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Prof. Noble Banadda Laid to Rest

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Prof. Noble Banadda has been laid to rest at his ancestral home at Lukooge Sempa, Luweero District.

Prof. Banadda succumbed to COVID-19 on 1st July, 2021 in a Kampala hospital. The celebrated professor was buried on Sunday 4th July 2021 and his funeral service relayed to hundreds of mourners within Uganda and the diaspora via zoom.

Banadda’s sendoff was attended by representatives from Government, Makerere University, Uganda Petroleum Authority, different educational, religious, research institutions, family members, friends, old boys and girls among others.

A member of the SDA clergy hands over a bible to one of Prof. Banadda's children
A member of the SDA clergy hands over a bible to one of Prof. Banadda’s children

The service was performed by the Seventh Day Adventist Church of Uganda (SDA) led by Pastor George William from Lukooge parish assisted by Pastor Maber Paul from Katikamu SDA Secondary School, Pastor Sonko Fred and Pastor John Ssempa.

Pastor George described the demise of Prof. Banadda as a great loss to academia, the country, the church and family.

He however said, death is not an end, imploring  the aggrieved to hold onto Jesus Christ , who conquered death, the only comforter and one that will come again to judge the living and the dead.

In his sermon the pastor told mourners that when the Messiah comes, every sad situation,  challenges and predicaments will be no more. Citing Isaiah 61.1, the pastor said at his coming, the Messiah will proclaim God’s freedom to those that are bound and give joy to the grieving

He said whereas the law demands that we die, thanks to the Messiah as written in John 3:16, whoever believes in Him shall have eternal life.

Family members lay their wreath on Prof. Banadda's casket
Family members lay their wreath on Prof. Banadda’s casket

Paying their last respects, mourners described Banadda as not just an ordinary professor, but  a researcher, innovator, generous, a wonderful friend, humble, dependable and dedicated worker, a legend and true genius of the times.

Speaking on behalf of Makerere University, the Dean School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bioengineering Dr. Abel Atukwase conveyed apologies on behalf of the Principal and Vice Chancellor who were not able to make it to the send-off due to earlier scheduled  commitments.

Dr. Atukwase delivered a message of condolence from the college and the school saying,  the university had earlier held a church service on 2nd July 2021 in honor of Prof. Banadda’s contribution to the university adding that, the Vice Chancellor’s condolence message had been circulated on different social media platforms.

 Dr. Atukwase said the University was greatly saddened by the passing on of Prof. Banadda as a colleague, a mentor and a teacher.

Banadda, the Dean said, joined the university as a part time lecturer in the then Department of Food Science and Technology in 2006 and later in 2011 he was appointed full lecturer and quickly rose through the ranks. He was promoted to full professor under the fast track promotion in 2012 given his robust research profile.

“He served diligently as a Professor of Agricultural and Bio systems engineering, teaching and conducting research and secondly as the Head of Department and, by the time of his death, he was left with two months to the end of his second term as Head in August 2021.

Dr. Beatrice Banadda pays her last respects to her husband.
Dr. Beatrice Banadda pays her last respects to her husband.

He served as member of the University Senate and represented the School on different national and international fora. He was a prolific researcher and one who won many accolades that led to the growth of the school.

He supported and mentored staff and students, sourced for scholarships, supervised students and provided guidance,” Dr. Atukwase said.

He pledged that the School and the University would work hard to continue with Prof. Banadda’s legacy of research excellence given that he worked with a strong dedicated team of staff and students.

He encourage the bereaved family with Psalm 18:2 to hold onto the Lord as the fortress and the rock in whom they should take refuge.

The President SDA in Uganda Dr. Matte Daniel told mourners that in the midst of the heavy hearts due to this bereavement, they should turn to Jesus as the only hope in this world.

“We share our heartfelt condolence for the loss of a beloved father, son, dependable worker and very dedicated citizen of Uganda and member of the University and Church.

We have been cheated of a humble, passionate, respectful, honest and committed man. Death is evil and cruel and the biggest enemy of the human race.

