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Ugandan Journalists trained on Aflatoxins Communication and Reporting

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  • A National Media Aflatoxin Group formed
  • Makerere University’s Professor Archileo Kaaya is the Patron

About 30 journalists from different Media Houses in Uganda have undergone a two-day training on Aflatoxins Communication and Reporting, culminating in the establishment of a National  Aflatoxin  Journalist Network. The network will serve as an advocacy group to enhance public awareness and drive more actions to mitigate aflatoxin contamination of food and feeds.

The training was sponsored by the Platform for Aflatoxin Control in Africa (PACA), a program of the Africa Union Commission (AUC). This media training is the second of its type that the commission is supporting member states to implement. The first training took place in Senegal, in September 2018.

The training was officially opened by the Director for Extension in the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF) Mrs. Beatrice Byarugaba on Monday, 29th October, 2018 at Fairway Hotel in Kampala.

The function was also attended by the AUC-PACA Program Officer, Ms. Wezi Chunga-Sambo, Chair, Aflatoxin Technical Working Group, Prof. Archileo Kaaya, members of the PACA Secretariat and the Uganda Mycotoxin Mitigation Steering Committee among others.

The journalists received Certificates of participation signed by the AUC Officer in Charge and Head, Rural Economy and Agriculture Dr. Janet Edeme, after induction through a series of topics on aflatoxins and responsible reporting.

Topics included: Aflatoxins – their impacts on public health, trade and agriculture at national and continental levels; Aflatoxins – stakeholders and their roles; Aflatoxin Research findings with emphasis on groundnuts; Media /Research interface on aflotoxin information packaging; Interventions by AUC-PACA, and a summary of the C-SAAP Report on Uganda among others.

AUC-PACA Program Officer-Ms. Wezi Chunga-Sambo (L) is assisted by some of journalists that participated in the Aflatoxins training to verify names on the certificates

Key presenters included Makerere University’s Prof. Archileo Kaaya, Dr. David Kalule Okello from the National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO), PACA Secretariat members; Ms. Grace Akao, Ms. Wezi Chunga-Sambo and Mr. Ibrahim Gariba.

In her opening remarks, Director for Extension MAAIF Mrs. Beatrice Byarugaba noted that the country had been awoken by research findings that aflatoxins are indeed a big threat. She expressed appreciation to Makerere University and NARO Researchers for the job well done.

Mrs. Byarugaba further appreciated the PACA Secretariat for involving the media saying, the aflatoxins have reached a threatening level, affecting all staple foods, public health and trade.

“Aflatoxins are consumed by everyone at all stages of the food value chain and have impacted on trade and exports which is very sad.
 
“Aflatoxins are caused by poor handling practices starting on-farm to the value chain, traders, stores, retail industries, manufacturers and when we eat eggs and milk.

“Schoolchildren and all institutions are at risk as many take groundnut paste (odi) and serve a variety of foods in all forms”, the Director said.

 Mrs. Byarugaba described the research findings on aflatoxins as a blessing towards finding lasting solutions to the threat posed.

Ms. Wezi Chunga-Sambo (L) hands over a certificate to a female journalist (R) as The Patron, National Aflatoxin Journalist Network-Prof. Archileo Kaaya (C) witnesses

“The best option is prevention and this is why we need the media to help educate people, since you are the eye and mouthpiece of society. We need you as communication experts to be part of us to relay the findings in our development programs.

“People are consuming aflatoxins without knowing. Aflatoxins are affecting trade; we had a big consignment to Kenya and when it was sampled it had aflatoxins.

“One time we had a consignment to Korea which was also rejected and a lot of money was lost in this consignment, affecting the economy.

“We have a problem of stunting. Cancer has become an epidemic at Mulago Hospital and is linked to aflatoxins. We need people to know about it and the media to be our change agents.” The Director stated.

Mrs. Byarugaba also emphasized the need for the media to report correctly so as to help the masses protect themselves from aflatoxins. She expressed the Government’s confidence in the media and commitment to partner with it to raise public awareness and promote good management practices of aflatoxins.

Ms. Wezi Chunga-Sambo in her remarks said the AUC is committed to raising Africa’s food safety and quality standards at par with the rest of the world, in order to make Africa’s agriculture a competitive and vibrant sector that promotes trade and agribusiness.

A copy of  the Certificate of Participation issued to journalists after the Aflatoxins Communication and Reporting training

 She reported that PACA has a 10 year strategic plan which has identified public awareness, advocacy and communication as one of the strategic thematic areas. In addition to the strategy, she said PACA has developed a continental communication strategy currently being adopted by various member states in coming up with their own national communication plans.

