The Minister of State for Fisheries, Hon. Hellen Adoa, and the Archbishop of Gulu Dioscese, His Grace John Baptist Odama arrive for celebrations to mark World Fisheries Day on 22nd November 2021, Layibi Gulu City
Theme of the 2021 World Fisheries Day celebrations:“Recognizing and Supporting the Contribution and Sustainable Development of Small Scale Artisanal Fisheries and Aquaculture”
The World Fisheries Day celebrated on 21st November annually presents an opportunity for stakeholders in the fishing industry to reflect on the state of Fisheries resources.
On 22nd November 2021, Uganda joined the rest of the world to commemorate the day. The celebrations to mark the day were held at St. Isidoro (Negri) Bar-Dege, Layibi Division in Gulu City. The event was presided over by the Minister of State for Fisheries, Hon. Hellen Adoa and attended by major actors in the fisheries industry in Uganda as well as political and religious leaders from Gulu District.
Highlighting the achievements and challenges faced by the fisheries sector globally, participants expressed concern over the continued depletion of fish from water bodies as a result illegal and unregulated fishing methods.
Dr. Jackson Efitre (2nd L) explaining to the Minister how the solar tent drier works.
Addressing participants, the Minister of State for Fisheries, Hon. Hellen Adoa called for more investment in fish farming to salvage the industry. “The fishing sector is faced with numerous challenges. The persistent use of illegal fishing gears and methods has resulted in catching and processing of immature fish. This has led to the decline of fish stocks reducing fish catches and consequently undermining the contribution of the sector to the economy,” she explained, calling on the general public to embrace aquaculture.
“Uganda is well endowed with water resources, good climate and raw materials for the production of fish feeds. With all these, we are well positioned to undertake aquaculture. Aquaculture can be practiced on commercial scale, in ponds, tanks and cages and has great potential to fill the gap created by the declining fish catches from natural water bodies. It also has potential to provide employment,” she noted.
The Minister acknowledged the support rendered by various actors towards the development of the fishing industry, one of the country’s major foreign exchange earners.
Emphasizing the contribution of the Fisheries Sector to the economy, the Director Fisheries at the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF), Ms Joyce Ikwaput Nyeko called for concerted efforts to address the challenges affecting the industry.
The NutriFish Uganda project team with the Minister.
“Uganda is blessed with a lot of water resources with 20% of our surface area covered by lakes, rivers, swamps, and has potential to provide 1.7 million tonnes from both aquaculture and capture fisheries. This is however undermined by numerous challenges including unregulated fishing, lost fish habitats and global warming. This calls for drastic interventions to sustain the industry,” she said.
Currently, Uganda exports fish worth USD 177 million and is second to coffee in foreign exchange earnings from non-traditional exports. The fishing industry in Uganda provides employment to 1.2 million people and supports 5.3 million people. Besides the commercial benefits, fish and fisheries products play an important role in food and nutritional security around the world.
Representing Hauge Aqua, Dr. Ronald Semyalo, a Lecturer at the Department of Zoology, Entomology and Fisheries Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Makerere University called for more training and skilling of youth in Fisheries and Aquaculture as a measure to minimize unemployment. The Department of Zoology, Entomology and Fisheries Sciences, Makerere University supports training in fisheries and aquaculture at various institutions in the country.
Exhibitions
The Minister touring the exhibition stall of NutriFish Uganda, a project under Makerere University Department of Zoology, Entomology and Fisheries, College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS).
As part of the activities to mark the day, key stakeholders in the fishing industry including the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries; the National Agricultural Research Organization (NARO); NutriFish Uganda; and the National Fisheries Resources Research Institute (NaFIRRI) showcased some of their products.
Exhibition by NutriFish Uganda
Supported by the International Research Development Centre (IDRC) and the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) through their joint programme, Cultivate Africa’s Future Fund (CultiAF), NutriFish aims to address the nutritional needs of vulnerable groups that cannot afford expensive commercial fish but are in critical need of high quality nutritious diets.