Pallbearers carry Prof. Banadda's casket to his final resting place in Lukooge Sempa Luweero District.
Pallbearers carry Prof. Banadda’s casket to his final resting place in Lukooge Sempa Luweero District.

Before death we are all vulnerable and helpless. The only logical and sensible lesson is that man needs God”, Dr. Matte stated.

Ernest Rubondo from the Petroleum Authority of Uganda said, Banadda was a very responsible man who served as Board Member on the technical, governance and audit committee of the oil and gas sector.

Rubondo said Banadda was nominated by the President and had been the Board Member that oversaw supervision of the Executive Director and management.

“He gave a lot of advice to the Authority, was critical by virtue of being an academician and very inquisitive in the quest to learn. He was full of strength, innovative and a very cheerful and humble person,

His contribution to Uganda’s gas and oil sector specifically to the Authority’s mandate will be missed. His commitment has enriched the authority.

The notable aspects during his service include his contribution to the preparation of the country’s report 2020.

He offered technical insights in the development of the state-of-the-art petroleum data center to handle the country’s data and information”, Rubondo remarked.

Rubondo said it will be difficult to replace him in many roles and responsibilities he has been handling adding that, his career growth to full professor at the age of 37 and the Papal Award were significant reflections.

He said God takes good people early and it is only human that the bereaved accepted his death as written in Romans:8:28.

Mrs. Dr. Beatrice Banadda supported by relatives and surrounded by her children at Prof. Banadda's graveside.
Mrs. Dr. Beatrice Banadda supported by relatives and surrounded by her children at Prof. Banadda’s graveside.

Speaking on behalf of the deceased friends, Moses Mayanja also Prof. Banaddas Best man said Prof. Banadda was an inspirational and trustworthy friend.

“We first met in 1988 at Bugema Secondary School and even when we separated after senior four, he kept in touch.  I dropped from the academic line to join business but he inspired me until I went back to school for a Bachelor’s degree in Economics and later did a Masters.

Banadda had a rare trait of trust and commitment. He has served his family, church, community and the nation in different capacities and in Munyonyo where he lived, he was engaged in the welfare of members.  I have lost a friend with whom we shared a lot”, Mayanja said.

Speaking on behalf of the family, Dr. Jimmy Kitumba said they had lost a pillar in the clan, a brother, friend, a father who was also the heir to his father.

“I have lost a brother, a generous, supportive and a uniting factor” Dr. Kitumba said.

Dr. Kitumba thanked Makerere University, the Petroleum Authority of Uganda, the various institutions, friends and relatives for the physical, financial and moral support accorded during Banadda’s hospitalization  and clearance of the medical bills.

Prof. Banadda is survived by wife Dr. Beatrice Namaganda Banadda, and three children Daniel Mayombwe Banadda,  David Lutaaya Banadda and Joy Deborah Nalutaaya Banadda.

The pallbearers lower Prof. Banadda's remains into the grave.
The pallbearers lower Prof. Banadda’s remains into the grave.

In their tribute read for them, the children described their father as Papa who was loving, caring and one that was very much interested in knowing what they would like to become in future.

“…Father was a very hard working man and loved the family. He always asked us what we want to be and told us to look at him as an example. He told us that life is full of challenges but it is fair if you attain an education. Now, it is up to us to write a chapter in our lives.

My mother is special and hardworking and she has never got enough sleep. This time, she is going to be working very hard and alone for our life,” parts of the children’s tribute read.

The widow Dr. Beatrice Namaganda Banadda said the late developed complications on 29th May 2021, three days after receiving his second jab of the COVID-19 vaccine on 26th May 2021 and started complaining of a sore throat, body weakness, sweating and breathing problems. These led to his hospitalisation in the ICU at Case hospital where he battled the disease for about four weeks until 1st July when he passed on.

Mrs. Banadda thanked all for standing by the family during the difficult times.

“Noble was my best friend and husband, he was the best father, he was the best everything he did for his family

He provided for everything. Everything I wanted, he would provide more. I don’t know where to go from here being that he has been everything. You let me fly and then my wings are cut, I don’t know.

