General
Minds Illuminated as Mak Hosts the Day of Moringa Science
Moringa oleifera also dubbed the superfood of superfoods or ‘Miracle’ tree is the most widely cultivated species of the Moringa genus of trees with its origins in South Asia. In Uganda, Moringa oleifera leaves are widely consumed by communities, mostly for their nutritional and medicinal values. Its use continues to multiply rapidly with countless products made from the tree’s leaves and roots lining supermarket and pharmacy shelves. It has however been noted that the use of Moringa oleifera is not well standardised.
It was against this background that the Makerere University College of Health Sciences (MakCHS), School of Biomedical Sciences organised “The Day of Moringa Science” at which studies done on Moringa oleifera leaves were disseminated to the Ministry of Health, researchers, academicians, ethno botanists, policy makers, herbalists and students. Held in the Davies Lecture Theatre, MakCHS, on Tuesday, 9th July 2019, the activity was supported by the Directorate of Research and Graduate Training (DRGT) under the two year (2017-2019) Nurturing Emerging Research Leaders through Post-Doctoral Training at Makerere University (NERLP) project funded by the Carnegie Corporation of New York.
Welcoming participants, the Principal MakCHS, Prof. Charles Ibingira noted that outcomes of the Day of Moringa Science would mark a turning point in the use of traditional medicinal plants in Uganda to discover drugs that treat chronic illnesses and combat drug resistant micro-organisms.
“I commend Prof. Josephine Kasolo and the Department of Physiology for conducting research on the medicinal values of Moringa oleifera. It is this research that will help us better understand and modernise what herbalists have been practicing over the decades” remarked the Principal.
He also thanked Prof. Kasolo championing efforts at MakCHS to better brand and package Moringa oleifera and challenged the student community present to take advantage of the renewed interest in herbal remedies to add value to medicinal plants. Herbal remedies, he noted, were the next big thing and those who invested now would reap financial benefits in the future.
Representing the Ministry of Health, the Commissioner Clinical Services, Dr. Jackson Amone congratulated MakCHS and the Department of Physiology in particular for dedicating an entire day to Moringa Science. He paid tribute to his former Lecturer, Prof. Josephine Kasolo for working hard to bridge the gap between traditional and modern practices of medicine.
“When I visited China over ten years ago, we were taken to a Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital where patients were given an assortment of herbs packed in numerous polythene bags as their prescription. Our recent visits to the same facilities showed that our colleagues through the use of modern technology have managed to pack the same prescriptions better in tablets, capsules and many other forms. I am therefore happy that we are also following the same trend with the products on display here” remarked Dr. Amone.
One of the products on display was REPLENISH+; an all-natural immune booster made up of SelenoExcell Selenium and Moringa oleifera, produced by a Ugandan company – Doctor’s Choice Limited.
Addressing the participants, Prof. Josephine Kasolo thanked all present for sparing time to attend the 2019 Day of Moringa Science. She noted that Moringa was indeed a ‘Miracle’ tree with both medicinal and nutritional uses.
“Moringa oleifera contains multivitamins, amino acids, antioxidants and has been proven to grow well in loam, sandy and clay soils as well as murram. This means that it can be grown in any part of Uganda” added Prof. Kasolo.
She further shared that Moringa oleifera was massively promoted by the local media in the 1980s as a plant able to cure the symptoms of HIV/AIDS and the leaves continue to be widely used by herbalists for their medicinal properties.
“The Department of Physiology has identified a number of phytochemicals from Moringa oleifera leaves and established twenty four medicinal uses. We are in the process of developing our own product and thank Doctor’s Choice for coming to share with us what they have done so far” remarked Prof. Kasolo.
The presentation on REPLENISH+ by Doctor’s Choice showed that research on subjects who took daily doses of 200µg of Seleno Excell Selenium had 63% fewer cases of prostate cancer, 58% fewer cases of colon or rectal cancers, and 46% fewer cases of lung cancers than those not receiving the supplement. The same research showed a 50% reduction in cancer mortality and 37% reduction in cancer incidence.
