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Prime Minister Advocates for Value Addition in Uganda’s Agri-business and Nutritional Sector

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The Prime Minister of the Republic of Uganda Rt. Hon. Dr. Ruhakana Rugunda has emphasized the need to promote post-harvest handling and value addition to boost Uganda’s agri-business and nutritional sector.

This was at the official opening of the 2nd Joint National Agricultural Research Organisation and Makerere University (NARO-MAK) Scientific Conference and the 1st Feed for Future Innovation Lab Nutrition Annual Scientific Symposium on Monday, 12th November 2018. The event is set to run from 12th -15th November 2018 at the Speke Resort Munyonyo.

The Conference and Symposium brought together scientists, policy makers, private sector, innovators, technology developers, entrepreneurs and students to share recent advances in knowledge and technology in agriculture and related sectors Under the theme: “Research for Innovative Agri-Food Systems and Nutrition.”

Dr. Imelda N. Kashaija (R) flanked by Principal, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences-Prof. Bernard Bashaasha (Left) delivers her remarks

“During the four days, we are expected to showcase our work  and learn from the practical experiences of experts from the two great institutions especially in the field of science, technology and innovations for social economic transformation and national development,” said Dr. Imelda N. Kashaija, the Deputy Director General, In charge of Agricultural Technology Promotion; NARO.  In a statement, Dr. Kashaija acknowledged the Chairperson of the Conference Organising Committee, Prof. Bernard Bashaasha-the Principal of the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences at Makerere University for providing excellent leadership.

The 2nd Joint NARO-MAK Scientific Conference and the 1st Feed for Future Innovation Lab Nutrition Annual Scientific Symposium was organised by National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO) and Makerere University (MAK) in partnership with Tufts University.

 In a speech read by the Cabinet Minister in Charge of General Duties in the Office of the Prime Minister Hon. Mary Karooro Okurut, the Prime Minister said that the agro-business products where value has been added not only enjoy a higher profit margin than basic commodities but also tend to exhibit long-term real-price stability on the market.

Hon. Mary Karooro Okurut represented the Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Dr. Ruhakana Rugunda

“Our sustained promotion of commercial agriculture will be a let-down to the farming community unless it goes hand in hand with the promotion of post-harvest handling and value addition. As His Excellency Yoweri Kaguta Museveni constantly states, unless we learn to add value to our produce, we are giving away the much-needed jobs of our young men and women,” he stated.

According to Dr. Ruhakana Rugunda, value addition is the only answer to entrenching Uganda’s import-substitution drive and facilitating the attainment of middle-income status by retaining the much needed foreign currency spent on importation.

He therefore commended Makerere University for contributing to import substitution through the Food Technology and Business Incubation Centre (FTBIC). He equally commended National Agricultural Research Organization (NARO) for scaling-up and scaling-out demonstrations of proven agricultural technologies to various districts of Uganda through its Research Institutes.

The State Minister for Agriculture Hon. Christopher Kibazanga delivers his speech

On science and knowledge economy as a critical point in sustainable livelihoods, Dr. Rugunda stressed the need to increase the utility of space science, earth observation and geospatial science and technology to detect the early warning signs of disaster to save lives and safeguard the environment for transformative benefits of society.

“Uganda has redirected its strategic position and has now created a full ministry of Science and Technology since July 2016 that will at policy level facilitate a heightened utility of geospatial technology for sustainability. Uganda also has plans to establish a National Remote Sensing Center. All these efforts are part of our strategic direction to transform Uganda into a middle-income country by the year 2021,” the Prime Minister mentioned.  

The State Minister for Agriculture Hon. Christopher Kibazanga noted that adding value to coffee produce and branding the products can be the only way to save the slowly declining quantities of coffee products that are exported.  

The Chairperson Council-Eng. Dr. Charles Wana-Etyem (C), Vice Chancellor-Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (R) and Principal CAES-Prof. Bernard Bashaasha confer during the Event

He cited the need to integrate ICTs into the Uganda’s agricultural sector. In reference to the conference concept that stated, “Africa’s potential to feed the world is enormous and is poised to drive the global agricultural revolution.” The Minister said that Uganda will not be able to match the trends of the global agricultural revolution unless the Agricultural sector continually integrates ICTs into all stages of value chains.
 
“Our colleagues in the Far East are already realizing the value of employing agricultural drones to spray their vast fields. Colleagues in Europe are utilizing satellite data to detect nutrient deficiency and therefore selectively apply fertilizer, while weather prediction applications are predicting the best times for farmers to plant their crops,” he said.