Noble I really thank you for everything you did. I really hope and pray that God receives you in his boardroom and hope you can rest in real peace”, Dr. Beatrice Banadda bid farewell to her husband.

May the Almighty God strengthen Beatrice, the children and entire family.

Farewell Prof. Noble Banadda, Rest in Peace.

Prof. Noble Banadda's remains in his final resting place, Lukooge Sempa, Luweero District.
Prof. Noble Banadda’s remains in his final resting place, Lukooge Sempa, Luweero District.

Compiled by;

Jane Anyango,
Principal Communication Officer, CAES

Photography Courtesy of Landmark Media

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Makerere University Unveils Pre-Award Grants Management System

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Following successful development of the Integrated Electronic Pre-Award Grants Management System for Sponsored Research, the Grants Administration and Management Support Unit (GAMSU) at Makerere University held a dissemination workshop, to onboard the University leadership, principal investigators, researchers, staff and partner institutions.

Held on Friday 6th March 2026, the dissemination workshop provided a platform to demonstrate the Integrated Electronic Pre-Award Grants Management System for sponsored research at Makerere University, and to receive instant feedback from physical and virtual participants.

Participants were drawn from the University leadership, including the Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Finance and Administration, the University Secretary, the Director-Graduate Training, Director-Research, Partnerships and Networking, Principals, Deputy Principals, Deans, Heads of Department, Principal Investigators, researchers, Heads of Administrative Units, representatives from international partner institutions, and members of the Grants Management Steering Committee (GMSC).

Welcoming the internal and external stakeholders to the dissemination workshop, the Head of GAMSU, Prof. Sylvia Antonia Nakimera Nannyonga-Tamusuza, emphasized that feedback from the participants was a vital step, that would not only enrich the grants management and administration processes, but also contribute to refining the system.

Expressing GAMSU’s  commitment to the automation of the entire grants cycle, Prof. Nannyonga-Tamusuza credited the University leadership, the research project team members, and the different units within Makerere University, as well as, international partners, for the support rendered to GAMSU in developing the system.

The Integrated Electronic Pre-Award Grants Management System

Prof. Nannyonga-Tamusuza highlighted that the initiative responds to growing global competition for research funding and longstanding administrative challenges that researchers have faced when accessing and managing grants.

This digital initiative is designed to modernise how the institution handles research funding applications and administrative workflows before awards are granted. The system, aims to streamline the entire grant application lifecycle — from identifying funding opportunities to proposal preparation, compliance review, reporting, and closeout management.

Recognition of the Project team

Headed by Prof. Nannyonga-Tamusuza (Principal Investigator), the project team members include the following: Denis Michael Wamala (I.T Specialist), Prof. Helen Nambalirwa Nkabala (Senior researcher-GMSC), Prof. Charles Masembe (Senior researcher-GMSC), Ivan Mutyaba (Grants Administrator-IREX Alumnus), Mordecai Tayebwa (Grants Manager-IREX Alumnus, Esther Kabinga (Legal Affairs Advisor), Innocent Tumwebaze (Early-Career researcher), Caroline Nabwire (Grants Administrator-GAMSU), Harriet Nambooze (Senior Grants Administrator) , and Victor Chris  Watasa (System’s Design Consultant).

Acknowledgment of funding partners

The development of the Integrated Pre-Award Grants Management System was supported by the International Research and Exchange Board (IREX) through funding from the Carnegie Corporation of New York, with additional contributions from Makerere University.

Institutional leadership welcomes system development

On behalf of the University Management, the Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration), Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, lauded the Principal Investigator, Prof.Sylvia Antonia Nakimera Nannyonga-Tamusuza and her project team, for the development of the system aimed at digitizing the pre-award grant processes at Makerere University.

Opening the dissemination workshop, Prof. Ireeta, who doubles as the  Chairperson of the Grants Management Steering Committee (GMSC), highlighted that the Integrated Electronic Pre-Award Grants Management System, would significantly benefit Makerere University and the researchers.

Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta – Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration)

Prof. Ireeta emphasized that as Makerere University continues to implement its research agenda, the funding question becomes paramount. Acknowledging that funding through grants significantly facilitates research undertakings at Makerere University, Prof. Ireeta underscored the value of the Integrated Electronic Pre-Award Grants Management System, as an excellent addition, to existing processes aimed at amplifying the research profile of the University, as well as, streamlining grants management and administration.

 “If we maximally utilize the system, the University and its researchers will be better placed to apply, attract and win grants, which will definitely boost the grant and research profile of this institution,” he said.

He encouraged the participants to actively follow the proceedings, and provide constructive input during the feedback session, in order to contribute to the refinement of the system.

Format of the dissemination workshop

The dissemination workshop featured a series of presentations including: Makerere University’s Strategic Research Direction; the Context of Administration and Management of Grants at Makerere University; Project Overview; Purpose and Objectives of the workshop; Overview of the Pre-Award Grants System Development; Technical demonstration of the system; and the Discussion and Stakeholder Feedback session.

The benefits of the system and the challenges it seeks to address

Prof. Nannyonga-Tamusuza, Head of GAMSU and Principal Investigator of the project, explained that the electronic pre-award system addresses several structural challenges in research grant management.

Prof. Nannyonga-Tamusuza, Head of GAMSU and Principal Investigator

She said Makerere University faces increasing global competition for research funding. “Grants have become highly competitive, and we need stronger institutional strategies to support our researchers,” she said.

According to Prof. Nannyonga-Tamusuza, the previous grant management environment was fragmented because different university units operated independent systems. The new platform seeks to streamline processes and support database-driven decision-making for capacity building and institutional planning.

She explained that the system is designed to support researchers even before they begin writing proposals. “Understanding the funder’s requirements is critical. If a researcher does not clearly understand what the funder is asking for, even a well-written proposal may fail to secure funding,” she said.

Dr. Mildred Ochwo Ssemakula – Senior Lecturer & Head of Department (Crop Science and Horticulture contribute to the engagement.

The Head of GAMSU stressed that transparency and accountability were central goals of the system. “With proper work logs and documentation, we can demonstrate accountability in grant administration,” she added.

She noted that principal investigators often require institutional documents such as audit reports and registration information when applying for grants. Centralised data storage, she said, would make such information more accessible.

Support for researchers, not replacement for individual applications

Prof. Nannyonga-Tamuzusa clarified that the system does not eliminate individual grant applications. “GAMSU is providing support to researchers. We want our staff to compete favourably within the global research community,” she said.

She explained that academic staff operate at different career levels. “Some staff are new to research grant applications and may need guidance. Others are experienced. Our role is to provide support whenever it is needed,” she stated

Addressing challenges in grant administration

The Head of GAMSU identified several challenges motivating the system’s development. These include: increasing international competition for research funding, fragmented awareness of funding opportunities across university units, limited coordination between researchers, colleges, and administrative structures, capacity gaps in grant proposal development, heavy reliance on manual administrative processes and limited institutional data for strategic planning.

She pointed out that GAMSU’s role is coordination, compliance, and institutional oversight rather than revenue collection.

Leaders and Researchers urged to adhere to university policies

Presenting the Context of Administration and Management of Grants at Makerere University, Mr. Yusuf Kiranda-University Secretary, articulated that the University Council, approved the Grants Administration and Management Policy in 2020, which provides governance guidance for research funding management. He appealed to participants to always read and make reference to the policy on matters pertaining to grants management and administration.

Mr. Yusuf Kiranda – University Secretary

The University Secretary emphasized that research funds secured through grants are managed on behalf of Makerere University and the Government of Uganda. He therefore, urged researchers and principal investigators to uphold transparency and accountability when managing grant resources. “Funds acquired through grants must be accounted for within stipulated timelines and must demonstrate value for money,” said Mr. Kiranda.

In the same vein, he called upon research teams to follow the university’s human resource recruitment guidelines when appointing project staff.

