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Chairperson of Council inaugurates MAK Students Disciplinary Committee

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In line with the Makerere University Students Regulations 2015 (The Uganda Gazette No.39, Volume CV111, and dated 16th July 2015), Makerere University has established a Student’s Disciplinary Committee.

Inaugurated by the Chairperson of Council, Eng. Dr. Charles Wana-Etyem on Wednesday 1st November 2017, the Makerere University Students Disciplinary Committee will be headed by Mr. Ngabirano Precious a former Chief Magistrate and a Senior practicing advocate at Pearl Advocates and Solicitors.

Other members of the Makerere University Students Disciplinary Committee appointed by the University Council include; Dr. Rose Nakayi, Dr. Umar Kakumba, Mr. Ahmed Ssentongo, Ms. Carolyne Nabaasa and Mrs. Prossy Katongole Kyazze.

According to the Acting Director of Legal Affairs, Makerere University Mr. Goddy Muhumuza, the committee is set to;

  1. To handle disciplinary cases directly brought to it;
  2. To handle cases referred to it by Hall Disciplinary Committee;
  3. To handle appeals from parties dissatisfied with the ruling by the Hall Disciplinary Committee; and
  4. Any other functions assigned by the University Council.

“The Dean of Students may refer a case of breach of the University Regulations to the University Students Disciplinary Committee directly without the same having been brought before the Hall Disciplinary Committee,” said Mr. Muhumuza.

The University Students Disciplinary Committee has powers to do any/ or several of the following:

  • Uphold the decision made by the Hall Disciplinary Committee;
  • Dismiss the case against the student;
  • Reprimand the student;
  • Demand an apology from the student;
  • Ask the student to pay for the cost or part of the cost of damaged or lost University property;
  • Ask the student to be a non-resident;
  • Remove or recommend removal of the student leader from office;
  • Suspend the student for a specified time;
  • Recommend to the University Council that the student be dismissed;
  • Suspend the student for a specified period of time not exceeding four months pending approval of the recommendation to Council that the student be dismissed; and
  • Any other punishment that the Committee may deem to be appropriate.

The Committee’s decision shall be communicated to the student in writing within seven days of the day of conclusion of the hearing.

During the inauguration ceremony in the Makerere University Main Building Senior Common Room, the Chairperson of Council thanked the Committee Chairperson and his entire team for voluntarily accepting to take up the role to ensure that the University is safe and free from hooliganism and any other unnecessary behaviour.

He asked the Committee to be very firm but also fair when handling students’ matters. “We expect to give a fair hearing to each person coming to the committee. There is also room for appeal in case you feel dissatisfied with the committee’s ruling,” he said.

He thanked the Management and the entire University community for putting up a Committee whose background is governed by the law to ensure that peace, discipline and good conduct is reinstated at Makerere University.Guild Student leaders and Members of Management pose for a photo with MAK Students Disciplinary Committee

He however, appealed to the University Management to always engage students in decision making and also leave room for the students to reach out to them. The Chairperson of Council also appealed to the students to focus on their studies and other constructive activities to create a better and admirable future. He encouraged them to use the social media and the technologies to reach out to fellow students positively as they build the University’s image and brand.

“We should know that whatever we are dong either builds the institution’s profile or tarnishes its image, I therefore call upon you to tell the University’s greatness in a positive way. Let us use the technologies constructively and seek pride from our own,” he explained.

Eng. Dr. Wana-Etyem highly encouraged the Guild Cabinet to use their offices in a rightful manner and work with the Committee to clean up the University. “We are not going to tolerate behaviour that creates problems to our people. You can strike if you feel your issues are not handled, but you should not be violent or infringe on other people’s rights. Those students engaging in such acts should be identified and be brought to book,” he vehemently said.

In his acceptance speech, the Chairperson of the Makerere University Students Disciplinary Committee Mr. Ngabirano Precious, proudly thanked the Makerere University community for entrusting his team with such a remarkable role. He vowed to take the responsibility seriously and fight against misconduct and hooliganism at Makerere University.