“Right from the onset when PACA was created, stakeholders realised that awareness of aflatoxins and their impacts on health of consumers, trade and agriculture is generally low. However it also dawned on stakeholders that creating awareness of aflatoxins to the general public is complex due to the technical nature of the information involved”. She said

Noting that aflatoxins are a silent killer which cannot be seen by the naked eye and with their health effects mostly manifesting over a period of time, Ms. Chunga-Sambo implored journalists to communicate findings responsibly without causing alarm and panic among the population.

“This requires scientists and communication experts to work in synergy to develop clear, evidence-based, action-driven messages and information targeted at specific audiences and delivered using media, formats and languages most appropriate and accessible to those groups”, she advised.

Ms. Chunga-Sambo described media professionals as very important stakeholders who play a pivotal role in how modern societies view and believe, accept or reject information hence the need to capacitate them in communicating about the aflatoxin threat. This, she concluded, would help the media provide clear evidence-based information on aflatoxins to the target groups.

Report compiled by;
Jane Anyango;
Principal Communication Officer CAES

Mark Wamai

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Simplicity, Service & Scholarship: Hallmarks of Professor Livingstone Luboobi’s Legacy

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Rev. Scovia Kumakech (Right), University Leadership, Family and Friends join in song during Prof. Livingstone Luboobi's emotional send-off on 18th July 2025. Funeral service in honour of Professor Livingstone Sserwadda Luboobi, 18th July 2025, St. Francis Chapel, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

On Wednesday 16th July 2025, Makerere University lost one of its most cherished sons, Professor Livingstone Sserwadda Luboobi. Described as a mathematician, academic leader, and humble servant, Professor Luboobi devoted more than five decades to the university, rising through the ranks to become Vice Chancellor, and leaving a legacy defined by simplicity, service, and scholarship.

Born to Lameka Serwadda and Sanyu Serwadda on 25th December 1944 in Mitondo, Kalisizo, Kyotera District, Professor Luboobi’s academic career begun as a third-year student at Makerere and continued with unwavering loyalty until his passing. His life’s work reflected not only a commitment to mathematics but also nurturing generations of scholars and leaders across Uganda and beyond.

A funeral service was held in his honour at St. Francis Chapel, Makerere University on 18th July 2025. It was a moment of solemn remembrance and heartfelt tribute. Rev. Canon Dr. John Senyonyi delivered the sermon titled “Only God Knows,” reminding mourners of the mystery and grace of life’s journey. Rev. Canon Geoffrey Byarugaba represented the Kampala Diocese at the service, while former St. Francis Chaplain, Rev. Dr. Canon Johnson Ebong thanked Professor Luboobi for spearheading the Chapel’s expansion. Friends, colleagues, and family members filled the chapel, joined in mourning but also in gratitude for a life that had deeply touched theirs.

Mrs. Lorna Magara pays her respects to Prof. Luboobi. Funeral service in honour of Professor Livingstone Sserwadda Luboobi, 18th July 2025, St. Francis Chapel, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mrs. Lorna Magara pays her respects to Prof. Luboobi.

Mrs. Lorna Magara, Chairperson of the University Council, spoke movingly about Professor Luboobi’s faithfulness, likening his life to the biblical call in Mark 10:43, “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.”

In his condolence message, the Vice Chancellor, Professor Barnabas Nawangwe, hailed Professor Luboobi as a visionary leader whose legacy is deeply woven into Makerere’s identity as a research-led institution. He credited Professor Luboobi with laying the groundwork for a culture of inquiry—championing graduate programmes, encouraging doctoral training, and fostering international collaborations that strengthened the university’s research profile. “He believed in building systems, not just structures,” noting that many of Makerere’s current research policies stem from his leadership. Even in retirement, Professor Luboobi remained a source of wisdom and guidance, quietly shaping the future of the university he so deeply loved.

Speaker after speaker painted a portrait of a man who led not by pomp, but by quiet strength and deep conviction.  The Principal, Professor Winston Tumps Ireeta, speaking on behalf of the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), described Professor Luboobi as a foundational figure whose influence is deeply etched in the structures and spirit of the college. He spoke with emotion about Luboobi’s unwavering commitment to academic integrity and his belief in the power of mentorship.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (Right) joined by Left to Right: Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, Prof. Helen Nambalirwa Nkabala (Rear), and Prof. Frank N. Mwiine lays a wreath on Prof. Luboobi's casket. Funeral service in honour of Professor Livingstone Sserwadda Luboobi, 18th July 2025, St. Francis Chapel, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (Right) joined by Left to Right: Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, Prof. Helen Nambalirwa Nkabala (Rear), and Prof. Frank N. Mwiine lays a wreath on Prof. Luboobi’s casket.