Mr. Kiranda highlighted the importance of registering all grants managed across university units with GAMSU, noting that centralised oversight supports institutional accountability.

Director of Research highlights strategic research direction

Prof. Robert Wamala, Director of Research, Innovation and Partnerships (DRIP), presented the university’s strategic research agenda. He observed that university partnerships have sometimes been underutilised due to the absence of supporting infrastructure, such as the pre-award system.

The university’s research mandate includes promoting research coordination, strengthening innovation capacity, supporting technology transfer, and mobilising research funding.

Prof. Robert Wamala presented the university’s strategic research agenda.

Prof. Wamala said the university’s research strategy is guided by a 10-year institutional development plan aligned with Uganda’s National Development Plans. “The vision is to build a sustainable, research-led university that produces a highly productive academic workforce and versatile graduates,” he said.

Priority research themes

In his presentation, Prof. Wamala outlined Makerere University’s nine (9) priority research areas for the next five years. These include: Health and health systems; Sustainable urbanisation and housing; Governance, social justice, and equity; Agricultural transformation and food security, Education systems development; Economic growth, business, and innovation; Climate change and natural resource management; Cultural heritage;  and Science, engineering, and technology.

Prof. Wamala encouraged researchers to align proposals with these institutional priorities. He urged academic staff to access university policies available on the official website (https://policies.mak.ac.ug)

Graduate training and institutional coordination

Prof. Julius Kikooma, Director of Graduate Training, said the establishment of GAMSU represents a major cultural shift in research administration.

He explained that earlier academic practice required researchers to independently search for funding opportunities and manage grants. “While that approach sometimes produced successful researchers, it also resulted in inconsistencies in proposal preparation and accountability reporting,” he said.

Prof. Julius Kikooma

Prof. Kikooma emphasized the importance of institutional systems in meeting changing donor compliance requirements. He stated that grant writing involves two equally important components. “Approximately 50 percent depends on scientific proposal quality, while the other 50 percent depends on institutional compliance and administrative coordination,” he said.

He encouraged researchers to integrate GAMSU early in proposal development rather than treating the unit as a final review office.

Strategic investment in research competitiveness

In a document presented by Ms. Ritah Namisango,  Prof. Charles Masembe-a member of the research team outlined the project overview, purpose, and workshop objectives, including system dissemination, stakeholder engagement, and functionality demonstration.

He stated that the electronic pre-award grants system is a strategic investment in Makerere University’s future research competitiveness. The digital transformation in grant administration will improve efficiency, strengthen accountability, and enhance access to funding opportunities.

Deputy Principal of CoBAMS applauds GAMSU Contributing to the discussion and stakeholder feeback session, the Deputy Principal of the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), Associate Professor James Wokadala, commended GAMSU for the development of the system aimed at increasing the chances of winning grants.  He appealed to GAMSU to cascade the training to the various units within the University.

Ritah Namisango
Ritah Namisango

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Mastercard Foundation Scholars Urged to Embrace Mentorship for Career Growth

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Mr. Steven Langa addresses the Mentor-Mentee matching session on 7th March 2026. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Mentor–Mentee matching session, 7th March 2026, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Mastercard Foundation Scholars have been encouraged to embrace mentorship programmes as a way of maximising opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Mentorship is a professional relationship in which an experienced person (the mentor) supports another (the mentee) in developing specific skills and knowledge that enhance both professional and personal growth.

While speaking at a Mentor–Mentee matching session held on Saturday at the Central Teaching Facility, Mr Steven Langa, a counsellor and director at Family Life Network, told scholars that mentorship plays a pivotal role in preparing the next generation of leaders capable of transforming Uganda and Africa.

 “We live at a very challenging time in history, a time when Uganda and Africa have to rise up to the occasion to provide leadership, professional excellence and innovation,” Mr Langa, said.

Some of the Mentors address scholars. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Mentor–Mentee matching session, 7th March 2026, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Some of the Mentors address scholars.

In his presentation, Mr Langa explained that a mentor is not a parent, therapist, or romantic partner, but rather a coach who helps the mentee build essential skills.

