General
Mak Hosts 1st National Oil and Gas Symposium 2020
Makerere University in partnership with Operation Wealth Creation (OWC) on Thursday 2nd July 2020 hosted the first ever National Oil and Gas Symposium in the Central Teaching Facility 2 (CTF 2) Auditorium, at the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS). The symposium which brought together the major players in the oil and gas sector; Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development (MEMD), Petroleum Authority of Uganda (PAU), Uganda National Oil Company (UNOC) as well as Members of Parliament (MPs), academia, representatives of companies exploring oil, members of the civil society, student representatives and members of the public was aimed at discussing the “Potential Contribution of the Oil and Gas sector to Uganda’s Economy”. 
Welcoming participants to the symposium, the Principal CoBAMS who also doubled as Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration), Prof. Eria Hisali thanked OWC for partnering with Makerere to bring the idea of the symposium to life. He equally thanked the Makerere University leadership for availing resources that made it possible for the symposium to be held in an academic setting, and partners such as NBS Television for streaming the event live.
He noted that whereas the symposium provided a great platform for various stakeholders and the public to discuss present and future prospects of the oil and gas sector in Uganda, there was need for an in-depth discussion of the day’s various topics. “I urge the academia to take time and follow-up today’s event with detailed research and analysis of these topics in collaboration with the various Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), Civil Society Organisations and other players in the oil and gas industry.”
As host, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe shared that the University Council had just approved the new Makerere University Strategic Plan (2020-2030), whose main thrust is to make the institution more research intensive. He took cognizance of the research potential developed by Makerere in various disciplines over the years, which became more apparent as support rendered to Government’s efforts to fight against COVID-19.
In response to the discovery of commercially viable oil reserves in 2006, the Vice Chancellor shared that Makerere University introduced a Bachelor of Science Programme in Petroleum Geoscience and Production in 2009 and a Masters Programme in the same field in 2012. He added that the University in 2019 partnered with the China University of Petroleum to co-establish and operationalize the Institute of Geoscience and Petroleum at Makerere.
“We have staff and students currently being trained in China as a result of this partnership” complimented Prof. Nawangwe. He continued to say “We acknowledge that the Uganda Petroleum Institute Kigumba is training the technical staff required by the oil and gas sector but we need to train researchers.”
Researchers, said the Vice Chancellor, would provide the much needed insight into how best the oil and gas sector in Uganda can be a stimulus for economic development. “Government has invested heavily in Makerere University over the years and it’s only proper that we give back.”
The symposium sought to thresh out the day’s topic in three panel sessions. These were on: Farm-downs, Final Investment Decisions (FID) and Uganda’s Economy; Governance and Local content Issues in the Oil and Gas sector; and Environment and Social Issues pertaining to the Oil and Gas Industry. The panel sessions were chaired by Hon. Bategeka Lawrence, Dr. Patrick Birungi and Prof. Pamela Mbabazi respectively.
Hon. Bategeka is the MP Hoima Municipality and Vice Chairperson of the Parliamentary Committee on National Economy. As an Economist who has worked as Senior Research Fellow at the Economic Policy Research Centre (EPRC) and written extensively about Uganda’s Oil and Gas sector, he was in his comfort zone chairing the day’s most impassioned discussions.
Presentations were made by Mr. Moses Kabanda, who represented the Mr. Keith Muhakanizi, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development (MoFPED) on Implications of Delayed Final Investment Decision (FID) in Uganda’s Oil and Gas Sector on the Economy and Prof. Eria Hisali on Analysis of the April 2020 Tullow Farm down transaction and its impact on FID. UNOC’s Mr. Daniel Muwoya followed this with Previous and Potential Contribution of Uganda’s Oil and Gas Sector to the Economy and Council Member and Member, Board of Directors, PAU, Mr. Kiryowa Kiwanuka concluded with FID in Uganda’s Oil and Gas Sector and the Post-COVID recovery of the Economy. UNOC’s Chief Commercial Officer Mr. Gilbert Kamuntu wrapped up the session on why the FID has taken so long and what has been achieved during the fourteen year wait.