The presentation also highlighted that our bodies use selenium along with tryptophan, cysteine and glutamine that are found in Moringa oleifera to produce an enzyme called Glutathione Peroxidase. This important enzyme serves as a natural antioxidant and boosts the immune system.
A second presentation by Mr. Kenneth Mugume, Programs Officer (Research and Development) at THETA Uganda showcased additional herbal formulations of Moringa oleifera such as Booster Plus; by Kampala Pharmaceutical Industries (KPI) and Revital; by Aloesha Organic. He also shared publications showing that the Moringa plant alkaloid moringine relaxes the bronchioles and as such can be used for the treatment of asthma.
Mr. Mugume further highlighted that organic Moringa contains 46 anti-oxidants, 36 anti-inflammatories, 18 amino acids, 9 essential amino acids and 92 nutrients. In terms of nutritional value, Moringa contains double the protein in yoghurt, triple the potassium in bananas, four times the calcium in milk, four times the vitamin A in carrots, seven times the vitamin C in oranges among other nutrients.
Regular consumption of organic Moringa, he shared, has additional benefits such as stimulating hair growth, normalising blood sugar, normalising blood pressure, curing Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs), enhancing skin health, increasing energy and endurance and increasing mental clarity. Other benefits included; improving wound healing, reducing wrinkles, improving digestion, eliminating constipation, detoxifying the body and improving nutrition for infants six months and older as well as pregnant or nursing mothers among others.
Article by Public Relations Office
On Saturday, 5th September 2026, the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs urged the Makerere University community to actively engage in local philanthropy as a vital way to support vulnerable members of our society. Prof. Ssali shared this message during the Community Open Day for Mastercard Foundation Initiatives at Makerere University, where Prof. Claire Mack Mugasa, Dean of the School of Biosecurity, Biotechnology, and Laboratory, represented her and served as the guest of honour.
At the event attended by Mastercard Foundation Scholars (Mak Students and Alumni), mentors, partners, and the broader university community, Prof. Ssali emphasised the importance of giving back to the community. She expressed her appreciation for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University, highlighting their commitment to generosity. Prof. Ssali encouraged the entire university community to adopt similar practices, fostering a culture of social responsibility that shall positively influence and uplift surrounding communities.
“We gather here today not simply for an event, but for a statement of intent. The Community Open Day is a platform built on the conviction that education, paired with a spirit of national service, can transform not only individual lives but entire communities,” Prof. Ssali remarked. “I therefore call upon the Makerere University community to embrace the spirit of giving back to our communities. It is one of the ways through which the university will positively impact the less advantaged amongst us,” Prof. Ssali added.
Ms. Maria Mugerwa, the Head of Finance at the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, who represented the Foundation at the event, emphasised that giving back to the community is at the core of everything the Foundation does.
“I thank you, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars community at Makerere University, for bringing us together for this Community Open Day, one of the activities that sits at the heart of Mastercard Foundation: using opportunities to create opportunities for others.” Ms. Mugerwa remarked.
“Today is about community, connection and giving back. Giving back doesn’t require big projects or significant resources; it simply requires identifying a problem in your community and asking yourself what I can do about it.” Ms. Mugerwa pointed out.
Rotarian Francis Wangi, the day’s keynote speaker, reminded the scholars and guests present of the importance of giving back to the community. He noted that individuals’ success is tied to others’ well-being.
“Let us always think about others: ‘I am because we are.’ Our individual success is tied to the well-being of our neighbours, our villages, and our nation.” Wangi noted.
Mr. Wangi reminded the gathering that giving back to the community was not an act of Charity; rather, it was a fundamental responsibility of leadership.
“Giving back to the less advantaged in our communities is not an act of charity; it is a fundamental responsibility of leadership. True influence is measured by how much we lift others as we rise.” Wangi emphasized.
Prof. Justine Namaalwa, Program Director of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, represented by Ms. Jolly Okumu, stated that the Foundation considers education as equipping and empowering transformative leaders, a means to prepare young people to use their skills and networks for meaningful contributions to their communities.
