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

MUARIK Main Gate Gets a Facelift

Published

1 week ago

June 2, 2025

Hasifa Kabejja

CAES staff at the refurbished main gate at MUARIK. The gate was officially commissioned by the Vice Chancellor, represented by the DVCAA, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi on 30th May 2025. College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) refurbishment of Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK) Main Gate by students from both CAES and the College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology (CEDAT), official opening, 30th May 2025, Wakiso Uganda, East Africa.

Refurbished gate to boost the institute’s aesthetics, security, accessibility, and sustainability

Makerere University College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) has completed the refurbishment of the main gate at the Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK). The renovation was carried out by students from both CAES and the College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology (CEDAT), under the supervision of their academic mentors.

According to the Principal of CAES, Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga, the revamped gate now truly reflects the spirit of Makerere University and will significantly enhance the institute’s visual appeal, security, accessibility, and sustainability. The refurbished gate was officially commissioned by the Vice Chancellor, represented by the First Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi. The ceremony was attended by the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Finance and Administration, Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, alongside CAES staff, students, and partners.

The DVCAA, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi commissioning the refurbished gate. College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) refurbishment of Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK) Main Gate by students from both CAES and the College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology (CEDAT), official opening, 30th May 2025, Wakiso Uganda, East Africa. — **The DVCAA, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi commissioning the refurbished gate.**

About MUARIK

Established in 1953, MUARIK serves as a hub for numerous research projects and facilities within CAES. It houses centres such as the Makerere University Regional Centre for Crop Improvement (MaRCCI), the Makerere University Centre for Soybean Improvement and Development (MakCSID), the Continuing Agricultural Education Centre (CAEC), the Centre of Excellence in Waste Management, and the Consortium for Enhancing University Responsiveness to Agribusiness Development (CURAD).

Additionally, MUARIK hosts KOICA-funded projects, including a modern layers production unit and a climate-controlled greenhouse for vegetable production. These units operate independently but collectively contribute to MUARIK’s dynamic research environment.

The team touring facilities at MUARIK. College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) refurbishment of Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK) Main Gate by students from both CAES and the College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology (CEDAT), official opening, 30th May 2025, Wakiso Uganda, East Africa. — ***The team touring facilities at MUARIK.***

MUARIK also houses research units for the School of Agricultural Sciences (SAS) such as the Biotechnology and Tissue Culture Laboratories, experimental fields, Horticulture and Livestock Units, and the black soldier fly project. It accommodates training and research facilities for the Schools of Food Technology, Nutrition, Bioengineering, and the School of Forestry, Environmental, and Geographical Sciences. It also hosts hostels for both local and international students who stay at the Institute to gain practical experience in production and research under typical farming conditions.

Enterprises and Research at MUARIK

Enterprises at MUARIK include approximately 100 acres of pastures, a dairy farm, feed mill, silage production, poultry unit, piggery unit, banana and coffee plantations, maize and soybean crops, horticulture, goat farming, and the recently revived rabbit unit featuring four breeds: New Zealand White, Chinchilla, California White, and Flemish Giant.

Prof. Richard Edema explaining to the team how the Rover operates, highlighting its key components, functionality, and the technology behind its movement and data collection capabilities. College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) refurbishment of Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK) Main Gate by students from both CAES and the College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology (CEDAT), official opening, 30th May 2025, Wakiso Uganda, East Africa. — ***Prof. Richard Edema explaining to the team how the Rover operates, highlighting its key components, functionality, and the technology behind its movement and data collection capabilities.***

Current research initiatives focus on edible insects and worms as alternative livestock feeds, agroforestry, horticulture, and value addition in food processing. MUARIK maintains a strong partnership with the Uganda Flowers Exporters Association (UFEA), collaborating on the commercial testing of new flower species to diversify Uganda’s flower exports beyond traditional rose bouquets. Collaborative efforts also include identifying native natural enemies to control Chrysanthemum pests, working with UFEA, Wageningen University, breeders, and the National Agricultural Research Organization.

As part of Uganda’s National Agricultural Research System (NARS), MUARIK prioritizes research in biotechnology, tissue culture, plant breeding, improved farming methods, agro-processing, value addition, and marketing.

Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi delivering his remarks. College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) refurbishment of Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK) Main Gate by students from both CAES and the College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology (CEDAT), official opening, 30th May 2025, Wakiso Uganda, East Africa. — Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi delivering his remarks.

Tour to Assess the Capacity and Condition of Facilities at MUARIK

As part of the commissioning ceremony, the Principal of CAES, Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga, led visitors on a comprehensive tour of the Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute, Kabanyolo (MUARIK). The purpose of the tour was to provide first-hand insight into the institute’s current infrastructure, operational capacity, and ongoing challenges.

