Agriculture & Environment
Mak Secures another 10 Hectares in Rupa Sub-County Moroto for Livestock Café
Makerere University has secured an additional 10 hectares of land from the pastoralist community in Rupa Sub-County, Moroto District for establishment of a livestock café. The allocated land comes with a valley tank and cattle crush. This was the Drylands Transform project’s second land offer in the Karamoja sub-region following the first in Poron Sub-County, Napak District.
Livestock cafés will be the experimental sites to study forage productivity, establish novel co-learning and knowledge exchange centers and create opportunities for milk and fodder value chains.
The land was handed over to the project by Moroto District and Rupa Sub-County Technical and Administrative officials and witnessed by clan leaders at Lokapel Village on Sunday 24th October, 2021.
The handover ceremony was attended by the Local Council (LC) V Chairman Mr. Loru Moses, the LCV Woman Councillor Ms. Lochoro Clementina, the LCIII Chairperson Mr. Adipa John Robert Akiki, the Speaker Mr. Komol Parl Miki and the LCI Chairman Lokapel village Mr. Lotee Nangiro. Also present were the Youth Representative and Clan Elders Mr. Achok Lopeima and Mr. Eluktoper Ngorok.
The valley tank and cattle crush within the project site university were also handed over to the research team and supplemented by an alternative site in the event of insecurity during the December –January dry spell.
Speaking at the project site during the inception meeting, the clan leaders led by Mr. Achok Lopeimal said the community accepted to offer the land to the project and expressed willingness to protect and utilize it after the project cycle.
The clan leaders also asked the researchers to include the conservation of the indigenous plant species in the livestock cafés. The species identified for conservation include; Ekapelimea (for treatment of cough and chest infections), Ekodoli (for treatment of wounds), Eusugu (a remedy for infections and chest pain), Ekorete (for diarrhea and milk enhancement) and Etoke (used as fruit and remedy for stomachache).
Other species were Ekoke (eaten like groundnut paste), Ekaramuae (fodder), Ebei (food) and Epipa (mixed with soil or water and smeared on the body or sprinkled on enemies for protection). Others are Acacia Seyal a tree species useful for production of gum arabic and bee keeping currently threatened by charcoal burning.
The locals also want the University to address issues of bush burning and tick control that have led to low productivity of livestock as well as research on an invasive weed for pasture commonly known as Epoo, which when consumed by a lactating cow, makes milk bitter.
The LCIII Chairman Mr. Adupa John Robert Akiki said the community has given 10 hectares of land to the project for the benefit of the Sub-County.
“We have the tank for watering and the cattle crush for spraying within the land. The land is located in Lokapel village, Moroto District and we are going to demarcate with the councilors and clan leaders present here”, Mr. Adupa said.
Makerere University Drylands Transform Principal investigator Prof. Denis Mpairwe appreciated the Moroto District Local Government leadership for the cooperation and offer of land.
Prof. Mpairwe said the university was in Moroto and Rupa Sub-County in particular, to ask for land, blessings and commitment by locals to work with the project, adding that all data collection and knowledge sharing will be done by the locals.
He described the additional components of a dam and the spray race at the project site as an added advantage that the project will build upon for tick control and provision of water for livestock.
Prof. Mpairwe explained that a team of researchers will work with the clan elders and local residents to gather the information on indigenous species for purposes of conservation and also form a component of the livestock café.
He said the project’s target is knowledge sharing, teaching the people on what to do to conserve the land, increase on its productivity, stop degradation, improve human and animal health and in the long run, improve the livelihoods of people.
“The livestock café will be used as a learning site or school to demonstrate how the pastoral communities can utilize the land sustainably without degrading it and in this they will understand the dangers associated with bush burning. We shall also teach and demonstrate how to improve on land productivity and in the long run, improve the livelihoods of the people.
The livestock cafe according to Prof. Mpairwe will look at how to improve all the crops, the pasture and trees in the area and also try to address the challenges of the dryland areas such as water and feed scarcity by showing pastoralists the sustainable ways of conserving water and making hay as future fodder for livestock during the time of plenty.
About Drylands Transform Project
The Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences is leading a multidisciplinary team of researchers from Umea University, Gothenburg University, University of Nairobi, Makerere University, World Agroforestry (ICRAF) and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) to implement the: “Achieving the SDGs in East African drylands: Pathways and challenges towards a transformation of landscapes, livestock and livelihoods in the East African drylands (Drylands Transform)” project in the greater Karamoja cluster of Uganda and Kenya
The Karamoja cluster of drylands covers Western Pokot, Kenya, Turkana region, the South Western and Eastern part of Ethiopia, the South Eastern part of South Sudan and the whole Karamoja region of Uganda.
Drylands Transform is a five-year project funded by the Swedish Research Council for Sustainable Development, Formas, within their call for realizing the global Sustainable Development Goals. It aims to address complex challenges in the East African drylands such as climate change, food insecurity, land and ecosystem degradation and weak institutions.
The field studies will take place in four sites providing variation in livelihood strategies, land management and climate that is, Chepareria (Kenya) and Matany (Uganda) in the south dominated by agro-pastoralist communities as well as Lokiriama-Lorengippi (Kenya) and Rupa (Uganda) in the north dominated by pastoralists.
