General
Mak Launches RxSolution to Take Health Services to the Top
The Makerere University Health Services on Thursday 21st November, 2019 launched RxSolution; an integrated pharmaceutical management software, to improve its three pillars of service delivery, training and research. The solution was implemented with support from the USAID Uganda Health Supply Chain (UHSC) Program through the Ministry of Health (MoH).
According to UHSC’s Mr. Michael Kavuma, Mak Health Services is the first public health facility to implement the RxSolution’s dispensing module, which allows users to trace medicine all the way from the stock to the patient, in order to ensure accountability at dispensing level. The dispensing module is linked to the stock module and allows for computerized stock management tasks at patient service points in the outpatient and inpatient departments, Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) clinic, Tuberculosis (TB) clinic, wards, laboratories and other service points.
Mr. Kavuma further shared that RxSolution has been implemented in 276 of Uganda’s 400 higher-level health facilities with Butabika National Referral Mental Hospital, Masaka Regional Referral Hospital and Kayunga General Hospital as pilots. These public facilities can now order for stocks from the National Medical Stores (NMS) using RxSolution software.
As a result of implanting RxSolution, Mak’s Health Services now stand to benefit from; enhanced service delivery through the solution’s ability to incorporate clinical guidelines, multiple reports that can inform decision making, streamlined patient management which empowers administrators to make prioritized deployments of staff as well as support to planning and budgeting for drug stocks.
The Director Mak Health Services Prof. Josaphat Byamugisha thanked USAID and UHSC for their support in deploying RxSolution as well as training staff on use of the software. He added that RxSolution will go a long way in enhancing the research pillar of Mak Health Services. “We currently have three postgraduate students from the Department of Radiology and a number of undergraduates, especially those speciliazing in Health Management Information Systems.”
Prof. Byamugisha lauded the Health Services Interim Board for the role played in setting the agenda for the Hospital, adding that the Board’s vision is to take Mak Health Services to the level of the University’s continental ranking.
“We are committed to looking at Health Services beyond just this hospital. We have clinics at the Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK) and in Jinja, so as to bring services closer to not only our staff and students but to the surrounding communities as well” he explained.
The Director shared that Mak Health Services are also open to the public, which currently makes up 10% of the total clientele served. He added that the objective was to increase this percentage significantly, so as to generate funds that can be used to further enhance service delivery and boost the facility’s financial sustainability.
The Dean, School of Health Sciences, Dr. Freddy Kitutu could not help but use the occasion to brag about his School’s enviable position of being home to five key disciplines namely; Allied Health Scientists, Dentists, Nurses, Midwives and Pharmacists, despite its relatively small size and young age. He commended the partners for implementing RxSolutions, noting that reports from the system would make it possible for the Pharmacists to carry out detailed reviews on the use of medicines.
Dr. Kitutu reminded the audience that the RxSolution Launch within the World Antibiotic Awareness Week (WAAW) 2019 was timely, as this would help Mak Health Services in curtailing the development of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) through improved prescribing and dispensing of antibiotics. He nevertheless noted that prevention is better than cure and called for continued promotion of healthy habits like handwashing.
Speaking on behalf of USAID and UHSC, the Chief of Party, Management Sciences for Health (MSH) Uganda, Mr. Phillip Kamutenga, stated that the support to the Ministry of Health by the partners is meant to ensure that there is uninterrupted supply of medicines in the country. “I am therefore proud that we are going to be witnessing the launch of the dispensing module of RxSolution at the Makerere University Hospital today.”
Mr. Kamutenga emphasised that the traceability of medicines across the supply chain from the stores to the dispensing point is very important and Makerere University is going to be a reference point for all Public Health Units in as far as implementing the dispensing module is concerned. “USAID through the Uganda Health Supply Chain Program has donated the RxSolution, provided 20 computers, set up a Local Area Network and trained clinicians on the system to support this.”
He added that there are never enough resources to finance public health the world over and as such, Public Health Facilities can save a lot by reducing on expiries, stock outs and procuring only what is required by their clients.
The day’s lineup of speakers would have been incomplete without a voice from the student body, the biggest beneficiaries of the Mak Health Services. The President, College of Health Sciences (CHS) and Fifth Year Medicine and Surgery student, Mr. Sserunjogi Emmanuel could not hide his joy at being associated with what he described as “a game changing event.”
