Agriculture & Environment

Journalists Urged to Double Efforts on Environment Conservation Reporting

Published

5 years ago

October 15, 2020

Virtual media engagement organized by the REDD+ East Africa (REDD-EA), on 13th October 2020, to provide updates on Building capacity for REDD+ in East Africa for improved ecosystem health and for sustainable livelihoods in Eastern Africa.

Environment conservationists have appealed to journalists to enhance their efforts on public awareness and policy action for forest conservation when executing their reporting duties. This was during a virtual media engagement organized by the REDD+ East Africa (REDD-EA), on 13^th October 2020, to provide updates on Building capacity for REDD+ in East Africa for improved ecosystem health and for sustainable livelihoods in Eastern Africa.

The meeting convened over 20 journalists, communication specialists, representatives from Ministry of Water and Environment (MWE) and experts in environment conservation from REDD-EA at Makerere University.

REDD+ stands for; Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation plus Conservation of Carbon Stocks, Sustainable Management of Forests, and Enhancement of carbon stocks. It is a multilateral policy aimed at conserving forests for the mitigation of climate change.

According to the Principal Investigatorof REDD-EA project in Uganda, Prof. John Tabuti, REDD+ intends to control emission and increase the capture of carbon by forests. Its two (2) co-benefits are to conserve biodiversity and to enhance human wellbeing.

“REDD+ is a form of Payment for Ecosystem Services that was agreed to globally in 2007. It is an incentive-based mechanism whereby countries and communities participating in REDD+ receive payments for conserving forests and achievements are reported in terms of avoided carbon emissions or sequestered carbon,” he said.

REDD+ has five objectives namely,

Reducing emissions from deforestation;
Reducing emissions from forest degradation;
Conservation of forest carbon stocks;
Sustainable management of forests;
Enhancement of forest carbon stocks

Speaking at the meeting, Prof. Tabuti acknowledged the significant contribution from the media when it comes to environment conservation. He however, noted the need for journalists to strengthen their reporting mechanisms on raising awareness and influencing policy for action on forest conservation in Uganda.

Prof. Tabuti said that the rate at which deforestation is occurring in Uganda calls for immediate intervention. To him, despite Government efforts to protect and conserve the natural forests, the country still experiences forest degradation.

Dr. Vincent Muwanika, a scientist on the REDD-EA project, called for a working mutual relationship between the media and environment experts to disseminate information among communities on environment conservation and the importance of protecting and conserving natural forests. “As specialists, we have more than enough data but when it comes to information dissemination, we need the media on board, because they have the language that appeals to the wider public. They have the writing, communication and reporting skills with unique traits that can take us far when it comes to informing the public, and influencing policy actions.”

The Moderator of the REDD-Media training, Ms. Ritah Namisango who is also the Principal Public Relations Officer at Makerere University emphasized the need for researchers and scientists to simplify the technical jargon/terminologies when speaking to journalists and the general public. “It is important to communicate your research using simple and clear messages. Maintain the facts and research findings, but communicate in a language that is understood by journalists and the local people. It is also time to consider the usage of audio-visual content and short videos to disseminate your research,” she said.

During the interactive training, the journalists urged the REDD-EA team and other projects at Makerere University to always engage with the media early enough and ensure that the media is on board from the inception, designing and implementation. Media engagement when designing communication strategies would enable the journalists and researchers/scientists to improve the effectiveness of communication.

The journalists and Communication specialists’ understanding of REDD+ was further enriched by Mr. Xavier Mugumya’s presentation titled: “How does Uganda benefit from the REDD+ policy?”

The Assistant Commissioner for Forestry/REDD+ National Focal Point, Ministry of Water and Environment, Mrs. Margaret Mwebesa, pointed out that the Government is working hard to slow and reverse the declining forest covers especially on private land. In a presentation on Uganda REDD+ Readiness Process, Achievements and Developments, Mrs. Mwebesa said that in 1990, 70% of Uganda’s natural forest cover was constituted by forests on private land and by 2017 this had reduced to only 38% due to deforestation and forest degradation.

She recognized the tremendous role played by the Government of Uganda to develop and enforce policies that are geared towards conserving Uganda’s forests and other natural resources.

