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Mak Research on Natural Enemies of Bacteria Excites Farmers
Published
6 years agoon

“Eating Healthy, Eating Safe: The Natural Enemies of Bacteria Approach.”
The world is facing a health problem arising from the usage of chemicals, anti-biotics and other drugs in farming hence the need for alternative approaches aimed at providing healthy and safe products for both human and animal consumption.
To find a lasting solution, a team of researchers at Makerere University College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Bio-Security embarked on a three year research project to enhance the health and safety of fish in Uganda and Ghana.
This was revealed during the Stakeholders’ meeting for SafeFish project officially opened by Prof. David J. Kabasa, Principal of Makerere University College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Bio-Security on Thursday 15th August 2019. The meeting attracted farmers from the Northern, Central, Eastern and Western regions of Uganda, Government Officials, and representatives from the fish sector, policy makers, academicians and partners under the One Health Approach.
The three year research (December 2018 to December 2021) dubbed the SafeFish project is an innovation championed by Makerere University and other partners to boost the Aquaculture sector by developing natural enemies of bacteria (bacteriophages) to improve fish health management, ensure safe fish production and increase fish productivity for local consumption and export.
Through the SafeFish project, the on-going research seeks to tap into the opportunities presented by the ever increasing demand for fish at the national and global levels, reduce the threats from diseases that affect fish, and conform to guidelines from health regulators such as the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the European Union against the use of chemicals, anti-biotics and other drugs in fish farming.
According to the Principal Investigator, Dr. Jesca Lukanga Nakavuma, the SafeFish project is an innovation that provides a safe and healthy alternative of using natural enemies of disease-causing agents (bacteriophages) to improve disease prevention and control in farmed fish.
Dr. Nakavuma who is also a Senior Lecturer and Microbiologist at Makerere University highlighted that in this era of rampant drug resistance, phages are currently explored globally as alternatives for management of bacterial diseases. Bacteriophages are enemies of bacteria and occur naturally in the environment and in gastrointestinal tract of animals and humans where specific bacteria exist.
“In the developed countries, phages are already being used to ensure that citizens consume healthy and safe products. It is therefore timely for the developing world to follow suit. The SafeFish project championed by Makerere University in collaboration with partners will ensure that Ugandans and Africans in general develop and use phages (bacteriophages) in fish farming,” said Dr. Nakavuma.
Funded by the African Union, the SafeFish project will develop bacteriophage cocktails as fish disease bio-control agents for improved aquaculture productivity among tilapia farmers, and for economic and social development by addressing food and nutrition safety in Ghana and Uganda.
Prof. Kabasa commended Dr. Nakavuma and the entire research team for competing and winning the African Union Grant and contributing to the realization of the Makerere University research agenda through the SafeFish project that will impact lives nationally and globally.
“I encourage you to put much effort on the research for phages. The SafeFish research will impact lives nationally and globally. World over, there is an increasing demand for eating healthy products with special attention to white meat such as fish. So, development of phages through the SafeFish project undertaken by Makerere University College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Bio-Security will reduce the burden of diseases affecting fish, result in safe and healthy fish as well as increased productivity of fish,” said Prof. Kabasa.
With the development and application of phages in fish farming, Prof. Kabasa envisioned a booming Aquaculture sector in Uganda with fish farmers earning mega income from supplying fish for local consumption and export.
“The statistics indicate that out of the current demand for fish, you are only supplying 0.01% of fish. You should therefore embrace the SafeFish project to come up with phages (bacteriophages) to boost fish farming. When you increase the supply of fish and meet the market demand for fish worldwide, you will bid farewell to unemployment and poverty,” he remarked amidst applause from farmers, policy makers, representatives of Government, academia and private sector.
Dr. Rose Ann Ademun, the Commissioner-Animal Resources at the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries stressed the importance of regulation in fish farming. “Regulation is for the good of us. With regulation, we are in position to ensure quality and safety of products. I also encourage farmers and researchers to always report diseases affecting fish to the Chief Veterinary Officer,” she said.
Commenting on the need for Stakeholder engagement and involvement, Dr. John Walakira, Member of the Research Team informed the participants that the research team has reached out to a number of partners. Dr. Walakira pointed out that the ongoing research has been enriched by field visits, interactions with fish farmers, stakeholder meetings and a series of trainings.
“We visited most of the fish farms in Uganda. We interacted with farmers. We are today holding the Buy-In workshop for stakeholders. We will continue to involve the fish farmers and other stakeholders at the next levels of this research. We will also conduct a series of trainings.”
Presenting the Policy issues in the fisheries sector, Dr. Maureen Nanziri Mayanja, a Member of the Research team reiterated that the SafeFish project research on alternative approaches to disease management on top of others will be a contribution to the ecological factor considerations. “This is an ecological safe way of managing fish and aquaculture in general.”
Important Facts:
Mak Research Team comprises: Dr. Jesca Lukanga Nakavuma, Dr. John Walakira, Dr. Samuel P. Wamala, Mr. Deus Kamya, Dr. Claire M. Mugasa, Dr. Maureen N. Mayanja, supported by Ms. Lillian Tukahirwa and Ms Rose Vivian Mudumba.
The Safe Fish Project Partners include: NARO-NaFIRRI, Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences-University of Cape Coast, Ghana, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)-Food Research Institute of Ghana, CSIR-Water Research Institute of Ghana, Fishery and Aquaculture Division, Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research; University of Ghana-Legon, Department of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Leicester, UK.
Article by: Ritah Namisango, Mak Public Relations Office
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Simplicity, Service & Scholarship: Hallmarks of Professor Livingstone Luboobi’s Legacy
Published
9 hours agoon
July 18, 2025By
Eve Nakyanzi
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, 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.

“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.”

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.

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
General
Public University Legal and Accounting Officers Trained on Governance and Compliance
Published
2 days agoon
July 17, 2025By
Eve Nakyanzi
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.

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. 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.

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.
General
Celebrating the Life of Prof. Livingstone Sserwadda Luboobi
Published
2 days agoon
July 17, 2025By
Mak Editor
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.
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