General
Professor Oloka-Onyango delivers inaugural lecture on GHOSTS AND THE LAW
On 12th November 2015, the Vice Chancellor awarded Prof. Joe Oloka-Onyango a plaque and certificate in commemoration of his fundamental duty as a full Professor of Makerere University.
Prof. Joe Oloka-Onyango gave an inaugural lecture titled, Ghosts and the Law, in which he revealed that the Ugandan law has long been haunted by ghosts, which take on varied shapes and sizes as the Common law itself. He nevertheless remained hopeful that one day, Public Interest Litigation (PIL) will eventually triumph, leading to reconciliation between the two ghosts; one backward-looking in support of extra-constitutional overthrow of government, and another which aspires for the protection of fundamental human rights, with the hope that the good one will prevail over her evil sibling.
“As we celebrate 20 years of the 1995 Constitution and approach the 50th anniversary of the decision in the case, it is the most appropriate time to look back and consider which of the ‘twins’ of the ‘Ghost of ex parte Matovu’ has been most successful in influencing the Ugandan body politic. What does the future portend for the life of these fraternal twins?”
The drums sounded as the Vice Chancellor’s procession comprising the Deputy Vice Chancellor Academic Affairs, Ag. Principal-School of Law and academicians clad in gowns, led Prof. Joe Oloka-Onyango to the Main Hall, amidst a colourful performance from the Mak Department of Performing Arts and Film.
The Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof. John Ddumba-Ssentamu welcomed the audience comprising invited guests, the family of Prof. Joe Oloka-Onyango, intellectuals/scholars, staff, students, the legal fraternity and well-wishers to the Joe Oloka-Onyango inaugural lecture. He thanked the audience that filled the Main Hall to full capacity for braving the heavy rains.
The Vice Chancellor highlighted that Inaugural lectures are a central part of the University’s academic life. “These events are held to commemorate the inaugural lecturer's appointment to full professorship. Today’s inaugural lecture provides a platform for the academic (Prof. Oloka-Onyango) to present the body of research that he has been focusing on during his career,” said Prof. Ddumba-Ssentamu.
The Acting Principal-School of Law, Dr. Damalie Naggita Musoke officially introduced Professor Joe Oloka Onyango to the audience. Prof. Oloka-Onyango’s credentials speak of a distinguished career in the Law profession as an academic. He has served the School of Law Makerere University as a Dean in the then Faculty of Law as well as Director of the Human Rights and Peace Centre. He is also an active litigant and human right activist and has served as a Special Rapporteur on Globalization and Human Rights of the United Nations. He has been a visiting Professor at a number of Universities that include the University of Cape Town, Oxford and United Nations University in Tokyo.
He spent his sabbatical 2014/2015 as a Full Bright Professor at George Washington University in the USA and Fellow at the Stellenbosch Institute of Advanced Studies (STIAS) in South Africa.
Professor Oloka Onyango is widely published and some of his most recent publications include; Battling over Human Rights: Twenty Essays on Law, Politics and Governance (Laanga Publishing, 2015); When Courts Do Politics (Cornell University, Debating Love, Politics and Identity in East Africa: The Case of Kenya an d Uganda among others.
With such an admirable profile, Prof. Joe Oloka-Onyango clad in full academic regalia energetically moved from the high table to the Podium to address the captivated audience. Professor Oloka-Onyango paid tribute to his late father, Bernard Onyango who always emphasized that one is proven a Professor only after delivering an inaugural lecture. Prof. Oloka-Onyango acknowledged his parents for setting the standard for excellence in all spheres of life very high. His mother, Mrs. Lucy Onyango attended the inaugural lecture. He also appreciated the constant inspirational support of his wife, Professor Sylvia Tamale, Children Kwame Sobukwe Ayepa and Samora Okech Sanga and his in-laws from the Nkima Clan.
During his presentation on the Ghosts and the Law, Professor Oloka-Onyango explained the various instances when the Law is inflicted with ghostly situations quoting the case of ex parte Matovu as illustrated in the case Uganda v. Commissioner of Prisons, ex parte Matovu, whose case will make 50 years in 2017. He said although dead, ex parte Matovu is still a domineering presence in the law, with effects being felt in all branches of study or practice. He explored the relationship between the law, politics and society and the impact that connection has on the protection of Human Rights, specifically constitutionalism.
