General
Mak hosts 3rd IFEH and 16th MUEHSA Conference
The 3rd International Federation of Environmental Health (IFEH) and 16th Makerere University Environmental Health Students' Association (MUEHSA) Conference kicked off on 9th April 2019 at Hotel Africana. Officially opened by the Prime Minister of Uganda Rt. Hon. Ruhakana Rugunda, represented by the State Minister for Health-Primary Health Care, Hon. Dr. Joyce Moriku Kaducu, the three days’ conference is running from 9th-11th April 2019 under the theme: Environmental Health: A Cornerstone to Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
The 3rd International Federation of Environmental Health and 16th Makerere University Environmental Health Students' Association (MUEHSA) Conference brings together experts in environmental sciences and health, around the world to stimulate multidisciplinary and multisectoral collaboration in environmental health; central to achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs); particularly SDG 3 and SDG 6.
The Conference builds on the environmental health actions that seek to capture and spread the good practices as well as providing potential approaches to be adopted by environmental health Practitioners during their community activities.
According to the Dean, School of Public Health, Makerere University Dr. Rhoda Wanyenze, the Conference is the first to be hosted in Africa and has come at a time when environmental health continues to play a pivotal role in existing global health concerns.
“Currently the world is facing challenges such as food safety, pollution, water, sanitation, improper housing, hygiene, antimicrobial resistance, climate change as well as one health especially in our developing countries. -This requires the active engagement and participation of environmental health practitioners to come up with solutions and innovations to address the challenges,” she said.
In a speech read by the State Minister for Health-Primary Health Care, Hon. Dr. Joyce Moriku Kaducu, the Prime Minister applauded the organizers of the conference for developing a platform for practitioners, academicians, researchers, policy makers, implementers, funders, legislators and students to discuss and find solutions on improving Environmental Health Practices.
According to Dr. Ruhakana Rugunda, Uganda through the Ministry of Health has focused on preventative than curative measures while handling environmental health matters. The Ministry appointed Environmental Health Officers who have made a significant role towards controlling major health epidemics such as plaque, cholera, and Ebola.
“Over the years, the profession has continued to evolve and Environmental Health Officers have played a key role in disease surveillance and carrying out research on epidemic outbreak. The tremendous work that Health Inspectors have played to ensure that households are habitable is undeniable. We have made great contribution to improve access to water and ensure proper sanitation and hygiene,” he remarked.
He emphasized the importance of investing in Environmental Health when he said, “environmental health is a critical field that needs proper attention. It is the backbone of Public health. The environment we live in determines our health status. The Government of Uganda is currently spending UGX260 billion, annually on treatment of preventable diseases and we shall spend less if we put a lot of effort in preventive measures,” said the Prime Minister.
Dr. Ruhakana Rugunda cited the need for continued capacity building and research support in the field of environmental health. He applauded the government of Uganda for committing UGX30 billionto support research in Universities.
The President of the International Federation of Environmental Health-Dr. Selva Mudaly appealed to politicians and other leaders of the world to support activities geared towards environmental conservation. “Climate change is a reality. Don’t look away. The recent widespread flooding in Mozambique, Zimbabwe and Malawi is a caution of what is happening in Africa. Don’t wait for the wake up, break up and then start looking for environmental scientists,” said Dr. Selva Mudaly.
He called upon responsible officers to prioritise and fund disaster and risk management trainings. He also encouraged researchers to take research to communities.
The Vice Chancellor of Makerere University represented by Prof. William Bazeyo-the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration, noted that Environmental Health is the beginning of Public Health. He informed participants that environmental health links the nation to its community. He applauded the School of Public Health for being the flagship of Makerere University in research, publications, human resource development and quality production.
According to Prof. Bazeyo, the world is facing a big problem of one health; non communicable and communicable diseases. He therefore urged scientists to take the topics seriously and find solutions.
During the opening ceremony, the President of the International Federation of Environmental Health Dr. Selva Mudaly handed over the Roy Emerson Award to the 2019 winner, Mr. George William Ssendagala; a student of Food Science and technology at Makerere University.
