Connect with us

General

Mak Soybean Breeders Turn to Music as an Outreach Tool in Acholi & Lango sub-Regions

Published

on

•    Farmers  nickname Maksoy bean varieties “Somalia”
•    The song describes soybean as the “golden beans”
•    Song targets Luo speakers such as the Langi, Acholi, Alur and Kumam

Makerere University’s plant breeder Prof. Phinehas Tukamuhabwa and Associate Plant Breeder Mr. Tonny Obua have released the Soybean Production Guide in form of a song. The Soybean Production Guidebook was published by the duo from the Department of Agricultural Production, School of Agricultural Sciences, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) in 2015.

The song was produced by local musician Jesper Ewanyi in Lira also known by his stage name as Dealrafael JSP. It was released on 5th January 2019 during the participatory field day to evaluate the 35 Pan-African soybean varieties from six African countries under trial at the Ngetta Zonal Agricultural Research Development Institute (ZARDI) in Lira District.

Speaking during the function Associate Plant Breeder Mr. Tonny Obua said, as researchers they turned to music because it is easier for the locals to understand and share via social media, Bluetooth, radio and email unlike books and posters.

“We basically translated our Soybean Production Guide in Uganda into music for Acholi and Lango sub-regions targeting Luo speakers mainly the Langi, Acholi, Alur and Kumam.
This is because Northern Uganda is the leading producer of Maksoy bean varieties and has enormous untapped potential”, Obua said.

Maksoy varieties (1N-6N) have been nicknamed by farmers in Northern Uganda as “Somalia”. The Luo song describes the varieties as the “golden beans” in the chorus; describing soybean as a miracle crop and highlighting its importance, varieties and advantages.  It gives hope to farmers that they will become rich when they grow soybean, and advises them on the need to form farmer groups and adopt bulk selling, good agronomic and post-harvest handling practices as well as storage.

Associate Plant Breeder, Mr. Tonny Obua stoops to show farmers traits of one of the soybean varieties under trial at the Ngetta ZARDI in Lira District during the field day on 5th January 2019

Prof. Phinehas Tukamuhabwa has pioneered development of glyphosate tolerant soybeans in Africa, in containment, at Makerere University.  He has also spearheaded the development and release of soybean varieties (Nam2, Namsoy 3, Namsoy 4M, Maksoy 1N, Maksoy 2N, Maksoy 3N, Maksoy 4N, Maksoy 5N and Maksoy 6N) and the climbing bean varieties (Nabe 12C, Nabe 9C, Nabe 8C, Nabe 7C and Nabe 6C) all widely grown in Uganda and in the region at commercial level.

While addressing farmers, processors, seed companies, Local government officials and development partners at a similar field day held on 3rd January 2019 at Mubuku Irrigation scheme, Prof. Tukamuhabwa hailed youth and farmer groups in Northern Uganda for embracing the Maksoy varieties that have transformed many lives.

”Farmers in Northern Uganda call soybeans “Somalia’. They tell their youth that instead of going to Somalia or Arab countries to do odd jobs, plant soybean because they will become as rich as those who go abroad but they are safer.

The choice is in your hands because you have no reason why you should not grow soybean. The market is more than you can produce. So you have no excuse as to why you do not have money.” Prof. Tukamuhabwa stated.

Prof. Tukamuhabwa urged farmers to be proactive, produce quality seeds and sell in large quantities by working in groups, pledging that Makerere and other development partners were more than ready to work with the people of Kasese, Jinja and Lira to offer education and advice for the betterment of their lives.

The Gross Margin Analysis for soybean production with fertilizer and improved seed indicates that it’s a viable and profitable venture. The total Variation Cost is UGX480,000. The output per acre is 800 Kg; priced at UGX1,200 leading to total revenue of UGX960,000 with a Gross Margin of UGX480,000 per acre.

A participant in the field day takes time of to personally examine some of the traits of a soybean variety under trial at Ngetta ZARDI in Lira District, Northern Uganda

The demand for soybean seed and grain from seed companies is high. RECO; a company specializing in agro processing and agricultural development, for example has announced that it needs 120,000 tons of soybean grain for food processing. A kilogram of soybean grain costs between UGX800 and UGX2,200 while the seed goes for UGX4,000-6,000. This makes soybean one of the highly priced cereals in the country with ready market from local consumers, seed companies and food industries.

The Project Officer PASTTA Project Mr. Arnold Mbowa told participants that the mission of the African Agricultural Technology Foundation (AATF) is to see small and medium holder farmers gain access to technology. He said the foundation core crops of prominence have been maize, beans and cassava but soybean has emerged as both a food and cash crop.

“We have turned our focus to uplift soybean because of its high potential. We have been to Kasese, Hoima and many other ecological zones but we have discovered that Lango and Acholi sub-regions are the leading producers of soybean in Uganda and there is still a lot of potential”, Mbowa noted.

Mbowa also observed that soybean, unlike other crops, has different uses as a source of income, human food and animal feed, and as a raw material for many industries.