In his presentation, Professor Oloka-Onyango explored situations how we get ghosts in the Law, the Political question Doctrine and how it contrasts with Public interest Litigation as a form of change-oriented and socially-conscious lawyering. He said the legislature has continued to concentrate on the Political Question Doctrine and in this way deny the populace their economic, social and cultural rights.
Emphasizing the need to do away with the Ghosts in the Law, Prof. Oloka-Onyango shared powerful quote from Okot p’Bitek, Song of Lawino:
“ The smell of carbolic soap;
Makes me sick;
And the smell of powder
Provokes the ghosts in my head;
It is necessary to fetch a goat;
From my mother’s brother;
The sacrifice over;
The ghost-dance drum must sound;
The ghost be laid;
And my peace restored.”
Prof. Oloka-Onyango mentioned particular cases that further enlightened the audience on how Ugandan law has long been haunted by ghosts.
“All these are the ‘Ghosts of History Past, Present and Future.’ In the arena of Constitutional Law and governance the ghost appears in the form of the Political Question Doctrine (PQD), a concept most associated with the 1966 High Court decision, Uganda v. Commissioner of Prisons, ex parte Matovu,” he said.
“But as with all spiritual beings—such as the Roman God, Janus—there are two sides to the case. In other words, there are not just one but (at least) two ghosts of ex parte Matovu. There is the backward-looking one which supported the extra-constitutional overthrow of government in 1966 and paved the way for military dictatorship, judicial restraint and conservatism. And in the same case, there is its reverse which “jettisoned formalism” to the winds, overruled legal “technicalities,” and underlined the need for the protection of fundamental human rights. The jettisoning formalism decision eventually opened the way to a robust and growing industry of Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in Uganda.”
Fortunately, Prof. Oloka-Onyango provided hope to Ugandans and the world at large when he pointed out that the “good ghost” fought back taking on the form of Public Interest Litigation (PIL) and the quest for democratic constitutionalism.
He shared with the audience the battle between the Political Question Doctrine and Public Interest Litigation that mainly centres around the status of economics, Social and Cultural Rights (ESCRs) and on other issues in which the Judiciary is too timid to directly confront the Executive and Parliament.
“That battle brings the two ghosts of ex parte Matovu into head-on collision, i.e. The one which allows the government to escape all its obligations to ensure that human rights are respected, and the other which underlines the point that the obligation to respect, protect and fulfil human rights also attaches the State,” he said.
Ending his presentation, Prof. Oloka-Onyango remained hopeful that Public Interest Litigation will one day triumph.
“Hopefully, in this battle over destiny, Public Interest Litigation will eventually triumph. That should lead to reconciliation between the two ghosts with the good one of them prevailing over her evil sibling,” he remarked.
Still basking in the spotlight of this academic milestone, Prof. Oloka-Onyango commended the personalities who inspired him to become an academic. He acknowledged Frederick Jjuuko, Deogratius Mabirizi, the Late Richard Kiwanuka (RIP) and George Okoth Obbo who interested him in academic teaching and research.
He made mention of his classmates that included Kenneth Kakuru (now Court of Appeal Justice), Richard Musajja Karyegesa, the late Patrick Karegeya and Donald Nyakairu whom he described as his first intellectual co-travelers.
Commenting on the inaugural lecture presentation, the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Professor John Ddumba-Ssentamu agreed with Prof. Oloka-Onyango that we indeed had ghosts in the law.
Prof. Ddumba-Ssentamu noted that the lecture provided an in-depth exploration of the doctrine of the Separation of Powers that is the relationship between the three arms of government, namely, the Executive (the President and Cabinet), the Legislature, and the Judiciary. He observed that Prof. Oloka-Onyango’s study calls for particular attention to the courts of law and their obligations when faced with issues to do with the protection of human rights.
Prof. Ddumba-Ssentamu upheld the fact that the Constitution is the most important legal document of the very many laws, regulations and statutes that we have in Uganda. Thus Prof. Onyango’s lecture underscored the important place in which Constitutional Law should be placed when considering matters to do with governance, human rights and the improved social well-being of Ugandan society.
“I take this opportunity to thank Prof. Onyango for his profound insights and for having greatly educated us on the various aspects of Constitutional Law doctrine. The lecture was a multi-disciplinary intellectual tour covering a wide range of subjects from Literature to Philosophy,” proclaimed the Vice Chancellor amidst applause from the audience.