As the first substantive Executive Director of the Uganda Development Corporation (UDC), Dr. Birungi, who has also previously lectured at Makerere University and served as Director, Development Planning at the National Planning Authority (NPA) is no stranger to local content issues and their economic trickle-down effects. His session therefore sought to bring the discussion home on how Ugandans and Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) have benefited and can continue benefiting from the oil and gas sector.
The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development (MEMD) made the first presentation on Good Governance & Transparency in the Oil and Gas Sector. Are we steering clear of the Dutch Disease? He was followed by the Manager, Petroleum Revenue Investment Reserve Fund at the Bank of Uganda, Mr. Philip Andrew Wabulya with Uganda’s Petroleum Revenue Management framework. The MP Buliisa County, Hon. Stephen Biraahwa Mukitale then discussed the Institutional Capacity to manage the oil and gas sector and finally Ms. Betty Namubiru, Manager National Content at PAU presented on Opportunities and challenges for SMEs to participate in the Oil and Gas Sector and Skilling and employment of Ugandans.
Prof. Mbabazi who is the Chairperson, National Planning Authority (NPA) and has also published a book The Oil Industry in Uganda; A Blessing in Disguise or an all Too Familiar Curse? She noted that revenues from the oil and gas sector have immense capacity to support national development if a people-centred approach in organising and planning for the sector is adopted.
Mr. Isaac Ntujju, the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA)’s Head, Oil and Gas then made the session’s first presentation on what the Government has done in terms of Livelihood Restoration for Persons Affected by the Oil and Gas projects. Dr. Joseph Kobusheshe, PAU’s Director Environment, Health, Safety and Security Management followed up with presentations on Readiness of the Government to implement Oil and Gas in the sensitive areas of the River Nile Basin, Lake Albert, Murchison Falls Park and Synergies between tourism and the oil and gas sector.
The symposium was graced by the Minister of State for Transport, Hon. Joy Kabatsi, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs), Dr. Umar Kakumba and other dignitaries.
Please click a link below to view the recording of the day’s proceedings.
https://www.facebook.com/nbstelevision/videos/255923435710162/
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General
NCBA Commits UGX 1.45 Billion to Makerere Marathon, Pledges Five-Year Support for Inclusive Education
By Eve Nakyanzi and Atwenda Nancy
Makerere University has officially unveiled NCBA Bank Uganda as the platinum sponsor for the 2025 Makerere University Marathon (#MakRun2025), marking a significant milestone in the institution’s journey toward inclusive and sustainable student support. The partnership was formally announced during a colourful event held at the university, attended by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Dr. Maggie Kigozi, Chairperson of the Makerere University Endowment Fund, and NCBA Bank Uganda CEO, Mr. Mark Muyobo.
NCBA Bank Uganda’s UGX 1.45 billion sponsorship over the next five years is the largest corporate contribution to the Makerere Marathon to date. It underscores the bank’s commitment to supporting quality education, community development, and equity. Mr. Muyobo said that, “We are driven by the desire to leave every community better than we found it”. He added that the goal is to empower disadvantaged students to live without limitations, describing this initiative as a bold stride toward establishing a world-class international marathon.
“This is more than just a sponsorship, it is a strategic partnership built on shared values,” Dr. Kigozi remarked. “With this support, we are positioned to establish a fully equipped Disability Support Unit and a sustainable pool of funds to assist economically disadvantaged students.”
The marathon, slated under the theme “Run the Hills for the Future,” seeks to unify students, alumni, corporate entities, and professional athletes in pursuit of a common cause. At its core, the MakRun2025 promotes active lifestyles, social inclusion, and a sense of communal responsibility.
“It’s not just a race,” Prof. Nawangwe emphasized. “It is a movement to break barriers, change lives, and build a resilient, inclusive university.”
The marathon’s broader impact includes fundraising for students living with disabilities and those facing financial hardship, contributing directly to the university’s Endowment Fund.
A major highlight of the event is the introduction of a full 42.2-kilometer marathon—bringing international standards to the annual run. Organizers have promised a professional, accredited experience with traffic-free routes and ample support for runners.