The project investigates the inter linkages between land health, livestock based livelihoods, human wellbeing and land governance mechanisms in order to contribute to transformative change and sustainable development of the social ecological system in drylands of East Africa. The overall goal is to contribute knowledge for the implementation and achievement of the global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), while optimizing synergies and minimizing trade-offs between SDGs, in the East African drylands by developing transformative pathways through policy and practice.
Jane Anyango is the Principal Communication Officer, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES)
Agriculture & Environment
Inaugural Schools Environmental Conference Rallies Young Learners to Champion Environmental Sustainability
Kampala, March 20, 2026 : More than 250 primary school pupils have been rallied to take an active role in environmental protection during the Inaugural Schools Environmental Conference hosted at Makerere University.
Organised by the Environment for Development (EfD) Uganda in partnership with the Green Vests Initiative, the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), and the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), the conference aimed to promote environmental awareness and responsible stewardship among learners.
The half-day event brought together Primary Five to Primary Seven pupils and their teachers for a series of educational sessions and interactive activities under the theme “Strengthening Environmental Stewardship in Schools.”
The initiative reflects a broader commitment to nurturing environmental responsibility from an early age, complementing EfD’s traditional focus on policy engagement and research. The programme included keynote remarks, environmental education sessions, and interactive activities designed to inspire pupils to take practical steps in protecting their environment.
Schools Key in the Fight Against Environmental Crisis
Schools must take a leading role in shaping environmentally responsible citizens if Uganda is to effectively address climate change and environmental degradation, a policy engagement specialist said.
Representing the College Principal and Director of the Environment for Development (EfD) Mak Centre, Dr. Peter Babyenda described schools as critical platforms for promoting environmental stewardship and influencing long-term behavioural change.
He welcomed participants and encouraged young learners to envision themselves as future students and leaders at Makerere University. “In a few years, you will be here, and this will be your college,” he said.
Dr. Babyenda warned that Uganda remains highly vulnerable to climate change, with more than 40 percent of its land degraded and an estimated 100,000 to 122,000 hectares of forest lost annually. He noted that environmental degradation is already affecting key sectors including health, food security and education.
In Eastern Uganda, over 90 percent of children reportedly experience climate-related disruptions to learning, while urban centres such as Kampala face increasing flooding, disease outbreaks and extreme heat, which affect school attendance and concentration.
He attributed the crisis largely to human activities such as deforestation, industrialisation, wetland encroachment and poor waste management. Citing recent floods in the capital, he said blocked drainage systems and irresponsible garbage disposal are worsening the situation.
“Most of the floods you are seeing are likely caused by us,” he said. “If we don’t protect our environment, the effects will find us—even in our classrooms.”
Babyenda emphasized that teachers, particularly at primary level, play a critical role in shaping environmentally responsible behaviour early in life. “You can play a great role in safeguarding the environment if you teach these young ones from the start. It is very easy to change behaviour from the beginning,” he said.
He noted that Uganda’s youthful population-about 44 percent below the age of 15, presents a unique opportunity to drive sustainable change. With more than 18,000 primary schools and about 3,000 secondary schools, he said the education system remains the largest structured platform for influencing behaviour nationwide.
Babyenda called for practical interventions within schools, including tree planting, establishment of school gardens, waste recycling and composting, clean-up campaigns, energy conservation and the creation of “talking compounds” that reinforce environmental responsibility.
He also urged schools to strengthen environmental education through clubs and peer learning initiatives, and to revive greening policies such as school woodlots under the Green School Programme.
Highlighting the importance of forests, Babyenda pointed to the degradation of major reserves such as Mabira Forest, Bugoma Forest and Budongo Forest, warning that continued loss of tree cover threatens biodiversity, livelihoods and climate stability.
“We are saying trees, trees, trees because their benefits are immediate,” he said, noting their role in absorbing carbon dioxide, regulating temperatures and maintaining ecological balance.
Encouraging personal and community responsibility, he challenged learners to influence change beyond the classroom. “You can even correct your parents—tell them that throwing rubbish out of a car window is not right,” he said.
He also proposed simple but symbolic actions to embed environmental values in everyday life. “Let us make it a habit—even on your birthday, plant a tree. That is how you celebrate life while protecting the future,” he added.
Babyenda stressed that environmental stewardship is a shared responsibility requiring coordinated efforts from individuals, schools, communities and government institutions.
“Start small but think big. Let each school be a beacon, one tree, one club, one lesson at a time,” he said.
He pledged the centre’s readiness to partner with schools and stakeholders to advance environmental sustainability efforts across the country.
“The future lies in you, the young ones,” he said. “If we guide you well, you will become the leaders who protect our environment.”
Green Vest Initiative Champions Student-Led Environmental Action”
Green Vest Initiative Team Lead John Robert Tenywa said the gathering aimed to inspire a new generation of environmentally conscious citizens who act beyond their personal interests to protect shared resources.