He therefore commended his Principal for working with the Mak Health Services to deliver quality diagnosis, treatment and follow-up to the Makerere Community and members of the public through the introduction of RxSolution. “The Makerere University Hospital has today become the epitome of digitizing health services in Uganda.”
The Principal CHS, Prof. Charles Ibingira could not help but laud his colleagues for taking on the challenge of managing the Mak Health Services. He thanked the University Council and Management for assigning his college this responsibility, noting that health services ought to be prioritized for the good of all in the community.
“This hospital has the greatest potential in the country and region; we have the biggest number of specialists at the College, we admit over 400 doctors and health service officers per year and with our vision to create a health management organization present in all Ugandan cities, we could easily become a leading medical tourism destination for the region” remarked Prof. Ibingira.
He therefore thanked USAID, UHSC and the Ministry of Health for working with Makerere University to augment service delivery, training and research efforts within its health services through the implementation of RxSolution. The Principal nevertheless urged the Director Mak Health Services to develop educational programs for staff and students aimed at promoting healthy lifestyles in the face a growing Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD)s burden.
Representing the Ministry of Health (MoH), the Commissioner Pharmaceutical & Natural Medicines, Ms. Neville Okuna Oteba shared that her Ministry is currently pursuing all efforts to ensure Universal Health Coverage (UHC) for Uganda and the successful implementation of integrated pharmaceutical management solutions such as RxSolution lies at the centre of these efforts.
The Commissioner shared MoH’s expectations of Mak Health Services following the successful implementation of RxSolution, with the need to become a Centre of Excellence topping the list. In this regard, she expressed joy that Hospital Staff had already stood out for the exceptional enthusiasm in embracing the rollout of RxSolution. “The College should now ensure that all students visit the Hospital and learn how to use the system before they graduate.”
Ms. Okuna Oteba also stated that MoH expects RxSolution to promote the use investigative health care practices at the Hospital. “Antimicrobial Resistance is a time bomb waiting to happen and all of us are potential victims. We therefore need to talk more about the seriousness posed by poor prescription and dispensing of medicines.”
She concluded by emphasizing that investment in systems should benefit the people, especially as health facilities progress towards paperless patient care management. The Commissioner also asked the Hospital Administration to ensure that all research findings that can inform policy are shared with the Ministry of Health.
Delivering the concluding remarks prior to launching the system, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe congratulated CHS as well as the Mak Health Services Management and Staff upon transforming the face of the Hospital within a short period of time. He particularly expressed happiness at the reducing number of students seeking treatment outside the hospital, a reaffirmation of the improved services.
The Vice Chancellor commended Staff especially in the clinical sciences for their dedication to ensuring that students are well trained, noting that they are our future leaders. In the same breath, he thanked the Ministry of Health for regularly providing Mak staff with various opportunities especially in the form of consultancies.
He equally thanked USAID and UHSC for support rendered to Mak Health Services through the various collaborations, noting that this would translate into increased reports from satisfied clients. Prof. Nawangwe then went ahead to launch the RxSolution as well as tour the state-of-the-art laboratory and modern 3D/4D ultrasound unit. He also toured the specialized clinics in Otorhinolaryngology (ENT), Antiretroviral Therapy (ART), Optometry, Dental, Psychiatry as well as Obstetrics/Gynaecology.
Article by Public Relations Office
Hundreds of mourners gathered at St. Augustine Chapel, Makerere University on May 30, 2026 to pray for the soul of Mr. Sylas Ruhweza, the first President of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Alumni Community at Makerere University.
The requiem mass was filled with emotional tributes celebrating Ruhweza’s life of service, leadership and dedication to community causes. Ruhweza passed away on Friday, May 29, 2026, at Mildmay Uganda Hospital.
Speaker after speaker described him as a humble and visionary leader who was passionate about uplifting others and deeply committed to excellence.
“We thank God for the life of Sylas, for the years he granted him among us, and for the impact he made on countless lives. He carried himself with humility and grace, and wherever he went, he built friendships, inspired confidence, and left people better than he found them,” Tooro Kingdom Prime Minister, Calvin Armstrong Rwomiire Akiiki, said during the Mass.
Mr. Rwomiire urged mourners to honour Ruhweza’s legacy by embracing the values he stood for, including integrity, compassion, hard work, service to community, and his unwavering love for Tooro Kingdom.
