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Mak PIM CoE Acquires Modern Video Conferencing Facility & Furniture Worth USD 77,000

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By Jane Anyango

Makerere University Centre of Excellence in Public Investment Management (PIM CoE) on 4th October, 2021 launched an assortment of IT equipment and furniture worth USD 77,000 (approximately UGX 277million) funded by the World Bank in collaboration with the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).

The WB and FCDO supported the university with a grant of USD 810,000 to undertake a number of activities including training, research and capacity building at the School of Economics. Part of the capacity building is the procurement of IT equipment and furniture.

The equipment was commissioned by the Principal, College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) Prof. Eria Hisali on behalf of the University Management witnessed by representatives from the Government of Uganda and the World Bank online.

Assoc. Prof. Eria Hisali addresses participants before commissioning the equipment.
Assoc. Prof. Eria Hisali addresses participants before commissioning the equipment.

The equipment launched includes a state-of-the-art video conferencing facility theVivitek86” collaborative and interactive flat Novo touch screen that cost USD 34,000. On the screen, you can teach, split and have different people connected to it wirelessly. You can also demonstrate and annotate your presentation on this screen.  The smart board has an inbuilt camera that can zoom in and reset videos at any time.

Other IT equipment launched include12 Computers, 4 laptops, 2 LCD projectors, and an all-in-one printer scanner copier all procured at USD 27,000.

The centre also procured office furniture comprising 5 office desks and 5 office tables, 40 training chairs and 20 training tables and a 20-seater boardroom table all worth USD 16,000.

Interim PIM CoE Manager Dr. Willy Kagarura (L) unveils some of the procured equipment at the PIM CoE as Assoc. Prof. Eria Hisali (R) witnesses.
Interim PIM CoE Manager Dr. Willy Kagarura (L) unveils some of the procured equipment at the PIM CoE as Assoc. Prof. Eria Hisali (R) witnesses.

Launching the equipment, Prof. Eria Hisali appreciated the support received from the World Bank, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office and Uganda’s Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development. He emphasized that this should not be looked at as the end but rather, an ongoing process of strengthening the collaborations for the mutual benefit of all the participating institutions.

Dr. Hisali reported that the university has made progress in terms of inputs into this exercise of establishing the Centre of Excellence and had started taking huge steps away from looking at inputs to focusing on certain outputs and outcomes.

In terms of outputs, the Principal said, there were ongoing studies and efforts to integrate PIM into the curriculum of the university, initiate a new master’s program in investment and economic modelling as well as the training and capacity building that has been undertaken both for staff and officials from other areas of government.

L-R: Dr. Willy Kagarura, Assoc. Prof. Eria Hisali and the PI-Prof. Edward Bbaale tour the PIM CoE office space.
L-R: Dr. Willy Kagarura, Assoc. Prof. Eria Hisali and the PI-Prof. Edward Bbaale tour the PIM CoE office space.

The Principal said, the Makerere has all it takes in terms of staff capacity to undertake studies and was now focused on making the PIM CoE more vibrant and planning for its sustainability.

“The challenge we want to focus on now is to go beyond the outputs we have and even ones that we have conceptualized up to this point.  We need to continue to develop this as a very vibrant centre of excellence, a centre that speaks to its name, actualizes research in other areas as well as contributes to computation of certain key parameters like the shadow prices etc.

But all these issues speak to one important subject of sustainability of our centre beyond the current support being given by the bank and they are going to be a number of ways we want to look at this. In our previous engagement, we started discussions with the bank on the possibility of additional support but we will also be looking at other avenues of ensuring that the activities of the centre continue”, Dr. Hisali explained.

Assoc. Prof. Eria Hisali (C), Prof. Edward Bbaale (2nd L), Dr. Willy Kagarura (R) and other officials inspect some of the procured furniture.
Assoc. Prof. Eria Hisali (C), Prof. Edward Bbaale (2nd L), Dr. Willy Kagarura (R) and other officials inspect some of the procured furniture.

He said the university has resources from the Government of Uganda through the Research and Innovations Fund (Mak-RIF) and a college scheme to support small studies that the centre can benefit from.

The Principal Investigator PIM CoE Prof. Edward Bbaale who is also Dean School of Economics described the day’s event as remarkable in the history of the school as well as the PIM CoE and extended gratitude to the World Bank, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and the Government of Uganda for the support.

Prof. Bbaale said the World Bank and FCDO extended a grant of USD 810,000 to establish the centre of excellence as a response to the fact that so much of public investments were going to waste.

