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Policy Brief: The Impacts of Kilembe Mine and Tailing Sites on Soil and Water Quality, Foods, Forage and Humans

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Whereas River Nyamwamba in Western Uganda is well known for the destruction of property and loss of life whenever it overflows, the environmental effects are less known and could be more lethal

The mining and processing of copper in Kilembe, Western Uganda, from 1956 to 1982 left over 15Metric Tonnes of tailings containing cupriferous and cobaltiferous pyrite dumped within a mountain river valley. In addition, underground Kilembe mine water is pumped to the land surface or allowed to flow by gravity into surrounding agricultural soils and water bodies. The study was conducted in Kilembe mine, Kasese district to assess the impact of Kilembe mine and the wastes (tailings) on soil quality, water quality, foods frown, forage and local people exposure. The samples collected included soil, water, foods, forage,  sediments and toe nails from local volunteers.

Sample analysis was conducted from the school of biosciences, Nottingham University, UK. The study found high levels of metal concentration especially copper, cobalt, nickel, zinc, arsenic and lead in agricultural soils, public water sources, house dusts and sediments in water. Aluminium and Iron metals were more abundant in public water sources. The metals were not only originating from mine tailings but also underground Kilembe mine water. The leachate water at Kilembe mine also contain large amounts of metals especially copper, iron and aluminium.

The foods and forage grown contained significantly higher concentrations of copper, cobalt, zinc, possibly taken up during growth and accumulated in the foods which could lead to consumption of the same elements by local people. Indeed, tests on human toe nails from Kilembe area volunteers confirmed that local people were more exposed to the mine metals especially copper, cobalt and nickel. Children were more exposed than adults.

It is on this note that the following policy recommendations are made;

1.    There is need for enforcement of proper waste storage and disposal protocols
2.    Local people living in contaminated environments should be sensitized on the dangers so that they make informed decisions
3.    There is need for construction of a containment all around Kilembe tailing sites and land filling with soil so as to prevent erosion of tailings into agricultural soils and water
4.    There is urgent need to treat Kilembe mine underground water before it is discharged into River Nyamwamba
5.    There is need to implement remediation activities for soils along River Nyamwamba and below tailings

Summary of findings

Water quality
Over 25 % of domestic water samples collected and 40% of River Nyamwamba waters along the mine area and downstream exhibited Cobalt concentrations exceeding the Wisconsin (USA) drinking water thresholds of 40 μgL-1. Almost all water samples upstream of River Nyamwamba exceeded UK recommended Iron and Aluminium concentrations in drinking water. Most domestic water samples (67%) exceeded recommended drinking water thresholds for Aluminium, Iron and Cobalt.

Forage
Elevated concentrations of Iron, Cobalt, Copper, Zinc and Lead were found in forage grasses collected along the mine area and downstream. The high levels of metal in forage could affect the health of animals and will also be reflected in the milk and beef produced in Kilembe area exposing consumers to metals.

Human exposure
Trace elements concentrations (mg kg-1 dw) were found in toe nails of 15 adults and 12 children from the Kilembe copper mining district in Western Uganda. Control samples were from 5 children aged 9-14 years and 5 adults aged 20-60years. The toe nails clearly confirmed exposure of the local people with children being more exposed and affected than adults.

Please see Downloads for full policy brief.

A Documentary on the same can also be accessed at the YouTube link: https://youtu.be/gp1Bpk4LPmU

 

Article by Abraham R. Mwesigye (PhD), School of Forestry, Environmental and Geographical Sciences, Makerere University, Email: mwesigye[at]caes.mak.ac.ug

 

 

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Strengthening Partnerships: Makerere University Welcomes Delegation from Western University, Ontario, Canada

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The Vice Chancellor-Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (Centre) and UWO President-Dr. Alan Shepard (3rd Left) show off the signed MoU as Left to Right: UWO's Dr. Opiyo Oloya and Dr. Lily Cho as well as University Secretary-Mr. Yusuf Kiranda, UWO's Dr. John Yoo and Head of Advancement-Mr. Awel Uwihanganye witness on 21st March 2024. Frank Kalimuzo Central Teaching Facility, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

By Carol Kainomugisha

The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe and the University Management, welcomed a delegation from Western University, Ontario, Canada (UWO), marking an important milestone in the strengthening of international partnerships and collaborations. The week-long visit, characterized by insightful discussions and exchanges with various colleges, departments and units of the University, highlighted various areas of mutual interest and potential collaboration between the two esteemed institutions.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (2nd Right) and Dr. Alan Shepard (2nd Left) sign the MoU as Mr. Yusuf Kiranda (Left) and Dr. Lily Cho (Right) witness. 21st March 2023, Frank Kalimuzo Central Teaching Facility, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (2nd Right) and Dr. Alan Shepard (2nd Left) sign the MoU as Mr. Yusuf Kiranda (Left) and Dr. Lily Cho (Right) witness.