The main celebrant, Rev. Fr. Charles Lwanga Makoboza, echoed the message in his homily, reminding Christians to remain rooted in Jesus Christ throughout their lives.
“Sylas has gone to be with God, in a place where there is no pain, missed calls, struggle, corruption, betrayal, jealousy and tears. He is in a place with absolute peace. So, in life, never be the cause of someone’s tears, and if you do, seek reconciliation,” Fr. Lwanga, said.
Fr. Lwanga also reminded mourners that what Ruhweza needs most are prayers, not wreaths.
Speaking on behalf of the family, Ms. Grace Kabasita, Ruhweza’s maternal aunt, described him as a loving and dedicated young man whose life touched many people.
“Sylas was a counsellor, teacher, and a brilliant, loveable young man who fitted into every society. His life was marked by service, friendship, dedication, and commitment to the wellbeing of others and his culture,” she said.
Addressing mourners, Prof Justine Namaalwa, the Coordinator of the Mastercard Foundation Initiatives at Makerere University, noted that though Sylas’s life was cut short, he leaves behind a lasting legacy of service, leadership and impact on the communities he served.
“Sylas, you have gone too soon. But it is well with our souls. May your legacy of Transformative Leadership live on,” Prof. Namaalwa, said.
She thanked the Mastercard Foundation for supporting his education through BRAC Uganda, supporting his university education through the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University, and nurturing his leadership journey through the Youth Advisory Board.
Ruhweeza at glance
Born on 19th July 1994 to the late Mr. Paul Tinkasimire Paul Adyeeri and Ms. Ategeka Margret Abwooli of Bunyangabu District.
The ninth born of eleven children attended Kaboyo Primary School for his Primary Education, and later joined Fort Portal Secondary School where he sat for his O-Level. He then proceeded to A-Level at Hannah International School.
He joined Makerere University and graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Petroleum Geoscience and Production in 2022, supported by the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Programme at Makerere University.
At the time of his passing, he was pursuing a Master’s degree at Victoria University.
Leadership, Service and Professional Contributions
Mr. Ruhweza served as Chairperson of the Mastercard Foundation Alumni Network at BRAC from 2020 to 2022, demonstrating transformative leadership and commitment to social change.
He later became the President of the Makerere AlumNet Foundation, an umbrella organization that brings together the Scholars Makerere Alumni chapter.
He worked as an eLearning Support Officer at the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS) under the e-learning initiative at Makerere University.
He was a member of the Steering Committee of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University, representing the Scholars Makerere Alumni chapter.
At the time of his passing, he was serving as the Minister of Information in the Tooro Kingdom, Strategy and Engagement Lead for the Mastercard Foundation Alumni Network-Uganda Chapter, and Programme Associate at the Africa Climate Collaborative, one of the Mastercard Foundation initiatives at Makerere University.
Legacy
Ruhweza is remembered for his dedication to education, leadership, mentorship, and community service. He passionately championed youth empowerment, collaboration, and social responsibility.
His life reflected the transformative power of education, servant leadership, and a commitment to uplifting others.
May Sylas’s soul rest in eternal peace.
General
Makerere University Pushes for Stronger Support for Research Ethics Committees amid Growing Research Demands
By Moses Lutaaya
Makerere University has intensified efforts to strengthen research governance and ethical oversight, with university leaders calling for greater institutional support for Research Ethics Committees (RECs), whose role has become increasingly central to the institution’s research-led agenda.
The call was made during a high-level meeting between University Management and Chairpersons of Research Ethics Committees held at the Vice Chancellor’s Boardroom at the Makerere University Main Building on May 25, 2026.
Opening the meeting, the Director of Research Innovations and Partnerships (DRIP), Prof. Robert Wamala, highlighted a number of operational and administrative challenges affecting the effectiveness of RECs at Makerere University.
Prof. Wamala observed that RECs continue to operate with gaps in institutional framework outlining their position within the university governance structure, a gap he said has affected institutional support and long-term sustainability.
According to Prof. Wamala, inadequate facilitation continues to affect the operations of several committees, especially in areas of staffing, administrative coordination, and remuneration for REC administrators.
He also pointed to challenges arising from new regulatory requirements governing the appointment of REC members, particularly the need for appointment letters to be authorized or signed by the Vice Chancellor.
