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EfD-Mak Holds Policy Dialogue on L. Victoria’s Hydrology, Water Quality and Livelihoods

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Environmental economists from the Environment for Development initiative (EfD-Mak) Centre on 26th August 2020 held a policy dialogue with Jinja District Local Government officials on the theme, “Lake Victoria’s Hydrology, Water Quality and livelihoods”.

The workshop held at the Jinja District Council Hall attracted about 40 participants including the Resident District Commissioner (RDC), Chairperson Local Council Five (LCV), District Natural Resources’ Officers, officials from the Environmental Police Unit, Civil Society Organizations and the Private sector among others.

The objective of the meeting was to discuss and brainstorm on the status of the environment more especially the rising water levels on Lake Victoria and the rivers within the district, challenges faced in the management of the natural resources and identify possible solutions to mitigate environmental degradation.

In his welcome remarks, the LCV Chairman Titus Kisambira said  Jinja as an industrial district and city has had a number of environmental challenges with most of the industrialists  allocated  land tittles near the lake and investors encroaching on more land in the wetlands leading to adverse effects.

The Chairman said, the construction of industries in the wetlands and near the lake has affected the environmental pattern and water runways leading to overflooding and floating islands during heavy rainfall.

Mr. Kisambira reported that the district council took a decision and wrote to all industrialists asking them to vacate land allocated in the wetland. .

“The challenge was with us also, some of the industrialists would run to politicians to help them get titles but we have taken a firm decision as council and instructed the technical team like the land officers to prepare land titles that were acquired in the wetlands and those near the lake for cancelling immediately and all constructions made in the wetlands be destroyed to save the environment,

The Jinja District LCV Chairman, Mr. Titus Kisambira delivering the welcome remarks

At times we are let down by the technical people in terms of implementation but for us as a council we took it as a decision that whatever was done in the wetland is reversed. We have a lot of gazzetted  land which is not near the lake in Budondo, Mafubira, Busedde and Butagaya and we have advised industrialist to come and we give them land elsewhere so that they do not take away the factories but also conserve the environment”, Mr. Kisambira stated.

While opening the dialogue, the Acting RDC Lt. Alfred Musoke acknowledged that local governments were partly to blame for environmental destruction in the district..

 “There are many factories near the lake now swallowed by the lake and they were constructed after acquiring the land titles yet the policy is clear that no one should get a land title in the swampy area. So people got the land titles fraudulently and the government should come in and cancel the titles because they are destroying the environmental pattern.

All districts have environmental officers and before any construction is made, there is an environmental impact assessment report. So we wonder how those reports read because if they were done properly they would not be approved.

We should revise everything and see that the environment is protected. Very many houses in the islands have been swallowed by water. Recently the President came here because of the large floating islands had been broken up and disintegrated by people and when they moved, they entered our turbines leading the entire country to experience a total blackout when the President was expected to address the nation on the COVID-19”, Lt. Musoke reported.

As a district, the RDC said environmental officers have been sensitized on their roles and the need to enforce the law.

He said recently, environmental police did patrols on landing sites where soil had been dumped and ordered perpetrators to remove the soils as they block the movement of water.

The Acting RDC Jinja District, Lt. Alfred Musoke said environmental officers have been sensitized on their roles and the need to enforce the law.

He called upon participants to openly come up to condemn environmental degraders to protect the environment.

As head of security in the district, he condemned acts of security (UPDF and police) being used to protect destroyers of the environment saying, his office was open to receive reports of such acts for immediate intervention.

Delivering the Keynote address, the Senior Environment Officer, Jinja district Mr. Maganda Moses appreciated Makerere University for this initiative saying, it was the first of its kind in Jinja that revives and brings to light a sector that is still struggling in the country in terms of budgeting and whose impact trickles down to the Local Governments and Lower Local Governments.

Mr. Maganda commended the selection of participants for the meeting on grounds that it speaks volumes on how important they are in contributing towards the existing policies on Environment and Natural Resources in the country.

Maganda said Uganda is endowed with Lake Victoria, Africa’s largest freshwater lake and the second largest in the world by surface area measuring 68,800km2, River Nile, the longest river in the world and one of the 7 wonders of the world stretching 6,650km crossing 10 countries, streams, wetlands, a beautiful landscape with Mountains, undulating hills and valleys, Minerals in different parts of the country, the oil in the Albertine region, a rich biodiversity, and a favourable climate with an annual temp. of 26 degrees Celsius.

The environmental Officer noted that Uganda has the best policies but the problem is the implementation. He called for the strengthening the institutional capacity to implement the RIO conventions, focusing on the three conventions, UNFCCC, UNCBD, UNCCCD.

“Kenya is a step ahead in implementing the three conventions, for instance being largely a desert, Kenya is shifting from the use of biomass as a source of energy and has subsidized on the costs of natural gas so that it’s affordable to all. They have also considered importing timber from neighboring countries and keeping their biomass intact.