“We consider this as a great honour to be called back to serve our University. We are here to serve. I have taken note of the regulations providing the jurisdiction of this committee. We shall exercise our work judiciously in all fairness. We shall be fair to all parties through applying all the principles,” Mr. Ngabirano stated.

The Makerere University Vice chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe pledged to work hand in hand with the Committee to sieve out the few students who tarnish the institution’s image.“I have always told people that Makerere University is the top University. However, people have always wondered why Makerere University has failed to find a mechanism of sieving out the students tarnishing the image of the University. Here is the students Disciplinary Committee put in place to do that role,” said Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe.Students from the Department of Performing and Film led by Ms. Anita Desire Asaasira sang the anthemsThe Dean of Students Mr. Cyriaco Kabagambe welcomed the Chairperson of the Committee and thanked the University Management and entire Makerere University Community for making it possible to have the committee put in place.

“On behalf of my team, I pledge to closely cooperate with the Committee and other organs of the University to create a difference in the way our students conduct themselves,” he mentioned.

Written by: Proscovia Nabatte, Communication Volunteer-MAK Public Relations Office

Elias Tuhereze

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Mak Endowment Fund 3rd Board of Trustees Inaugurated

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Seated: Mrs. Lorna Magara (Centre) with Prof. Sarah Ssali (Left) and Dr. Margaret J. Kigozi (Right) with other officials (Standing) after inauguration of the 3rd MakEF Board on 23rd October 2025. The 3rd Board of Trustees of the Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF) officially inaugurated by Mrs. Lorna Magara, Chairperson of the University Council, 23rd October 2025, Council Room, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

The 3rd Board of Trustees of the Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF) has been officially inaugurated in a ceremony presided over by Mrs. Lorna Magara, Chairperson of the University Council on 23rd October 2025, and moderated by the Secretary to the Board, Mr. Emmanuel Kitamirike

In her address, Mrs. Magara commended the outgoing board, led by Dr. Margaret J. Kigozi, for their remarkable stewardship that saw the Fund grow from UGX 8.66 billion in 2021 to UGX 14.54 billion in 2025. She underscored the Endowment Fund’s vital role in ensuring the University’s financial sustainability amidst fluctuating public funding, reaffirming the Council’s commitment to providing policy and institutional support. Mrs. Magara further urged the incoming Board to uphold transparency, strengthen alumni engagement, and pursue innovative investment strategies to expand the Fund’s impact as Makerere continues to build for the future.

Mrs. Lorna Magara addresses the meeting. The 3rd Board of Trustees of the Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF) officially inaugurated by Mrs. Lorna Magara, Chairperson of the University Council, 23rd October 2025, Council Room, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mrs. Lorna Magara addresses the meeting.

Board composition

The newly inaugurated 3rd Board of Trustees (2025–2029) brings together a team of distinguished professionals whose expertise spans business, academia, finance, governance, and social advocacy. Notably, some members have been reappointed in recognition of their exceptional service and contribution to the Fund’s growth during the previous term. The Board is chaired by Dr. Margaret J. Kigozi, a seasoned business leader and former Executive Director of the Uganda Investment Authority (UIA). She is joined by accomplished members including Ms. Jennifer Mwijukye, CEO and founder of Unifreight Cargo Handling Limited; Mr. Ninsiima John Chris, Director of Programmes at NUDIPU and member of the Makerere University Council; Mr. Kenneth Mugambe, former Director of Budget at the Ministry of Finance; Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, Makerere University’s Academic Registrar and Professor of Forestry Resource Economics; and Mr. Sam Ayesiga, a governance and investment expert with vast experience across Africa. Their diverse backgrounds and renewed commitment are expected to steer the Fund toward even greater stability, innovation, and impact in the years ahead.