During the visit, Prof. Nabanoga highlighted both the strengths and limitations of the institute. While the tour showcased MUARIK’s potential as a hub for agricultural research and innovation, it also brought to light a number of critical issues affecting its functionality. Chief among these is the persistent challenge of land encroachment, which continues to threaten the integrity and sustainability of the institute’s operations.

Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi appreciating some of the students who did the refurbishment. College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) refurbishment of Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK) Main Gate by students from both CAES and the College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology (CEDAT), official opening, 30th May 2025, Wakiso Uganda, East Africa. — ***Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi appreciating some of the students who did the refurbishment.***

In her remarks, Prof. Nabanoga commended Dr. Cyrus Ongom, the outgoing Director of MUARIK, for his unwavering dedication to safeguarding the institution’s land. She acknowledged his resolute efforts in the face of persistent threats and numerous challenges, emphasizing the vital role he played in preserving MUARIK’s integrity. “This year, we aim to further reposition MUARIK as a leading centre for agricultural innovation and production in the region,”said Prof. Nabanoga. “Our focus will be on strengthening research, fostering partnerships with stakeholders, and enhancing the capacity of our infrastructure to support sustainable and impactful agricultural practices.”

The Principal expressed gratitude to all who have supported the transformation journey of CAES. “As we celebrate our achievements today, we take this moment to recognize and honour everyone who has been part of our transformation journey,” the Principal said. “We are especially grateful to the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe for his unwavering support, which has been instrumental in driving the College forward.”

The Principal of CAES expressed gratitude to all who have supported the transformation journey of the College. College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) refurbishment of Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK) Main Gate by students from both CAES and the College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology (CEDAT), official opening, 30th May 2025, Wakiso Uganda, East Africa. — ***The Principal of CAES expressed gratitude to all who have supported the transformation journey of the College.***

Delivering his remarks, the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs (DVCAA), Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, commended the CAES for its remarkable achievements in training and research.

“From my assessment, CAES has consistently excelled across its core mandates – training, research, production, and community outreach. The College has played a crucial role in advancing the agricultural sector through innovative research, high-quality academic programmes, and meaningful community engagement. These efforts have made a significant contribution to Uganda’s national development goals and the transformation of its agricultural landscape. Given its demonstrated success and strategic relevance, CAES is highly deserving of enhanced investment and funding to further expand its impact,” he stated.

Some of the CAES staff at the Annual College Awards and Recognition ceremony held on the same day at MUARIK. College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) refurbishment of Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK) Main Gate by students from both CAES and the College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology (CEDAT), official opening, 30th May 2025, Wakiso Uganda, East Africa. — ***Some of the CAES staff at the Annual College Awards and Recognition ceremony held on the same day at MUARIK.***

CAES Annual Awards and Staff Recognition Ceremony

The CAES Annual Awards and Staff Recognition Ceremony celebrated the outstanding achievements of dedicated teaching, administrative, and support staff. During this special event, several members of staff were acknowledged and honoured for their exceptional performance, commitment, and contributions to the College’s success.

Commenting on the significance of the awards, Prof. Buyinza praised the initiative, emphasizing that such recognition serves as a powerful motivator. He highlighted how acknowledging excellence not only boosts morale but also inspires continued dedication and fosters a culture of high performance.

Members of staff recognized for their exceptional performance. College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) refurbishment of Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK) Main Gate by students from both CAES and the College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology (CEDAT), official opening, 30th May 2025, Wakiso Uganda, East Africa. — ***Members of staff recognized for their exceptional performance.***

Click on the link below to access the list of staff recognized for exceptional performance.

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1GyG0EMYTztaX1-6I5IS6dmJDxRYdHyeU/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=115148742368110346662&rtpof=true&sd=true

More pictures from the event

CAES staff led by the DVCAA and the Principal cutting cake in celebration of the achievements. College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) refurbishment of Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK) Main Gate by students from both CAES and the College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology (CEDAT), official opening, 30th May 2025, Wakiso Uganda, East Africa. — ***CAES staff led by the DVCAA and the Principal cutting cake in celebration of the achievements.***

CAES staff led by the DVCAA and the Principal serve the meal. College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) refurbishment of Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK) Main Gate by students from both CAES and the College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology (CEDAT), official opening, 30th May 2025, Wakiso Uganda, East Africa.