In Kenya, the Law banning Kaveera was enacted in 2017 following a benchmark trip made by Kenya to Uganda a year before. We enacted a law on the ban of kaveera in 2009, and ever since we have been in battles with different stakeholders on the implementation of the ban, to-date it has not come to pass. On the contrary, the Kenyans are jubilating having succeeded with the ban in a space of 2 years. The manufacturers of kaveera from Kenya were actually warmly welcomed in Uganda.

Mr. Maganda Moses (L) consults with Mr. Titus Kisambira (R) during the dialogue

But we know how much damage kaveera can has cause on our water bodies, we know tonnes of kaveera are always harvested from Nakivuubo channel and other water channels on a daily basis and all this most likely ends up in the Lake.

In Kenya, the law on protection of wetlands, riverbanks, Lakeshores, is enforced to the dot. Most of their wetlands are intact, illegal structures on the river banks have been demolished and re-planning of such areas has taken root.” Mr. Musoke stated

He told participants that as they focus on the day’s theme, they should also focus on what their contributions have been towards the existing policies on Natural Resources, how far they have been successful, where they have failed as Government, including other stakeholders such as CSOs, Academia etc , and the possible proposals for Review where necessary.

Mr. Maganda reported that this year’s theme for celebrating World Environment Day was ‘Time for Nature, with a focus on its role in providing the essential infrastructure that supports life on Earth and human development‘, that  was celebrated on the 5th of June 2020 in Colombia.

He said Uganda adopted the theme ‘Nature is speaking, Listen’, and because of the COVID-19 Pandemic, on the 5th June, 2020 an online discussion was held to celebrate the day, where the focus was on the food we eat, the air we breathe, the water we drink and the climate that makes our planet habitable, all coming from nature.

He reckoned that there would not be any other better description of the recent events that have devastated nature and humanity and threatened the livelihoods of millions of people dependent directly and indirectly on Lake Victoria than the theme itself.

The environmental officer said the volume of water in Lake Victoria has risen before and available data shows that the ever highest recorded increase was 2.5m between 1960 and 1964 though the impact to livelihoods was not as significant as it is today.

The rains that started on the 1st October 2019 he said, surpassed the last ever recorded increase and consistently went up from the 12m to the current highest level of 13.32m as of 30th April 2020.

A section of participants that attended the EfD-Mak Policy Dialogue held in the Jinja District Council Hall listen to Prof. Edward Bbaale (L)

“Of course, we have seen glaring negative impacts of the rise on people’s livelihoods, settlements, animal habitats, water quality, among many others. The population explosion around the Lake Victoria basin largely accounts for this.

Today, there’s a high affinity for land along the buffer zone of Lake Victoria, there are; numerous ungazetted landing sites, unplanned settlements, industrial hubs, illegal farming activities, non-permitted recreation facilities, and unregulated sand mining activities.” He said.

Mr. Maganda attributed the rising water levels to two major causes;

He said Global Warming is the primary cause of the current water level rise (Extreme heat events experienced on earth as a result of the depletion of the ozone layer) while human activities like, charcoal burning, cutting down trees, pollution from industries, CFCs from old fridge’s, have contributed to an increase in the atmospheric concentrations of heat trapping gasses and caused the planet to warm by 1.4 degrees Fahrenheit. The rising temperatures are warming the ocean waters, which in turn expand and cause global sea level rise.

Secondly, he said are the glaciers and ice caps that are shrinking at a faster rate in response to rising temperatures adding water to the world’s oceans and in turn other water bodies.

“So where we have no direct control over such significant causes; how can we best weigh the costs and risks of accommodating the impacts; retreating from them? Or are we instead trying to defend the properties and infrastructure with protective measures.

As a country, we have clear safeguards within the existing environmental legislation; The NEA 2019 is clear on protection of fragile areas. The National Environment (Wetlands, Riverbanks and Lakeshores management) Regulations 2000 provides for the buffering of our water bodies, lakes, 200m, rivers 100m, small rivers 30m, streams 10m. Therefore, to what extent have we referred to these regulations? He asked.

At a global scale. Maganda reported that rising waters have led to destructive and devastating effects on marine habitats, erosion, wetland flooding, and agricultural soil contamination. In Jinja and most of the neighboring districts he said, Islands have either been fully or partially submerged. e.g at the source of the Nile; Agricultural land and crops have been lost; Peoples settlements have been invaded with the rising waters and forced the affected communities to migrate.and; Factories like Sunbelt, Skyfat, LIU, Agromarines, Keswhala industries have all been flooded and are counting losses.