Representing the Vice Chancellor, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Prof. Sarah Ssali, commended the outgoing Board of Trustees of the Makerere University Endowment Fund for their exceptional service marked by growth, innovation, and accountability. She noted that the growth of the fund to UGX 14 billion is a clear testament to strategic vision, prudent management, and confidence in Makerere University’s long-term sustainability. Prof. Ssali praised the Board for initiatives that have united thousands of alumni, staff, and partners, notably through the Makerere Run, which has supported disability inclusion and empowerment.

The Acting Vice Chancellor Prof. Sarah Ssali. The 3rd Board of Trustees of the Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF) officially inaugurated by Mrs. Lorna Magara, Chairperson of the University Council, 23rd October 2025, Council Room, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The Acting Vice Chancellor Prof. Sarah Ssali.

She also recognized the introduction of the MakAdvance digital platform as a milestone in promoting efficiency and transparency. She welcomed the incoming Board, and challenged the new team to grow the Fund beyond UGX 25 billion through deeper engagement, innovative fundraising, and stronger partnerships. She reaffirmed Management’s commitment to supporting the Fund within robust governance frameworks that inspire stakeholder confidence, emphasizing the shared vision of building a financially resilient Makerere University.

During the handover ceremony, Dr. Margaret J. Kigozi, the Chairperson, reflected on the remarkable progress achieved under the 2021–2025 term, noting the Fund’s growth from UGX 8.66 billion to UGX 14.54 billion — a 68% increase despite global economic challenges. She highlighted key milestones including the institutionalization of the Makerere Run, establishment of the Makerere Gift and Souvenir Shop, launch of The Legacy e-newsletter, and the creation of the Jawaher Fund for the Advancement of Women’s Education, supported by NAMA Establishment in the UAE. Dr. Kigozi expressed gratitude to the outgoing Trustees and reaffirmed her commitment, alongside the new Board, to advance transformative projects such as the construction of the Makerere University Students’ Centre and development of the Makindye land. She emphasized that the Fund’s goal remains to build a financially sustainable Makerere University capable of supporting innovation, research, and academic excellence for generations to come.

Mrs. Lorna Magara (Right) with Dr. Margaret J. Kigozi and her award for her previous tenure as Chairperson. The 3rd Board of Trustees of the Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF) officially inaugurated by Mrs. Lorna Magara, Chairperson of the University Council, 23rd October 2025, Council Room, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mrs. Lorna Magara (Right) with Dr. Margaret J. Kigozi and her award for her previous tenure as Chairperson.

At the inauguration, the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Finance and Administration, Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta underscored the Fund’s central role in ensuring Makerere’s financial sustainability and institutional legacy. He described the Endowment Fund as a cornerstone of the University’s vision—an instrument through which Makerere secures its future, strengthens its independence, and sustains strategic investments in teaching, research, and innovation. He extended heartfelt appreciation to the outgoing Board, chaired by Dr. Margaret J. Kigozi, for their dedicated service and strong leadership that fortified the Fund’s governance, fundraising, and asset management.

Welcoming the new Board, he congratulated the members on their appointment and urged them to continue expanding and mobilizing resources with integrity and innovation. He reaffirmed his office’s commitment to providing administrative and financial support to ensure that the Fund thrives beyond annual budgetary constraints, contributing meaningfully to Makerere’s vision of becoming a research-led, financially resilient, and globally respected institution.

The Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF) was established to secure the University’s financial sustainability by mobilizing, investing, and managing resources to support its core functions of teaching, research, and innovation. Originating from donations made as early as the 1930s, the Fund has evolved into a strategic vehicle that aims to reduce dependence on public funding. It is governed by a Board of Trustees appointed by the University Council, responsible for overseeing investments and resource mobilization. Through initiatives like alumni engagement, digital giving, and events such as the Makerere Run, the Fund continues to grow and strengthen Makerere’s vision of being a research-led and financially resilient institution.