According to Mrs. Mwebesa, Uganda launched a National REDD+ Strategy during United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), 23^rd Conference of Parties (COP 23) on 16th November, 2017 in Bonn, Germany and nationally in March 2019. The strategy is grounded in the Climate Change Policy (April 2015), National Forest Policy (2001) and National Forest and Tree Planting Act (2003), National Development Plan II and Uganda’s 2040 Vision.

In addition to promoting Public-Private-Partnerships, particularly those that depend on commodity value chains, Government has also initiated a mechanism through which REDD+ strategies will be integrated into the various sectors of development.

“Government included the National REDD+ Strategy implementation among the key priority areas for Public financing with effect from FY 2019/20. We are now lobbying sectors such as Agriculture, wildlife/tourism, energy, infrastructure, local governments, water and lands to incorporate the REDD+ strategies into their planning and budgeting frameworks,” she remarked.

Shading the journalist perspective on forest degradation and deforestation in respect to the role of media; Mr. Gerald Tenywa an environment journalist from New Vision noted that media in Uganda has played a critical role in setting the public agenda. We have uncuffed and followed up issues on sold and encroached upon natural resources,” he said.

Mr. Tenywa noted that media has for long played the education role, when it comes to environment degradation and conservation by training and informing the public about the importance of protecting and conserving natural resources.

“We have fostered the entertainment role by designing edutainment channels that convey the message in a manner that attracts people’s attention. Journalists have always deployed the watchdog/investigative tactics when carrying out their duties in respect to environment conservation. On many occasions we have dug deep into the details and followed up cases related to forest and swamp reclamation in Uganda,” he said.

Reiterating the critical role of media in environment conservation Mr. Noah Omuya, said that journalists have faced it rough while executing their duties. Among the challenges he noted included; the perception of media towards environment stories, cost implication when covering the environment related issues, Lack of journalist capacity to tell an environment story, and complicated language that is used by the environment conservation specialists.

In her presentation, Ms. Kellen Aganyira explained that social and environmental safeguards (SES) are a mandatory requirement for REDD+. In particular, full and effective participation of forest dependent communities is a critical safeguard that creates opportunities and reduces risks of REDD+. Accordingly, she conducted research to determine factors that influence local peoples’ participation in SES projects in Uganda. She found out that the youth are less likely to participate in SES projects implemented on private land. This finding is critical for Uganda, where 78% of its population is below 35 years. Hence the need to plan REDD+ incentive packages that are attractive to this age group.

The REDD+ EA team at Makerere University consists of the following members: Prof. John Tabuti, Dr. Vincent Muwanika, Dr. Dorothy Nampazira and Dr. Josephine Esaete.

Please see Downloads for the detailed presentations.

Article by: Proscovia Nabatte

Edited by: Ritah Namisango

Makerere-CAES-REDD-Seminar-Environment-Reporting-13thOct2020-Presentation-Prof-John-Tabuti Download

Makerere-CAES-REDD-Seminar-Environment-Reporting-13thOct2020-Presentation-Noah-Omuya Download

Makerere-CAES-REDD-Seminar-Environment-Reporting-13thOct2020-Presentation-Margaret-Mwebesa Download

Makerere-CAES-REDD-Seminar-Environment-Reporting-13thOct2020-Presentation-Xavier-Mugumya Download

Makerere-CAES-REDD-Seminar-Environment-Reporting-13thOct2020-REDDEA-Project-Overview Download

Makerere-CAES-REDD-Seminar-Environment-Reporting-13thOct2020-Programme Download

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Agriculture & Environment

Makerere University Students Triumph in National Conservation Competition

Published

10 hours ago

March 10, 2026

Mak Editor

The winning team jubilates after receiving their award from the Prime Minister, the Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja. Makerere University Tourism Association (MUTA) overall winners, Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) Tertiary Institutions Conservation Competitions held under the theme “Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: Conservation, Health, Heritage and Livelihoods”, Award Ceremony at national celebrations to mark the World Wildlife Day, 3rd March 2026, Entebbe Works Grounds, Uganda, East Africa.

Makerere University students have once again demonstrated academic excellence and commitment to environmental conservation after emerging as the overall winners in the Uganda Wildlife Authority Tertiary Institutions Conservation Competitions held during the national celebrations to mark the World Wildlife Day.

On 25^th February, a team of eight students, including members of the Makerere University Tourism Association (MUTA), proudly represented the university at the competitions organized by the Uganda Wildlife Authority. The event took place at the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre in Entebbe and brought together students from various tertiary institutions across the country to showcase knowledge and innovation in wildlife conservation.