The delegation was led by President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Alan Shepard and accompanied by Vice-Provost and Associate Vice-President, Dr. Lily Cho, the Associate Vice-President, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, Dr. Opiyo Oloya and the Dean, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Dr. John Yoo.

The visit culminated with the signing of a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) which will most certainly strengthen the already existing relationship between Makerere University and Western University.

The meeting between Makerere University and Western University commenced with the University Management which discussed collaborative opportunities, particularly in engineering, design, and technology, emphasizing interdisciplinary collaboration and knowledge exchange.

Mr. Opio Oloya addressed issues of Inclusivity and diversity in academia, focusing on integrating indigenous knowledge, combating global anti-blackness, and promoting social integration within university communities.

Members of the University Management and the delegation from Western University, Ontario, Canada pose for a group photo at the Makerere@100 Monument. 18th March 2024, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Members of the University Management and the delegation from Western University, Ontario, Canada pose for a group photo at the Makerere@100 Monument.

Makerere‘s academic excellence and capacity-building initiatives were showcased, with plans to expand graduate training opportunities and enhance capacity through student and faculty exchanges.

 The meeting concluded with a shared vision for future collaborations, including research projects, academic programs, and student exchanges, reaffirming the commitment to fostering excellence and addressing global challenges through collaborative efforts.

Fostering Global Academic Partnerships: Western University meets Makerere University Colleges and Units.

In a meeting at the School of Law, led by the Principal, Associate Prof. Ronald Naluwairo, the delegation held lengthy deliberations to explore avenues for academic collaboration, embodying the power of international partnerships in academia.

Central to the dialogue was Western University’s interest in global engagement, particularly in internationalization, aligning with Makerere‘s ethos of interdisciplinary collaboration. The meeting highlighted joint research opportunities, staff, and student mobility programs, showcasing a commitment to academic excellence and the potential for cross-cultural learning and growth.

The Principal-Associate Prof. Ronald Naluwairo (5th Left), Deputy Principal-Dr. Zahara Nampewo (3rd Left), Principal CHUSS-Associate Prof. Josephine Ahikire (3rd Right), Head PAF-Dr. Benon Kigozi with other officials and the UWO delegation at the School of Law. 19th March 2024, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The Principal-Associate Prof. Ronald Naluwairo (5th Left), Deputy Principal-Dr. Zahara Nampewo (3rd Left), Principal CHUSS-Associate Prof. Josephine Ahikire (3rd Right), Head PAF-Dr. Benon Kigozi (Right) with other officials and the UWO delegation at the School of Law.

During the meeting between the Infectious Diseases Institute (IDI) and Western University, the Executive Director Dr. Andrew Kambugu outlined IDI’s evolution from an academic venture to a multifaceted institution driving service delivery, research, and capacity building in Africa.

Highlighting existing partnerships, particularly in data management with the Faculty of Medicine at Western University, President Alan Shepard underscored the tangible outcomes of cross-border collaboration, with data-driven research initiatives making significant contributions to healthcare and public health interventions. Future collaboration prospects, including exchange programs, joint initiatives, and equipment donations, emphasized a shared commitment to innovative approaches and collaborative problem-solving to address pressing challenges in Africa.

Dr. Andrew Kambugu (4th Left) with other officials and the UWO Delegation during their visit to IDI. 19th March 2024, Infectious Diseases Institute (IDI), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Andrew Kambugu (4th Left) with other officials and the UWO Delegation during their visit to IDI.

Celebrating Collaboration: Farewell Luncheon Honoring Western University Delegation

A farewell luncheon, hosted by Mrs. Lorna Magara, the Chairperson, Makerere University Council, marked the poignant conclusion of the exchange visit with Western University, Ontario, Canada, celebrating the enduring spirit of collaboration and friendship between the two institutions.

Mrs. Lorna Magara (Left) shakes hands with Dr. Opiyo Oloya as Dr. Alan Shepard (Rear Right) and other officials interact. 21st March 2024, Golden Tulip Hotel, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mrs. Lorna Magara (Left) shakes hands with Dr. Opiyo Oloya as Dr. Alan Shepard (Rear Right) and other officials interact.

