Makerere University’s Senior nutritionist Prof. Archileo Kaaya has been selected for the African Union (AU) Award 2018 as an Agent of change for Aflatoxin Control in Africa by the Third Partnership for Aflatoxin Control in Africa (PACA). Prof. Kaaya will be recognized during the Third PACA Partnership Platform Meeting to be held from 2nd to 4th October 2018, in Dakar, Senegal.
A letter from PACA Secretariat written to Prof. Achileo Kaaya reads in part:
“We are very pleased to inform you that you have been selected as the recipient of the African Union recognition of agents of change for aflatoxin control Africa in the category of Research and Technology.
You will be receiving your certificate of recognition from the Commissioner for Rural Economy and Agriculture of the AU at the Third PACA Partnership Platform Meeting, 2 to 4 October 2018, in Dakar, Senegal.
The response to the call for nomination of candidates was remarkable with dozens of candidates from across Africa nominated under five categories. Congratulations!”
Archileo Kaaya is a Professor and the Head, Department of Food Technology and Nutrition, under the School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bio engineering in the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES).
He holds a Bachelor of Science (Agriculture), Makerere University, 1988; a Master of Science from the University of Florida, USA, 1995 and a PhD, Makerere University/Virginia Tech, USA, 2005.
His area of specialty is Mycotoxin Management in foods and feeds and Post harvest handling of fresh produce.
Kaaya has been working for Makerere University as a Professor, Lecturer and Researcher in the field of Food Science and Nutrition for 27 years. He has over 35 Research items, 5,360 Reads and 368 Citations. He has done a lot of research on aflatoxins.
Aflatoxins are harmful substances produced by fungi in food.
In a bid to save lives that would be lost to liver cancer and a host of many diseases as well as disorders caused by aflatoxins, the AU Commission enacted a continental scorecard to help monitor the progress made by different countries in controlling aflatoxins.
This move was announced by Dr. Amare Ayalew, the Program Manager of the AU’s Partnership for Aflatoxin Control in Africa (PACA) at the Second Partners Platform Meeting (PPM) organized by PACA in Entebbe Uganda in October 2016.
The plan for monitoring and evaluation of aflatoxin control followed a June 2016outbreak in Tanzania that claimed the lives of some citizens.
Outbreaks come as a surprise for many due to lack of information. The patients have symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhoea, vomiting, ascites and jaundice, which are similar to those associated with acute aflatoxin poisoning.
Prof. Kaaya has conducted research and authored/co-authored a number of articles including:
Summary of Gender Report for Peanut CRSP VT 54: Gender issues in Aflatoxin Incidence and Control in Peanut Production in Uganda
The effect of delayed harvest on moisture content, insect damage, moulds and aflatoxin contamination of maize in Mayuge district of Uganda
Peanut Aflatoxin Levels on Farms and in Markets of Uganda
Fungal Microflora Causing Maize Ear Rots in Uganda and Associated Aflatoxins
The effect of storage time and agroecological zone on mould incidence and aflatoxin contamination of maize from traders in Uganda
Factors Affecting Aflatoxin Contamination of Harvested Maize in the Three Agroecological Zones of Uganda
Incidence and Severity of Maize Ear Rots and Factors Responsible for Their Occurrence in Uganda
Factors associated with fumonisin contamination of maize in Uganda
Effect of solar drying on the quality and acceptability of jackfruit leather
Mould and Aflatoxin Contamination of Dried Cassava Chips in Eastern Uganda: Association with Traditional Processing and Storage Practices
Drying Maize Using Biomass-Heated Natural Convection Dryer Improves Grain Quality During Storage
Fatty acid composition of seed oils from selected wild plants of Kahuzi-Biega National Park and surroundings, Democratic Republic of Congo
Oil content and physicochemical characteristics of some wild oilseed plants from Kivu region Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo
Diversity of Gibberella fujikuroi Species Complex Isolated from Maize Produced in Uganda