The winning team jubilates after receiving their award from the Prime Minister, the Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja with Hon. Tom Butime, Hon. Martin Mugarra and other officials. Makerere University Tourism Association (MUTA) overall winners, Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) Tertiary Institutions Conservation Competitions held under the theme “Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: Conservation, Health, Heritage and Livelihoods”, Award Ceremony at national celebrations to mark the World Wildlife Day, 3rd March 2026, Entebbe Works Grounds, Uganda, East Africa. — ***The winning team jubilates after receiving their award from the Prime Minister, the Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja with Hon. Tom Butime, Hon. Martin Mugarra and other officials.***

The competitions formed part of the activities marking World Wildlife Day and were held under the theme “Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: Conservation, Health, Heritage and Livelihoods.” The theme highlighted the importance of protecting plant biodiversity, particularly species that support traditional medicine, cultural heritage, and sustainable livelihoods.

After a highly competitive contest that tested participants’ knowledge of conservation, biodiversity, and environmental sustainability, Makerere University emerged as the overall winner. The Uganda Wildlife Research and Training College finished as the first runner-up, while Nkumba University secured the second runner-up position.

Miss Tourism 2025 joins in the celebration with winning team. Makerere University Tourism Association (MUTA) overall winners, Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) Tertiary Institutions Conservation Competitions held under the theme “Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: Conservation, Health, Heritage and Livelihoods”, Award Ceremony at national celebrations to mark the World Wildlife Day, 3rd March 2026, Entebbe Works Grounds, Uganda, East Africa. — ***Miss Tourism 2025 joins in the celebration with winning team.***

The team’s achievement was officially recognized during the national World Wildlife Day celebrations held on 3^rd March at the Entebbe Works Grounds. During the ceremony, the students were awarded a trophy in recognition of their outstanding performance.

The award was presented by Uganda’s Prime Minister, the Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja, alongside the Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Hon. Tom Butime, and the State Minister for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Martin Mugarra. The leaders commended the students for their remarkable achievement and emphasized the critical role young people play in promoting conservation and protecting Uganda’s natural heritage.

Some of the members of the winning team. Makerere University Tourism Association (MUTA) overall winners, Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) Tertiary Institutions Conservation Competitions held under the theme “Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: Conservation, Health, Heritage and Livelihoods”, Award Ceremony at national celebrations to mark the World Wildlife Day, 3rd March 2026, Entebbe Works Grounds, Uganda, East Africa. — ***Some of the members of the winning team.***

The winning team comprised students from diverse academic disciplines as follows:

Iradikunda Jemimah – Bachelor of Biomedical Laboratory Technology
Nankabirwa Edith Mirembe – Bachelor of Science in Tourism and Hospitality Management
Agenrwoth Brenda – Bachelor of Science in Tourism and Hospitality Management
Joel Kibirango – Bachelor of Science in Tourism and Hospitality Management
Elvis Mujuni Kamara – Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences (Botany/Zoology)
Kamyuka Ben – Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences (Botany/Zoology)
Karisa Geofrey – Bachelor of Science in Forestry
Nyangoma Caroline – Bachelor of Science in Forestry

According to Prof. Jim Ayorekire, Head, Department of Tourism at Makerere University, the win not only highlights Makerere University’s continued leadership in conservation education but also underscores the importance of empowering young people to take an active role in protecting biodiversity and promoting sustainable use of natural resources.

Agriculture & Environment

From Campus to Community: Universities Lead Teso in Fight Against Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Published

1 day ago

March 9, 2026

Mak Editor

The living lab team at Mr. Achom's home during a meeting organized by Makerere and Busitema Universities. TORCH Project, a multi-university initiative involving Makerere University, Busitema University, Kabale University, and the University of Juba to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainable practices at the community level emphasizing direct engagement with local communities, March 2026, Immaculate Acom’s home, Aten Village, Odudui Parish, Arapai Sub-county, Soroti District, Uganda, East Africa.

_{By John Omoding}

When Immaculate Acom inhaled smoke from traditional firewood stoves, it was a daily struggle. Her eyes watered, her lungs ached, and cooking became a source of illness rather than nourishment.