The inaugural lecture was also graced by members of the Judiciary that included Her Lordship, Prof. Lillian Tibatemwa-Ekirikubinza of the Supreme Court, Justices Kenneth Kakuru and Stephen Egonda-Ntende from Court of Appeal.
“As a teacher and a researcher, I have variously drawn inspiration from colleagues like Mahmood Mamdani, Busingye Kabumba, Sallie Simba Kayunga, Ben Shokoro Twinomugisha, Frederick Egonda-Ntende, J.J. Barya, James Gathii, Celestine Nyamu, among many other’’ said Prof. Oloka-Onyango.
The lecture was organized by the Office of the Vice Chancellor, spearheaded by Dr. Okello Ogwang-the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs), Mr. Alfred Masikye Namoah, The Academic Registrar and the Inaugural Lecture Committee consisting of: Prof. Elly N. Sabiiti-Chairperson, and members that include, Prof. Oswald Ndoleriire, Prof. Ruth Mukama, Prof. David Bakibinga, Prof. H. Oryem-Origa and Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi.
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Article by Mak Public Relations Office and School of Law Communications Office
The Makerere University Council and Top Management have today convened at Speke Resort Munyonyo to deliberate on the University’s Strategic Plan 2025/2026 – 2029/2030. The retreat seeks to align Makerere’s priorities with the Fourth National Development Plan (NDP IV) and ensure that all key stakeholders contribute to shaping the institution’s next five years.
Opening the discussions, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, underscored the centrality of planning in the University’s growth trajectory. He called on members of management to actively participate in the drafting of the new strategic plan. Prof. Nawangwe highlighted Makerere’s progress in recent years, noting that the University has drawn a roadmap to becoming a research-led institution, with publications rising from 700 five years ago to 2,000 currently.
He further pointed out the revision of research policies to align with the University’s research agenda, as well as the establishment of innovation hubs that support product development, commercialisation, and intellectual property management. Commending staff for their resilience and success, Prof. Nawangwe congratulated them on winning significant individual grants, some of which now surpass institutional grants. “NDP IV is intended to grow the country tenfold, and I am confident Makerere will make a huge contribution,” he remarked.
In her keynote remarks, the Chairperson of the University Council, Mrs. Lorna Magara, described the retreat as a defining moment for Makerere’s role in Uganda’s transformation. She urged the University to move beyond traditional teaching and research, positioning itself as a central driver of national development.
“Our mandate extends beyond academia. The knowledge we generate, the leaders we shape, and the innovations we deliver must directly fuel Uganda’s growth,” Mrs. Magara stated.
She outlined priority national development areas— agro-industrialisation, tourism, mineral-based development, and advances in science and technology—where Makerere’s expertise can make a decisive impact. Emphasising the urgency of challenges such as youth unemployment, climate change, food insecurity, and fragile health systems, she noted that within these lie opportunities for Makerere to lead in testing and scaling solutions.
“This retreat is about discipline and focus. Our strategy cannot be a wish list; it must be a blueprint for measurable national impact,” she said, challenging participants to critically reflect on how Makerere can anchor Uganda’s food security, nurture digital innovators, strengthen health resilience, and raise transformative leaders.
She concluded with a call for boldness and clarity in execution: “The next five years are decisive. Makerere must shift from being a participant in national development to being its strongest driver. What we agree here must position Makerere not only as Uganda’s premier university but also as a trusted national partner and a beacon of Africa’s transformation.”
The retreat involved detailed discussions and contributions from University leaders, aimed at developing a practical and impact-driven strategic plan that cements Makerere’s role in advancing Uganda’s development agenda.
Education
Makerere University signs Memorandum of Understanding with International Rescue Committee to Advance Research, Innovation and Partnerships
Makerere University has signed a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the International Rescue Committee to formalize undertakings in research, innovation & partnerships.
Signed in September 2025 by the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe and the Country Director, International Rescue Committee, Mr. Elijah Okeyo, the MoU provides a framework to implement research intensive programmes, promote innovative teaching and learning, internationalization, and contribute to societal transformation.