 As farewells were exchanged, participants left with cherished memories and a renewed commitment to nurturing the partnership for future endeavors, underscoring the power of collaboration to transcend boundaries and create opportunities for growth and learning.

As Western University and Makerere University look ahead, the memories of the week-long strategic visit will serve as a beacon of inspiration, guiding their continued efforts to collaborate, learn, and grow together.

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CTCA Request For Expression of Interest: Finance and Accounts Assistant

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CTCA is seeking the services of a Finance and Accounts Assistant whose overall responsibility will be to provide finance and administrative support to ensure efficient operation of the office. Centre for Tobacco Control in Africa (CTCA), School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Institution: Centre for Tobacco Control in Africa (CTCA)
Project Title: Enhance Tobacco Control Institutional Capacity in Africa
Expression of Interest Number: CTCA/EOI/G339/2024

1. Introduction:

The Centre has received funding from the African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF) for the
2024-2026) to implement a project on institutional development. The project investments are
geared towards sustaining human resource capacity and knowledge generation to reduce use of all forms of tobacco products in Africa.

Specifically, the project aims to:

  1. Enhance training opportunities for African governments and relevant actors in tobacco
    control in the continent.
  2. Increase access to knowledge for guiding tobacco use prevention and control in Africa.
  3. Reinforce the institutional development of CTCA for an optimal performance of its
    functions and processes.

Therefore, CTCA is seeking the services of a Finance and Accounts Assistant whose overall responsibility will be to provide finance and administrative support to ensure efficient operation of the office. The Assistant will support management and other employees on a variety of tasks related to administration, finance, procurement, and communication.

2. Scope of Work

The specific duties include:

  1. Providing support to the accounting and procurement functions through preparing journals and loading payments for review by the budget and finance officer for authorization
  2. Maintain supplies inventory by checking stock to determine inventory level; anticipating needed supplies; placing and expediting orders for supplies; verifying receipt of supplies.
  3. Administer and manage logistics and contracts for services with service providers such as travel agents, hotels, translations and interpretation agencies, office supplies
  4. Maintaining a clean electronic and manual filing system.
  5. Handling communications – Receiving, storing, retrieving, dispatching, organizing documents and other correspondence of the Centre.
  6. Provide secretarial services to CTCA technical meetings.
  7. Assist in the preparation of regularly scheduled reports.
  8. Assist in logistics preparations for meetings, workshops, and missions.
  9. Oversee and supervise the work of junior staff.
  10. Maintain up-to-date employee records.
  11. Any other duties as may be assigned.

See Downloads for detailed advert.

Application deadline: Not later than 17:00 hours on 8th April, 2024.

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CTCA Request For Expression of Interest: Communications Expert

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CTCA is seeking the services of a communications expert to to raise the visbility of the Centre and the knowledge translation of the programmatic outputs. Centre for Tobacco Control in Africa (CTCA), School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Institution: Centre for Tobacco Control in Africa (CTCA)
Project Title: Enhance Tobacco Control Institutional Capacity in Africa
Expression of Interest Number: CTCA/EOI/G339/2024

1. Introduction:

The Centre has received funding from the African Capacity Building Foundation (ACBF) for the
2024-2026) to implement a project on institutional development. The project investments are
geared towards sustaining human resource capacity and knowledge generation to reduce use of all forms of tobacco products in Africa.

Specifically, the project aims to:

  1. Enhance training opportunities for African governments and relevant actors in tobacco
    control in the continent.
  2. Increase access to knowledge for guiding tobacco use prevention and control in Africa.
  3. Reinforce the institutional development of CTCA for an optimal performance of its
    functions and processes.

Therefore, CTCA is seeking the services of a communications expert to to raise the visibility of
the Centre and the knowledge translation of the programmatic outputs. The expert will be
engaged on a retainer basis.

2. Scope of Work

The objective of the assignment is to disseminate CTCA work, institutional branding, maintain
the website alive and drum the second Africa conference on tobacco control and development.

  1. Coordinate and oversee the development of the Alternative Livelihoods documentary in Zambia and its dissemination
  2. Develop communication/branding materials such as brochures, banners, policy briefs, newsletter articles, press releases etc
  3. Review and provide updates for the CTCA website
  4. Update CTCA online platforms (twitter, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn) on a regular basis through regular monitoring, positing and content development
  5. Provide technical support to ensure that the second Africa Conference on Tobacco Control and Development is organized and help successfully

See Downloads for detailed advert

Application deadline: Not later than 17:00 hours on 8th April, 2024.

View on CTCA

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