Today, Acom’s home in Aten Village, Odudui Parish, Arapai Sub-county, Soroti District, has transformed into a living laboratory for green energy solutions, a hub where university researchers, students, and local farmers collaborate on practical strategies to combat climate change.

“I used to cough every time I cooked. Now, with a biogas digester built by my husband, I can cook and light our home safely,” she says, pointing to the small green dome beside her house. “This is a relief for all the mothers in the community.”

Dr Patrick Musinguzi, PI of the TORCH Projec evaluates the progress of the installed biogas at Mr Achom's home in Arapai, Soroti as a way of cutting down emissions from cowdung deposits and overuse of wood fuel. TORCH Project, a multi-university initiative involving Makerere University, Busitema University, Kabale University, and the University of Juba to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainable practices at the community level emphasizing direct engagement with local communities, March 2026, Immaculate Acom’s home, Aten Village, Odudui Parish, Arapai Sub-county, Soroti District, Uganda, East Africa. — Dr Patrick Musinguzi, PI of the TORCH Projec evaluates the progress of the installed biogas at Mr Achom’s home in Arapai, Soroti as a way of cutting down emissions from cowdung deposits and overuse of wood fuel.

Bringing Academia to the Grassroots

Acom’s story is part of the TORCH Project, a multi-university initiative involving Makerere University, Busitema University, Kabale University, and the University of Juba. The project seeks to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainable practices at the community level.

Unlike conventional environmental campaigns, the TORCH Project emphasizes direct engagement with local communities. Role models within villages are identified and trained in modern agricultural practices, clean energy use, and environmentally friendly living standards.

Dr. Jolly Akullo Oder, TORCH Project Coordinator at Busitema University, explains:

“Our mandate is to go to the community, share knowledge, listen to their challenges, and co-create solutions. This is not about lecturing – it’s about learning together.”

The living lab team discussing the progress at Mr. Achom's home in Arapai, Soroti. TORCH Project, a multi-university initiative involving Makerere University, Busitema University, Kabale University, and the University of Juba to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainable practices at the community level emphasizing direct engagement with local communities, March 2026, Immaculate Acom’s home, Aten Village, Odudui Parish, Arapai Sub-county, Soroti District, Uganda, East Africa. — ***The living lab team discussing the progress at Mr. Achom’s home in Arapai, Soroti.***

The project’s operational area spans a ten-square-kilometer zone around Busitema University’s Arapai campus, where researchers, students, and community members meet regularly to exchange ideas and implement practical solutions.

A Living Lab for Green Growth

The initiative, branded as a living lab, aims to achieve green growth, rural carbon credits, and the adoption of affordable green technologies.

Dr. Patrick Musinguzi, Principal Investigator from Makerere University, emphasizes the community-centric approach: “We are here to sit at the table with the community, discuss the challenges of global warming and greenhouse gas emissions, and chart a path forward together. Awareness is the first step to action.”

The project focuses on tangible interventions, including biogas digesters, sustainable tree planting, and energy-efficient farming methods, to reduce carbon emissions at the household and community level.

TThe TORCH Project implementing team with the Ag. Dean, Faculty of Agriculture and Animal Sciences, Busitema University. TORCH Project, a multi-university initiative involving Makerere University, Busitema University, Kabale University, and the University of Juba to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainable practices at the community level emphasizing direct engagement with local communities, March 2026, Immaculate Acom’s home, Aten Village, Odudui Parish, Arapai Sub-county, Soroti District, Uganda, East Africa. — ***The TORCH Project implementing team with the Ag. Dean, Faculty of Agriculture and Animal Sciences, Busitema University.***

Community Voices: From Awareness to Action

For local farmers like John Michael Elebu, the university outreach is both eye-opening and practical. “I’ve never seen academics come to the community and engage with us so openly. I hope they can provide free improved tree seedlings to support our farming and fight climate change,” Elebu said.

Acom urges men in the community to take an active role in adopting clean energy technologies. Her husband, David Okwi, is among those championing the integration of green technologies into everyday agricultural practices.

“Promoting renewable energy and sustainable farming isn’t just about protecting the environment,” Okwi says. “It also improves health, saves money, and strengthens the resilience of our families.”

Universities as Catalysts for Environmental Change

The TORCH Project represents a unique model of academic-community collaboration, where research and practical application intersect.