Realization of the right to adequate food and the nutritional status of land evictees: A case for mothers/caregivers and their children in rural Central Uganda
Predictors of Stunting in Children Aged 6 to 59 Months: A Case–Control Study in Southwest Uganda
Nutrition, hygiene, and stimulation education to improve growth, cognitive, language, and motor development among infants in Uganda: A cluster‐randomized trial
Risk factors for stunted growth among children aged 6–59 months in rural Uganda
The Spirit Project: Strengthening the Capacities for Fostering Innovation Along Potato Value Chains in East Africa
A Review of Production, Post-Harvest Handling and Marketing of Sweetpotatoes in Kenya and Uganda
Contribution of forest foods to dietary intake and their association with household food insecurity: A cross-sectional study in women from rural Cameroon
Shift in performance of food safety management systems in supply chains: Case of green bean chain in Kenya versus hot pepper chain in Uganda
Mid-infrared spectroscopy for discrimination and classification of Aspergillus spp. contamination in peanuts
Assessing the Status of Food Safety Management Systems for Fresh Produce Production in East Africa: Evidence from Certified Green Bean Farms in Kenya and Noncertified Hot Pepper Farms in Uganda
Characterization of Invasion of Genus Aspergillus on Peanut Seeds Using FTIR-PAS
Nutrients and bioactive compounds content of Baillonella toxisperma, Trichoscypha abut and Pentaclethra macrophylla from Cameroon
Composition of Fatty Acids and Tocopherols Content in Oilseeds of Six Wild Selected Plants from Kahuzi-Biega National Park/DR. Congo
Fatty Acids and Tocopherols Content in Fractionated Oils from Five Wild Oilseed Plants Native to Kahuzi-Biega National Park, Kivu-DR Congo
Farmers, peanuts, and aflatoxins in Uganda: A gendered approach
Dynamics of Fusarium and fumonisins in maize during storage – A case of the traditional storage structures commonly used in Uganda
Potential for Fumonisin Production by the Strains of Gibberella fujikuroi Species Complex Isolated from Maize Produced in Uganda
Diversity of Gibberella fujikuroi Species Complex Isolated from Maize Produced in Uganda
Effect of Solarization on Mould Incidence, Moisture Content and Germination Percentage of Maize From Farmers and Traders in Mayuge District of Uganda
Prof. Kaaya is the third CAES Professor to receive an outstanding award this year. Prof. Noble Banadda recently won the Pius XI Gold Medal Gold medal 2018 while Prof. Phinehas Tukamuhabwa won the Uganda Biotechnology and Biosafesty Consortium (UBBC) Research Award 2018.
The CAES community celebrates as congratulatory messages continue to flow in.
“Congratulations Prof. Kaaya for this recognition. Thanks for flying Makerere's banner high. As CAES we continue counting God's blessings.” CAES Principal, Prof. Bernard Bashaasha posted.
“Congratulations Prof. Kaaya. You are one of the few scientists who have consistently pursued your field of research and avoided pastoralism brought about by the winds of change in sources of global funding.
This is something that can be emulated by the young scientists especially energised by this continental achievement”, Dr. Fred Kabi wrote.
“Prof. Kaaya, Congratulations for such a great achievement. Your success is our passion. You have made us proud and may the Lord grant you more,” said Dr. Stephen Lwasa
Report compiled by;
Jane Anyango
Principal Communication Officer, CAES
The Academic Registrar, Makerere University invites persons with disability who applied for admission to public universities under the disability entry scheme for 2026/2027 Academic Year to appear for medical/review exercise at Makerere University, Senate Building, Level Four Conference Hall.
NOTE: Only those who have the minimum entry requirements of at least two principal passes at A’ Level or its equivalent and at least five (5) passes at O’ Level or its equivalent will be interviewed.
Only candidates who sat ‘A’ level in 2025, 2024 and 2023 are eligible for admission.
THE EXERCISE WILL BE CONDUCTED ON 18th, 19th, 20th, 21st and 22nd May, 2026 respectively from 9.00 A.M – 1.00 P.M each day.
In this exclusive quick chat, we spoke to the 91st Guild President, Ssentamu Churchill James, a third-year student pursuing a Bachelor of Social Sciences. He shares insights into his leadership journey, key achievements, challenges, and his vision for the student community.