“This edition will elevate the MakRun into a world-class event,” said Mr. Muyobo. “We are proud to support Makerere University in realizing its dream of a globally recognized marathon that reflects Uganda’s commitment to education and inclusivity.”
Beyond the race itself, the event will feature a vibrant line-up of activities, including music, drama, and games for all age groups. It is designed to foster a festival-like atmosphere that welcomes every member of the community.
Organizers and university leaders have extended an open invitation to students, staff, alumni, corporate partners, and Kampala residents to participate, cheer, or donate to the cause.
“Every step taken is a step towards hope for a student,” Dr. Kigozi stated. “Together, we are building a Makerere that cares, includes, and uplifts.”
The partnership is expected to significantly enhance the university’s ability to support underprivileged students and improve campus infrastructure for students with disabilities. It also sets the tone for future collaborations that align with the values of compassion, excellence, and innovation. The fifth edition of the MakRun is scheduled to take place on August 17th, 2025.
The Writers are Interns in the Public Relations Office, Makerere University
Makerere University has today Wednesday, 9th June 2025 officially unveiled NCBA Bank Uganda as the Platinum Sponsor of the Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF)’s flagship initiative – the Makerere University Marathon. Formerly known as a fun run, the initiative was rebranded on 27th March 2025 during the launch of its Fifth Edition. This year’s event, #MakRun2025, is slated for 17th August 2025 under the theme “Run the Hills for the Future”.
Addressing the Media at a press conference this afternoon, the MakEF Board Chairperson, Dr. Maggie Kigozi remarked, “We are deeply honoured and excited to unveil NCBA Bank Uganda as the Platinum Sponsor of #MakRun2025, with a landmark commitment of UGX 1.45 billion over the next five years.”
Dr. Kigozi further described the unveiling as “a strategic partnership built on shared values and a common vision for inclusive education and sustainable impact,” adding that it would “fast-track the establishment of a fully equipped Disability Support Unit for students living with disabilities, and to build a sustainable pool of funds to support Economically Disadvantaged Students.”
Appreciating the generous sponsorship, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe acknowledged that NCBA Bank had not only made history as the biggest corporate sponsor of #MakRun to date but also aligned with Makerere’s vision to improve the quality of student life. “This is a powerful gesture of trust in our mission and a demonstration of deep corporate citizenship”, he added.
Prof. Nawangwe further thanked NCBA for recognizing that an investment in Makerere University is an indirect investment in the future of Uganda. “The Makerere Marathon is not just a race. It is a movement to establish a fully-fledged Disability Support Unit for students living with various forms of disabilities, and to build a sustainable fund for Economically Disadvantaged Students.”
The Vice Chancellor therefore rallied staff, students, alumni, partners and friends of Makerere to match NCBA’s generous support with vigour and commitment, so as to make #MakRun2025 the most impactful edition since its founding.
The Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Mark Muyobo thanked Makerere University for giving NCBA Bank Uganda the opportunity to play its part in “shaping Uganda’s future one student, one community, one strength at a time,” adding that #MakRun is a symbol of hope for students living with disabilities as it speaks to Makerere’s core values of inclusion, equity, and excellence.
On a rhythmical note, Mr. Muyobo remarked that the #MakRun2025 theme is “not just about finishing lines, it is about opening doors; giving opportunities to those who are disabled. It is about promoting active lifestyle.”
#MakRun2025 will for the first time feature a full 42.2km marathon race with international accreditation and professional timing along a dedicated traffic-free route.
“These are not just upgrades, these are bold steps towards building a world-class international marathon right here in Kampala. We are proud to be the wings at your back as you take this leap because when Makerere University, the beacon of higher learning in Uganda grows stronger, the ripple effects are felt across the region and across the continent” Mr. Muyobo affirmed.
To officially seal the deal, a Memorandum of Understanding was officially signed between Makerere University and NCBA Bank Uganda, and thereafter, a dummy cheque of UGX 1.45 billion was presented to Dr. Maggie Kigozi as the Vice Chancellor, Members of Management and NCBA staff witnessed.
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