 “The mentoring relationship is built on mutual trust, respect and communication and involves both parties meeting regularly to exchange ideas, discuss progress and set goals for further development. A mentor does not need to know, or to provide all the answers; instead, the mentor encourages the mentee to use their available resources to identify solutions,” Mr Langa, noted.

Speaking at the same event, Ms Eva Nabasumba, the Principal Academics and Career Development Officer at the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, encouraged scholars to build strong relationships with their mentors, which could later provide credible referees for employment, scholarships and other opportunities.

Ms. Eva Nabasumba. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Mentor–Mentee matching session, 7th March 2026, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Ms. Eva Nabasumba.

She highlighted several benefits of mentorship for mentees, including gaining advice, knowledge and insights from experienced professionals; developing professional communication skills; building valuable industry networks; engaging in employment-related conversations; exploring career pathways; and learning strategies for job searches, résumé writing and interviews.

During the session, mentors introduced themselves to their new mentees, allowing scholars to identify and connect with suitable mentors. Some of the mentors are doctors, teachers, counsellors, engineer’s business people and Accountants.

Apollo Mulondo, one of the mentors, urged scholars to take the mentorship opportunity seriously and respect the time and commitment of their mentors.

Some of the mentees smile for the camera. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Mentor–Mentee matching session, 7th March 2026, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Some of the mentees smile for the camera.

“Some of us are who we are today because of our mentors. Our offices are always open to you, so feel free to visit anytime. It does not matter what your background is you can make it,” Mulondo said.

The mentor–mentee matching session enabled scholars to interact with professionals from different fields, giving them an opportunity to identify mentors whose experience aligns with their academic and career aspirations. The engagement also created a platform for scholars to begin building networks that will support their growth beyond the university.

Carol Kasujja
Carol Kasujja Adii

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Mak Cooperative Society holds AGM: Growth, Transparency and Member Welfare Take Centre Stage

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MUMCS AGM in session. L-R: Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta (Secretary), Dr. Muhammad Kiggundu Musoke (Vice Chairperson), Prof. Juma Kasozi (Treasurer) and Prof. Fredrick Jones Muyodi (Chair-Supervisory Committee). Makerere University Multi-Purpose Cooperative Society (MUMCS) Annual General Meeting (AGM), 4th March 2026, Senior Common Room, Main Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

“This is a perfectly managed Cooperative Society,” remarked CPA David Ssenoga, amidst applause from Members of the Makerere University Multi-Purpose Cooperative Society (MUMCS).

CPA Ssenoga made the remarks on 4th March 2026 as he presented the Auditor’s report from SDS and Company Certified Public Accountants at the MUMCS Annual General Meeting (AGM).

The Auditor’s report for the year ended 31st December 2025 highlighted adherence to the best corporate governance practices, confirmed proper allocation of funds, value for money, and steady progress.

CPA David Ssenoga presenting the Auditor's Report. Makerere University Multi-Purpose Cooperative Society (MUMCS) Annual General Meeting (AGM), 4th March 2026, Senior Common Room, Main Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
CPA David Ssenoga presenting the Auditor’s Report.

“The Cooperative Society was found to be in excellent standing, with operations in compliance with International Financial Reporting Standards for SMEs, the Cooperative Societies Act, and relevant Ugandan regulations. The operations are efficient and transparent,” he reported.

Mandate of MUMCS

Chairing the AGM, the Vice Chairperson, Dr. Muhammad Kiggundu-Musoke, underscored that the MUMCS exists to promote the welfare of members. In pursuit of this mandate, MUMCS provides access to affordable credit at interest rates that are significantly lower than those offered by other financial institutions. Such support, he noted, empowers members to strengthen their financial stability, invest in personal and professional goals, and ultimately enhance their overall well-being.

Dr. Muhammad Kiggundu Musoke, Vice Chair. Makerere University Multi-Purpose Cooperative Society (MUMCS) Annual General Meeting (AGM), 4th March 2026, Senior Common Room, Main Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Muhammad Kiggundu Musoke, Vice Chair.