“ICTs are therefore helping to reduce labour costs, improve crop yields and mitigate climate change associated losses. In Africa, we therefore have the opportunity to leapfrog technology and learn from all our colleagues past experiments to apply the most effective ICTs to our Nation’s agriculture sector,” he added.

The Director General NARO, Dr. Ambrose Agona delivers his address

The Vice Chancellor of Makerere University Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe said that Africa’s potential to feed the world is enormous and is poised to drive the global agricultural revolution. He was however, concerned about the low productivity on the global market due to limited use of productivity-enhancing agricultural technologies and incomplete linkages in the food value chain particularly in the sub-Saharan Africa.

According to Prof. Nawangwe, with poor post-harvest management and health concerns, the question of food safety during post-production becomes pertinent, despite availability of ample quantities of food.

He also noted that Africa’s dire food situation is compounded by a fast growing population, youth unemployment, persistent gender biases, and the effects of a changing climate. In the face of climate change, increased use of agro-chemicals and a general rise in the risks associated with agriculture, institutions must progressively innovate in order to close the gaps in the agri-food system.

The Chaiperson of Council-Eng. Dr. Charles Wana-Etyem (R) and Cabinet Minister in Charge of General Duties in the Office of the Prime Minister Hon. Mary Karooro Okurut (L) at the Conference

“Addressing the ever evolving agri-food systems challenges requires that multi-stakeholder platforms are utilized to channel novel research, technologies, and advocacy efforts to deal with old problems and emerging challenges. Policies and institutional innovations geared towards agricultural rural development and enhancing the efficiency of the agri-food value chain are urgently needed,” he noted.

The Director General of National Agricultural Research Organization Dr. Ambrose Agona said that the world is critically challenged now and in the future in ensuring food security, nutrition security and safety. This is exacerbated by the rapid population growth.

He encouraged the importance of reconciling the new technologies and concerns of the people when he said, “we need to take what is good about innovation and science in food production and put in the service of the society. Not for the profit of a few, but as a way to address the challenges that are ahead of us to feed more with the less, to reconcile increased production with environmental concerns.”

Prof. Vincent Amanor-Boadu delivered a Keynote address on Agri-prenuership and Value Chains as Welfare Safety Nets for Improved Livelihoods in Africa

The first session of the 2nd Joint NARO-MAK Scientific Conference and the 1st Feed for Future Innovation Lab Nutrition Annual Scientific Symposium was chaired by Eng. Dr. Charles Wana-Etyem, the Chairperson of Makerere University Council. During the Opening Ceremony, Prof. Vincent Amanor-Boadu delivered a Keynote address on Agri-prenuership and Value Chains as Welfare Safety Nets for Improved Livelihoods in Africa. Discussed by Dr. Jackie Bonabana-Wabbi, the Keynote address stressed the need to profile African farmers as agribusiness people rather than dependants.

Other activities of the day included; Keynote addresses on the respective topics, plenary sessions and an exhibition.

Follow #NAROMAK18 on Social Media for Live Updates

Proscovia Nabatte

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91st Electoral Commission Promises a free and fair Electoral Process

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By Nickson Maberi

The swearing-in-ceremony for the 91st Students’ Guild Electoral Commission was held on Friday 31st January 2025.  Mr. Joseph Murungi, a commissioner from the College of Health Sciences (CHS) was unanimously chosen as the chairperson of the commision.

Mr. Murungi thanked the good Lord and students for entrusting him with the position and promised to deliver a free and fair electoral process and head a commission that is impartial.

The Dean of Students, Dr. Winifred Kabumbuli urged the new commission to execute its duties in line with the Guild statute and Constitution.

“You must execute your duties in line with the Guild statute and Constitution, anything outside that is invalid. I wish you the best and I am looking forward to working with you,” she said.

Ms. Ruth Iteu, the Head of the Online voting team, urged the commission to avoid being caught on the wrong side of the law as it will lead to severe consequences.

Rev. Fr. Josephat Ddungu, the Chaplain of Makerere University St. Augustine Chapel said they will continue to pray for the commission to have a peaceful and successful.

“The Electoral Commission is a very important body and the success of the electoral process depends on you. Please concentrate on doing what is right before the Lord. As your spiritual leaders, our duty is to pray. We are therefore praying for you to have a peaceful and successful election,” he said.

Administrator who urged the commission to always do the right at the right time.

Mr.  Nickson Maberi encouraged the new commission to follow the law and avoid tarnishing the image of the university.