What inspired you to run for Guild President?
My background and personal leadership journey played a big role. Growing up, I saw my father and uncle actively involved in politics, which shaped my interest in leadership.
I also held leadership roles in high school—serving as Sports Minister at O-Level and later as Head Prefect at St. Juliana High School, Gayaza, during my A-Level. These experiences built my confidence and passion for representing others.
Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi with the H.E. Ssentamu, H.E. Kadondi, Dr. Winifred Kabumbuli and family members of the Guild Leadership.
Seeing former Guild President Vincent Lubega Nsamba win also motivated me. We come from the same high school, and I succeeded him as Head Prefect. That gave me the belief that I, too, could lead at that level.
What was your vision when you assumed office, and how much of it did you achieve?
My vision was to amplify students’ voices and ensure their needs were prioritized. While it wasn’t easy due to bureaucracy, we made progress.
We improved students’ social welfare by engaging management, which led to greater flexibility in organizing events like the Bazaar and Freshers’ Ball. We also addressed the issue of missing marks. Previously, it could take semesters to resolve, but now, through the Office of the Academic Registrar, such issues can be handled much faster.
What is your biggest achievement?
One of the biggest milestones was allowing students to sit for examinations after paying at least 60% of tuition. This has reduced the number of students dropping out due to financial constraints.
Left to Right: MD and CEO NEC-Lt. Gen. James Mugira conducts a symbolic handover of keys to the Vice Chancellor-Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe as 91st Guild President-H.E. Ssentamu Churchill James, Principal CEES and Ag. DVCFA-Prof. Anthony Muwagga Mugagga, Deputy University Secretary-Mr. Simon Kizito and Deputy Dean of Students-Dr. Rodney Rugyema witness on 25th July 2025.
We also saw the lifting of the ban on social events, which has gradually revived campus life. Additionally, leadership roles such as ministers and Guild Representative Councillors (GRCs) have become more functional, with clearer responsibilities and greater impact.
What key lessons have you learned?
One key lesson is the importance of daring to take action. Things may seem impossible, but once you step out and try, you realize they are achievable.
I also learned that leadership begins with influence. For example, when class representatives raised concerns about not being paid, I had to engage and influence them to understand the situation while working toward solutions.
Leadership also requires teamwork. You cannot lead alone—you need a support system. When you delegate, trust people and avoid micromanaging.
H.E. Ssentamu Churchill James and H.E. Kadondi Gracious welcome freshers in typical Makerere style.
Another lesson is the importance of effective communication with management. Building strong relationships increases your chances of influencing decisions.
On a personal level, I have learned discipline—keeping time, improving how I present myself, and becoming more mindful in how I engage with others.
What do you attribute your success to?
First and foremost, God, who gave me the wisdom and understanding to lead.
I also attribute it to the strong working relationships I built with University leadership, especially the Vice Chancellor and the Dean of Students. Without that collaboration, it would have been difficult to achieve much.
How did you balance academics and leadership?
It required intentional planning and prioritization. When meetings clashed with tests, I delegated to the Vice President or Prime Minister. This ensured continuity while giving them an opportunity to grow.
H.E. Churchill James Ssentamu alongside other Student Leaders hold the “Strides for Change” banner at Mary Stuart Hall. Courtesy Photo.
However, I made it a point to attend critical engagements, such as Council meetings, because I was entrusted with representing students’ voices. I was also selective about external engagements to remain focused on my academics.
What challenges did you encounter?
Managing high expectations from students was a major challenge. Even small delays could attract criticism. For example, when students’ upkeep delayed by a week, some assumed I was not advocating for them.
I learned to remain calm and not react emotionally, instead using feedback as motivation to improve.
Another challenge was handling sensitive cases, such as advocating for students who had been suspended. Even when I did not agree with their actions, it was my duty to seek fair consideration on their behalf.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Mr. Ian King and H.E. Ssentamu Churchill James (Standing before Banners) are joined by officials in a group photo in the Daycare Centre, located on the Ground Floor of the Institute of Gender and Development Studies (IGDS) on 7th August 2025.
Was there a difficult decision you had to make?