He reported that for every dollar that was being invested, only 38 cents or less was realized meaning 60% was lost. As a result, Prof. Bbaale said many strategies were designed to make sure that when government invests, public resources will gain the maximum out of a very dollar invested.

The PI, Prof. Edward Bbaale (L) speaks during the unveiling of procured equipment.
The PI, Prof. Edward Bbaale (L) speaks during the unveiling of procured equipment.

One of the interventions according to the PI was to build capacity on a sustainable basis in a premier institution like Makerere University thus the establishment of the PIM CoE to undertake training in public investment management.

Prof. Bbaale explained that public investment management goes beyond financial analysis of projects to the complex economic analysis of projects.

The Professor said, the computations that are involved in the economic analysis of projects are not only very complicated but also lacking, due to limited capacity in government and universities.

He added that the ongoing intervention is to make sure that this work can be done not only by staff but also graduate students equipped with the required knowledge.

The PI, Prof. Edward Bbaale (L) said the PIM CoE would build capacity on a sustainable basis.
The PI, Prof. Edward Bbaale (L) said the PIM CoE would build capacity on a sustainable basis.

He said the World Bank and FCDO grant has been used for training staff and other stakeholders in impact evaluation methodologies and public investment management and many are lined up including university staff capacity building training slated for November in Ghana.

“What we have done today is one of those things the grant has enabled us to fulfill. We have acquired one of the newest video conferencing facilities at Makerere University that will go a long way in facilitating online learning, online conferencing and online research which is open to be used by the university community.

The World Bank in collaboration with the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has also facilitated us to buy laptops and computers and we have been able to furnish an office with an interim manager. We have a conference table and chairs for training participants and Wi-Fi-enabled projectors which do not need to physically connect to the laptop, but can pick the information on the laptop and project” Prof. Bbaale reported.

The Interim Manager PIM CoE Dr. Willy Rwamparagi Kagarura said, the project aim is to establish a centre of excellence as a training facility that can contribute towards strengthening public investment management in the country. 

An IT personel walks participants through some of the interactive smart board's features using an iPad.
An IT personel walks participants through some of the interactive smart board’s features using an iPad.

“Out of the USD 810,000, around USD 626,000 (77.3%) has been disbursed. Strategically, this was to sustainably build Capacity in PIM by addressing three areas namely training, research and advising government all aimed at improving returns on public investments.

We targeted to a PIM Centre of Excellence with a pool of experts both physically and structurally. We want to build capacity at the CoE and School of Economics. We are developing Curriculum and training materials to make this a reality.  We are to train technical staff at the Ministries, Departments and Agencies  and Local Governments, then we have an outreach program where we are doing research and studies after which mainstream PIM into University Economics Curriculum”, Dr. Kagarura said.

Besides the acquisition of the IT equipment and furniture, Dr. Kagarura said the centre has moved fast and trained 37 members comprising  staff, students and government officials in impact evaluation methodologies, and drafted the Strategic Plan ready for validation and final print.

PIM CoE Interim Manager Dr. Willy Kagarura presents the project achievements.
PIM CoE Interim Manager Dr. Willy Kagarura presents the project achievements.

Using local curriculum, Dr. Kagarura reported that the centre has trained 45 MDA staff in the first process of a project cycle on how to develop a concept, profile and how to put it in the Integrated Bank of Projects.

The centre according to manager has also trained 10 lecturers to increase capacity for long-term PIM training, drafted the curriculum in Masters of Economic Investment and Modelling submitted to University Senate for approval and onward submission to NCHE.

Dr. Kagarura further said the centre conducted two impact evaluations on Luweero Rural Development Program and on how the improved stoves affect the welfare of people while that final draft of the study on impact of Covid-19 on public investments was awaiting final comments before validation.

As a matter of preparation, Kagarura said 3 members are scheduled to attend training in Mbale in the Financial Analysis Module of PIAR (Economic Analysis due 10th – 23rd October) while at the beginning (8th Nov – 3rd Dec 2021)  4 core staff will be attending a  Training of Trainers  in Ghana.

Part of the procured furniture in PIM CoE Conference Room, CTF2, Makerere University.
Part of the procured furniture in PIM CoE Conference Room, CTF2, Makerere University.

The interim manager hailed the World Bank and FCDO for the funding saying, the startup grant has created a capacity building asset for the country which should be nursed to maturity.

