General
Govt called upon to Fund Research in NCDs: Diabetes can be Prevented and Effectively Managed
“Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are a rapidly growing health burden in Uganda, and many other low and middle income countries. I call upon the Government of Uganda to fund research in NCDs. Most people with NCDs do not know that they are suffering from NCDs such as diabetes, high blood pressure, cancer, or heart diseases. For diabetes, about half of the people with diabetes in Uganda do not know that they have it,” said Prof. Rhoda Wanyenze, Dean of Makerere University School of Public Health.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO) report of 2016, deaths from NCDs were on the rise, with developing countries hit hardest. NCDs are the leading cause of death globally. In 2016, they caused 71% of all deaths (40.5 million) up from 60% in 2000.
Opening the SMART2D Research Dissemination Workshop to various stakeholders held on 21st March 2019, Prof. Wanyenze applauded researchers from Makerere University School of Public Health for teaming up with other partners to undertake a multi-country four year research project aimed at identifying strategies to better prevent and manage Type-2-Diabetes, one of the NCDs.
She commended the research team headed by the Uganda co-Principal Investigator, Prof. David Guwatudde for not only describing problems, but also providing prevention and management strategies for Type-2-Diabetes.
The co-Principal Investigator of SMART2D, Prof. David Guwatudde emphasized that the primary aim of the four year research was to strengthen capacity for both prevention and management of Type-2-Diabetes.
“Health systems in most parts of the world were struggling to diagnose and manage Type-2-Diabetes especially in low and middle income countries. More than 50% of people with diabetes in Uganda are undiagnosed. They are not aware that they have diabetes. Further in Uganda, only about 30% of people with diabetes have ever had their blood tested for high blood sugar,” he said.
Funded by the European Union (EU) and Government of Sweden through the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida), the SMART2D research presents a people-centered approach through Self-Management and Reciprocal Learning for the Prevention and Management of Type-2-Diabetes.
Prof. Guwatudde revealed that Type-2-Diabetes is more of a lifestyle disease, which can be prevented if we modify our lifestyle and behaviour. The nutrition aspect is one of the factors leading people to get diabetes.
According to Dr. Juliet Kiguli, co-Investigator on the SMART2D, some of the factors putting one at the risk of getting diabetes included: consumption of unhealthy foods (eating sweet things, too much oil, alcohol); physical inactivity (not exercising); Worrying; and ignoring the advice from medical personnel.
With Dr. Elizabeth Ekirapa sharing statistics that diabetes wields a tremendous economic burden on society (to patients and the economy at large); and further revelation from Dr. Roy William Mayega that most of the patients the research team interviewed, could not afford the drugs and equipment to monitor their blood sugar, yet often there are stock-outs of these at Government health centers. He emphasized that SMART2D advocates for strategies aimed at prevention and effective management of diabetes. “Prevention is better than cure. Since diabetes can be prevented and the prevalence of pre-diabetes is high, preventive efforts should be stepped up so as to save lives as well as resources that are going to be spent on treatment.”
For those living with diabetes, Prof. David Guwatudde emphasized that if they follow the advice of the medical personnel and take the prescribed medicines; they can live a normal life. “It is not true that when they diagnose you with diabetes you die soon. If you take the prescribed medicines and follow the advice from medical personnel, you will live with diabetes and still live a normal life.”
The SMART2D research team consists of the following researchers: Prof. David Guwatudde, Dr. Juliet Kiguli, Dr. Roy William Mayega, Dr. Barbara Kirunda Tabusibwa, Dr. Elizabeth Ekirapa Kiracho, Dr. Francis Xavier Kasujja, Dr. Anthony Muyingo, Mrs. Max Walusimbi, Ms. Gloria Naggayi, Mr. Edward Ikoona, and Mr. Kusolo Ronald.
Some of the challenges in the prevention and management of NCDs include: Inadequate prevention strategies; a large proportion of people with NCDs are undiagnosed; lack of funds to buy the recommended medicines; and poor retention into care.