Prof. Wamala further raised concern over the high cost of mandatory accreditation and training processes required by the Uganda National Council for Science and Technology (UNCST), especially the Good Research Regulatory Practice (GRRP) training undertaken every three years. “Payment for training is too high for individual RECs to cover,” he noted, adding that many committees are struggling to independently raise the money to undertake the training for all their members.
He also emphasized the need for stronger institutional monitoring systems to support timely submission of accreditation renewal applications, oversight of approved research activities, and coordination of REC operations across the university.
In her remarks, the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs, Prof. Sarah Ssali, commended the growing contribution of RECs in advancing Makerere University’s research agenda and acknowledged the concerns raised by Prof. Wamala and committee members.
“There were not very many RECs,” Prof. Ssali said. “So now that we are 10, it is really impressive because it speaks to our cause for a research-led university.” She admitted that despite their importance, many RECs still operate outside the formal university establishment, making staffing and operational support difficult.
“The only challenge that I see is that they are not fully institutionalized. So it is upon units to start them or not to start them,” she explained. Prof. Ssali added that because RECs are not fully integrated into the public service structure of the university, recruiting and remunerating staff through conventional university systems remains complicated. “Hiring for them staff will be a little bit cumbersome because the university will say they are not part of our structure,” she said.
She nevertheless emphasized that university management recognizes the strategic importance of RECs in strengthening ethical research oversight and supporting Makerere’s position as a research-led institution. “RECs are doing a great job of furthering our strategic agenda of being a research-led university,” she noted.
Prof. Ssali explained that the growing reliance on institutional RECs by the Uganda National Council for Science and Technology demonstrates the trust placed in Makerere University’s ethical review systems.
Addressing concerns about the cost and frequency of mandatory training, Prof. Ssali acknowledged the financial burden on RECs but explained that many of the requirements are set by national regulators. “Many of the things you have raised are with National Council, they are not with us,” she said. “We can only pledge to lobby.”
To address logistical challenges associated with training senior academics, she proposed more flexible scheduling arrangements. “For a professor to give you a whole day is going to be a challenge,” she said. “Maybe you can do half days throughout the week.”
Prof. Ssali also encouraged colleges and schools to allocate part of their enhanced research budgets toward supporting REC activities, including staffing, training, and operational facilitation.
She suggested that colleges and schools hosting RECs should directly take responsibility for sustaining them. “For me, that’s the way out — to ensure that the colleges and schools that have RECs take them as their responsibility,” she noted.
The DVC-AA also addressed concerns related to intellectual property rights, Material Transfer Agreements (MTA), and the need for researchers to formally communicate scientific discoveries and innovations to the university to ensure institutional protection and benefit-sharing. “All you are saying is true, but it depends on you as researchers informing the institution that we have made this discovery,” she said.
Prof. Ssali reiterated Makerere University’s commitment to strengthening research governance systems and pledged continued engagement with both university management and national regulatory bodies to address the concerns raised by REC members. “Where they are, they enable research, publication and growth,” she said of the RECs. “Most importantly, they enable us to be ethical with the way we do our things.”
The meeting was attended by chairpersons of the various Research Ethics Committees across Makerere University and affiliated institutions. These included Dr. Ponsiano Ochama from the School of Medicine Research Ethics Committee (SOM-REC), Dr. Moses Ocan from the School of Biomedical Sciences Research Ethics Committee (SBS-REC), Dr. Paul Kutyabami from the School of Health Sciences Research Ethics Committee, Dr. David Kyaddondo from the Uganda Cancer Institute Research Ethics Committee, Dr. Stella Neema from the School of Social Sciences Research Ethics Committee (MAKSS-REC), Dr. Joseph Kagayi from the School of Public Health Research Ethics Committee, Dr. Joseph Kateete from the Infectious Diseases Institute Research Ethics Committee, Dr. Fred Okuku from the Uganda Heart Institute Research Ethics Committee, Dr. Kassim Sadik from the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences Research Ethics Committee, and Dr. Eddy Walakira from the College of Business and Management Sciences Research Ethics Committee.
The discussions reflected Makerere University’s broader ambition to consolidate its position as a leading research-intensive institution while ensuring that ethical standards, accountability, and innovation protection remain central to its academic mission.
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