Eve Nakyanzi

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MURBS Declares 13.56% Interest for FY 2024/2025

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The Chairperson, Dr. Michael Kizito (3rd Right) and Board Secretary, CPA Francesca Angida Mugyema (Centre) with MURBS Trustees from Left to Right: Mr. George Bamugemereire, CPA Edna Rugumayo, Dr. Deus Kamunyu Muhwezi, Mr. Joseph Ikarokok and Dr. Elizabeth Nansubuga at the 15th AGM on 23rd October 2025. Makerere University Retirement Benefits Scheme (MURBS) Board of Trustees on 23rd October 2025 during the 15th Annual General Meeting declared an interest on 13.56% on Members balances for the Financial Year 2024/2025. Main Hall, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

The Makerere University Retirement Benefits Scheme (MURBS) Board of Trustees on 23rd October 2025 during the 15th Annual General Meeting declared an interest on 13.56% on Members balances for the Financial Year 2024/2025. Held in the Main Hall for the first time since the Main Building’s reconstruction, the AGM was a chance for the Board of Trustees led by Dr. Michael Kizito to showcase the dedication, strategic initiatives and resilience that had enabled the fund to grow by 16.2% from UGX 409.2 billion as at 30th June 2024 to UGX 475.5 billion as at 30th June 2025.

MURBS asset classes and contributions

Some of these strategic initiatives included investing 86.4% of MURBS’ portfolio in long-term Ugandan Government Bonds. This decision was in line with the Uganda Retirement Benefits Regulatory Authority (URBRA)’s approved waiver, allowing investment of up to 90% in this asset class. Investments in other asset classes included Unit Trusts (10.3%), Real Estate (3.19%), as well as Equities and Fixed Deposits at 0.08% each.

Additional contributors to the fund growth included the remittances from the Sponsor, Makerere University, which grew by 6.4% from UGX 34.4 billion to UGX 36.6 billion. Of particular significance were remittances from staff on projects amounting to UGX 4.59 billion, attracting the Chairperson’s commendation.

“MURBS Trustees appreciate the Sponsor’s compliance and are grateful for the engagements so far to settle historical debts” enthused Dr. Kizito, before adding “We equally recognize Principal Investigators, Accountants and College Principals who remitted to MURBS retirement contributions for their staff on contract and under different projects.” Thirteen new projects were registered by MURBS during the last quarter of FY 2024/2025, bringing the total number of projects remitting staff benefits to the Scheme to 174.

The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (Centre) with MURBS Trustees and Secretariat during their courtesy visit on 30th April 2025. Makerere University Retirement Benefits Scheme (MURBS) Board of Trustees on 23rd October 2025 during the 15th Annual General Meeting declared an interest on 13.56% on Members balances for the Financial Year 2024/2025. Main Hall, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (Centre) with MURBS Trustees and Secretariat during their courtesy visit on 30th April 2025.

Membership and savings

As such, the number of MURBS Members actively contributing to the scheme grew from 3,137 last year to 3,368 as at 30th June 2025. Of these, the majority i.e. 1,648 (48.93%) had savings below UGX 50 million, followed by 524 (15.56%) with savings between UGX 500 and 550 million. The minority i.e. 1 (0.03%) member has the highest savings between UGX 650 and 700 million, followed by 2 (0.06%) with savings between UGX 600 and 650 million.

Retirement of staff is a normal practice and as such, MURBS paid benefits worth UGX 21.7 billion last financial year. As alarming as this figure was, the Chairperson reassured members that the rise in benefits paid is a normal trend “because it corresponds to rise in the value of individual holdings for members.

“Our retirement benefits packages now include partial withdrawals after retirement, annuity arrangement with reputable industry partners, and Mid-Term Access,” explained Dr. Kizito.

Milestones registered

MURBS registered a number of achievements during the last financial year in its bid to ensure transformative growth. These included completion of a benchmarking process that will see the procurement and introduction of a modern Management Information System (MIS) to strengthen operational efficiency. The Chairperson equally announced that the MURBS Mobile App had been developed and is ready for deployment. The App, he added, will “dramatically enhance the member experience by offering instant access to benefit calculators, account information, and real-time statements.”