Kagarura however noted that in order to nurture a sustainable capacity building framework or institutional arrangement for the country and the region,there is need for increased capacity among trainers through TOTs whose outputs will be in the areas of capacity building, research and outreach and Advisory Services.

The other need he said, is to lift capacity at the centre to professional levels both in project management professional and impact evaluation so as to completely cover the project cycle.

The centre he also said needs support and to be fully popularized and to work with government so that its collection of tuition from participants is appreciated.

Jane Anyango is the Principal Communication Officer, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES)

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Business & Management

COVID-19 Deepened Food Insecurity Among Uganda’s Urban Poor, With Women Hit Hardest, EfD Study Finds

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Some of the stakeholders in a group photo after the dissemination workshop. Dissemination by EfD-Mak Centre at Makerere University of study “Differences in COVID-19 Effects on Food Security and Adaptive Strategies among the Urban Poor: Experiences from Uganda and Tanzania”, conducted between 2022 and 2023 in collaboration with EfD Tanzania, Tick Hotel Kawempe Division, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Kampala – July 31, 2025

A study by researchers from the EfD-Mak Centre at Makerere University has revealed stark gender differences in the impact of COVID-19 on food security among Uganda’s urban poor, with female-headed households bearing the brunt of the crisis. The findings were presented at a stakeholder dissemination meeting held at Tick Hotel in Kawempe Division, Kampala.

The research, led by Dr. Fred Matovu, Fred Kasalirwe, and Anitah Kyamugabwa, focused on Kawempe Division, one of Kampala’s most densely populated and low-income areas. Using data from a 2022 household survey of 415 respondents, along with focus group discussions and interviews with key government stakeholders, the study examined how the COVID-19 pandemic and related economic disruptions worsened food security in informal urban settings.

Peter Babyenda speaking during the dissemination workshop. Dissemination by EfD-Mak Centre at Makerere University of study “Differences in COVID-19 Effects on Food Security and Adaptive Strategies among the Urban Poor: Experiences from Uganda and Tanzania”, conducted between 2022 and 2023 in collaboration with EfD Tanzania, Tick Hotel Kawempe Division, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Peter Babyenda speaking during the dissemination workshop.

Speaking on behalf of the EfD Uganda Director, Dr. Peter Babyenda stressed that Uganda’s current social protection structures are inadequate, especially for the most vulnerable. He called for policy frameworks that are informed by grassroots realities. “We need policies that involve those affected from the ground up, especially the urban poor who live on daily incomes. During COVID-19, these groups suffered immensely when lockdowns were imposed without consultations,” he said.

The study, titled “Differences in COVID-19 Effects on Food Security and Adaptive Strategies among the Urban Poor: Experiences from Uganda and Tanzania”, was conducted between 2022 and 2023 in collaboration with EfD Tanzania. In Uganda, the research focused on how urban poverty intersected with gender and food insecurity.

Peter Babyenda representing the Director EfD-Mak Centre. Dissemination by EfD-Mak Centre at Makerere University of study “Differences in COVID-19 Effects on Food Security and Adaptive Strategies among the Urban Poor: Experiences from Uganda and Tanzania”, conducted between 2022 and 2023 in collaboration with EfD Tanzania, Tick Hotel Kawempe Division, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Peter Babyenda representing the Director EfD-Mak Centre.

Presenting the findings, Fred Kasalirwe reported that poor urban households, especially those relying on informal employment, were disproportionately affected due to low and unstable incomes. The containment measures introduced in March 2020 including stay-at-home orders, closure of schools, suspension of public transport, and night curfews had a devastating effect on daily earners. As economic activity halted, access to food, healthcare, and essential services declined sharply.

The research found that food security and dietary quality worsened for both male- and female-headed households. However, the impact was more severe for female-headed households due to greater caregiving responsibilities and fewer income-generating opportunities. With limited access to social safety nets, families resorted to extreme coping strategies such as selling household assets, depleting savings, and changing their diets involuntarily. Kasalirwe noted that government food assistance during the crisis was inconsistent and insufficient.

Fred Kasalirwe presenting the study findings. Dissemination by EfD-Mak Centre at Makerere University of study “Differences in COVID-19 Effects on Food Security and Adaptive Strategies among the Urban Poor: Experiences from Uganda and Tanzania”, conducted between 2022 and 2023 in collaboration with EfD Tanzania, Tick Hotel Kawempe Division, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Fred Kasalirwe presenting the study findings.