“As farmers you are more important than any other personnel because you are the supporters of life. We would like to have a sustainable system and that’s why the PASTTA project under AATF is working with Makerere University, funded by USAID Feed the Future and Sygenta program to bring the seed technology to increase production and productivity.”

AATF works in six African Countries including Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Ethiopia, South Africa and Malawi where the 35 varieties under trial in Uganda originate.

Assistant Plant Breeder, Ms. Mercy Namara (Centre) tips a group of farmers on good field practices during the field day at the Ngetta ZARDI, Lira District, Northern Uganda

Assistant Plant Breeder Mercy Namara expressed the University’s commitment to develop new varieties and get them to the farmers.

She appreciated farmers, processors, seed companies, donors and Local governments for the different roles they play in the soybean value chain, adding that their participation in the field day would help researchers identify the best varieties for release so as to improve livelihoods.

“We would like to work together with you farmers as end users of the technologies to understand the specific traits that you are interested in as well as bridge the gap between researchers, farmers, processors, seed companies and other key players”.

Namara emphasized the need for farmers to practice good agricultural practices like weeding, early planting and proper spacing if they are to get good yields.

The Farm Manager, Ngetta Zonal Agricultural Research Development Institute, Mr. Apela Bushira described the field day as an important activity in the breeding program.

“It is from your vote that our breeders will select the best variety. So make sure your vote is representing the interests of people in the sub-region. The most important point is, when you start selecting take your time and wisely select a variety that will do well”, the manager advised.

Mr. Apela said their role as a ZARDI is to multiply the selected variety and release it to the farmers. He however advised farmers to form groups so as to benefit from such technologies and programs because the ZARDI cannot reach out to every individual farmer.

The song may be accessed on YouTube: https://youtu.be/jyu1XTQHkHI

Report compiled by;
Jane Anyango,
Principal Communication Officer, CAES

Mark Wamai

Continue Reading

General

Makerere University Fees Waiver for 40 First Year Female Students 2025/2026

Published

on

Makerere University Tuition and Functional Fees Waiver is a Scholarship Scheme that was initiated by Makerere University Gender Mainstreaming Directorate and was approved by the Makerere University Council in December 2010. The Scheme supports bright female students from disadvantaged socio-economic backgrounds to access education at Makerere University. The University waives off tuition and functional fees for the duration of the study of the beneficiaries of the scheme. With effect from 2021/2022 academic year, the Scheme has offered waiver of tuition and functional fees for 40 female students joining the University who meet the criteria. All Programmes in the Colleges at Makerere University Main Campus and at Makerere University Jinja Campus are eligible for this Scholarship support. These scholarships are administered by the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate, Makerere University. Persons with disabilities are highly encouraged to apply.

ELIGIBILITY

Scholarship applicants should meet the following criteria:

  1. Should be female of Ugandan Nationality
  2. Should be a first-year student admitted at Makerere University Main Campus and Jinja Campus for the academic year 2025/2026 under the Direct Entry Scheme.
  3. Should be from a genuinely disadvantaged socio-economic background.
  4. Those not admitted on Uganda Government sponsorship to any public university.
  5. Those who do not hold any other scholarship e.g. District Scholarship
  6. Must be willing to participate in a selection process as shall be determined by the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate Scholarship Committee.

THE SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION FORM SUBMITTED SHALL BE DEEMED COMPLETE ONCE IT CONTAINS THE FOLLOWING ATTACHMENTS;

  1. Copies of ‘O’ and ‘A’ level academic documents.
  2. One Passport size photograph.
  3. A Copy of the applicant’s birth certificate.
  4. Incase of deceased parent (s), a copy of death certificate(s)
  5. A hand drawn physical map of an applicant’s home/residence with clear directions of how to get to that home or residence from the nearest main road (indicate approximate distances in kilometres).
  6. A copy of the admission letter to Makerere University.

The scholarship covers only tuition and functional fees. The applicant must be able to pay for their feeding, accommodation and other learning necessities required by the University for the duration of the study period.

Interested and eligible applicants can pick application forms free of charge from the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate, Senate Building, Level 4, Room 402 OR download a copy from the Makerere University Website: https://mak.ac.ug/

You can also access more information on our X handle @MakerereGMD

For more information or inquiries, please contact us using the following contacts:

Office Mobile Numbers: +256702960616 / +256781866728
Email Address: director.gendermainstreaming@mak.ac.ug

The Application deadline is Monday, 8th August 2025 at 5:00pm.

Euzobia Mugisha Baine (PhD)
Chief Gender Mainstreaming Officer

Mak Editor

Continue Reading

General

Korean Language Courses-Semester

Published

on

Students walk into the Arts Quadrangle, College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Centre for Language and Communication Services (CLCS), College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS) Makerere University in collaboration with the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) invite applications for Korean Language Classes for students and members of the public.