Dr. Michael Kizito. Makerere University Retirement Benefits Scheme (MURBS) Board of Trustees on 23rd October 2025 during the 15th Annual General Meeting declared an interest on 13.56% on Members balances for the Financial Year 2024/2025. Main Hall, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Michael Kizito.

Other milestones highlighted by Dr. Kizito included the implementation of Document Management System (DMS) for efficient records management, and the acquisition of new office premises to accommodate the scheme’s growth and offer more member-focused services. On this note, the Chairperson appreciated the Makerere University Council and Management for their support in ensuring that MURBS continues to deliver “an enabling environment that promotes productivity, accessibility, and efficiency for both members and staff.”

Sector Regulator applauds MURBS Trustees

Speaking on behalf of URBRA, Mr. Mark Lotukei commended MURBS Trustees on leveraging sector rules to ensure that members receive the best return on investment for their benefits. “From this year’s presentation, your funds were invested more than 80% in government securities, which shows that your trustees were proactive enough to take advantage of shifts in the marketplace” he commended.

Mr. Lotukei urged MURBS members to use the platform provided by the AGM to not only question the Trustees decisions but also improve their own awareness of how scheme business is conducted. He equally encouraged members to make the most of the regular free online trainings provided by URBRA. “Those two hours could change a lot in terms of enabling you to plan better for your retirement”.

A pledge to continue delivering value

True to Mr. Lotukei’s encouragement, the AGM was concluded with a lively question and answer session, where members thoroughly probed the Trustees on various issues presented in the annual report. In addition to the Chairperson, other Trustees namely; the Board Secretary – CPA Francesca Angida Mugyema and Members – Mr. Joseph Ikarokok, Dr. Elizabeth Nansubuga, Mr. George Bamugemereire, and CPA Edna Rugumayo were on hand to provide responses, while Trustee Dr. Deus Kamunyu Muhwezi moderated the session.

The Principal Pension Officer (3rd Left) with Members of the Secretariat Left to Right: Ms. Rebecca Nairuba, Ms. Juliet Nabukeera, Ms. Rhona Asingwiire, Ms. Doreen Namono, Ms. Julian Marembo, and Mr. Marvin Kakumba. Makerere University Retirement Benefits Scheme (MURBS) Board of Trustees on 23rd October 2025 during the 15th Annual General Meeting declared an interest on 13.56% on Members balances for the Financial Year 2024/2025. Main Hall, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The Principal Pension Officer (3rd Left) with Members of the Secretariat from Left to Right: Ms. Rebecca Nairuba, Ms. Juliet Nabukeera, Ms. Rhona Asingwiire, Ms. Doreen Namono, Ms. Julian Marembo, and Mr. Marvin Kakumba.

In addition to Trustees, the Board’s co-opted experts include; CPA David Ssenoga, Dr. Saul Nsubuga, Mr. Alan Lwetabe, and Mr. Paul Kuteesa. The Board of Trustees is supported in the daily running of Scheme business by the Secretariat that is made up of; Ms. Susan Khaitsa, Ms. Juliet Nabukeera, Ms. Julian Marembo, Mr. Marvin Kakumba, Ms. Rhonah Asingwiire, Ms. Rebecca Nairuba, and Ms. Doreen Namono.

In closing, the Chairperson reassured Members of the MURBS’ Trustees unwavering commitment to continue focusing on optimizing operations, enhancing revenue streams through alternative investments, and delivering value to stakeholders.