He explained that female-headed households faced unique challenges, often balancing caregiving with limited means to earn income during lockdowns. “These households suffered more from income shocks, leading to worsened nutrition among children and the elderly,” he said. Most had to rely on informal networks or personal savings to survive.

The study also noted an unexpected finding: persons with disabilities experienced relatively improved food security during the crisis, likely due to targeted social support. However, this level of support was not extended to most households, exposing critical gaps in Uganda’s social protection systems.

Fred Kasalirwe presenting the research findings at Tick Hotel in Kawempe. Dissemination by EfD-Mak Centre at Makerere University of study “Differences in COVID-19 Effects on Food Security and Adaptive Strategies among the Urban Poor: Experiences from Uganda and Tanzania”, conducted between 2022 and 2023 in collaboration with EfD Tanzania, Tick Hotel Kawempe Division, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Fred Kasalirwe presenting the research findings at Tick Hotel in Kawempe.

While the COVID-19 pandemic was a primary focus, researchers emphasized that food insecurity among the urban poor in Uganda has been driven by a wider series of shocks. These include prolonged droughts, floods, mudslides, economic recessions and the suspension of major aid programs such as USAID. Each of these events has further strained already fragile food systems and household resilience.

Kasalirwe warned that unless Uganda adopts robust and inclusive social protection policies, the country will remain vulnerable to future crises. He urged the government to consider gender-responsive strategies that recognize the disproportionate burden carried by women and informal workers. “Government programs often collapse because communities are not involved in designing or owning them,” he said. “What we need is a bottom-up approach where self-help mechanisms and community buy-ins are developed alongside government interventions.”

A stakeholder contributes during the discussions. Dissemination by EfD-Mak Centre at Makerere University of study “Differences in COVID-19 Effects on Food Security and Adaptive Strategies among the Urban Poor: Experiences from Uganda and Tanzania”, conducted between 2022 and 2023 in collaboration with EfD Tanzania, Tick Hotel Kawempe Division, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
A stakeholder contributes during the discussions.

He further noted that while COVID-19 provided the context for the study, the findings are applicable to a wide range of future shocks, including public health emergencies, climate change, and global economic downturns. “We’ve seen floods in Mbale, Ebola outbreaks, and the ripple effects of the Ukraine war. We need systems that don’t crumble when funding dries up,” he said.

The researchers urged both the government and development partners to shift focus from emergency responses to long-term resilience building. They emphasized that coping strategies such as selling productive assets or reducing food intake are impoverishing and unsustainable. The study called for a strong policy framework that prioritizes food security, supports vulnerable populations, and enhances urban livelihoods.

A participant makes contribution to the study finding. Dissemination by EfD-Mak Centre at Makerere University of study “Differences in COVID-19 Effects on Food Security and Adaptive Strategies among the Urban Poor: Experiences from Uganda and Tanzania”, conducted between 2022 and 2023 in collaboration with EfD Tanzania, Tick Hotel Kawempe Division, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
A participant makes contribution to the study finding.

The study recommends a participatory approach that actively involves vulnerable communities in the design and implementation of social protection programs. It also calls for the establishment of community-based safety nets that are sustainable even in the absence of regular government funding. The researchers stressed the importance of gender-sensitive planning, especially in informal settlements where women face heightened challenges during economic shocks. Additionally, the government is urged to streamline its social protection initiatives through the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, ensuring effective outreach and awareness to reach those most at risk.

The research was funded by the EfD Global Hub and coordinated by the EfD-Mak Centre. Participants at the dissemination meeting echoed the urgency of addressing urban food insecurity and preparing more effectively for future crises.

More photos from the workshop

A participant contributes during the discussion. Dissemination by EfD-Mak Centre at Makerere University of study “Differences in COVID-19 Effects on Food Security and Adaptive Strategies among the Urban Poor: Experiences from Uganda and Tanzania”, conducted between 2022 and 2023 in collaboration with EfD Tanzania, Tick Hotel Kawempe Division, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
A participant contributes during the discussion.

A local government official clarifies on some issues during the discussion. Dissemination by EfD-Mak Centre at Makerere University of study “Differences in COVID-19 Effects on Food Security and Adaptive Strategies among the Urban Poor: Experiences from Uganda and Tanzania”, conducted between 2022 and 2023 in collaboration with EfD Tanzania, Tick Hotel Kawempe Division, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
A local government official clarifies on some issues during the discussion.

Jane Anyango is the Communication Officer EfD Uganda.