Yes. Just a month into office, I made the decision to relieve a minister of their duties because they did not align with the cabinet’s vision and values. Leadership requires making tough decisions to maintain unity and integrity.
Is there anything you would have done differently?
I feel I could have engaged more with the administration. At times, I was occupied with activities outside the University, which limited my interaction with management. With more engagement, I believe I could have achieved even more.
What will you miss most?
I will not necessarily miss the office itself. Leadership is about service, and it is now time for others to take on that responsibility as I move on to the next chapter of my life.
H.E. Churchill James Ssentamu enjoys a light moment with officials as he endorses the dummy of the policy.
How would you like to be remembered?
As a selfless leader who went the extra mile to serve others and always put students’ interests first—even when it required personal sacrifice.
For instance, during the Freshers’ Ball, we wanted to host a musician whose fee was UGX 4 million, yet we only had UGX 2 million. I personally covered the balance to make it happen for the students.
At Makerere University, the future didn’t feel distant, it felt urgent, alive, and within reach.
For three days in March, the university’s grounds transformed into a vibrant meeting point of ambition and opportunity as students, graduates, and industry leaders converged for the 2026 Careers Fair. Lecture halls spilled into exhibition spaces, conversations replaced uncertainty, and for many students, career dreams began to take clearer shape.
A Question That Defined the Moment: Man or Machine?
The opening day set the tone with a bold theme;“Machine vs. Man”, placing artificial intelligence at the center of career conversations. Students listened, questioned, and reflected as leaders challenged them not to fear technology, but to harness it.
The message was clear: the future belongs to those who can adapt.
Chief Guest-Hon. Dr. Monica Musenero (5th L) with Prof. Moses Musinguzi (3rd L), Chair Organising Committee-Prof. Anthony Gidudu and other Speakers on Day 1 of the Makerere Careers Fair.
Speakers emphasized that while AI is reshaping industries, it is also creating new opportunities for innovation, entrepreneurship, and job creation. For many students in attendance, this was more than a discussion—it was a wake-up call to rethink their place in a rapidly evolving world.
Beyond Jobs: Unlocking Global Opportunities
If Day One provoked thought, Day Two opened doors.
The focus shifted to scholarships, fellowships, and international study opportunities, expanding students’ horizons beyond the immediate job market. Conversations moved from “What job can I get?” to “What possibilities exist for me globally?”
Mr. James Katumba (R) contributes to the panel discussion.
Students explored pathways into prestigious programmes, exchange opportunities, and further study options, discovering that their ambitions could stretch far beyond borders.
Where Potential Meets Purpose
By the final day, the Careers Fair had evolved into something deeper—a platform for connection.
Under the theme “Connecting Potential to Purpose,” industry leaders, employers, and development partners engaged directly with students, emphasizing collaboration as the key to career success.
Across Freedom Square and exhibition booths, students asked tough questions, shared ideas, and made meaningful connections. Employers, in turn, offered insights into the skills that matter most in today’s workplace—adaptability, creativity, and critical thinking.
Gorretti Byomire contributes to the panel discussion.
More than 50 organizations participated, turning the fair into a living ecosystem of mentorship, networking, and opportunity.
Stories That Defined the Experience
But beyond the panels and presentations, it was the human moments that stood out.
There was the student who, after a conversation with a recruiter, discovered a career path they had never considered. The group of finalists who used simple tools like mobile phones to create powerful messages about safety and inclusion, reminding everyone that innovation often begins with what is available.
And there were countless quiet exchanges, handshakes, questions, shared laughter—that carried the weight of possibility.
Students attending the career fair on day three at the Freedom Square.
A Bridge to the Future
What emerged from the three-day experience was not just a successful event, but a powerful reminder of the university’s role as a bridge, linking academic training to real-world demands.
The Careers Fair reaffirmed Makerere’s commitment to preparing students not just for employment, but for meaningful participation in shaping the future. It brought into focus a simple but profound truth: careers are not built in isolation—they are nurtured through connections, curiosity, and courage.
For many students who walked through the fair, the journey ahead no longer felt uncertain. It felt possible.