The Roy Emerson Award is an essay competition for Environmental Health undergraduate students from IFEH Member Countries or IFEH Academic Association members. Organized by the International Federation of Environmental Health, the 2019 competitions called upon students to discuss and critically appraise the aims to support the provision of safe food, to make use of precious water & nutrient resources, and for communities to increasingly value sustainable food production on the topic; “Global Food Safety and Sustainability.”
George William Ssendagala’s area of focus was on Developments in the Obushera in Uganda- a traditional fermented drink in Africa.
“I looked at fermented foods in Africa, America, Europe and Asia to get a big picture and then narrowed down to Obushera in Uganda. My aim was to understand the safety issues that are negatively affecting the industry of Obushera production and the waste management process since the drink is packaged mostly in plastic materials picked from garbage,” he said.
The 3rd International Federation of Environmental Health and 16th Makerere University Environmental Health Students' Association (MUEHSA) Conference will end on 11th April 2019. During the three days, participants will go through an exciting programme consisting of keynote addresses, oral and poster presentations, panel discussions, workshops, exhibitions, mentorship, career guidance session, student’s debates and meetings.
The Chairperson of the Conference Organizing Committee, Makerere University School Public Health Dr. David Musoke, encouraged participants to explore opportunities that the conference is offering especially potential collaboration in teaching, research and practice.
“I wish to thank everyone who has contributed to the success of this conference. My humble appreciation goes to IFEH, Ministry of Health, Makerere University, Environmental Health Workers Association of Uganda, Nottingham Trent University, UK and all sponsors and partners who have played a vital role in making this conference a success,” said Mr. George Oryongatum, the Conference Co-Chairperson and MUEHSA President.
Article by Mak Public Relations Office
As part of her efforts to familiarize herself with the offices under her docket, the newly appointed First Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs, Prof. Sarah Ssali, has embarked on a series of visits to different units that report to her office. One of these is the Makerere University Press (MakPress), which she visited today on 21st of October 2025, on a courtesy call. She was received by the Managing Editor for MakPress, Dr. William Tayeebwa, a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Journalism and Communication at the College of Humanities and Social Sciences. Previously, MakPress operated jointly with the Directorate of Graduate Training (DGT) and the Directorate of Research, Innovations and Partnerships (DRIP) before becoming a standalone entity. Accompanying Prof. Ssali on this visit were Prof. Julius Kikooma, the Director of DGT, and Mr. Mathias Ssemanda, the Acting Manager of the International Relations Office.
During her visit to MakPress, Prof. Sarah Ssali commended the Unit for its progress and partnerships while emphasizing the need to strengthen collaboration with key institutions such as the National Curriculum Development Centre (NCDC), the Ministry of Education and Sports, and other universities. She encouraged the Press to explore practical working models, including leveraging external expertise and streamlining its printing processes to enhance efficiency. Prof. Ssali also highlighted the importance of safeguarding intellectual property, ensuring fair contractual terms with partners, and maintaining transparency in publishing agreements. She advised that Makerere University Press should position itself strategically by producing high-quality academic materials that serve both national and international audiences. Additionally, she urged the team to adopt a more consistent publication schedule—launching books quarterly or biannually—and to organize events where authors can engage directly with readers, scholars, and policymakers. Prof. Ssali reaffirmed the administration’s support toward building a stronger, more vibrant university press that effectively contributes to research dissemination, academic dialogue, and national development.
During the courtesy visit, Dr. William Tayeebwa highlighted the milestones and ongoing projects at the Press. He spoke about the growing partnerships with institutions such as the University of Chicago Press, the University of California Press, and the African Books Collective, which have enhanced both local and international visibility of Makerere’s publications. “Why make a university press when you have Makerere University Press”, Dr. Tayeebwa said urging public universities to utilize MakPress. Dr. Tayeebwa also shared that the Press has republished several titles, launched new book projects, and developed a digital platform that enables readers to access and purchase books online. However, he pointed out a number of challenges affecting the Press’s operations, including inadequate funding, limited printing capacity at the university printery, and delays that often affect the timely release of publications. He further noted the difficulty of accessing generated funds due to bureaucratic procedures, space and infrastructure limitations, and the continued confusion between the roles of the Press and the printery. Despite these challenges, Dr. Tayeebwa reaffirmed the commitment of his team to strengthen Makerere University Press as a central pillar in advancing research dissemination and academic publishing.