Jane Anyango

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Prof. Edward Bbaale endorses newly founded Mak-CoBAMS SACCO

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L-R: Dr. Christopher Alioni (Interim General Secretary), Dr. Peter Babyenda (Interim Chair), Prof. Edward Bbaale (Principal), Assoc. Prof. James Wokadala (Deputy Principal), Mr. Juliet Mirembe Ssewankambo (Mobilizer) and Mr. Peter Mubiru (Interim Treasurer). Prof. Edward Bbaale, the Principal of the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) endorsed the newly-established College SACCO by enrolling as a member on 22nd July 2025, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

By Ritah Namisango and Monica Meeme

On Tuesday 22nd July 2025, Prof. Edward Bbaale, the Principal of the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) endorsed the newly-established College SACCO by enrolling as a member.

The Mak-CoBAMS SACCO, which was inaugurated on 14th July 2025, provides a platform to improve the economic well-being and quality of life of members through accessible financial services, provision of affordable loans, promotion of a savings and investment culture, financial security, and potential dividends.

The interim Committee that was instituted to kick-start the SACCO has been working under the guidance of the Deputy Principal, Associate Prof. James Wokadala as Patron.

Tasked with finalizing the operations of the SACCO, the Interim Committee, chaired by Dr. Peter Babyenda consists of the following members: Dr. Allen Kabagenyi-Vice Chairperson, Dr. Christopher Alioni-General Secretary, Mr. Peter Mubiru-Treasurer, and Mrs. Juliet Mirembe Ssewankambo-Mobilizer. The Committee members representing the three schools include: Mr. Fred Kasarirwe-School of Economics, Dr. Marion Nanyanzi-School of Business, and Dr. Hellen Namawejje-School of Statistics and Planning. Mr. Joseph Ikarok represents support staff on the SACCO.

L-R: Mrs. Juliet Mirembe Ssewankambo, Dr. Christopher Alioni, Dr. Peter Babyenda, Assoc. Prof. James Wokadala, Mr. Peter Mubiru, and Prof. Edward Bbaale interact. Prof. Edward Bbaale, the Principal of the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) endorsed the newly-established College SACCO by enrolling as a member on 22nd July 2025, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
L-R: Mrs. Juliet Mirembe Ssewankambo, Dr. Christopher Alioni, Dr. Peter Babyenda, Assoc. Prof. James Wokadala, Mr. Peter Mubiru, and Prof. Edward Bbaale interact.

As the SACCO kicks off, the Committee agreed on the following contributions: Membership fee of 20,000/=, Annual subscription fee of 30,000/=, a minimum of ten shares at 100,000/= per member, and a minimum monthly contribution of 50,000/=.

The Committee believes that the rates set are manageable by members of staff. According to the Chairperson, Dr. Babyenda, the Committee is enrolling members. He stated that the minimum monthly saving of 50,000/= is a priority, and also called upon each member to pay up the minimum 10 shares before 31st July 2025.

Congratulating the College Principal, Prof. Bbaale upon becoming a member of the Mak-CoBAMS SACCO, the interim General Secretary-Dr. Alioni, reported that they need at least 30 members to start operations.

Following his enrollment as a Member, Prof. Bbaale, lauded the team for the establishment of the SACCO, a long-awaited intervention that will provide financial support to staff members. He thanked Associate Prof. James Wokadala for his resilience and dedication to making this initiative a reality. 

Prof. Bbaale explained that the SACCO is well-aligned with the college’s research and academic programs, which focus on business, economics, statistics and planning.He highlighted the critical need for accessible finance, citing it as one of the leading constraints to development and business growth. The SACCO will fill a significant gap by providing staff members with financial support at reasonable interest rates. 

Prof. Edward Bbaale, the Principal of the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) endorsed the newly-established College SACCO by enrolling as a member on 22nd July 2025, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Edward Bbaale makes his remarks.

Prof. Bbaale believes that the SACCO will transcend his tenure and become a lasting legacy for the college, providing benefits to staff members for years to come. He commended the interim committee for their hard work and commitment to establishing the SACCO. He expressed confidence in the team’s ability to manage the SACCO effectively, citing their strong work ethic and dedication.

Pledging his full support towards the SACCO, Prof. Bbaale rallied members of staff to join the initiative and participate in its activities and programmes. He stated that the SACCO will have a positive impact on the college community, addressing financial constraints and improving the well-being of staff. 

The Deputy Principal, Associate Prof. Wokadala, acknowledged the College Principal for hosting the meeting and guiding the process leading to the establishment of the SACCO. He noted that the SACCO is a long-standing dream of the college’s formulators and a game-changer for the institution. To this end, the College Board unanimously welcomed the idea and set up an interim committee to oversee its implementation.