“He was not just a mathematician,” Professor Ireeta said, “he was a visionary who understood the soul of the university. Even in retirement, he remained an advisor, a guide, and a quiet force of wisdom.” He concluded by saying that the college would continue to draw from his example as it navigates the future of science and innovation in Uganda.

Professor Luboobi’s illustrious career at Makerere University included serving as Head, Department of Mathematics from 1990 to 1991. The current Head of Department, Dr. Ismail Mirumbe remembered him as a pillar in the teaching and development of mathematics in Uganda

Professor John Mango, who served as Head, Department of Mathematics during Professor Luboobi’s term as Vice Chancellor from 2004 to 2009 described him as a towering figure of integrity and principle, someone who not only upheld the highest standards of academic conduct but insisted that others around him do the same. “He was a pillar in the department,” Prof. Mango remarked, “and his moral compass was unwavering.”

Left to Right: Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, Prof. Juma Kasozi, Prof. Michael Owor, Dr. Ismail MIrumbe, Prof. John Mango and Dr. Saul Nsubuga present the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS)' remarks. Funeral service in honour of Professor Livingstone Sserwadda Luboobi, 18th July 2025, St. Francis Chapel, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Left to Right: Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, Prof. Juma Kasozi, Prof. Michael Owor, Dr. Ismail MIrumbe, Prof. John Mango and Dr. Saul Nsubuga present the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS)’ remarks.

He recalled instances where Professor Luboobi made firm decisions, including terminating contracts when integrity was compromised, setting a tone that shaped the department’s reputation for honesty and excellence. Even as Vice Chancellor, he remained deeply involved in the department’s affairs, teaching, supervising students, all the while handling top administrative duties punctually. Prof. Mango spoke with great admiration of a man who led by example, mentored many, and whose contributions to mathematics education, research, and policy-making continue to shape the future of the discipline in Uganda and beyond.

According to an article from 1990 written by Dr. Vincent Ssembatya and Andrew Vince at the University of Florida, the Uganda Mathematical Society (UMS), which was formally established on 25th November, 1972 has since inception enjoyed major support from Makerere University and Kyambogo University in terms of infrastructure and leadership. Professor Paul Mugambi, who was also present at Professor Luboobi’s funeral service was elected first president of the UMS. Dr. Saul Nsubuga from the Department of Mathematics represented UMS at the service, honouring Professor Luboobi’s pioneering role in the discipline.

The service also featured tributes from close friends and family. Loved ones shared stories of a man who remained grounded no matter how high he rose, a man who valued relationships and walked closely with his faith. His children and grandchildren remembered him as a father who was ever-present, a listener, and a source of steady guidance.

Some of Prof. Luboobi's children Left to Right: Dr. Irene Nakiyimba, Sarah Nantale, James Mazzi Sserwadda, Lazarus Kasobya, Dr. David Kimera, and Prof. Daniel Kibuule lay a wreath on their father's casket. Funeral service in honour of Professor Livingstone Sserwadda Luboobi, 18th July 2025, St. Francis Chapel, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Some of Prof. Luboobi’s children Left to Right: Dr. Irene Nakiyimba, Sarah Nantale, James Mazzi Sserwadda, Lazarus Kasobya, Dr. David Kimera, and Prof. Daniel Kibuule lay a wreath on their father’s casket.

Professor Daniel Kibuule, son of the late Professor Luboobi and Dean, Faculty of Health Sciences at Busitema University, delivered a deeply personal tribute that painted a full portrait of his father’s life, values, and final days. He expressed gratitude to the University leadership, family, friends, and medical professionals who stood with them during a challenging period. He particularly thanked his siblings, Dr. David Kimera and Dr. Irene Nakiyimba for their unwavering role in caring for Professor Luboobi through illness.

He spoke of a man who, despite great academic accolades, remained deeply humble and committed to discipline, simplicity, and faith. From instilling punctuality and responsibility to ensuring his children charted their own paths, none bearing his surname “Luboobi”, Prof. Luboobi was intentional in every lesson he passed on. Kibuule recalled his father’s insistence on being at home even in his final moments, his strong connection to Christ, and his quiet strength despite his failing health.

Former students and mentees echoed the same sentiments, of a teacher who was generous with his time and invested deeply in others’ growth. The community that gathered was not only there to grieve but to celebrate the quiet legacy of a man whose example continues to live on.

Among the mourners were public figures and leaders, including Hon. Abed Bwanika, Member of Parliament for Kimanya-Kabonera, Hon. Nyombi Thembo, the Executive Director Uganda Communications Commission, and Hon. Dr. Ham-Mukasa Mulira, former Minister of ICT, among others.