One of the living labs established under the TORCH Project. TORCH Project, a multi-university initiative involving Makerere University, Busitema University, Kabale University, and the University of Juba to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainable practices at the community level emphasizing direct engagement with local communities, March 2026, Immaculate Acom’s home, Aten Village, Odudui Parish, Arapai Sub-county, Soroti District, Uganda, East Africa. — ***One of the living labs established under the TORCH Project.***

Universities provide expertise, training, and access to modern technologies.

Community members contribute local knowledge, labor, and willingness to adopt change.

Together, they tackle climate change, energy poverty, and environmental degradation at the grassroots.

Dr. Akullo notes that the initiative will expand its activities continuously, monitoring outcomes, adapting approaches, and scaling up best practices across Teso and neighboring regions.

Way forward

By turning households into living laboratories, the TORCH Project aims to bridge the gap between knowledge and action.

For residents like Acom and Okwi, the benefits are immediate: cleaner air, reduced health risks, and practical solutions for everyday life. For Teso, the project could serve as a blueprint for climate-smart rural development across East Africa.

“Change begins at home,” Dr. Musinguzi says. “When communities understand the challenges of green gas emissions and know how to respond, the impact spreads far beyond one village or household.” In Aten Village, the hum of a biogas stove and the sight of thriving tree seedlings offer a glimpse of what is possible when universities partner with communities, creating hope for a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future.

Agriculture & Environment

Makerere University Launches Short Course to Strengthen Climate Change Reporting

Published

2 days ago

March 9, 2026

Hasifa Kabejja

Some of the media practitioners with the British High Commissioner to Uganda Lisa Chesney; the DVCAA, Prof. Sarah Ssali; and the Principal of CAES, Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga at the launch ceremony held on 5th March 2026. Launch of specialized short training course developed by Makerere University Centre for Climate Change Research and Innovation (MUCCRI) aimed at equipping media practitioners and digital content creators with knowledge and skills to effectively report on climate change and related environmental issues by British High Commissioner to Uganda, H.E. Lisa Chesney, 5th March 2026, Senior Common Room, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

_{By Hasifa Kabejja & Ritah Namisango}

Makerere University, in partnership with the British High Commission in Uganda, has launched a specialized short training course aimed at equipping media practitioners and digital content creators with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively report on climate change and related environmental issues.

The course was officially launched on 5^th March 2026 by the British High Commissioner to Uganda, Her Excellency Lisa Chesney. The ceremony was graced by the First Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs (DVCAA), Prof. Sarah Ssali, who represented the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe. It was attended by the Principal of the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga, and representatives from Climate Smart Jobs (CSJ), the Editors Guild, and media practitioners and content creators focused on climate-related issues.

The British High Commissioner Lisa Chesney launching the climate change training course for media practitioners. Launch of specialized short training course developed by Makerere University Centre for Climate Change Research and Innovation (MUCCRI) aimed at equipping media practitioners and digital content creators with knowledge and skills to effectively report on climate change and related environmental issues by British High Commissioner to Uganda, H.E. Lisa Chesney, 5th March 2026, Senior Common Room, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa. — ***The British High Commissioner Lisa Chesney launching the climate change training course for media practitioners.***

About the short course on climate change reporting

Developed by the Makerere University Centre for Climate Change Research and Innovation (MUCCRI) under the leadership of Prof. Revocatus Twinomuhangi, the course was designed to improve climate science reporting. Through the training, media practitioners will gain a deeper understanding of climate science, climate finance mechanisms, policy frameworks, and local climate solutions and innovations. The programme also aims to empower journalists to tell impactful and meaningful climate stories.

“As the coordinating team at MUCCRI, we worked with climate scientists, policy experts, and media practitioners to develop a programme that is accessible, practical, and engaging,” Prof. Twinomuhangi explained.

The British High Commissioner to Uganda, H.E. Lisa Chesney addressing participants at the launch ceremony. Launch of specialized short training course developed by Makerere University Centre for Climate Change Research and Innovation (MUCCRI) aimed at equipping media practitioners and digital content creators with knowledge and skills to effectively report on climate change and related environmental issues by British High Commissioner to Uganda, H.E. Lisa Chesney, 5th March 2026, Senior Common Room, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa. — ***The British High Commissioner to Uganda, H.E. Lisa Chesney addressing participants at the launch ceremony.***

According to Prof. Twinomuhangi, the training will be delivered entirely online, making it accessible to participants across Uganda and beyond. It is self-paced, allowing participants to learn at their convenience while continuing with their professional responsibilities. At the same time, it has been designed to remain interactive and engaging through multimedia lectures, real-world case studies, and practical exercises.