“The Mastercard Foundation believes that education goes beyond acquiring knowledge and qualifications; it is also about developing young people who are prepared to apply their knowledge, skills and networks to contribute meaningfully to their communities.” Prof. Namaalwa remarked.
Prof. Namaalwa applauded the Mastercard Foundation Scholars (Mak Students and Alumni) for embracing the spirit of giving back through tangible community projects. Highlighting that the community open day was an opportunity to celebrate the community impact to date and launch a journey of change for yet another disadvantaged community.
“As we gather today, we celebrate the long-term community impact through the many transformative projects delivered since 2015, and we, the Scholars Program Community at Makerere University, are here to continue on the same journey with yet another community; we are here to demonstrate that every individual has something to offer in the transformation of our communities,” Prof. Namaalwa noted.
Mr Paul Wandera Makhulo, the Chairperson of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Association at Makerere University, used the occasion to remind his fellow young people of the importance of giveback as one of the ethos of Mastercard Foundation.
“To my fellow Scholars, I make a special appeal: Let us own Giveback. Let us not see it as an initiative belonging only to your nominated Executive Committee or the Giveback Committee; let us see it as our responsibility as Scholars.” Wandera pointed out.
Mr. Elphas Khamala, the representative of the Scholars Council and Chairperson of the Giveback Committee, used the event to raise awareness of the 2026 Scholars Giveback Project. He said the project aims to raise UGX 86 million to build a two-classroom block with 60 bench desks, improve sanitation by constructing a ventilated pit latrine, and install a water-harvesting system at Eastern Gate Nursery and Primary School in Amuru District.
The school is in Pacilo parish, Atiak subcounty, Amuru district, about 8-10 km from the South Sudan border. It was established in 2023 as a community initiative and has not received external funding. It currently has about 164 learners, from nursery to Primary Seven, and 10 teachers, including children from the refugee communities.
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program and its partner initiative, the Africa Climate Collaborative, organised the Scholars Community Open Day in collaboration with DFCU Bank and other partners, including FINCA Bank, Tamani Solutions, and Katumba Estates.
Held under the theme “Together for Impact: Celebrating Innovations and Giveback,” the event brought together Scholars (Mak Students and Alumni), the university community, partners, and members of the public to celebrate community initiatives and gather support for the 2026 Scholars’ Annual Day of Service.
Of the targeted UGX 86 million, undergraduate and graduate Scholars and Program Team members will raise at least UGX 30 million, while the remaining funds will be mobilised from partners; university leadership and alumni are expected to mobilise the remainder. The funds will finance a two-classroom block estimated at UGX 63.5 million, 60 bench desks at UGX 6 million, a staff latrine at UGX 8 million, and a 10,000-litre water tank with a water-harvesting system estimated at UGX 8.5 million.
Background
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program began its first phase in 2013 at Makerere University, marking the start of an impactful partnership. In 2023, this collaboration was renewed with the launch of Phase Two of the Scholars Program. Central to this initiative are activities focused on community engagement and giving back, which play a vital role in fostering leadership development among scholars.
Bernard Buteera is the Principal Communication and Public Relations Officer for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University.
General
Celebrating a 26-year Legacy at Makerere: Deputy AR Mr. Charles Ssentongo hands over to Mr. Justus Karegyeya
Hot on the heels of completing 26 years of exemplary service and unwavering dedication to Makerere University, Mr. Charles Ssentongo has today 10th September 2026 officially handed over the office of Deputy Academic Registrar – Undergraduate Admissions and Records to Mr. Justus Karegyeya. Mr. Ssentongo held this position for 16 years in both acting and substantive capacity.
The transition was completed during an official handover ceremony held at the Senate building, Level 3, in the presence of the Academic Registrar Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, staff, and colleagues who gathered to celebrate Mr. Ssentongo’s monumental contribution to the University and also witness the handover as he retires from University service.
Appreciation for Mr. Ssentongo’s Contribution to the Academic Registry at Mak
Prof. Buyinza commended Ssentongo for inviting staff and collegaues to what he called an important and symbolic moment.
He acknowledged this as a moment of transition from one life cycle to another, and assured Mr. Ssentongo that Makerere University will always value his service, and he will remain an important part of its story and enduring legacy.