The event, held under the theme “Strengthening Environmental Stewardship in Schools,” emphasized the critical role of young people in driving environmental change. Tenywa noted that schools provide a strategic platform for shaping attitudes and behaviors that can influence communities and the country at large.
“We are focusing on raising a generation that lives beyond itself—one that is mindful of the environment and committed to making a difference,” he said.
Tenywa outlined the Initiative’s key activities, including cleaning public spaces, educating communities about environmental conservation, and promoting waste management practices that turn waste into valuable resources. He added that the organisation conducts monthly community outreach activities, combining clean-up campaigns with public sensitisation efforts.
For the current cycle, the Initiative has shifted its focus toward education, targeting students with information and discussions on environmental protection. Tenywa said this approach complements ongoing clean-up efforts by addressing the root causes of environmental degradation through awareness.
He also highlighted the Initiative’s faith-based foundation, noting that it integrates moral and spiritual values into its work while engaging communities.
The engagement marks a growing effort by civil society and public institutions to involve young people in addressing environmental challenges, particularly in urban areas where waste management and pollution remain pressing concerns.
Everyone Has a Legal Role in Safeguarding the Environment
Wilber Ikalai, NEMA Manager of Environment Education and Advocacy, urged students to understand that every individual has a legal and moral duty to maintain a clean and healthy environment. “The greatest threat to our planet is the belief that someone else will save it,” he said, quoting environmentalist Robert Swan. He reinforced that the National Environment Act mandates all Ugandans to prevent pollution and enhance environmental quality.
Ikalai highlighted that environmental stewardship goes beyond trees, water, and wildlife, noting that human behaviors are integral to the ecosystem. He gave examples of harmful practices in schools, including improper disposal of waste, overuse of water, overprinting of documents, and the unsafe handling of food packaging materials that release chemicals into the food chain. “If you don’t take care of yourself, you are part of the pollutants affecting your environment,” he said.
The NEMA official also outlined the agency’s role in coordinating national environmental management, working with lead institutions such as the Uganda Wildlife Authority, National Forestry Authority, local governments, and educational institutions. Through policy guidance, environmental impact assessments, and public education, NEMA seeks to promote sustainability and prevent environmental degradation.
Ikalai called on students to adopt green practices in schools, including proper waste management, water conservation, minimizing overprinting, and avoiding harmful materials in food handling. He encouraged learners to report unsustainable practices they observe and to actively contribute to a culture of environmental responsibility. “Students are the stewards of the environment for the coming generations,” he said, urging them to take personal responsibility for practices that impact both their immediate surroundings and the broader ecosystem.
Jane Anyango is the Communication Officer, EfD-Mak Centre
Agriculture & Environment
Launch of the MUJAES Online Submission System & Call for Manuscripts for Volume 15 (Issue 1)
Makerere University students have once again demonstrated academic excellence and commitment to environmental conservation after emerging as the overall winners in the Uganda Wildlife Authority Tertiary Institutions Conservation Competitions held during the national celebrations to mark the World Wildlife Day.
On 25th February, a team of eight students, including members of the Makerere University Tourism Association (MUTA), proudly represented the university at the competitions organized by the Uganda Wildlife Authority. The event took place at the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre in Entebbe and brought together students from various tertiary institutions across the country to showcase knowledge and innovation in wildlife conservation.
The competitions formed part of the activities marking World Wildlife Day and were held under the theme “Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: Conservation, Health, Heritage and Livelihoods.” The theme highlighted the importance of protecting plant biodiversity, particularly species that support traditional medicine, cultural heritage, and sustainable livelihoods.
After a highly competitive contest that tested participants’ knowledge of conservation, biodiversity, and environmental sustainability, Makerere University emerged as the overall winner. The Uganda Wildlife Research and Training College finished as the first runner-up, while Nkumba University secured the second runner-up position.
The team’s achievement was officially recognized during the national World Wildlife Day celebrations held on 3rd March at the Entebbe Works Grounds. During the ceremony, the students were awarded a trophy in recognition of their outstanding performance.
The award was presented by Uganda’s Prime Minister, the Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja, alongside the Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Hon. Tom Butime, and the State Minister for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Martin Mugarra. The leaders commended the students for their remarkable achievement and emphasized the critical role young people play in promoting conservation and protecting Uganda’s natural heritage.
The winning team comprised students from diverse academic disciplines as follows:
- Iradikunda Jemimah – Bachelor of Biomedical Laboratory Technology
- Nankabirwa Edith Mirembe – Bachelor of Science in Tourism and Hospitality Management
- Agenrwoth Brenda – Bachelor of Science in Tourism and Hospitality Management
- Joel Kibirango – Bachelor of Science in Tourism and Hospitality Management
- Elvis Mujuni Kamara – Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences (Botany/Zoology)
- Kamyuka Ben – Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences (Botany/Zoology)
- Karisa Geofrey – Bachelor of Science in Forestry
- Nyangoma Caroline – Bachelor of Science in Forestry
According to Prof. Jim Ayorekire, Head, Department of Tourism at Makerere University, the win not only highlights Makerere University’s continued leadership in conservation education but also underscores the importance of empowering young people to take an active role in protecting biodiversity and promoting sustainable use of natural resources.
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