The course consists of eight modules that together provide a comprehensive introduction to climate change reporting. These modules cover climate science, climate governance and policy, climate finance, nature-based solutions, inclusive climate reporting, and solutions-oriented journalism. Participants will also gain practical skills in interpreting data, asking critical questions, and crafting compelling climate stories.

Prof. Revocatus Twinomuhangi, Director of MUCCRI briefing participants about the course. Launch of specialized short training course developed by Makerere University Centre for Climate Change Research and Innovation (MUCCRI) aimed at equipping media practitioners and digital content creators with knowledge and skills to effectively report on climate change and related environmental issues by British High Commissioner to Uganda, H.E. Lisa Chesney, 5th March 2026, Senior Common Room, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa. — ***Prof. Revocatus Twinomuhangi, Director of MUCCRI briefing participants about the course.***

“Our goal is not only to build knowledge but also to empower media professionals to report on climate change with confidence, depth, and accuracy,” Prof. Twinomuhangi explained.

He expressed gratitude to the UK Government, through the Climate Smart Jobs Programme, for supporting climate resilience initiatives in Uganda. He also thanked the Palladium Group, the implementer of the CSJ programme, for selecting MUCCRI to design and deliver this training under the Media Training and Mentorship initiative.

Some of the media practitioners at the launch ceremony. Launch of specialized short training course developed by Makerere University Centre for Climate Change Research and Innovation (MUCCRI) aimed at equipping media practitioners and digital content creators with knowledge and skills to effectively report on climate change and related environmental issues by British High Commissioner to Uganda, H.E. Lisa Chesney, 5th March 2026, Senior Common Room, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa. — ***Some of the media practitioners at the launch ceremony.***

Remarks by H.E the British High Commissioner to Uganda

In her remarks, Her Excellency, the British High Commissioner to Uganda Lisa Chesney, described the initiative as both timely and essential, emphasizing the critical role the media plays in shaping public understanding of climate change.

She noted that climate change impacts communities differently, with women often bearing the greatest burden because they are heavily involved in agricultural production and ensuring food security for their families.

H.E Lisa Chesney underscored the importance of clear and accurate reporting on climate change related issues. Launch of specialized short training course developed by Makerere University Centre for Climate Change Research and Innovation (MUCCRI) aimed at equipping media practitioners and digital content creators with knowledge and skills to effectively report on climate change and related environmental issues by British High Commissioner to Uganda, H.E. Lisa Chesney, 5th March 2026, Senior Common Room, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa. — ***H.E Lisa Chesney underscored the importance of clear and accurate reporting on climate change related issues.***

“Clear and accurate reporting on climate change is crucial in helping communities understand the risks and the solutions,” she said.

Relevance of the course to Makerere University

On behalf of the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Sarah Ssali, DVCAA, praised the programme as a reflection of Makerere University’s multidisciplinary, research-led approach to addressing national and global challenges. She highlighted the vital role of the media in translating complex scientific knowledge and policy into accessible information for the public.

“The short course we launch today is both timely and important. It draws on Makerere University’s research expertise and translates that knowledge into practical skills for media practitioners. It provides journalists with tools to better understand climate science, climate finance, carbon markets, adaptation strategies, and issues of equity and inclusion in climate action. By doing so, it strengthens the media’s ability to inform public dialogue and support evidence-based decision-making.”

Prof. Sarah Ssali represented the Vice Chancellor at the launch ceremony. Launch of specialized short training course developed by Makerere University Centre for Climate Change Research and Innovation (MUCCRI) aimed at equipping media practitioners and digital content creators with knowledge and skills to effectively report on climate change and related environmental issues by British High Commissioner to Uganda, H.E. Lisa Chesney, 5th March 2026, Senior Common Room, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa. — ***Prof. Sarah Ssali represented the Vice Chancellor at the launch ceremony.***

She equally appreciated the UK Government for supporting the initiative. “We are grateful for the confidence placed in the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences and in particular, the Makerere University Centre for Climate Change Research and Innovations to design and deliver this training. Such partnerships enable universities to translate research into real-world impact.”