As key stakeholders in Uganda’s fishing industry, the project team led by Dr Jackson Efitre actively participated in the exhibition to mark World Fisheries Day in Gulu City. At their stall, the researchers showcased some of their products from small pelagic fish, actively engaging and explaining to participants the nutritional benefits and the product flow process of the fish. Some of the products showcased included, composite flour enriched with mukene (silver fish), Baghia from Nile Perch, fish sauce with mukene, instant porridge enriched with mukene, fish seasoning with mukene, mukene snack and the solar tent drier.
Graduation Ceremony – Award of a Certificate in Community Aquaculture, Level 1
Officials and Graduates from Community Aquaculture Schools in Gulu and Arua Districts pose for a photo with the Minister after receiving their certificates.
During the ceremony, 100 students from two community aquaculture schools in Arivu, Arua District and at St. Isidoro Farm in Gulu District graduated with a Certificate in Community Aquaculture, Level 1. The graduation ceremony was presided over by Gulu Archdiocese Archbishop, His Grace John Baptist Odama.
The two schools were established with support from Caritas International as part of the contribution of the Catholic Church towards the development of aquaculture in Uganda, and eradication of poverty and hunger in line with sustainable development goals 1 and 2. The project aims to uplift the lives of the vulnerable and unemployed youth and women through creating skills in fish farming, entrepreneurship, and cooperatives for marketing products in the fish value chain. To date, 1,051 students have completed training at these schools.
In his remarks, the National Director, Caritas Uganda, Msgr. Dr. Francis Ndamira appreciated the support rendered by Makerere University Department of Zoology, Entomology and Fisheries Sciences towards the training of students.
Traditional dancers entertain guests at the World Fisheries Day celebrations held at St. Isidoro (Negri) Bar-Dege, Layibi Division in Gulu City on 22nd November 2021.
Dr. Jackson Efitre, a Senior Lecturer at the Department of Zoology, Entomology, and Fisheries Sciences, College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), Makerere University has been appointed as a Lead Author for the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Seventh Assessment Report. He was amongst the 664 experts nominated by governments and selected by the IPCC Bureau from a global pool of 3,771 nominees. This prestigious appointment recognizes his extensive expertise and significant contributions to climate science globally. Dr. Efitre previously contributed to the Africa chapter of IPCC’s 6th Assessment Report that was launched in 2022. In the seventh assessment cycle, Dr. Efitre will contribute to Working Group II: Impacts, Adaptation and Vulnerability, Chapter 17: Agriculture, Food, Forestry, Fiber and Fisheries.
IPCC Assessment Reports are the most authoritative assessment of the state of knowledge on climate science, mitigation and adaptation. Commissioned by nearly all governments, the reports are key in informing climate policy, and shaping international climate negotiations.
We congratulate Dr. Efitre on joining a distinguished group of experts who will contribute to this crucial undertaking for global climate policy.
Newly admitted students to the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS) have been strongly encouraged to make academic excellence their top priority as they begin their university journey. During the official College orientation held on 6th August 2025, continuing students shared valuable insights aimed at helping the freshers adapt and thrive both academically and socially in the university environment.
Speaking at the event, Ms. Britah Kemigisha and Mr. Leakey Mbabazi, students of Conservation Biology and Petroleum Geosciences respectively, offered practical advice drawn from their experiences at CoNAS. The two students emphasized the importance of time management, consistent class attendance, and fostering healthy academic competition.
“Be ambitious and attend classes because attendance earns you some marks. Be competitive in a way that promotes excellence,” Mbabazi advised. He encouraged freshers to approach university life with purpose, noting that unlike in high school, university students must take personal responsibility for their learning outcomes. He recommended the use of professional networking platforms like LinkedIn, emphasizing their value in facilitating meaningful connections, expanding one’s professional network, discovering job opportunities, and staying updated on industry trends and insights.
Dr Joel Isanga briefing students about the Department of Biochemistry and Systems Biology.