According to Mr. Okeyo, the MoU re-affirms Makerere University as the academic partner of the International Rescue Committee (IRC). “This MoU formalizes IRC’s working relationship with Makerere University. This framework empowers both institutions to tap into opportunities together. We believe in equal partnership. Makerere University commits to being our partner in research to contribute to evidence based humanitarian undertakings,” he said.
Under this collaboration, Makerere University and IRC will work on developing child-centered learning resources, innovative curricula, and policy-relevant research to enhance the quality of education in crisis-affected regions.
At Makerere University, the MoU brings on board, the College of Education and External Studies (CEES), Makerere University Institute of Teacher Education and Research (MITER), and the Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) Research Centre.
To concretize the MoU, the Principal of the College of Education and External Studies, Prof. Anthony Muwagga Mugagga convened a partnership meeting on Friday 12th September 2025 involving a delegation from the International Rescue Committee (IRC), Dr. David Kabugo, the Deputy Director of Makerere University Institute of Teacher Education and Research (MITER), and Ms. Ritah Namisango, the Principal Communication Officer.
The delegation from the International Rescue Committee (IRC) consisted of the following: Mr. Elijah Okeyo-Country Director, Mr. Vincent Wanyama-Senior Program Development and Quality Coordinator, Mr. Richard Omasete-Policy and Advocacy PlayMatters, and Ms. Janet Nambuya-Grants and Partnerships Coordinator.
The MoU focuses on the following areas of interest: Early Childhood Development, joint research and capacity building in education, the plight of refugees and the host communities, humanitarian aid, as well as, evidence based research to inform the education policy.
In line with its mandate, IRC brings onboard, its unmatched expertise in helping children in crisis-affected areas. The MoU therefore positions both institutions to undertake a leading role in the protection of children and families through evidence based research, access to education, and humanitarian undertakings.
Dr. Kabugo, the Deputy Director MITER, noted that the MoU opens new opportunities for joint efforts in research, training, and policy. He said: “We are committed to co-designing practitioner research, engaging in professional development, and generating evidence to guide the education policy in Uganda and beyond.” Dr. Kabugo explained that this partnership builds on years of cooperation between CEES and IRC, especially in child-centered methods such as play-based learning.
Prof. Mugagga described the MOU as a practical framework that connects Makerere University’s research with IRC’s field experiences. He stated that the College of Education and External Studies (CEES) conducts programmes focused on the future of the young people through training and empowering students/teachers. He articulated that the College significantly impacts on the education sector through delivery of quality academic programmes and research under the School of Education, School of Distance and Lifelong Learning, and the East African School of Higher Education Studies and Development.
“Our strongest synergy is education and early child-focused care,” Prof. Mugagga emphasized. He revealed that the collaboration presents CEES with a strong and reliable partner (IRC), which stands for protection and the well-being of children and families. “Through this MoU, both CEES and IRC, will significantly contribute to improving education for children, families, and communities impacted by conflict and crisis.”
Prof. Mugagga commended IRC for the earlier support and expertise extended to the College in the development of the early childhood centre, and working together to provide valuable input during the Ministry of Education and Sports’ consultative process that led to the Early Childhood development policy.
Reflecting on the increasing number of refugees enrolling for studies at Makerere University, Prof. Mugagga said: “ IRC has come at the right time. The College will tap into the IRC expertise to teach our staff and learners components in refugee education. They will equip our students and teachers with knowledge and skills in refugee education. Some of our students will cooperate with IRC to undertake research in refugee settlement and host communities.”
Prof. Mugagga implored both MITER and IRC to undertake research and develop modules on refugee education, parenting, re-tooling street children, integration of a health component into the curriculum, and management of truamatised students/learners who come from areas affected by war, conflict and crisis.
On the issue of play materials, Prof. Mugagga stressed that already made play materials derial creativing. “Both CEES and IRC should work towards a context that empowers children and learners to ignite their creative potential by developing home-made play materials,” he submitted.
About IRC
Stating a brief profile history about IRC, Mr. Okeyo explained that IRC is a global non-profit organisation that provides humanitarian aid and assistance to people affected by conflict and disaster. IRC has been active in Uganda since 1998, originally assisting displaced populations in Northern Uganda and later expanding its efforts to refugee settlements and urban areas.. Currently, IRC operates more than 35 health facilities in refugee settlements and runs a variety of programs in health, education, protection, and economic recovery. IRC also undertakes projects focusing on early childhood development, prevention of gender-based violence, and protection of refugees and families.