Associate Prof. Wokadala commended the colleagues who volunteered to steer the initiative, expressing confidence that the SACCO would become vibrant and successful. He visualised the SACCO evolving into a microfinance institution or bank with member support.

The Deputy Principal reported that the Principal’s office provided a contribution of 3,000,000/= to kick-start the SACCO’s activities, which would be accounted for by the committee. He emphasized transparency and accountability in managing the funds, noting that the committee would account for every shilling received, and present a report to the Annual General Meeting (AGM).

Ritah Namisango
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EfD-Mak Holds 2nd Advisory Board Meeting: Charts Path for Growth

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Environment for Development Initiative–Makerere University (EfD-Mak) Centre 2nd Advisory Board Meeting calls for expanded scope and sustainable funding for the center’s activities held 16th July 2025 at Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

KAMPALA, Uganda | July 16, 2025. The Director of the Environment for Development Initiative–Makerere University Centre (EfD-Mak), Prof. Edward Bbaale, outlined key achievements, challenges, and future plans during the 2nd Advisory Board Meeting held at Makerere University with members calling for expanded scope and sustainable funding for the center’s activities.

The Advisory Board comprises 13 members drawn from Makerere University, government ministries and agencies, civil society, and the private sector. The Board’s role is to provide oversight and strategic guidance to EfD-Mak.

Members of the Advisory Board meeting in the EfD conference room at Makerere University. Environment for Development Initiative–Makerere University (EfD-Mak) Centre 2nd Advisory Board Meeting calls for expanded scope and sustainable funding for the center’s activities held 16th July 2025 at Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Members of the Advisory Board meeting in the EfD conference room at Makerere University.

The EfD-Mak Centre is part of the global Environment for Development (EfD) network, comprising 15 research centers worldwide. It aims to promote evidence-based environmental policy through interdisciplinary research, academic training, and stakeholder engagement.

Addressing the board, Prof. Bbaale highlighted the center’s progress since its inception in 2019, including impactful policy engagement, capacity-building programs, and pioneering research in environmental economics.

Prof. Edward Bbaale giving his welcome remarks. Environment for Development Initiative–Makerere University (EfD-Mak) Centre 2nd Advisory Board Meeting calls for expanded scope and sustainable funding for the center’s activities held 16th July 2025 at Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Edward Bbaale giving his welcome remarks.

“Our journey started in Vietnam when Makerere University was formally admitted into the EfD network. Since then, we’ve worked toward a mission of promoting inclusive growth and environmental sustainability,” said Prof. Bbaale.

Chaired by Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, Makerere’s Academic Registrar and Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs), the meeting also welcomed the new Deputy Director of EfD-Mak, Dr. Alice Turinawe, who replaces Prof. Johnny Mugisha.

Dr. Alice Turinawe the New Deputy Director. Environment for Development Initiative–Makerere University (EfD-Mak) Centre 2nd Advisory Board Meeting calls for expanded scope and sustainable funding for the center’s activities held 16th July 2025 at Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Alice Turinawe the New Deputy Director.

Prof. Bbaale reported significant growth in research output, including over 150 publications and collaborations with national and international bodies such as the National Environment Management ​Authority (NEMA), the National Planning Authority, and the Ministry of Finance. The center is currently implementing projects on forestry, climate finance, and sustainable agriculture with partners across Uganda and the wider EfD global network.

The center’s interdisciplinary approach, drawing researchers from the Colleges of Business and Agricultural Sciences, was praised for its alignment with Makerere’s research strategy.

Dr. Komakech Richard from NEMA speaking during the meeting. Environment for Development Initiative–Makerere University (EfD-Mak) Centre 2nd Advisory Board Meeting calls for expanded scope and sustainable funding for the center’s activities held 16th July 2025 at Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Komakech Richard from NEMA speaking during the meeting.

Notably, the center has launched a new Master’s in Economic Investment Modeling, designed to integrate climate variables and natural capital into macroeconomic frameworks. “This is a timely addition as the world looks for tools to understand the economic impact of climate change,” said Bbaale.

The center has intensified policy engagements through dialogues and training programs for government officials, focusing on environmental valuation, energy transitions, and macroeconomic modeling. The Inclusive Green Economy (IGE) program, funded by SIDA, has trained senior policymakers across East Africa on sustainable finance and green transition strategies.