Steady progress

Highlighting MUMCS’ steady progress, Dr. Kiggundu-Musoke commended members for the tremendous growth recorded over time. He noted that the cooperative society had grown from handling a few hundreds of thousands of shillings in its early years to managing a portfolio now standing at approximately UGX 3.25 billion, a milestone he described as a reflection of collective effort, prudent management, and sustained member confidence.

He encouraged members to actively promote and popularise the cooperative within their respective departments. He proposed a structured approach of engaging Heads of Department to sensitize staff on the MUMCS’ services and benefits.

AGM highlights

The hybrid AGM, with physical participants assembled in the Main Building Senior Common Room, and virtual participants who followed the proceedings via zoom, provided a platform to review performance, highlight operational successes and governance milestones, as well as, finding solutions to challenges.

Secretary’s report

Presenting the report, MUMCS’ Secretary, Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, highlighted the growth in membership to 160, including 27 new recruits –  a testimony to the confidence in the quality of services provided.

Prof. Ireeta excited the members when he mentioned that the 2025 surplus of UGX 291 million was distributed to members, with administrative budgets executed as approved.

Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta. Makerere University Multi-Purpose Cooperative Society (MUMCS) Annual General Meeting (AGM), 4th March 2026, Senior Common Room, Main Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta.

On the issue of financial discipline and meeting obligations, Prof. Ireeta notified the members that the Management Committee implemented strategies that ensured compliance. “Outstanding loan arrears were settled through deductions from dividends of the concerned members,” he stated.

The Secretary reported that as approved during the previous AGM, the Vetting Committee consisting of Prof. Helen Nambalirwa Nkabala (Chairperson), Prof. Lawrence Mugisha (Member) and Dr. Alex Okello (Member) had been constituted and has embarked on the tasks as per the terms of reference.

With reference to the Secretary’s report, the Members praised the MUMCS Management Committee headed by Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, for ensuring the successful implementation of key decisions agreed upon during the previous AGM.

Treasurer’s report

The Treasurer, Prof. Juma Kasozi, provided members with a detailed overview of operations, liquidity, investments, and returns.

Emphasizing MUMCS’ commitment to transparency, Prof. Kasozi noted that the Management Committee ensures that the balance sheets, profit and loss statements, and trial balances are shared monthly with members, which enables them to monitor performance throughout the year.

Prof. Juma Kasozi. Makerere University Multi-Purpose Cooperative Society (MUMCS) Annual General Meeting (AGM), 4th March 2026, Senior Common Room, Main Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Juma Kasozi.

Prof. Kasozi explained that the Cooperative Society maintains strong liquidity, with approximately UGX 1.6 billion invested with fund managers and insurance companies. These liquid investments he said, provide a solid foundation to support loans, withdrawals, and operational needs. He encouraged members to increase their savings and shareholdings, in order to strengthen MUMCS’s financial base and enhance lending capacity.

The Treasurer highlighted the Society’s loan products, including instant loans; which provide same-day disbursement and long-term term loans. He reported that in 2025, UGX 479 million was disbursed in instant loans, and UGX 913 million as long-term loans.

He informed the AGM that the major challenge faced during the year 2025, was premised on disruptions in payroll deductions. “Before this setback, payroll deductions generated over UGX 50 million per month.  Due to temporary disruptions, the amount generated reduced to UGX 20 million,” he explained.

The Treasurer briefed the members that discussions with the payroll management team had been successful, and full deductions were expected to resume, a step that would restore the expected income stream of the Cooperative Society.

He re-assured members that despite challenges with payroll deductions, MUMCS remains financially stable, with strong liquidity, robust investments, sound loan recovery mechanisms, and a commitment to member welfare.

He encouraged members to recruit colleagues, increase shareholding, and actively participate in strengthening the Cooperative Society’s growth and impact.

Members applaud the Management Committee

Impressed by the reports presented by the Secretary and Treasurer, the Members praised the MUMCS Management Committee headed by Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, for the successful implementation of key decisions agreed upon during the previous AGM.