To address the four challenges, the SMART2D research team came up with a set of Facility and Community interventions.
Minimal improvements in organization of facility-based care significantly improved the percentage of patients with diabetes that are retained into care by over 30%. It also improved control of the disease in the patients by over 10%, and prevented the development of diabetes among people at high risk by over 50%.
In line with WHO report published in 2002 titled Innovative Care for Chronic Conditions: Building Blocks for Action which noted that a community has a crucial role to play in chronic care, Dr. Francis Xavier Kasujja reiterated that peer groups were instrumental in the ongoing support to diabetes patients in Iganga and Mayuge communities.
Delivering a personal testimony, one of the patients with diabetes said that they significantly benefited from the engagement and trainings received during the SMART2D project.
However, with the end of the project, most of the patients were worried because they cannot afford the cost of treatment for management of diabetes.
Presenting the implications of their findings on policy, Dr. Roy William Mayega highlighted the following recommendations:
• Health Centres from level III+ should be supported to establish diabetes care and prevention services and accredited in a phased way
• Roll-out of a minimum package of equipment, and essential drugs from Health Centre III and above, supported by a regular supply, inclusive of hypertension medicines
• Need to roll out lean clinical guidelines and a care algorithm to all facilities
• Scaled training (pre- and -in-service), supervision and clinical mentorship of nurses and clinical staff on care and prevention
• Strengthen the information system for chronic care including appointments, clinical records and follow-up
• A simple health education and coaching approach and manuals should be rolled out to facilities targeting patients and people at high risk
• A task shifting approach should be scaled up where stable patients are managed by nurses
• Need to strengthen self-care so that patients can manage themselves
Representing the Ministry of Health, Dr. Gerald Mutungi the Senior Medical Officer in Charge on Non-Communicable Diseases shared with workshop participants some of the strategies being undertaken: The Ministry of Health has a technical working group on NCDs; ongoing research aimed at studying the effectiveness of the integration of HIV/AIDS and NCDs into the chronic care clinic; and Government entering into a strategic partnership with Novartis, an NCD drugs manufacturer, to ensure that drugs for NCDs are available at all Government health facilities.
Some of the key stakeholders who attended the SMART2D Research Dissemination workshop include: Dr. Gity Behravan,1st Secretary and Senior Research Advisor, Swedish Embassy- Kampala, Dr. Fred Makumbi-Deputy Dean of Mak School of Public Health, Dr. Esther Buregyeya, Dr. Noah Kiwanuka and officials from the World Health Organisation, Ministry of Health, NCD platforms, diabetic associations, lung and heart institutions, district health workers, patients from Iganga and Mayuge, Makerere University Directorate of Research and Graduate Training, and among others.
Written by: Ritah Namisango, Mak Public Relations Office
General
Makerere University Convocation Graduation Luncheon Honors CEDAT Staff and Outstanding Students
Several staff members from the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT) were recognized for their exceptional contributions in research and teaching during the Makerere University Convocation 75th graduation luncheon, held on Friday, January 17th, 2025. The event celebrated the achievements of top students, teachers, and researchers, with special awards presented to CEDAT staff for their outstanding performance and dedication.
Assoc. Prof. Dorothy Okello and Mr. Ayor Andrew Semakula received the Teacher of the Year Award, acknowledging their exemplary contributions to education and their significant impact on students. The recognition highlights the commitment and excellence of CEDAT staff in advancing the fields of engineering, design, art, and technology.
The Senior Career Award went toProf. Kirabira John Baptist, Prof. Olupot Wilberforce and Assoc. Prof. Michael Luswataall from the Mechanical Engineering Department.
Dr.VianeyYiga, Dr. SemiyagaSwaib, Mr. Manga Musa got the Mid-Career Award, while Ms. Namuju Dona Lillian, Ms. Wesonga Racheal and Ms. NamakulaHidaaya received the Early Career Award. At the same event, thirty of the best performing students were also recognized.