Ms. Kemigisha underscored the importance of building supportive peer networks. “Form groups and inspire each other with rewards based on academic excellence,” she advised, emphasizing that academic group work, peer mentorship, and study circles can be powerful tools for motivation and accountability. According to her, surrounding oneself with goal-oriented individuals creates a positive learning environment that fosters growth and resilience, especially when faced with academic challenges.
The Dean, School of Physical Sciences, Prof. Michael Owor addressing the freshers about the different departments and programmes in the schoolSome of the freshers and college administrators at the orientation held on 6th August 2025 at JICA.
The orientation programme served as a platform to introduce First Year students to the academic programmes, services, and student life at CoNAS and the University in general. The session led by the Deputy Principal, Prof. Juma Kasozi featured presentations by both College and University leaders, who sensitized the new students on key university policies, academic structures, and support services. School Deans and Heads of Departments in attendance briefed students on the specific programmes offered within their respective units. These included the Dean, School of Physical Sciences, Prof. Michael Owor; the Dean, School of Biosciences, Prof. Arthur Tugume; the Head, Department of Biochemistry and Systems Biology, represented by Dr Joel Isanga; the Head, Department of Chemistry, Dr Emmanuel Tebandeke; the Head, Department of Geology and Petroleum Studies, Dr Arthur Batte; the Head, Department of Mathematics, Dr Ismail Mirumbe; the Head, Department of Physics, Dr Denis Okello; the Head, Department of Zoology, Entomology, and Fisheries Sciences, Dr Godfrey Kawooya Kubiriza; the Head, Department of Plant Sciences, Microbiology, and Biotechnology represented by Dr Godwin Anywar, and a representative from the Department of Exercise and Sports Science. Students were also sensitized on the registration and examination processes, ICT support services, library services, fees payment policies, the Anti-sexual Harassment Policy, counselling and guidance services, the emerging leaders programme, and general welfare at the University.
The Dean, School of Biosciences, Prof. Arthur Tugume addressing the students.
On behalf of the Principal, the Deputy Principal, Prof. Juma Kasozi warmly welcomed the newly admitted students to the College.He provided an insightful overview of the key academic units and programmes offered both within the College and across the University. In his address, Prof. Kasozi congratulated the students on securing admission into one of the most competitive, vibrant, and intellectually rigorous colleges within the University. He encouraged the students to take full ownership of their academic journey, emphasizing the importance of commitment, discipline, and focus from the very beginning. Highlighting the value of hard work and determination, he reminded them that the foundation they lay now will shape their future success.
Dr Emmanuel Tebandeke addressing the students about the programmes in the Department of Chemistry.
In his address, the Manager of the Counselling and Guidance Centre at the University, Mr. Henry Nsubuga, emphasized the importance of safeguarding mental health. He urged students to prioritize their psychological well-being, noting that maintaining a healthy mind is fundamental for academic success and overall personal development. Mr. Nsubuga encouraged students to actively seek support and adopt positive coping mechanisms to navigate the pressures of academic life.
Mr. David Kisitu, ICT Officer at CoNAS moderated the session.Dr Godfrey Kawooya Kubiriza briefed students about the programmes in the Department of Zoology, Entomology, and Fisheries Sciences, and the significance of the natural sciences in general.Dr. Arthur Batte (L) addressing students about the Department of Geology and Petroleum Studies.Dr. Godwin Anywar represented the Head, Department of Plant Sciences, Microbiology, and Biotechnology.Ms. Britah Kemigisha, a prospective BSc. Conservation Biology graduand briefing students on how to plan for a good CGPA.Mr. Leakey Mbabazi, a prospective Bachelor of Petroleum Geosciences graduand, also offered valuable tips on achieving academic excellence.Mr James Muhwezi, on behalf of student leaders at CoNAS briefed students about life on Campus.Dr Barbara Nerima from the Department of Biochemistry and Systems Biology briefed students on the emerging leaders programme at the University.Some of the students listening to officials.A section of officials at the orientation.
The lectures are expected to commence on Monday, 11th August 2024.