Some of the Members of the Management Committee headed by Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe. Makerere University Multi-Purpose Cooperative Society (MUMCS) Annual General Meeting (AGM), 4th March 2026, Senior Common Room, Main Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Some of the Members of the Management Committee headed by Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe.

Presentation from the Welfare Committee

On behalf of the Welfare Committee, Ms. Ritah Namisango, commended the Management Committee for effectively implementing the Society’s Welfare Policy. Ms. Namisango noted that the policy stipulates the contribution to weddings, loss of a member, and/or when a member loses a parent, spouse and a biological child. She encouraged the members to read the Welfare Policy in order to tap into the benefits that accrue to them.

“We invite all members to read the Welfare Policy and inform the Management Committee early enough whenever a situation arises. I am glad that, because of transparency and communication through the WhatsApp group, most of you have been notifying the Executive Committee promptly. Most of the Members who have received contributions from MUMCS during such situations, have acknowledged receipt, and gone an extra mile, to send messages of gratitude via MUMCS’ WhatsApp group,” she said.

Ritah Namisango. Makerere University Multi-Purpose Cooperative Society (MUMCS) Annual General Meeting (AGM), 4th March 2026, Senior Common Room, Main Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Ritah Namisango.

She welcomed the AGM’s approval of an additional UGX 2.5 million allocation to the Welfare Fund, to boost the Cooperative Society’s ability to extend support as well as standing in solidarity with the Members.

The Welfare Committee consists of Ms. Ritah Namisango, Dr. Oscar Mugula and Mr. Michael Kasusse.

Supervisory Committee report

The Chairperson, Prof. Fredrick Jones Muyodi, congratulated the Management Committee and the Members, upon the positive financial performance of MUMCS with a gross surplus of UGX 351,533,935/=, and a net surplus of UGX 49,510,181/= after deduction of all expenses.

Prof. Fredrick Jones Muyodi. Makerere University Multi-Purpose Cooperative Society (MUMCS) Annual General Meeting (AGM), 4th March 2026, Senior Common Room, Main Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Fredrick Jones Muyodi.

Concerned that some members have faced challenges with payroll deductions, the Supervisory committee welcomed the progress reported by the Secretary toward resolving the issue.

He stated that the Committee reviewed the financial proposals presented by the management committee and endorsed the recommended dividend payment of UGX 38,630,000 to shareholders, noting that dividends cannot exceed 10 percent under the law.

In addition, the Committee supported payments to service providers, the purchase of a second laptop to enhance data security, the use of cloud and external storage for safeguarding records, the proposed welfare and AGM budgets, and the allocation of 65% of the gross surplus as return on savings.

L-R: Caroline Kirumira Kwesiga, Claire Nakaseeta, and Fazira Nakabugo-new Members of MUMCS who physically attended the AGM, Senior Common Room, Main Building. Makerere University Multi-Purpose Cooperative Society (MUMCS) Annual General Meeting (AGM), 4th March 2026, Senior Common Room, Main Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
L-R: Caroline Kirumira Kwesiga, Claire Nakaseeta, and Fazira Nakabugo-new Members of MUMCS who physically attended the AGM, Senior Common Room, Main Building.

The Supervisory Committee consists of Prof. Fredrick Jones Muyodi (Chairperson), Prof. Edgar Nabutanyi (Member) and Dr. Jamidah Nakato (Member).

Closing remarks

Closing the AGM, Dr. Kiggundu-Musoke thanked members for their active participation and challenged them to actively support the growth of the cooperative society. He emphasized that membership growth would not only strengthen the Makerere University Multi-Purpose Cooperative Society’s financial standing, but also enhance dividend returns for all members.

A cross-section of MUMCS members who physically attended the AGM pose for a group photo at its conclusion. Makerere University Multi-Purpose Cooperative Society (MUMCS) Annual General Meeting (AGM), 4th March 2026, Senior Common Room, Main Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
A cross-section of MUMCS members who physically attended the AGM pose for a group photo at its conclusion.

Ritah Namisango
Ritah Namisango

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