Prof. Bbaale presenting the center milestones. Environment for Development Initiative–Makerere University (EfD-Mak) Centre 2nd Advisory Board Meeting calls for expanded scope and sustainable funding for the center’s activities held 16th July 2025 at Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Bbaale presenting the center milestones.

EfD-Mak also played a role in shaping Uganda’s National Development Plan IV, with several fellows contributing to mainstreaming environmental concerns such as clean cooking and e-mobility.

“We were proud to be recognized as a runner-up globally for policy influence on clean cooking,” Bbaale noted, adding that Makerere’s visibility within the EfD network and international platforms continues to grow.

Environment for Development Initiative–Makerere University (EfD-Mak) Centre 2nd Advisory Board Meeting calls for expanded scope and sustainable funding for the center’s activities held 16th July 2025 at Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
A section of the members during the meeting at Makerere University.

Despite the progress, Prof. Bbaale cautioned against over-reliance on a single funder, the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA), stating that diversified funding is essential for sustainability.

“While SIDA remains our main supporter, we recognize that this model is not sustainable in the long term,” he said, urging the board to support efforts to secure institutional status for the center within the university’s research policy framework.

Some of the Board members attending the meeting. Environment for Development Initiative–Makerere University (EfD-Mak) Centre 2nd Advisory Board Meeting calls for expanded scope and sustainable funding for the center’s activities held 16th July 2025 at Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Some of the Board members attending the meeting.

For 2025, EfD-Mak will focus on climate-smart agriculture as a thematic policy dialogue and strengthen its footprint in local government engagement. A grant targeting environmental valuation at the local level and a new project on macroeconomic modeling for climate resilience are expected to launch.

Prof. Bbaale also cited a clean audit and positive external evaluation as indicators of the center’s strong governance and operational efficiency.

Prof. Edward Bbaale, Prof. Ibrahim Mike Okumu (Dean, School of Economics) and Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi during the meeting. Environment for Development Initiative–Makerere University (EfD-Mak) Centre 2nd Advisory Board Meeting calls for expanded scope and sustainable funding for the center’s activities held 16th July 2025 at Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Edward Bbaale, Prof. Ibrahim Mike Okumu (Dean, School of Economics) and Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi during the meeting.

Quoting Pope Francis, he closed with a warning on the urgency of environmental action: “God always forgives. Men sometimes forgive. But nature never forgives.”

Board Chairperson Calls for Stronger Alignment with SDGs and Inclusivity in Research Programs

Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, Chairperson of the Advisory Board called for deeper integration of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), inclusivity, and results-based reporting in the Centre’s research and academic programs.

Prof. Buyinza congratulated the EfD-Mak team led by Director Prof. Edward Bbaale on their notable achievements across academic training, research, and policy engagement.

“We want to congratulate you and your entire team for all the academic and impact achievements you have made,” Prof. Buyinza said. “You can clearly see the success at the academic training level, at the research level, and policy engagement. These are strong pillars of your program.”

However, the Chairperson emphasized the need to explicitly link the Centre’s work to Uganda’s national development agenda and global frameworks.

“What we want to see more of in future presentations is a clear connection to the Sustainable Development Goals,” he said. “Any investment going into research or human capital development must be traceable to the SDGs and the National Development Plan. This is essential, especially when responding to expectations from institutions like the National Planning Authority.”

Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi chairing the meeting. Environment for Development Initiative–Makerere University (EfD-Mak) Centre 2nd Advisory Board Meeting calls for expanded scope and sustainable funding for the center’s activities held 16th July 2025 at Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi chairing the meeting.

Prof. Buyinza also urged the Centre to enhance inclusivity in its fellowship and research programs by targeting underrepresented groups, including students and researchers with special needs.

“You are doing well with your agenda and research priorities, but now it is time to move further toward inclusivity,” he said. “Let’s also see data on gender representation and the involvement of individuals with special needs. That would reflect equitable capacity development.”

He applauded the Centre’s results-based management approach and its focus on tangible outcomes. “I’m happy you did not dwell on challenges,” he added. “It shows maturity and strategic focus.”

Prof. Buyinza concluded by inviting reflections from other board members on areas where the Centre could improve, encouraging a collaborative approach to continuous development.

Board Members Call for Stronger Private Sector Links, Local Engagement, and Global Positioning for EfD-Mak Centre

Members of the Advisory Board for the Environment for Development Initiative praised the Centre’s achievements in research and policy influence but called for greater integration with the private sector, deeper engagement with local development initiatives, and enhanced visibility on the global stage.

