivotal role in preparing the next generation of leaders capable of transforming Uganda and Africa.
“We live at a very challenging time in history, a time when Uganda and Africa have to rise up to the occasion to provide leadership, professional excellence and innovation,” Mr Langa, said.
In his presentation, Mr Langa explained that a mentor is not a parent, therapist, or romantic partner, but rather a coach who helps the mentee build essential skills.
“The mentoring relationship is built on mutual trust, respect and communication and involves both parties meeting regularly to exchange ideas, discuss progress and set goals for further development. A mentor does not need to know, or to provide all the answers; instead, the mentor encourages the mentee to use their available resources to identify solutions,” Mr Langa, noted.
Speaking at the same event, Ms Eva Nabasumba, the Principal Academics and Career Development Officer at the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, encouraged scholars to build strong relationships with their mentors, which could later provide credible referees for employment, scholarships and other opportunities.
She highlighted several benefits of mentorship for mentees, including gaining advice, knowledge and insights from experienced professionals; developing professional communication skills; building valuable industry networks; engaging in employment-related conversations; exploring career pathways; and learning strategies for job searches, résumé writing and interviews.
During the session, mentors introduced themselves to their new mentees, allowing scholars to identify and connect with suitable mentors. Some of the mentors are doctors, teachers, counsellors, engineer’s business people and Accountants.
Apollo Mulondo, one of the mentors, urged scholars to take the mentorship opportunity seriously and respect the time and commitment of their mentors.
“Some of us are who we are today because of our mentors. Our offices are always open to you, so feel free to visit anytime. It does not matter what your background is you can make it,” Mulondo said.
The mentor–mentee matching session enabled scholars to interact with professionals from different fields, giving them an opportunity to identify mentors whose experience aligns with their academic and career aspirations. The engagement also created a platform for scholars to begin building networks that will support their growth beyond the university.
General
Mak Cooperative Society holds AGM: Growth, Transparency and Member Welfare Take Centre Stage
“This is a perfectly managed Cooperative Society,” remarked CPA David Ssenoga, amidst applause from Members of the Makerere University Multi-Purpose Cooperative Society (MUMCS).
CPA Ssenoga made the remarks on 4th March 2026 as he presented the Auditor’s report from SDS and Company Certified Public Accountants at the MUMCS Annual General Meeting (AGM).
The Auditor’s report for the year ended 31st December 2025 highlighted adherence to the best corporate governance practices, confirmed proper allocation of funds, value for money, and steady progress.
“The Cooperative Society was found to be in excellent standing, with operations in compliance with International Financial Reporting Standards for SMEs, the Cooperative Societies Act, and relevant Ugandan regulations. The operations are efficient and transparent,” he reported.
Mandate of MUMCS
Chairing the AGM, the Vice Chairperson, Dr. Muhammad Kiggundu-Musoke, underscored that the MUMCS exists to promote the welfare of members. In pursuit of this mandate, MUMCS provides access to affordable credit at interest rates that are significantly lower than those offered by other financial institutions. Such support, he noted, empowers members to strengthen their financial stability, invest in personal and professional goals, and ultimately enhance their overall well-being.
Steady progress
Highlighting MUMCS’ steady progress, Dr. Kiggundu-Musoke commended members for the tremendous growth recorded over time. He noted that the cooperative society had grown from handling a few hundreds of thousands of shillings in its early years to managing a portfolio now standing at approximately UGX 3.25 billion, a milestone he described as a reflection of collective effort, prudent management, and sustained member confidence.
He encouraged members to actively promote and popularise the cooperative within their respective departments. He proposed a structured approach of engaging Heads of Department to sensitize staff on the MUMCS’ services and benefits.
AGM highlights
The hybrid AGM, with physical participants assembled in the Main Building Senior Common Room, and virtual participants who followed the proceedings via zoom, provided a platform to review performance, highlight operational successes and governance milestones, as well as, finding solutions to challenges.
Secretary’s report
Presenting the report, MUMCS’ Secretary, Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, highlighted the growth in membership to 160, including 27 new recruits – a testimony to the confidence in the quality of services provided.
Prof. Ireeta excited the members when he mentioned that the 2025 surplus of UGX 291 million was distributed to members, with administrative budgets executed as approved.
On the issue of financial discipline and meeting obligations, Prof. Ireeta notified the members that the Management Committee implemented strategies that ensured compliance. “Outstanding loan arrears were settled through deductions from dividends of the concerned members,” he stated.