He further observed that Recreation facilities like Rumors, Sailing club have all been flooded; Landing sites and beaches have adversely been affected by the rising waters and it this is evident in Ripon village landing site, Masese Landing site, Wanyange and Wairaka landing sites. The beach in Wairaka is no more. In addition, the breeding ground for the aquatic life washed downstream. and lastly, we had Uganda’s Hydro-electricity production dam at Nalubaale suffering a technical set back when a big mass of land moved downstream and clogged the power system leading to a total power shutdown.

Highlighting on the challenges Mr. Maganda said first, there’s need to acknowledge the fact that there’s substantial damage that has been caused on the Natural Resources and not until when they realize the mistakes made over time as a country then shall we move forward.

A participant from Environmental Protection Unit of the Uganda Police Force (R) contributes to the day’s deliberations. Left is Dr. Anthony Tibaingana.

He said that there is also need to acknowledge the fact that much as there are several challenges facing the environment and natural resource sector, several strides have been made but  there are many gaps in the existing policies and legislation and emerging issues like oil and gas, and these have triggered new legislation in particular to address environmental concerns for example, Review of the NEMP, in 2019 after over 15 years in existence,  Review of the NEA 1995, now the NEA 2019, Presentation of the National Climate Change Bill, 2019 and now before parliament, Review of the National Wetland Policy, 2018 in a bid to safeguard the wetland resources in the country and Review of a number of Regulations in the environment sector e,g the National Environmental Audit Regulations.

He proposed the  need for  strong policies that will ensure that value is attached to natural resources noting that many of fringe wetlands, forests, have no economic value attached to them and this has always made it hard to convince policy makers especially at local government level to preserve these resources in the face of structural development.

He also proposed the need to ensure total respect for the fragile areas especially the River banks, Lake shores, and forest reserves siting Section 56 of the NEA 2019 refers to declaration of Special Conservation Areas in the country. The Kalagala-Itanda Offset area in Butagaya and Budondo and Kalagala on the Western and Eastern banks respectively of the Nile happens to be the first area under the Act to be declared a SCA and  many more areas to be declared as so and exclusively be conserved.

The environmental officer further recommended the need to ensure strong co-ordination with other MDAs so that Environmental Concerns are clearly addressed e.g, titling of fragile areas like wetlands as purely a coordination gap with the different MDAs.

He also expressed the need to cover the gap that exists on how to prevent conversion of forest land or wetlands on private land and that anybody who owns land that has such a resource should be bound to exclusively protect it and not to convert it. 

Mr. Maganda also noted that there is lack a clear and direct fund in Local governments to exclusively protect water bodies and yet local governments play a pertinent role in supervision and monitoring of compliance by the adjacent communities. He reported that LVEMP as a running project for the management of Lake Victoria and the Nile Basin Initiative that has always focused on the Nile River at policy level have played a role in empowering LLGS hence LGs need to be directly supported financially with a special fund to protect these resources.

Physical planning, he said, remains an important pillar in planning, gazetting, managing and conserving fragile areas and green spaces. The physical planning Act 2019 emphasizes taking into consideration the Environmental concerns/aspects when drawing Physical plans of particular areas. By strengthening physical planning, he noted it is possible get rid of the development scenario the country is currently embroiled in where it’s a developer to decide where to put up an industry as opposed to government planning for industrial parks or industrial hubs.

He also proposed the need to highlight and strengthen the polluter pays principle so that a developer who pollutes is responsible for paying a fee to government commensurate to the amount of pollution they have introduced into the environment. This he said is still very weak and needs to be re-emphasized.

Last but not least, the officer said there should be a deliberate mechanism at Local Government level where strict data capture, monitoring, supervision and reporting is continuously done on the activities taking place around Lake Victoria.

Director EfD-Mak Centre Prof Edward Bbaale said the EfD initiative is a global network of environmental economics research centre with 15 centres across the world in Chile, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ethiopia, Ghana, India, Kenya, Nigeria, Sweden, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, USA and Vietnam coordinated by the EfD Secretariat, a special Unit at the School of Business, Economics and Law, University of Gothenburg, Sweden.

Prof. Bbaale told participants that the EfD invests in policy interaction not dissemination, Creates interfaces, targets national and Local Government policy level  and invests in professional staff development.

On the day’s policy interaction and the theme, Prof. Bbaale said the Lake Victoria Basin (LVB) is a critical transboundary natural resource, underpinning the economy and livelihoods of the population, acting as a waste repository and provides food, energy, irrigation, drinking water, tourism and transportation to the economy.

He said that being the source of the White Nile, the lake also supports the livelihoods of Egypt, Sudan and South Sudan and is the primary modulator of the region’s climate. Despite its importance, Prof. Bbaale said, the LVB has undergone intense environmental degradation for decades, resulting in significant ecological and economic challenges.

He highlighted that rapid population growth, agricultural expansion, urbanization, and industrialization have mounted extreme pressure on the lake and its basin’s ecosystems leading to the degradation of lands, and the loss of wetlands and forests.