Mr. Joseph Murungi, Commissioner from the College of Health Sciences (CHS) swearing in as Chairperson of the Electoral Commission for the 91st Guild Elections.

“Makerere University elections attract national attention. Please follow the law and be people of integrity to avoid tarnishing the image of the university,” he guided.

Mr. Aston Tayebwa from the College of Natural Sciences was elected as the commission’s General Secretary while Ms Sharon Nyonyozi from the College of Humanities and Social Sciences was elected as the commission’s Vice Chairperson.

Other commissioners include: Mr. Ijoot William from the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT), Mr. Ntambi Moses from the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (COVAB), Mr. Perez William Mwesigwa from the School of Law (SoL), Alyosius Mutagubya from the College of Computing and Information Science (CoCIS) and Mr. Mugisha Hamidu from the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES).

Mak Editor

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KobWeb: RENU’s Community Magazine – 2024 Edition

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Cover page of KobWeb: RENU's Community Magazine, 2024 Edition. Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

The Research and Education Network for Uganda (RENU) is a community-driven, non-profit organization with a major focus on nurturing collaboration among member institutions (i.e. research and education institutions), and global partners. Founded in 2006, RENU has grown from a small National Research and Education Network (NREN) that focused on just connectivity needs of universities and research organisations, to a fast-growing specialized ICT solutions provider for the entire Research and Education (R&E) community including schools, colleges, other tertiary institutions, hospitals, and their end users. RENU is located at House No. 31, The Edge, Makerere University and on Plot 6B, Mabua Road, Kololo, Kampala.

Highlights from the 2024 Edition featuring Makerere:

  • Universities Launch Global Coalition to Support Refugee Education at Scale
    • 16 universities from across the globe have come together to improve and increase access to higher education for refugees and their communities, where they reside. Universities based in Africa, Europe, and North America formed the Global University Academy (GUA) following a workshop hosted by the University of Oslo in June 2024.
    • The GUA is currently looking into the possibility to pilot the initiative in Uganda. Key partners in this work are Makerere University and Gulu University, who are already actively engaged in providing access to higher education for refugees, and the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) Uganda.
  • Advancing Child Welfare The AfriChild Centre’s Inter-University Programme
    • The Inter-University Programme, spearheaded by the Centre of Excellence for the Study of the African Child (AfriChild Centre), is a landmark initiative focused on equipping researchers with the essential skills needed to conduct high-quality child-focused research. The success of the Inter-University Programme is built on the strong partnerships the AfriChild Centre has established with universities including Makerere University.
  • Liberate your Mind from the Present and Dream Big to Provide Meaningful ICT Solutions for Research and Education!
    • At the 2024 RENU ICT Directors Forum, Dr. Francis F. “Tusu” Tusubira, the Chief Guest, delivered an electrifying address urging ICT leaders to dream beyond the present and shape the future of research and education. Reflecting on his time at Makerere University, he shared his philosophy of granting autonomy to team members and supporting them unconditionally. “Allow your team to make decisions and mistakes, especially in the current environment, which presents opportunities for learning. Protect them when they make mistakes. Once you do this, your team will build your dream.”
  • Advancing Open Science and Open Access in Africa, with a Focus on Uganda
    • Open Science and Open Access have emerged as transformative movements in the global academic and research community. Their principles—sharing knowledge freely, fostering collaboration, and driving practical solutions to societal challenges—are especially resonant in Africa, where equitable access to resources and innovative solutions are essential for sustainable development. Institutions like Makerere University are driving Open Science efforts by encouraging researchers to adopt open frameworks.

Visit RENU to download full edition

Mark Wamai

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Press Statement: Clarification on Issues Raised During the Ongoing Conversations on the X Platform

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Front View of the reconstructed Main Building, Makerere University. Date Taken 8th November 2024. Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Thursday, 06 February 2025

Makerere University Management has been keenly following the concerns raised on the X platform. As a public institution, we value constructive criticism and feedback as these present an opportunity to clarify issues and, in the process, enhance service delivery. However, the University Management has noticed several instances of disinformation and outright blackmail towards various University officers and would like to offer the following clarifications:

  1. Allegations of Solicitation of a Bribe by a Member of the University Council

The University Management received an audio recording in which a staff member is allegedly heard soliciting a bribe from colleagues to assist them in accessing higher positions during the recently concluded salary harmonization process. While the staff member in question is an elected representative of the support staff to the governing University Council, he is neither a member of the Appointments Board nor wields influence on its decisions.