The Secretary reported that as approved during the previous AGM, the Vetting Committee consisting of Prof. Helen Nambalirwa Nkabala (Chairperson), Prof. Lawrence Mugisha (Member) and Dr. Alex Okello (Member) had been constituted and has embarked on the tasks as per the terms of reference.
With reference to the Secretary’s report, the Members praised the MUMCS Management Committee headed by Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, for ensuring the successful implementation of key decisions agreed upon during the previous AGM.
Treasurer’s report
The Treasurer, Prof. Juma Kasozi, provided members with a detailed overview of operations, liquidity, investments, and returns.
Emphasizing MUMCS’ commitment to transparency, Prof. Kasozi noted that the Management Committee ensures that the balance sheets, profit and loss statements, and trial balances are shared monthly with members, which enables them to monitor performance throughout the year.
Prof. Kasozi explained that the Cooperative Society maintains strong liquidity, with approximately UGX 1.6 billion invested with fund managers and insurance companies. These liquid investments he said, provide a solid foundation to support loans, withdrawals, and operational needs. He encouraged members to increase their savings and shareholdings, in order to strengthen MUMCS’s financial base and enhance lending capacity.
The Treasurer highlighted the Society’s loan products, including instant loans; which provide same-day disbursement and long-term term loans. He reported that in 2025, UGX 479 million was disbursed in instant loans, and UGX 913 million as long-term loans.
He informed the AGM that the major challenge faced during the year 2025, was premised on disruptions in payroll deductions. “Before this setback, payroll deductions generated over UGX 50 million per month. Due to temporary disruptions, the amount generated reduced to UGX 20 million,” he explained.
The Treasurer briefed the members that discussions with the payroll management team had been successful, and full deductions were expected to resume, a step that would restore the expected income stream of the Cooperative Society.
He re-assured members that despite challenges with payroll deductions, MUMCS remains financially stable, with strong liquidity, robust investments, sound loan recovery mechanisms, and a commitment to member welfare.
He encouraged members to recruit colleagues, increase shareholding, and actively participate in strengthening the Cooperative Society’s growth and impact.
Members applaud the Management Committee
Impressed by the reports presented by the Secretary and Treasurer, the Members praised the MUMCS Management Committee headed by Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, for the successful implementation of key decisions agreed upon during the previous AGM.
Presentation from the Welfare Committee
On behalf of the Welfare Committee, Ms. Ritah Namisango, commended the Management Committee for effectively implementing the Society’s Welfare Policy. Ms. Namisango noted that the policy stipulates the contribution to weddings, loss of a member, and/or when a member loses a parent, spouse and a biological child. She encouraged the members to read the Welfare Policy in order to tap into the benefits that accrue to them.
“We invite all members to read the Welfare Policy and inform the Management Committee early enough whenever a situation arises. I am glad that, because of transparency and communication through the WhatsApp group, most of you have been notifying the Executive Committee promptly. Most of the Members who have received contributions from MUMCS during such situations, have acknowledged receipt, and gone an extra mile, to send messages of gratitude via MUMCS’ WhatsApp group,” she said.
She welcomed the AGM’s approval of an additional UGX 2.5 million allocation to the Welfare Fund, to boost the Cooperative Society’s ability to extend support as well as standing in solidarity with the Members.
The Welfare Committee consists of Ms. Ritah Namisango, Dr. Oscar Mugula and Mr. Michael Kasusse.
Supervisory Committee report
The Chairperson, Prof. Fredrick Jones Muyodi, congratulated the Management Committee and the Members, upon the positive financial performance of MUMCS with a gross surplus of UGX 351,533,935/=, and a net surplus of UGX 49,510,181/= after deduction of all expenses.
Concerned that some members have faced challenges with payroll deductions, the Supervisory committee welcomed the progress reported by the Secretary toward resolving the issue.
He stated that the Committee reviewed the financial proposals presented by the management committee and endorsed the recommended dividend payment of UGX 38,630,000 to shareholders, noting that dividends cannot exceed 10 percent under the law.
In addition, the Committee supported payments to service providers, the purchase of a second laptop to enhance data security, the use of cloud and external storage for safeguarding records, the proposed welfare and AGM budgets, and the allocation of 65% of the gross surplus as return on savings.
The Supervisory Committee consists of Prof. Fredrick Jones Muyodi (Chairperson), Prof. Edgar Nabutanyi (Member) and Dr. Jamidah Nakato (Member).