Remarks by the Principal of CAES

Highlighting the challenges posed by climate change and the complexities in reporting climate-related issues, the Principal of CAES, Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga, reiterated the critical role of journalists in raising public awareness, translating scientific findings, and fostering informed dialogue that can drive effective climate action.

The Principal of CAES, Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga appreciated the UK Government for the support extended to the project. Launch of specialized short training course developed by Makerere University Centre for Climate Change Research and Innovation (MUCCRI) aimed at equipping media practitioners and digital content creators with knowledge and skills to effectively report on climate change and related environmental issues by British High Commissioner to Uganda, H.E. Lisa Chesney, 5th March 2026, Senior Common Room, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa. — ***The Principal of CAES, Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga appreciated the UK Government for the support extended to the project.***

“The short course was therefore designed with a clear purpose: to equip media practitioners with the knowledge, tools, and confidence needed to report on climate change accurately and responsibly,” Prof. Nabanoga said, emphasizing CAES’s commitment to advancing climate solutions through research in sustainable agriculture, environmental governance, forest restoration, and nature-based interventions.

Appreciation from the Editors Guild

On behalf of the Editors Guild, Mr. Alex Atuhaire applauded the funders for supporting quality journalism, noting that the course will strengthen storytelling skills and improve climate reporting across Uganda’s media landscape.

Mr. Alex Atuhaire represented the Editors Guild at the launch. Launch of specialized short training course developed by Makerere University Centre for Climate Change Research and Innovation (MUCCRI) aimed at equipping media practitioners and digital content creators with knowledge and skills to effectively report on climate change and related environmental issues by British High Commissioner to Uganda, H.E. Lisa Chesney, 5th March 2026, Senior Common Room, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa. — ***Mr. Alex Atuhaire represented the Editors Guild at the launch.***

“The launch comes at a pivotal moment as the media navigates the opportunities and challenges of an increasingly digital landscape. The retooling course will breathe life into impactful, skilled, and authentic storytelling on climate change in our newsrooms,” Mr Atuhaire said. The Editors Guild pledged continued support in improving the quality of climate reporting across media platforms in the country.

Relevance of the programme to media practitioners

Sharing her experience, media practitioner Leonard Namukasa highlighted the complexities of reporting on climate change, describing it as scientific, investigative, and inherently challenging. She explained that limited access to reliable scientific data complicates coverage, noting that many people mistakenly equate climate change reporting with general environmental journalism. She welcomed the course, saying it will greatly address some of these challenges.

Ms. Leonard Namukasa from InfoNile sharing her experience about climate change reporting. Launch of specialized short training course developed by Makerere University Centre for Climate Change Research and Innovation (MUCCRI) aimed at equipping media practitioners and digital content creators with knowledge and skills to effectively report on climate change and related environmental issues by British High Commissioner to Uganda, H.E. Lisa Chesney, 5th March 2026, Senior Common Room, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa. — ***Ms. Leonard Namukasa from InfoNile sharing her experience about climate change reporting.***

About MUCCRI

The Makerere University Centre for Climate Research and Innovation (MUCCRI) was established in 2014 within the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences to strengthen climate knowledge generation, knowledge management, and policy engagement. Over the years, MUCCRI has contributed to a wide range of initiatives, including climate knowledge management platforms such as the Climate Adaptation Knowledge Base (CCKB), the SDSN Uganda Chapter, research on climate-induced migration, and programmes that promote sustainable agriculture, nature-based solutions, climate-smart cities, climate finance, locally led adaptation, and community resilience.

Mr. Mathew Rupanga from Climate Smart Jobs addressing participants during the launch. Launch of specialized short training course developed by Makerere University Centre for Climate Change Research and Innovation (MUCCRI) aimed at equipping media practitioners and digital content creators with knowledge and skills to effectively report on climate change and related environmental issues by British High Commissioner to Uganda, H.E. Lisa Chesney, 5th March 2026, Senior Common Room, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa. — ***Mr. Mathew Rupanga from Climate Smart Jobs addressing participants during the launch.***

MUCCRI is a member of the Least Developed Countries Universities Consortium on Climate Change (LUCCC), a global network of universities working together to advance climate research, knowledge exchange, and capacity building in least developed countries. Through these efforts, the Centre aims to bridge the gap between climate science, policy, and society.

More photos from the launch