Makerere University Retirement Benefit Scheme (MURBS) has presented its performance of Financial Year 2024/2025 to the sponsor, the University Council and other stakeholders on 21st of October in the Telepresence Centre, Senate building. MURBS which is a Mandatory Employer-Based Scheme was established by Makerere University under an irrevocable trust effective 1st April 2009 to provide retirement benefits to employees of Makerere University.
Council applauds MURBS Performance
In her remarks at the presentation, the Chairperson of the University Council, Mrs. Lorna Magara, commended the Scheme’s steady progress and reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to safeguarding staff welfare. She noted that MURBS has grown into a trusted, transparent, and professionally managed scheme that continues to strengthen confidence among staff. Mrs. Magara praised the Board of Trustees for their prudent management and governance, describing their work as not merely financial stewardship but the protection of the hopes and futures of Makerere families. She urged continued focus on member education, digital service delivery, and sustainable fund growth, emphasizing that the ultimate goal is to build a lasting legacy of trust and financial wellbeing for all university employees.
MURBS demonstrates liquidity and resilience amid a volatile economy
Representing the Vice Chancellor, the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Prof. Sarah Ssali, commended the Makerere University Retirement Benefits Scheme (MURBS) for its continued growth, accountability, and prudent management. She applauded the Scheme’s record fund value of UGX 475 billion and its unqualified audit opinion from KPMG, describing these milestones as clear evidence of transparency and sound governance. Prof. Ssali reaffirmed Makerere University’s full commitment as the Scheme’s sponsor, noting the progress made in clearing historical arrears and supporting MURBS operations. She praised the Board’s disciplined investment strategy—particularly its diversification into unit trusts and near-cash assets—which has enhanced liquidity and resilience amid a volatile economy. Highlighting MURBS as a model of good governance and accountability, Prof. Ssali emphasized that a reliable retirement scheme not only secures staff futures but also strengthens motivation, productivity, and institutional excellence.
Embrace digital transformation – URBRA urges
From Uganda Retirement Benefits Regulatory Authority (URBRA), the Manager Market Conduct, Mr. Mark Lotukei commended MURBS for its continued commitment to compliance, member education, and sectoral excellence. He highlighted that the Authority has been focusing its trainings on strengthening trustees’ capacity, with recent sessions covering strategic tax planning to help schemes minimize liabilities and safeguard members’ funds. Mr. Lotukei further announced upcoming trainings on benefits administration, stakeholder roles, and the contribution of pension funds to infrastructure and economic development. Emphasizing the evolving nature of the pension landscape, he urged trustees to embrace digital transformation, improve communication with members, and promote sustainable and innovative investment strategies. He concluded by reaffirming URBRA’s commitment to supporting MURBS and other schemes, assuring stakeholders of the Authority’s openness to continued collaboration and guidance.
Fund Value Hits Record UGX 475 billion
In his presentation on the performance, the Chairperson of the Board of Trustees, Dr. Michael Kizito, highlighted the Scheme’s continued growth, prudent financial management, and commitment to transparency. He reported that MURBS’ total assets had risen to UGX 475 billion, up from UGX 409 billion the previous year, reflecting strong investment performance and effective governance. Dr. Kizito commended the University management for timely remittances and reaffirmed the Board’s focus on sound risk management, diversification, and member satisfaction. He acknowledged the dedication of the trustees, staff, and service providers, noting that their collective effort has positioned MURBS for sustainable success. Looking ahead, he emphasized the Scheme’s intention to strengthen alternative investments and optimize operations to deliver even greater value to members and stakeholders.
The presentation of the performance of the scheme is one of the activities leading to the Annual General Meeting and it is done to management and the Sponsor of MURBS. The presentation, which attracted several key stakeholders including members of the University Council and representatives from Stanbic Bank and Old Mutual, concluded with an engaging question-and-answer session moderated by Dr. Deus Kamunyu Muhwezi. The session provided an opportunity for participants to seek clarity on the Scheme’s performance, governance practices, and investment strategies, fostering transparency and open dialogue between the MURBS leadership and its partners. MURBS is licensed by the Uganda Retirement Benefits Regulatory Authority (License No. RBS.0005).
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