General
Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University encouraged to participate in philanthropy work
By Carol Kasujja Adii and Bernard Buteera
Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University have been encouraged to embrace the spirit of philanthropy as a vital foundation for fostering stronger and more resilient communities. This inspiring call to action took place during the 2025 Community Open Day at the Freedom Square on Saturday, September 6, 2025, where hundreds of Mastercard Scholars, Scholar-alumni, and partners of the Scholars Program gathered to initiate a fundraising drive for the signature Annual Scholars Day of Service.
The Annual Scholars Day of Service stands as a hallmark event through which the Scholars give back to the community in impactful and sustainable ways. During a keynote address titled “How Philanthropy Shapes Resilient Communities,” Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, the Deputy Vice Chancellor of Finance and Administration, emphasised that while local philanthropy is not a new concept in Uganda, a more intentional mobilisation of this giving back power is necessary to address broader social challenges.
“Communities that mobilise their own resources—financial, human, and material—are empowered to take ownership of their development. Ownership naturally leads to sustainability, ensuring that solutions emerge from local knowledge, context, and values rather than being imposed from the outside. This approach is essential for effectively tackling our social challenges,” Prof. Ireeta stated.
In his remarks delivered by Prof. Helen Nambalirwa Nkabala, the Principal of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Prof. Ireeta highlighted the importance of nurturing the inherent power of local giving. He urged the celebration of current local philanthropic efforts, which can be initiated at the individual, religious, and community levels.
“To foster a culture of giving, we need to create platforms that promote structured, transparent, and impactful contributions,” he argued. “It’s crucial to strengthen our generosity, particularly among the youth, and cultivate a society where giving is valued as a core aspect of leadership and citizenship.”
Prof. Ireeta further noted, “The future of our Communities’ strength lies not in distant promises but in our own hands and collective actions. By fostering local philanthropy, we can build a society that is not only fairer but also more resilient and united.
In his welcoming remarks, Mr. John Osuna, Transition Lead for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University, who spoke on behalf of the Program Director, Prof. Justine Namaalwa, expressed gratitude to the Scholars for their collaborative efforts in turning the idea of giving back into reality.
“Let us embody humility, kindness, and compassion through actionable philanthropy. By doing so, we can create lasting impacts, enhancing our reputation as a community that genuinely cares,” Mr. Osuna stated.
The Community Open Day was organised under the inspiring theme: “Nurturing Philanthropy for Resilient Communities,” paving the way for future initiatives that strengthen community bonds through collective generosity.
“We believe that through nurturing philanthropy for resilient communities, our communities shall be able to organise themselves to build resilience beyond what we shall give back,” Mr. Osuna explained.
The vibrant event saw Scholars and Scholar-alumni actively participating by bringing items for auction and buying tickets for the raffle draw as a means of mobilising resources for the construction of a ventilated pit latrine, renovation of two classroom blocks and providing tanks for harvesting clean water for Bwera Primary School in Kabale District.
Speaking at the event, Mrs. Agnes Katumba, the Director of Katumba Estates, one of the long-standing partners of the Scholars Program at Makerere University, tasked the Scholars to embrace the heart of giving back without expecting something in return.
“I thank the Mastercard Foundation; they not only provide scholarships but also give back to the community. I have been able to grow because of them. For scholars, you do not have to wait to be wealthy to give back; every coin counts,” Mrs. Katumba said.
Katumba Estates Ltd contributed three million shillings to the Scholars Give Back project. Another long-standing partner, DFCU Bank, pledged over sh10 million towards the Scholars’ building project.
In her presentation, Ms. Malvin Akwara, a Mastercard Foundation Scholar-alumna, urged current Scholars to contribute to their communities in various ways, including mentorship and guiding young people.
“We are all here because someone chose to give. During my first year at Makerere, I contributed to some young man’s school fees back home in my community. The young man is now in his second year at Makerere. You don’t have to be wealthy to make an impact; be intentional in your giving, and you will witness the difference it makes. There is no greater fulfilment than helping someone in need,” Akwara stated.
The event was punctuated with a number of activities that ranged from auctioning items, raffle draws, exhibitions, quizzes and a lot of games and fun.
Carol Kasujja and Bernard Buteera form the communications team for the Scholars Programme at Makerere University.
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