Several board members shared constructive feedback following a presentation by the Centre’s Director, Prof. Edward Bbaale, outlining the Centre’s milestones and strategic direction.

Julius Byaruhanga from the Private Sector contributing. Environment for Development Initiative–Makerere University (EfD-Mak) Centre 2nd Advisory Board Meeting calls for expanded scope and sustainable funding for the center’s activities held 16th July 2025 at Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Julius Byaruhanga from the Private Sector contributing.

Julius Byaruhanga  representing the Private Sector Foundation Uganda (PSFU), applauded the Centre for bridging the gap between academia and policymaking but urged for a similar approach with the private sector.

“Much of the research generated in academia doesn’t speak to private sector investment,” Byaruhanga said. “We need partnerships that show how climate and energy research can guide private sector financing, especially around energy efficiency.”

He proposed collaboration between EfD-Mak and PSFU in energy efficiency and policy advocacy, noting PSFU’s experience with several donor-funded projects and its role as the apex body influencing government policy on behalf of the business community.

CSO representative Onesmus Mugyenyi contributing. Environment for Development Initiative–Makerere University (EfD-Mak) Centre 2nd Advisory Board Meeting calls for expanded scope and sustainable funding for the center’s activities held 16th July 2025 at Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
CSO representative Onesmus Mugyenyi contributing.

Onesmus Mugyenyi, from acivil society organisation, emphasized the need for coordination among actors working on similar thematic issues, especially in policy advocacy.

“When we don’t coordinate, we duplicate efforts and end up with incomplete or stuck projects,” Mugyenyi said. “Mapping stakeholders and integrating practitioners into training would greatly enhance both policy impact and student learning.”

He also stressed sustainability and advised leveraging the Board’s networks to support resource diversification and long-term institutionalisation of the Centre’s initiatives.

Sam Mugume from the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development contributing during the discussion session. Environment for Development Initiative–Makerere University (EfD-Mak) Centre 2nd Advisory Board Meeting calls for expanded scope and sustainable funding for the center’s activities held 16th July 2025 at Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Sam Mugume from the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development contributing during the discussion session.

Dr. Sam Mugume, representing the Ministry of Finance, recognized the Centre’s contribution to national capacity building, particularly in climate finance and macroeconomic modeling.

“You’re doing important work,” Mugume said. “But we now need to scale up and integrate your training and modeling capacity into broader macroeconomic planning for climate resilience, both nationally and at the African continental level.”

He noted the Ministry’s current engagement with a coalition of African finance ministers on climate action, urging the Centre to establish itself as a key academic partner in that process.

Apollo Kaggwa from the National Planning Authority making suggestions. Environment for Development Initiative–Makerere University (EfD-Mak) Centre 2nd Advisory Board Meeting calls for expanded scope and sustainable funding for the center’s activities held 16th July 2025 at Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Apollo Kaggwa from the National Planning Authority making suggestions.

Apollo Kagwa, from the National Planning Authority (NPA), commended the Centre for its academic rigor but highlighted the need for grassroots relevance.

“EfD-Mak still operates at a high level,” Kagwa observed. “We need to bring its research down to address real issues in communities—how does it inform programs like the Parish Development Model (PDM)?”

Mugabi Stephene from the Ministry of Water and Environment during the meeting. Environment for Development Initiative–Makerere University (EfD-Mak) Centre 2nd Advisory Board Meeting calls for expanded scope and sustainable funding for the center’s activities held 16th July 2025 at Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mugabi Stephene from the Ministry of Water and Environment during the meeting.

He proposed the Centre tap into government consultancy opportunities and leverage alumni networks to generate internal revenue. Kagwa also encouraged participation in global climate policy spaces, such as the upcoming COP meeting in Brazil, and to develop capacity in climate economics.

Chairperson Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi welcomed the feedback and praised board members for offering actionable insights.

Prof. Buyinza interacting with the center Deputy Director Alice Turinawe and Director Edward Bbaale. Environment for Development Initiative–Makerere University (EfD-Mak) Centre 2nd Advisory Board Meeting calls for expanded scope and sustainable funding for the center’s activities held 16th July 2025 at Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Buyinza interacting with the center Deputy Director Alice Turinawe and Director Edward Bbaale.

“These are excellent observations,” Prof. Buyinza said. “The next phase must involve deepening our links with the private sector, coordinating better with government and civil society actors, and preparing to expand our impact from local to global levels.”

Jane Anyango is the Communication Officer EfD Uganda.

Jane Anyango

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