The Makerere University Convocation 75th graduation luncheon celebrated outstanding achievements, with a strong emphasis on recognizing excellence through awards. Colonel Edith Nakalema, Senior Presidential Advisor and Head of the State House Anti-Corruption Unit, delivered a keynote address focused on integrity and creativity for graduates.Col. Nakalema stressed the need for graduates to uphold high moral standards and professionalism, urging them to focus on creativity and integrity, especially in the age of AI, to achieve true success.
The event, themed “Celebrating Excellence and Creating Path to Success,” honored the top performers from each college. Col. Nakalema congratulated the graduates and highlighted the importance of making positive contributions to society. Other speakers, including Dr. Monica Musenero, Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, and Hon. Godfrey Baluku Kabyanga, Minister of State for ICT and National Guidance, emphasized the role of universities in socio-economic transformation and the importance of research.
Written by Harriet Musinguzi, Principle Communication Officer, College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology
By the Program Communication Team
On Friday, January 17, 2025, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars celebrated a significant milestone as they graduated from Makerere University. The day was filled with enthusiasm and pride as 36 dedicated students completed their Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program journey. This achievement reflects their hard work and commitment and paves the way for new opportunities in their future endeavours.
At the event, Mr. Adrian Bukenya, the Country Director of Mastercard Foundation Uganda and the chief guest, encouraged the new graduates to create jobs for their peers rather than solely seeking employment for themselves.
“As fresh graduates, your first step shouldn’t be simply searching for jobs. Instead, focus on creating job opportunities for your peers. The university degree you have earned puts you in a unique position. The knowledge and skills you’ve gained and the experiences and connections you have made empower you to thrive in this country,” Mr. Bukenya remarked.
Mr. Bukenya further expressed his gratitude to Makerere University‘s leadership and acknowledged the profound relationship the University shares with the Foundation. He emphasized that the partnership with Makerere University was essential to the Foundation.
“The Mastercard Foundation values its partnership with Makerere University, as the university continues to produce exceptional talent essential for Uganda’s development. The country would struggle to achieve its national aspirations without this contribution,” noted Mr. Bukenya.
Mr. Bukenya emphasized the core mission of the Mastercard Foundation, which is to alleviate poverty in areas where it is most prevalent and to enhance access to education. He pointed out that the Scholars Program is a fundamental component of this initiative. He noted that earning a degree is a valuable tool and a testament to an individual’s ability to learn, perform tasks, and achieve results within structured and organized frameworks.
He further stressed the Foundation’s commitment to empowering young people to lead and transform Africa.
“The Mastercard Foundation has made a strategic commitment to focus uniquely on Africa, home to the world’s youngest population. Through its ‘Young Africa Works’ strategy, the Foundation supports entrepreneurship and enterprise development among young people, empowering them to shape the future of their communities and the continent.” emphasized Mr. Bukenya.
Speaking on behalf of the University Management, Professor Buyinza Mukadasi, the Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor of Academic Affairs and Chairperson of the Steering Committee for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University, congratulated the program for achieving an impressive 94% graduation completion rate.
“The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University has graduated 964 scholars—78% female and 22% male—representing 94% of the 1,032 recruits from Phase One. We expect to achieve 100% graduation for all Phase One scholars at the 76th Graduation Ceremony next year.” Prof. Buyinza remarked.
Prof. Buyinza expressed gratitude to the Mastercard Foundation for its ongoing support of the university, which has significantly added value, particularly in educating young people from vulnerable communities.
“We sincerely thank the Mastercard Foundation for partnering with Makerere University to educate and empower the next generation of leaders and change-makers. The statistics regarding the number of young people supported and the impact that the program’s alumni have made in society are a testament to the energy and potential of young individuals when provided with the right education, guidance, and support.” Prof. Buyinza pointed out.