In his passing, Makerere University has lost a pillar, but his life reminds us that greatness lies in consistency, in humility, and in service to others. Professor Luboobi’s memory will continue to live on in the minds he shaped, the systems he built, and the values he embodied. He ran his race with grace.

The Writer is a Volunteer in the Public Relations Office, Makerere University

Please click the embedded video below to view the service livestream

Eve Nakyanzi
Eve Nakyanzi

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Public University Legal and Accounting Officers Trained on Governance and Compliance

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Legal and accounting officers from public universities across Uganda have convened, for a high-level training workshop organized by Makerere University. The three-day training, taking place from July 16th to 18th, 2025, is aimed at strengthening legal frameworks, improving institutional governance, and ensuring compliance with public finance and procurement laws within higher education institutions.

Ms. Lorna Magara, Chairperson of the Makerere University Council and Guest of Honour at the opening session, commended the initiative as timely and necessary. She addressed the growing backlog of court cases affecting Makerere and other public universities and outlined measures already taken to mitigate legal risks. These include the establishment of a Legal Rules and Privileges Committee and the Directorate of Legal Affairs, part of a broader strategy to improve legal compliance and foster good governance.

Representing the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Winston Tumps – Ag. Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration), described the training as both strategic and practical. “It is imperative that we learn from each other, especially in how we handle employee litigation and institutional legal risks,” he remarked. He added that the program is designed to promote experience-sharing across universities and enhance collective institutional growth.

Hon. Kiryowa Kiwanuka(2nd R) responding to questions during a Q&A Session

In his address, Mr. Yusuf Kiranda, University Secretary at Makerere University, emphasized the urgent need for robust legal oversight and more effective case management mechanisms within public universities.

The training featured a keynote address by the Attorney General of Uganda, Hon. Kiryowa Kiwanuka, who provided critical insights into legal expectations for public institutions. He warned that failure to heed legal advice could result in personal liability for accounting officers, citing a precedent involving the Uganda Cancer Institute. “Universities must consult the Attorney General’s chambers before entering into major contractual obligations,” he advised, urging legal officers to document decisions meticulously as proper record-keeping forms the first line of defense in legal disputes.

Hon. Justice Musa Sekaana of the Court of Appeal

Hon. Kiwanuka further discussed the government’s ongoing efforts to recentralize legal services to ensure alignment with the Attorney General’s office. He cautioned in-house counsel against becoming overly entangled in decision-making processes, stressing the need for objectivity. Other key issues he addressed included contract approvals, misuse of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), and lapses in procurement processes, particularly at the close of financial years.

Participants also benefited from insights by Hon. Justice Musa Ssekaana of the Court of Appeal, who offered an in-depth analysis of judicial review and its significance in promoting lawful, transparent university governance. He called on university legal officers to act with clarity, timeliness, and accountability.

Lady Justice Joyce Kavuma, Judge of the High Court, delivered a comprehensive presentation on dispute and claim management involving public universities. She addressed emerging trends in civil litigation, emphasizing the importance of due process, transparency, and clear communication in resolving employment, student, and contractual disputes. Drawing on real case examples, she urged institutions to strengthen internal systems, embrace participatory governance, and adopt regional best practices to minimize litigation and protect institutional reputation.

Lady Justice Joyce Kavuma, Judge of the High Court

The training reflects a shared commitment among public universities to build a more accountable, legally sound, and strategically aligned higher education system in Uganda. Through peer learning and collaboration, participating institutions aim to reduce litigation, enhance institutional autonomy, and uphold the rule of law.

Participating universities include Makerere University, Kyambogo University, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Busitema University, Mountains of the Moon University, and Lira University.

The training concludes on July 18th 2025, with sessions focusing on employment dispute management in public universities and the implications of recent PPDA Appeals Tribunal decisions on procurement and disposal practices within public entities.

Eve Nakyanzi
Eve Nakyanzi

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Celebrating the Life of Prof. Livingstone Sserwadda Luboobi

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The Late Professor Livingstone Serwadda Luboobi, Vice Chancellor Emeritus (2004 - 2009). Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

A Visionary Leader, Seasoned Mathematician, & Humble Academician

It is with profound love and respect that we celebrate the life of Prof. Livingstone Sserwadda Luboobi, a distinguished scholar, transformative leader, and beloved Vice Chancellor Emeritus of Makerere University. His legacy is woven in the fabric of African higher education, marked by intellectual brilliance, unwavering commitment to academic excellence, and a life of selfless service.