Closing remarks
Closing the AGM, Dr. Kiggundu-Musoke thanked members for their active participation and challenged them to actively support the growth of the cooperative society. He emphasized that membership growth would not only strengthen the Makerere University Multi-Purpose Cooperative Society’s financial standing, but also enhance dividend returns for all members.
General
Makerere University and World Bank Sign Partnership to Strengthen Environmental and Social Sustainability Capacity
On 5th March 2026, Makerere University signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the International Development Association (IDA), the financing arm of the World Bank Group, establishing a strategic partnership aimed at strengthening environmental and social sustainability systems in Uganda and the wider East African region.
The collaboration brings together Makerere University through the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) and the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS) and the World Bank to jointly advance training, research, and policy advisory in environmental and social sustainability.
The three-year agreement provides a framework for cooperation focused on building national capacity to manage environmental and social risks associated with large-scale development investments.
Advancing Sustainable Development through Knowledge Partnerships
The partnership will be anchored in the Environment and Social Sustainability Centre (ESSC) at Makerere University, a national hub established to promote applied research, policy engagement, and professional training in environmental and social governance.
Through the Centre, the two institutions will collaborate to strengthen Uganda’s ability to plan and implement development projects in ways that safeguard communities and the environment.
Speaking during the signing ceremony, Ms. Francisca Ayodeji (Ayo) Akala, the World Bank Country Manager emphasised that the collaboration reflects a shared commitment to strengthening systems that support sustainable growth.
“This partnership with Makerere University is an important step in strengthening Uganda’s systems for environmental and social sustainability. By working through the Environment and Social Sustainability Centre, we aim to build the capacity of professionals across government, the private sector, and development institutions to better manage environmental and social risks and deliver investments that promote sustainable growth while protecting people and the environment.” Ms. Francisca Ayodeji (Ayo) Akala, World Bank Country Manager, Uganda, noted.
The partnership will support training, research, and policy advisory activities through the ESSC, helping Uganda pursue a development trajectory that promotes economic growth while protecting people and the environment.
Building National Capacity for Environmental and Social Risk Management
Uganda’s development agenda under the Fourth National Development Plan prioritises large-scale investments in infrastructure, agro-industrialisation, energy, and science and technology. However, such investments require strong environmental and social risk management systems to ensure sustainable outcomes.
The new partnership, therefore, focuses on building a skilled workforce capable of applying international best practices in environmental and social governance.
Under the MoU, Makerere University will design and deliver demand-driven short-course training programs targeting public sector officials, development practitioners, financial institutions, civil society organisations, and private sector actors implementing major projects.
Seven certificate-level short courses have already been developed and approved across multiple colleges at the University. These courses cover areas such as environmental and social risk management, climate risk assessment, construction health and safety, and integrating environmental and social considerations into investment cycles.
“Makerere Universityis proud to partner with the World Bank in strengthening Uganda’s capacity to manage environmental and social risks in development investments. Through the Environment and Social Sustainability Centre, we have already developed and approved seven certificate-level short courses across multiple colleges, designed to equip professionals in government, the private sector, and development institutions with practical skills to plan and implement sustainable projects. This collaboration reflects Makerere’s commitment to providing knowledge-driven solutions that support Uganda’s development while safeguarding communities and the environment.” Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe noted.
Strengthening Collaboration between Academia and Development Partners
As part of the agreement, the World Bank will support the development and delivery of the training programs, including conducting Training of Trainers (ToT) on the Bank’s Environment and Social Standards and international best practices.
The Bank will also leverage its convening power to encourage participation from development partners, government institutions, and project implementers, while supporting impact monitoring of trained professionals to document improvements in project performance and job creation.
The collaboration will further promote professional networking, policy dialogue, knowledge exchange, and the development of knowledge hubs containing environmental and social tools, databases, and resources for practitioners.
Positioning Makerere as a Regional Knowledge Hub
Through this partnership, Makerere University seeks to position the Environment and Social Sustainability Centre as a leading knowledge hub for environmental and social governance in Africa.
By combining academic expertise with the World Bank’s global experience in development financing and technical assistance, the initiative is expected to strengthen the institutional capacity required to deliver sustainable and climate-resilient investments in Uganda.
The partnership also aligns with the World Bank’s broader commitment to supporting Uganda’s development agenda and strengthening country systems for environmental and social sustainability.
Together, the two institutions aim to equip professionals across government, the private sector, and development organizations with the skills required to ensure that Uganda’s development pathway remains inclusive, responsible, and environmentally sustainable.
Caroline Kainomugisha is the Communications Officer, Advancement Office, Makerere University
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