Considering that the two portfolios Ssentongo has been in charge of for the past 16 years; admissions and records, are the central pillars in any university, Prof. Buyinza commended him for having manned them with a distinction.
He further reiterated that these two pillars, admission and records, are where control over who is admitted, and protection of the academic awards of the university is exercised. Mr. Ssentongo, Prof. Buyinza noted, has executed this dual task very well through a strong commitment to safeguarding the university systems and processes. His was a tenure defined by diligence, integrity, professionalism, and devotion.
Prof. Buyinza further thanked him for having helped strengthen the records management system in the university by ensuring personal academic documents are secured from unauthorised access.
“We do not see these documents flying all over. So, we thank you for having contributed to the advancement of our systems and to greater efficiency” Prof. Buyinda expressed.
Beyond technical contribution, Ssentongo’s integrity, humble disposition, demeanor, credibility, and willingness to support others was commended, for he has used this to mentor as many staff as possible. As Mr. Ssentongo, steps out of office, he leaves behind a very strong, formidable team that will carry forward his legacy.
Prof. Buyinza extended the University Management’s sincere gratitude to Mr. Ssentongo for the many years of dedicated service to Makerere, and renewed its commitment to continue strengthening the processes that have been built.
Mr. Charles Ssentogo’s Handover message and ceremony
While delivering his handover speech, Mr. Charles Ssentogo thanked God and Makerere University Council for the opportunity given to him to work here since January 2000.
He shared that since he joined as an Assistant Registrar, he has been deployed in the Undergraduate Admissions and Records division where he has grown through the ranks. And whereas Ssentongo was appointed as the Head of the division and Acting Deputy Academic Registrar in 2010, it was not until 2018 when he was confirmed in substantive capacity.
He extended heartfelt appreciation to all supervisors that he was privileged to work under and thanked them for the support and guidance rendered to him.
Key Achievements highlighted during his tenure:
- Mentoring and training of staff.
- Advertising accredited programmes.
- Managing government-sponsored student admissions for all public universities.
- Digitalising the admissions process via the ACMIS system.
- Successfully managing special admission schemes (such as mature age, district quota, disability, and sports) and amicably resolving admission disputes.
- Coordinating division activities with external bodies, including UNEB.
- Reorganising records through the Digitalization of Academic Records and Processes (DARP) project for efficient electronic access.
- Conducting successful career guidance sessions in schools.
Counsel offered to the incoming Deputy Academic Registrar:
- Read and internalise policy for effective management of duties and informed dispensation of advice when called upon.
- Serve diligently by executing your duties timely and avoiding unnecessary arguments.
- Verify the handover report before signing it off.
Professional growth of Mr. Sentongo while at Makerere
Mr. Ssentongo joined Makerere University in 2000 as Assistant Registrar and was confirmed in the university service January 2002, and in 2006, was promoted to the position of Senior Assistant Registrar.
In 2009 he was posted to the Examinations and Transcripts Division as Head of Transcripts section, where he served for one year. In 2010 he was transferred back to Undergraduate Admissions and Records Division as its Head and designated as Acting Deputy Academic Registrar.
In 2018 he was confirmed as substantive Deputy Academic Registrar and Head of the Undergraduate Admissions and Records Division, a position he held until his official retirement on 9th September 2026.
Mr. Justus Karegyeya accepts to take on the position in acting capacity
In his remarks, Mr. Karegyeya formally accepted the interim appointment, admitting that he was experiencing a sense of both being overwhelmed and gratitude for the opportunity.
He highlighted his extensive history within the Division, admitting that this gives him a deep familiarity with the unit’s internal processes.
Therefore, in this new capacity, Karegyeya appreciated the mentorship the team has received from Mr. Ssentongo, which he emphasised has prepared them to execute their duties effectively.
He pledged to maintain operational continuity by picking up exactly from where his former supervisor left off, and continuing the specific tasks that were previously recorded. Karegyeya equally expressed his readiness to hold the position until the Human Resources Directorate completes the process of recruiting a substantive replacement.
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