A Life of Purpose and Vision

Prof. Luboobi was more than a mathematician. He was a visionary, whose work transcended equations and research papers. Serving as Vice Chancellor from 2004 to 2009, he led Makerere University through a critical period of growth and transformation. Under his guidance, the university expanded its reach, strengthened its academic rigor, and embraced innovation and reform. His calm demeanour and principled decision-making earned the admiration of students, faculty, and peers alike.

Prof. Luboobi was deeply committed to nurturing talent and fostering intellectual curiosity, leaving an indelible mark on the institution’s culture and future direction.

Beyond Uganda, Prof. Luboobi’s influence resonated across the global academic community. He was a passionate advocate for the transformative power of science and education, often speaking at international forums and collaborating on research that bridged continents and disciplines. His work helped elevate the profile of African scholarship on the world stage.

His legacy endures not only in the impressive body of work he left behind but also in the countless lives he touched – students, educators, and leaders who continue to draw inspiration from him.

Academic and Leadership Journey at Makerere University

An illustrious alumnus of Makerere University, Prof. Luboobi graduated with First Class Honours in Mathematics, laying the foundation for an extraordinary academic journey. He pursued further studies at the University of Toronto (MSc in Operations Research, 1971-72) and the University of Adelaide (PhD in Biomathematics, 1978–80). His scholarly journey spanned prestigious institutions worldwide, including UCLA, the University of Bergen, and the University of Dar es Salaam, establishing him as a scholar of global repute and a proud ambassador of African intellectualism.

Prof. Luboobi’s service to Makerere begun in 1970 as a Special Assistant-remarkably, while still an undergraduate, rising through the ranks to full Professor in 1997. He served as Head of Department, Dean of the Faculty of Science (1994–2001), and later became the university’s first elected Vice Chancellor. His tenure brought new energy to institutional leadership, characterized by transparency, inclusivity, strategic direction and accountability.

Strategic Reforms and Institutional Impact

A true architect of transformation, Prof. Luboobi chaired the development of Makerere’s first locally-conceived Strategic Plan (1990–91). He was instrumental in securing a UGX30 billion grant from NORAD in 1999, which revitalized key academic areas such as computing, gender studies, and food science. He co-founded the Makerere University Private Sector Forum, bridging the gap between academia and industry, and strengthening alumni engagement and resource mobilization.

Pioneering Biomathematics and Mentorship

As one of Africa’s pioneering biomathematicians, Prof. Luboobi introduced mathematical modeling to tackle real-world problems in epidemiology, ecology, and operations research. His scholarly contributions – over 150 publications – reflect the depth and breadth of his research. Yet, perhaps his most lasting impact lies in mentorship: he supervised more than 35 PhD and over 50 MSc students, including Makerere’s first female PhD graduate in Mathematics, nurturing a generation of scholars and leaders.

Prof. Luboobi’s Contribution to the Internationalization of Makerere University

Prof. Luboobi played a pivotal role in advancing the international profile of Makerere University. Demonstrating remarkable personal commitment, he utilized his own resources to support the establishment of the University’s International Office. This strategic initiative laid the foundation for a more structured and effective engagement with global academic institutions, development partners, and international students. As a result, Makerere University significantly enhanced its global footprint, forming numerous international collaborations and attracting increased academic and research opportunities from abroad.

In addition to his contributions to internationalization, Prof. Luboobi was also instrumental in revitalizing the University’s Public Relations Unit. Under his guidance, the unit adopted more proactive and professional communication strategies, which greatly improved the institution’s public image. This, in turn, fostered greater public trust and strengthened the university’s reputation both locally and internationally. His visionary leadership in these areas has had a lasting impact, positioning Makerere University as a leading institution in East Africa and beyond.

Global Recognition and Enduring Legacy

Prof. Luboobi’s contributions earned him widespread recognition. In 2008, the University of Bergen awarded him an Honorary Doctorate for his role in internationalizing academia. Makerere University honoured him with a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2013, and the Government of Uganda conferred upon him a National Gold Medal for his unwavering service to education and national development.

Even after retirement, Prof. Luboobi remained an active contributor to academic life-lecturing, supervising, and advising the university. 

A Lasting Light in African Academia

Prof. Livingstone Sserwadda Luboobi’s life was a model of scholarship anchored in service, leadership tempered with humility, and an unshakable belief in the power of education. He leaves behind a vibrant academic legacy and a trail of inspired minds. His contributions will continue to shape Makerere University, Uganda, and the global academic community for generations to come.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, colleagues, and the entire Makerere University community during this difficult time.

May his soul rest in eternal peace.

Mak Editor

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