Given the severity of the alleged offence and the position of the staff member, the University initiated immediate investigations and interdicted the staff member on Thursday 30th January 2025 to facilitate the investigation process. The staff member will be given an opportunity to present his case through a fair hearing before the Appointments Board.

  1. Appointment of Substantive Deputy Vice Chancellors

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Finance and Administration (DVC F&A) position became vacant after a legal challenge overturned the initial appointment and halted subsequent searches. After the appellant withdrew the cases, the University Council initiated a new search through the Senate. However, a contestant later petitioned, citing non-compliance with guidelines. The University Council referred the matter back to the Senate, which reviewed it on 12th December 2024. The revised report will be considered at the University Council meeting on 11th February 2025.

  1. The Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic Affairs (DVC AA)

The Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic Affairs (DVC AA) position became vacant on 30th November 2023 upon the end of the incumbent’s tenure. While the University Council was conducting an appraisal for possible reappointment, the DVC AA was appointed in an acting capacity. However, before the process concluded, a member of staff challenged the appraisal in court, making the matter sub judice. Consequently, the University Council deferred further consideration until the court resolves the case.

  1. Promotion Requirements for Associate Professors and Professors.

Academic staff promotions at Makerere University follow the Human Resources Manual (HRM), last amended in 2022. Policy changes are initiated by the Senate and take effect upon Council approval. Promotions are based on the criteria in place at the time, as recorded by the Senate and Council. All Associate Professors and Professors undergo rigorous assessment, including mandatory internal and external vetting by internationally recognized subject experts.

  1. Retirement of Associate Professors and Professors Post-60 Years

Makerere University mandates retirement at 60 in accordance with Ugandan law. To retain highly skilled talent, the University Council introduced a post-retirement contract policy under the Universities and Other Tertiary Institutions Act (UOTIA). The Appointments Board grants or renews these contracts based on outstanding performance in teaching, research, grants, and mentorship, subject to available vacancies and wage funds. Before approval, the University Management assesses the impact on staff promotions, ensuring no disadvantage to qualifying staff within a particular Department.

  1. Membership and Leadership of the University Council and its Committees

The University Council membership is constituted in accordance with Section 38(1) of the Universities and Other Tertiary Institutions Act (UOTIA), which outlines the criteria for appointing representatives from various constituencies, including the Government, staff, students, Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), persons with disabilities, and Council appointees.

The constituents are responsible for managing the selection process for their respective representatives. University Council members serve four-year terms, which can be renewed by the respective constituents in accordance with Section 38(3) of the UOTIA. It is important to note that no Council member, current or former, has ever served beyond the period specified by law.

The University Council elects its Chairperson and Vice Chairperson in accordance with Section 39 of the UOTIA. Additionally, the Council establishes the Appointments Board and all its Committees in compliance with Section 43 of the UOTIA and Section 38 of the Council Charter.

  1. Recent Policy Reforms at the University

The University Council has implemented key reforms to enhance service delivery and staff accountability. These include a biometric staff attendance system and the digitalization of student services such as application, admission, registration, fee payment, exam records, and graduation. These measures have improved lecture attendance, expedited transcript issuance, and strengthened student support. University Management and the Appointments Board actively monitor staff performance to reward outstanding performance and ensure compliance.

  1. Disciplinary Processes and Actions Involving Some Staff Members

Makerere University enforces disciplinary policies in line with the Human Resources Manual, Public Service Standing Orders, and Ugandan law. Staff who violate these policies face sanctions such as warnings, suspensions, interdictions, and investigations, all conducted with due process before an Appointments Board hearing. Recently, two senior staff members—one a Council member and the other a School Dean were interdicted over allegations of corruption and non-performance. Their interdiction ensures independent investigations without undue influence.

  1. State of the University Infrastructure

With substantial support from the Government, Makerere University has made significant strides in enhancing its critical infrastructure for teaching, research, and student residences/welfare, alongside initiating new infrastructure projects.

Following the phased approach to renovate student halls of residence, the University Management is pleased to report that the renovation of Lumumba Hall was completed in 2024, while that of Mary Stuart Hall is ongoing. On completion of the renovation of Mary Stuart Hall, the Contractors will proceed to Complex Hall.

The University has constructed two (2) new buildings for the School of Law and School of Dentistry. The Main Building was reconstructed and commissioned by His Excellency the President on 2nd October 2024.

In addition, two (2) structures are currently under construction namely the School of Public Health and the vertical extension of the School of Women and Gender Studies. In addition to Government support, we continue to receive support from our partners for infrastructure enhancement.

We Build for the Future

Mak Editor

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