CAES staff together with the Principal and the DVCAA and DVCFA after touring the facilities at MUARIK. College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) refurbishment of Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK) Main Gate by students from both CAES and the College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology (CEDAT), official opening, 30th May 2025, Wakiso Uganda, East Africa. — ***CAES staff together with the Principal and the DVCAA and DVCFA after touring the facilities at MUARIK.***

Agriculture & Environment

CAES Annual Report 2024

Published

1 week ago

May 30, 2025

Hasifa Kabejja

Cover page of the CAES Annual Report 2024. College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa. — ***Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga***

It is with profound pride, reflection, and vision that I present the 2024 Annual Report for the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) at Makerere University. This report is more than a summary of the milestones in 2024 – it is a powerful testament to what is possible when a dedicated academic community rallies behind a common purpose. It encapsulates the collective effort, ingenuity, and resilience of our faculty, researchers, administrators, technical teams, students, alumni, and partners – each of whom has contributed meaningfully to advancing our threefold mandate: Teaching and Learning, Research and Innovation, and Knowledge and Technology Transfer Partnerships.

Throughout 2024, we deepened our resolve to nurture not only competent graduates, but also purpose-driven leaders capable of shaping the future of agriculture, environmental stewardship, and food systems across Uganda, Africa, and beyond. Through transformative curricula, cutting-edge facilities, and a strong commitment to STEM-based experiential learning, CAES continues to empower a new generation of innovators – technically sound, ethically grounded, and globally aware.

Our academic programs continued to evolve in both quality and relevance. We offered 48 academic programs—including 15 undergraduate, 19 masters, 11 PhD, and 3 postgraduate diploma programs. A total of 2,339 students were enrolled in 2024, with 60% of undergraduate learning delivered through hands-on, field-based instruction. At the 74^th graduation ceremony, 638 students graduated, including 20 PhDs, 104 masters, and 511 bachelor’s degree recipients. Notably, we celebrated 25 first-class graduates who represent academic excellence across disciplines.

Through over 100 partnerships, we translated knowledge into impact. Initiatives like CURAD, FTBIC, and MaRCCI empowered communities in agribusiness, food safety, and climate resilience.

I thank our entire community for your commitment and collaboration. Together, we are not only advancing knowledge but shaping sustainable futures across Uganda and beyond.

Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga
Principal, CAES

Follow the link below to access the full report;

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1nNsX8Cohq7whbC9zkd3j4DpBRa7kygDP/view

Agriculture & Environment

Climate Resilience and Sustainability Collaborative: 30 Masters, 6 PhD Scholarships 2025/2026

Published

3 weeks ago

May 19, 2025

Mak Editor

Some of the 19 PhD graduates from CAES at the 75th graduation ceremony. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 5, CAES, CEDAT and CHUSS. 17th January 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Makerere University is pleased to announce 30 Masters’ and 6 PhD Scholarships for students joining Makerere University (Main Campus) for Academic Year 2025/2026. An applicant must belong to one of the following categories: Persons with Disabilities, Internally Displaced young people, Refugees, other Ugandan National with financial constraints, and, youth from other African countries.

ELIGIBILITY

For Master’s Applicants

The applicant must have applied for admission to Makerere University‘s main campus for the academic year 2025/2026.
The Applicant must have completed their undergraduate education in an African country.
The Applicant should be experiencing financial hardships to pursue higher Education.
The Applicant should not be a holder of any other scholarship.
The Applicant should not be pursuing or have completed any Master’s degree studies.
The applicant should have engaged in leadership responsibilities and/ or community service.
The Applicant should not be over 30 years at the application deadline.
Applicants in the Refugee and Students with Disabilities categories should be under 40 years at the application deadline.
A refugee applicant MUST hold a Refugee Identity card or Family Attestation.
The applicant should have applied for any of these degree programs MSc. in Soil Science and Agrology, MSc. in Crop Science, MSc. in Environment and Natural Resources Management, M.A. in Economic Policy and Planning, MSc. in Agricultural Engineering.
The Applicant should have an interest in research, innovation and entrepreneurship in climate resilience and sustainability, and committed to complete the degree in 2 years.

For PhD Applicants

The applicant must have applied for admission to Makerere University‘s main campus for the academic year 2025/2026.
The applicant must have completed their undergraduate education in an African country.
The applicant should be experiencing financial hardships to pursue higher Education.
The applicant should not be a holder of any other scholarship.
The applicant should not be pursuing or have completed any PhD degree studies.
The applicant should have engaged in leadership responsibilities and/ or community service.
The applicant should not be over 35 years at the application deadline.
The applicants in the Refugee and Students with Disabilities categories should be under 45 years at the application deadline.
A refugee applicant MUST hold a Refugee Identity card or Family Attestation.
The applicant should have an interest in research, innovation and entrepreneurship in climate resilience and sustainability, and committed to complete the degree in time.
The prioritised research themes are indicated in the application form.