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)
Refurbished gate to boost the institute’s aesthetics, security, accessibility, and sustainability
Makerere University College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) has completed the refurbishment of the main gate at the Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK). The renovation was carried out by students from both CAES and the College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology (CEDAT), under the supervision of their academic mentors.
According to the Principal of CAES, Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga, the revamped gate now truly reflects the spirit of Makerere University and will significantly enhance the institute’s visual appeal, security, accessibility, and sustainability. The refurbished gate was officially commissioned by the Vice Chancellor, represented by the First Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi. The ceremony was attended by the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Finance and Administration, Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, alongside CAES staff, students, and partners.
About MUARIK
Established in 1953, MUARIK serves as a hub for numerous research projects and facilities within CAES. It houses centres such as the Makerere University Regional Centre for Crop Improvement (MaRCCI), the Makerere University Centre for Soybean Improvement and Development (MakCSID), the Continuing Agricultural Education Centre (CAEC), the Centre of Excellence in Waste Management, and the Consortium for Enhancing University Responsiveness to Agribusiness Development (CURAD).
Additionally, MUARIK hosts KOICA-funded projects, including a modern layers production unit and a climate-controlled greenhouse for vegetable production. These units operate independently but collectively contribute to MUARIK’s dynamic research environment.
MUARIK also houses research units for the School of Agricultural Sciences (SAS) such as the Biotechnology and Tissue Culture Laboratories, experimental fields, Horticulture and Livestock Units, and the black soldier fly project. It accommodates training and research facilities for the Schools of Food Technology, Nutrition, Bioengineering, and the School of Forestry, Environmental, and Geographical Sciences. It also hosts hostels for both local and international students who stay at the Institute to gain practical experience in production and research under typical farming conditions.
Enterprises and Research at MUARIK
Enterprises at MUARIK include approximately 100 acres of pastures, a dairy farm, feed mill, silage production, poultry unit, piggery unit, banana and coffee plantations, maize and soybean crops, horticulture, goat farming, and the recently revived rabbit unit featuring four breeds: New Zealand White, Chinchilla, California White, and Flemish Giant.
Current research initiatives focus on edible insects and worms as alternative livestock feeds, agroforestry, horticulture, and value addition in food processing. MUARIK maintains a strong partnership with the Uganda Flowers Exporters Association (UFEA), collaborating on the commercial testing of new flower species to diversify Uganda’s flower exports beyond traditional rose bouquets. Collaborative efforts also include identifying native natural enemies to control Chrysanthemum pests, working with UFEA, Wageningen University, breeders, and the National Agricultural Research Organization.
As part of Uganda’s National Agricultural Research System (NARS), MUARIK prioritizes research in biotechnology, tissue culture, plant breeding, improved farming methods, agro-processing, value addition, and marketing.
Tour to Assess the Capacity and Condition of Facilities at MUARIK
As part of the commissioning ceremony, the Principal of CAES, Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga, led visitors on a comprehensive tour of the Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute, Kabanyolo (MUARIK). The purpose of the tour was to provide first-hand insight into the institute’s current infrastructure, operational capacity, and ongoing challenges.
During the visit, Prof. Nabanoga highlighted both the strengths and limitations of the institute. While the tour showcased MUARIK’s potential as a hub for agricultural research and innovation, it also brought to light a number of critical issues affecting its functionality. Chief among these is the persistent challenge of land encroachment, which continues to threaten the integrity and sustainability of the institute’s operations.
In her remarks, Prof. Nabanoga commended Dr. Cyrus Ongom, the outgoing Director of MUARIK, for his unwavering dedication to safeguarding the institution’s land. She acknowledged his resolute efforts in the face of persistent threats and numerous challenges, emphasizing the vital role he played in preserving MUARIK’s integrity. “This year, we aim to further reposition MUARIK as a leading centre for agricultural innovation and production in the region,”said Prof. Nabanoga. “Our focus will be on strengthening research, fostering partnerships with stakeholders, and enhancing the capacity of our infrastructure to support sustainable and impactful agricultural practices.”
The Principal expressed gratitude to all who have supported the transformation journey of CAES. “As we celebrate our achievements today, we take this moment to recognize and honour everyone who has been part of our transformation journey,” the Principal said. “We are especially grateful to the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe for his unwavering support, which has been instrumental in driving the College forward.”
Delivering his remarks, the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs (DVCAA), Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, commended the CAES for its remarkable achievements in training and research.
“From my assessment, CAES has consistently excelled across its core mandates – training, research, production, and community outreach. The College has played a crucial role in advancing the agricultural sector through innovative research, high-quality academic programmes, and meaningful community engagement. These efforts have made a significant contribution to Uganda’s national development goals and the transformation of its agricultural landscape. Given its demonstrated success and strategic relevance, CAES is highly deserving of enhanced investment and funding to further expand its impact,” he stated.
CAES Annual Awards and Staff Recognition Ceremony
The CAES Annual Awards and Staff Recognition Ceremony celebrated the outstanding achievements of dedicated teaching, administrative, and support staff. During this special event, several members of staff were acknowledged and honoured for their exceptional performance, commitment, and contributions to the College’s success.
Commenting on the significance of the awards, Prof. Buyinza praised the initiative, emphasizing that such recognition serves as a powerful motivator. He highlighted how acknowledging excellence not only boosts morale but also inspires continued dedication and fosters a culture of high performance.
Click on the link below to access the list of staff recognized for exceptional performance.
More pictures from the event
It is with profound pride, reflection, and vision that I present the 2024 Annual Report for the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) at Makerere University. This report is more than a summary of the milestones in 2024 – it is a powerful testament to what is possible when a dedicated academic community rallies behind a common purpose. It encapsulates the collective effort, ingenuity, and resilience of our faculty, researchers, administrators, technical teams, students, alumni, and partners – each of whom has contributed meaningfully to advancing our threefold mandate: Teaching and Learning, Research and Innovation, and Knowledge and Technology Transfer Partnerships.
Throughout 2024, we deepened our resolve to nurture not only competent graduates, but also purpose-driven leaders capable of shaping the future of agriculture, environmental stewardship, and food systems across Uganda, Africa, and beyond. Through transformative curricula, cutting-edge facilities, and a strong commitment to STEM-based experiential learning, CAES continues to empower a new generation of innovators – technically sound, ethically grounded, and globally aware.
Our academic programs continued to evolve in both quality and relevance. We offered 48 academic programs—including 15 undergraduate, 19 masters, 11 PhD, and 3 postgraduate diploma programs. A total of 2,339 students were enrolled in 2024, with 60% of undergraduate learning delivered through hands-on, field-based instruction. At the 74th graduation ceremony, 638 students graduated, including 20 PhDs, 104 masters, and 511 bachelor’s degree recipients. Notably, we celebrated 25 first-class graduates who represent academic excellence across disciplines.
Through over 100 partnerships, we translated knowledge into impact. Initiatives like CURAD, FTBIC, and MaRCCI empowered communities in agribusiness, food safety, and climate resilience.
I thank our entire community for your commitment and collaboration. Together, we are not only advancing knowledge but shaping sustainable futures across Uganda and beyond.
Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga
Principal, CAES
Follow the link below to access the full report;
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1nNsX8Cohq7whbC9zkd3j4DpBRa7kygDP/view
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