Mark Wamai

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First Deputy Vice Chancellor Prof. Sarah Ssali courtesy visit to MakPress

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Prof. Sarah Ssali and Dr. William Tayeebwa together with staff show off some of MakPress' publications during the visit on 21st October 2025. First Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs, Prof. Sarah Ssali visits Makerere University Press (MakPress), which she visited today on 21st of October 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

As part of her efforts to familiarize herself with the offices under her docket, the newly appointed First Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs, Prof. Sarah Ssali, has embarked on a series of visits to different units that report to her office. One of these is the Makerere University Press (MakPress), which she visited today on 21st of October 2025, on a courtesy call. She was received by the Managing Editor for MakPress, Dr. William Tayeebwa, a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Journalism and Communication at the College of Humanities and Social Sciences. Previously, MakPress operated jointly with the Directorate of Graduate Training (DGT) and the Directorate of Research, Innovations and Partnerships (DRIP) before becoming a standalone entity. Accompanying Prof. Ssali on this visit were Prof. Julius Kikooma, the Director of DGT, and Mr. Mathias Ssemanda, the Acting Manager of the International Relations Office.

Prof. Sarah Ssali (2nd Right) flanked by Left-Right: Mr. Matthias Ssemanda, Prof. Julius Kikooma, Dr. William Tayeebwa and Ms. Eunice Rukundo signs the MakPress Visitors' Book. First Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs, Prof. Sarah Ssali visits Makerere University Press (MakPress), which she visited today on 21st of October 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Sarah Ssali (2nd Right) flanked by Left-Right: Mr. Matthias Ssemanda, Prof. Julius Kikooma, Dr. William Tayeebwa and Ms. Eunice Rukundo signs the MakPress Visitors’ Book.

During her visit to MakPress, Prof. Sarah Ssali commended the Unit for its progress and partnerships while emphasizing the need to strengthen collaboration with key institutions such as the National Curriculum Development Centre (NCDC), the Ministry of Education and Sports, and other universities. She encouraged the Press to explore practical working models, including leveraging external expertise and streamlining its printing processes to enhance efficiency. Prof. Ssali also highlighted the importance of safeguarding intellectual property, ensuring fair contractual terms with partners, and maintaining transparency in publishing agreements. She advised that Makerere University Press should position itself strategically by producing high-quality academic materials that serve both national and international audiences. Additionally, she urged the team to adopt a more consistent publication schedule—launching books quarterly or biannually—and to organize events where authors can engage directly with readers, scholars, and policymakers. Prof. Ssali reaffirmed the administration’s support toward building a stronger, more vibrant university press that effectively contributes to research dissemination, academic dialogue, and national development.

Dr. William Tayeebwa (R) autographs a copy of the Centennial Publication "Makerere's Century of Service to East Africa and Beyond" for Prof. Sarah Ssali (Right). First Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs, Prof. Sarah Ssali visits Makerere University Press (MakPress), which she visited today on 21st of October 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. William Tayeebwa (R) autographs a copy of the Centennial Publication “Makerere’s Century of Service to East Africa and Beyond” for Prof. Sarah Ssali (Right).

During the courtesy visit, Dr. William Tayeebwa highlighted the milestones and ongoing projects at the Press. He spoke about the growing partnerships with institutions such as the University of Chicago Press, the University of California Press, and the African Books Collective, which have enhanced both local and international visibility of Makerere’s publications. “Why make a university press when you have Makerere University Press”, Dr. Tayeebwa said urging public universities to utilize MakPress. Dr. Tayeebwa also shared that the Press has republished several titles, launched new book projects, and developed a digital platform that enables readers to access and purchase books online. However, he pointed out a number of challenges affecting the Press’s operations, including inadequate funding, limited printing capacity at the university printery, and delays that often affect the timely release of publications. He further noted the difficulty of accessing generated funds due to bureaucratic procedures, space and infrastructure limitations, and the continued confusion between the roles of the Press and the printery. Despite these challenges, Dr. Tayeebwa reaffirmed the commitment of his team to strengthen Makerere University Press as a central pillar in advancing research dissemination and academic publishing.

Dr. William Tayeebwa (3rd R) gestures during MakPress Staff interaction with the DVCAA. First Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs, Prof. Sarah Ssali visits Makerere University Press (MakPress), which she visited today on 21st of October 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. William Tayeebwa (3rd R) gestures during MakPress Staff interaction with the DVCAA.

Eve Nakyanzi

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