Program Director Prof. Justine Namaalwa emphasized her team’s commitment to ensuring the successful operation of the Scholars Program at Makerere University for years to come.
“Makerere University and the nation greatly appreciate the Mastercard Foundation for its generosity and foresight, which continue to transform human capital in Africa. There is no doubt that your vision for Africa is being realized. We are committed to this mission, even as we enter phase two of the program,” noted Prof. Namaalwa.
Prof. Namaalwa expressed gratitude to the University Management, led by Vice Chancellor Prof. Nawangwe, for their support and commitment to the Scholars Program. She pointed out that the strong backing from the university management has enabled the Program to meet its goals and succeed at the University.
“I sincerely thank the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, and the entire University Management and the governing structures of the Program for their effective leadership, which continues to yield positive results from our strong partnership with the Mastercard Foundation.” Prof. Namaalwa pointed out.
Prof. Namaalwa equally appreciated the graduates for helping achieve the Mastercard Foundation’s goals, which aims to educate and empower the next generation of African leaders. She noted that Makerere University has begun implementing the second phase of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, which will span the next ten years. In this phase, the Mastercard Foundation has committed to providing scholarships to 1,000 academically talented youth facing economic hardships, enabling them to access quality education at Makerere University.
She asserted that the Mastercard Foundation prioritizes three key transition pathways: formal employment, entrepreneurship, and further education. She urged the graduates to remain active on all the program’s social media platforms, especially the Alumni WhatsApp platform, as it will be a vital channel for sharing ongoing opportunities from the Mastercard Foundation and other partners.
Ms Aida Aol, the mother of graduate Mr Okello Godfrey, expressed gratitude on behalf of parents and guardians. She thanked the Mastercard Foundation and Makerere University for providing her son and other vulnerable young people with the opportunity to study at one of the best universities in Uganda. Ms. Aol highlighted that she had lost hope for her son’s university education due to financial constraints.
“I cannot thank Mastercard Foundation and Makerere University enough for providing our children with the opportunity to attend one of the best universities in the country. Many of us parents could not afford to send our children here because we did not have the resources to pay for their education,” Ms. Aol remarked.
Ms. Aol stated that she lost her husband when her son was only four years old, and she had since committed herself to ensuring he completed both elementary and high school. However, she reached a critical point where she could no longer afford to support his university education.
Graduates speak out
Awien Rose Madot, a Journalism and Communication graduate, expressed her gratitude to the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program for transforming her life. The program enabled her to achieve her academic goals and instilled in her a strong sense of responsibility to use her degree to create positive change in the world.
“Accessing higher education can often feel like a distant dream for refugees like me. However, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program has served as a powerful beacon of hope. It clearly demonstrates that education is a vital tool for empowerment and transformation, even in the face of adversity. The Program has provided us with financial resources, as well as invaluable mentorship, guidance, and a strong support network for all the scholars involved,” said Madot.
Dr. Raphael Kasuku, a dental surgery graduate, pledged to continue the spirit of giving back to his community by offering dental services. He urged his fellow graduates to utilize the knowledge and skills they acquired through their education to uplift their communities.
“To my fellow graduates, this moment marks not just the end of a chapter but the beginning of an exciting new journey. The world ahead is vast and brimming with opportunities that we are ready to seize. It won’t always be easy, but we must remember that the resilience, determination, and passion that brought us here will continue to propel us forward as we strive to serve our communities.” Dr. Kasuku remarked.
The colourful event was a vibrant gathering held in the gardens of the University Guest House, bringing together a diverse community of program stakeholders. Attendees included members of the University management and the Steering and Selection Committees. Mentors of the Scholars Program, parents and guardians, and alumni also contributed to the inspiring atmosphere. Additionally, representatives from the Mastercard Foundation and program partners joined the celebration, along with numerous well-wishers who continue to support the Program’s mission.
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