Speaking on human activities and degradation the director said insufficient monitoring and weak enforcement of regulations on illegal- and over-fishing activities have reduced fish stocks, which threaten crucial livelihoods and food security among others.

“Climate change has also affected the basin as temperatures have consistently increased between 0.1°C and 2.5°C, based on historical data from 1920 to 2013. The LVB and its inhabitants are vulnerable to the increasing effects of climate shocks, which would likely exacerbate its environmental problems.” Prof. Bbaale reported

He said, water levels in the Lake are influenced by direct rainfall over the lake, runoff from the basin, evaporation from the Lake, and outflows into the Nile, the latter of which is currently controlled by more than one hydropower dam.

The fish stocks according to Prof. Bbaale are threatened by climate change due to warmer waters and pollution induced changes in water quality while increased rainfall increases erosion due to the farming close to the shores and pollution, directly impact the lake’s water quality.

The changing temperatures according to the Director, introduce disease vectors and increase the risk of malaria and other vector-borne diseases for the basin’s human population and that during the period of late January 2020, the effect of Lake Victoria bursting its banks started to be felt with several landing sites and settlements damaged by floods.

This, the professor notedhas left almost half a million people homeless and property worth billions of money had been lost in Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania.

Prof. Bbaale attributed Lake Victoria’s Hydrology change to mainly three causes namely  Climate change, lack of regional consensus on a well-coordinated policy of regulating Lake Victoria inflow and outflow and  Lake Sedimentation due to catchment degradation and Buffer zone encroachment.

On livelihood impacts of changes in Lake Victoria Eco-system. Prof. Bbaale said there is declining fish biomass, catch and exports, impact on infrastructure especially the Hydropower generation, water transport and reduced business activity along the landing sites, poverty and unemployment plus high crime risks.

Report compiled by: Jane Anyango, Communication Officer, CAES

Mark Wamai

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Simplicity, Service & Scholarship: Hallmarks of Professor Livingstone Luboobi’s Legacy

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Rev. Scovia Kumakech (Right), University Leadership, Family and Friends join in song during Prof. Livingstone Luboobi's emotional send-off on 18th July 2025. Funeral service in honour of Professor Livingstone Sserwadda Luboobi, 18th July 2025, St. Francis Chapel, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

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 pays her respects to Prof. Luboobi. Funeral service in honour of Professor Livingstone Sserwadda Luboobi, 18th July 2025, St. Francis Chapel, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mrs. Lorna Magara pays her respects to Prof. Luboobi.

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.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (Right) joined by Left to Right: Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, Prof. Helen Nambalirwa Nkabala (Rear), and Prof. Frank N. Mwiine lays a wreath on Prof. Luboobi's casket. Funeral service in honour of Professor Livingstone Sserwadda Luboobi, 18th July 2025, St. Francis Chapel, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (Right) joined by Left to Right: Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, Prof. Helen Nambalirwa Nkabala (Rear), and Prof. Frank N. Mwiine lays a wreath on Prof. Luboobi’s casket.

“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.”

Left to Right: Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, Prof. Juma Kasozi, Prof. Michael Owor, Dr. Ismail MIrumbe, Prof. John Mango and Dr. Saul Nsubuga present the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS)' remarks. Funeral service in honour of Professor Livingstone Sserwadda Luboobi, 18th July 2025, St. Francis Chapel, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Left to Right: Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, Prof. Juma Kasozi, Prof. Michael Owor, Dr. Ismail MIrumbe, Prof. John Mango and Dr. Saul Nsubuga present the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS)’ remarks.

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.

Some of Prof. Luboobi's children Left to Right: Dr. Irene Nakiyimba, Sarah Nantale, James Mazzi Sserwadda, Lazarus Kasobya, Dr. David Kimera, and Prof. Daniel Kibuule lay a wreath on their father's casket. Funeral service in honour of Professor Livingstone Sserwadda Luboobi, 18th July 2025, St. Francis Chapel, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Some of Prof. Luboobi’s children Left to Right: Dr. Irene Nakiyimba, Sarah Nantale, James Mazzi Sserwadda, Lazarus Kasobya, Dr. David Kimera, and Prof. Daniel Kibuule lay a wreath on their father’s casket.

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

Eve Nakyanzi
Eve Nakyanzi

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Public University Legal and Accounting Officers Trained on Governance and Compliance

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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.

Hon. Kiryowa Kiwanuka(2nd R) responding to questions during a Q&A Session

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. Justice Musa Sekaana of the Court of Appeal

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.

Lady Justice Joyce Kavuma, Judge of the High Court

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.

Eve Nakyanzi
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Celebrating the Life of Prof. Livingstone Sserwadda Luboobi

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The Late Professor Livingstone Serwadda Luboobi, Vice Chancellor Emeritus (2004 - 2009). Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

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.

Mak Editor

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