Courses by Level

  • Beginner
  • Elementary
  • Intermediate
  • Online
  • TOPIK

Instructor: Wongo Yoon wongoyoon@gmail.com

Registration is open, you can register to join the class at any time.

Registration:

To register, call the Centre for Language and Communication Services (CLCS): +256 756 12 8046 / +256 775 424704

Fee: UGX 80,000 a semester

For more information Whatsapp: +256 790 505658 (Yoon) / +256 757 710511 (Mariam)

See downloads for Class Timetable

The Korean Corner is located on the 2nd floor of the Main Library at Makerere University.

Mak Editor

Continue Reading

General

NCBA Commits UGX 1.45 Billion to Makerere Marathon, Pledges Five-Year Support for Inclusive Education

Published

on

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (C) flanked by Dr. Maggie Kigozi (R) and Mr. Mark Muyobo (L) on 9th July 2025 at Makerere University. Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF)’s flagship initiative – the Makerere University Marathon unveiling of NCBA Bank Uganda as Platinum Sponsor with UGX 1.45 Billion over five years, 9th July 2025, Kampala, East Africa.

By Eve Nakyanzi and Atwenda Nancy

Makerere University has officially unveiled NCBA Bank Uganda as the platinum sponsor for the 2025 Makerere University Marathon (#MakRun2025), marking a significant milestone in the institution’s journey toward inclusive and sustainable student support. The partnership was formally announced during a colourful event held at the university, attended by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Dr. Maggie Kigozi, Chairperson of the Makerere University Endowment Fund, and NCBA Bank Uganda CEO, Mr. Mark Muyobo.

NCBA Bank Uganda’s UGX 1.45 billion sponsorship over the next five years is the largest corporate contribution to the Makerere Marathon to date. It underscores the bank’s commitment to supporting quality education, community development, and equity.  Mr. Muyobo said that, “We are driven by the desire to leave every community better than we found it”. He added that the goal is to empower disadvantaged students to live without limitations, describing this initiative as a bold stride toward establishing a world-class international marathon.

Left to Right: Mr. Mark Muyobo, Dr. Maggie Kigozi and Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe pose for a photo at the Main Building entrance. Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF)’s flagship initiative – the Makerere University Marathon unveiling of NCBA Bank Uganda as Platinum Sponsor with UGX 1.45 Billion over five years, 9th July 2025, Kampala, East Africa.
Left to Right: Mr. Mark Muyobo, Dr. Maggie Kigozi and Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe pose for a photo at the Main Building entrance.

“This is more than just a sponsorship, it is a strategic partnership built on shared values,” Dr. Kigozi remarked. “With this support, we are positioned to establish a fully equipped Disability Support Unit and a sustainable pool of funds to assist economically disadvantaged students.”

The marathon, slated under the theme “Run the Hills for the Future,” seeks to unify students, alumni, corporate entities, and professional athletes in pursuit of a common cause. At its core, the MakRun2025 promotes active lifestyles, social inclusion, and a sense of communal responsibility.

“It’s not just a race,” Prof. Nawangwe emphasized. “It is a movement to break barriers, change lives, and build a resilient, inclusive university.”

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe poses with the #MakRun2025 photo frame. Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF)’s flagship initiative – the Makerere University Marathon unveiling of NCBA Bank Uganda as Platinum Sponsor with UGX 1.45 Billion over five years, 9th July 2025, Kampala, East Africa.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe poses with the #MakRun2025 photo frame.

The marathon’s broader impact includes fundraising for students living with disabilities and those facing financial hardship, contributing directly to the university’s Endowment Fund.

A major highlight of the event is the introduction of a full 42.2-kilometer marathon—bringing international standards to the annual run. Organizers have promised a professional, accredited experience with traffic-free routes and ample support for runners.

“This edition will elevate the MakRun into a world-class event,” said Mr. Muyobo. “We are proud to support Makerere University in realizing its dream of a globally recognized marathon that reflects Uganda’s commitment to education and inclusivity.”

Beyond the race itself, the event will feature a vibrant line-up of activities, including music, drama, and games for all age groups. It is designed to foster a festival-like atmosphere that welcomes every member of the community.

Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF)’s flagship initiative – the Makerere University Marathon unveiling of NCBA Bank Uganda as Platinum Sponsor with UGX 1.45 Billion over five years, 9th July 2025, Kampala, East Africa.
Officials pose with runners in the Freedom Square.

Organizers and university leaders have extended an open invitation to students, staff, alumni, corporate partners, and Kampala residents to participate, cheer, or donate to the cause.

“Every step taken is a step towards hope for a student,” Dr. Kigozi stated. “Together, we are building a Makerere that cares, includes, and uplifts.”

The partnership is expected to significantly enhance the university’s ability to support underprivileged students and improve campus infrastructure for students with disabilities. It also sets the tone for future collaborations that align with the values of compassion, excellence, and innovation. The fifth edition of the MakRun is scheduled to take place on August 17th, 2025.

The Writers are Interns in the Public Relations Office, Makerere University

Mak Editor

Continue Reading

Trending