Researchers from the Department of Plant Sciences, Microbiology, and Biotechnology at the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), Makerere University have highlighted the urgent need to conserve medicinal plants in the face of increasing threats from climate change, over-harvesting, and habitat destruction.
Despite Namutumba District’s rich diversity of medicinal plants, conservation efforts are limited, and several species are already classified as globally and nationally threatened. This highlights the urgent need for focused conservation strategies to safeguard these vulnerable medicinal plants.
Dr Tugume addressing the workshop participants on the key research findings.
Under a project titled “Knowledge, Attitudes, and Conservation of Commonly Traded Medicinal Plants in a Climate-Changing Environment in Eastern Uganda,” a team of researchers led by Dr Patience Tugume documented 174 medicinal plant species. The goal was to assess the existential threats facing these plants due to unsustainable harvesting practices and the lack of effective conservation measures. These species are widely used to treat various health conditions, including malaria, syphilis, diabetes, hypertension, and certain cancers. The findings of the study are intended to guide the development of species-specific, evidence-based interventions to curb possible extinction and loss of medicinal plant resources. The research revealed troubling trends in the availability of key medicinal plants, including:
The herbalists mostly collected their medicinal plants from bushlands (92.0%), markets (82.3%) and wetlands (74.7%) and were rarely cultivated. This is of great concern regarding the conservation and future availability of these resources.
It was noted that 36% of the herbal products were made from roots, which presents a conservation threat since the heavy utilization of roots affects the regeneration of the medicinal plants.
Common plants used were: Kigelia africana (Naibere), Erythrina abyssinica (Ekiyirikiti) and Geranium sauveolens (Lokowe). Kigelia africana was the most cited species by the herbalists, indicating heavy utilization and a high conservation threat if deliberate measures are not taken to ensure its future availability.
Almost all respondents (289, 96.3%) acknowledged a considerable decline in the availability of 13 medicinal plants species including Aloe wollastonii (Ekigagi), Commiphora africana (Nkulidho), Myrica kandtiana (Mukikimbo) and Acacia sieberiana (Mufundawuzi).
Four plant species i.e. Tamarindus indica (Enkoge), Warburgia ugandensis (Balwegira), Mitragyna rubrastipulata (Mutamatama) and Mondia whitei (Mulondo) appear on the Red List of Globally and Nationally Threatened Species and were mentioned among the plants whose population has greatly declined.
The causes of decline in availability of medicinal plants included climate change, overharvesting, agricultural expansion, habitat destruction, land use change and inadequate regulations.
There were no medicinal plant conservation efforts by herbalists.
Kigelia africana was the most cited species by the herbalists, indicating heavy utilization and a high conservation threat.Participants included leaders of the herbalist associations, traders and research assistants.
The study recommended the following practices to ensure conservation of the medicinal plants:
Promote the use of sustainable harvesting techniques to ensure conservation of medicinal plants.
Conduct capacity building for stakeholders in the medicinal plants sector on conservation, value addition and standardization.
Establish community botanical gardens raw plant collection and sensitization programmes.
Advocate for agroforestry among herbalists to reduce the dependence on natural habitats.
Develop and enforce regulations on accessing natural areas for medicinal plants.
Promote conservation awareness campaigns.
Dr Tugume appreciating the Chief Administrative Officer-Namutumba, Mr. Ofwono Emmanuel for hosting the Dissemination Workshop at the District Offices.
Research Dissemination in Namutumba District
At the research dissemination workshop held in Namutumba District on 23rd July 2025, and attended by district leaders, researchers, and local herbalists, the project team led by Dr Patience Tugume expressed hope that the insights gained from the project, particularly in medicinal plants conservation approaches, will be invaluable for minimising the decline in medicinal plants.
The Resident District Commissioner-Namutumba, Mr. Fred Aggrey Bangu (Standing), the PI, Dr Patience Tugume (Right), and the LC5 Chairperson, Mr. Mutyaba Patrick (Left).
In her remarks, Dr Tugume, thanked the Government of Uganda through the Makerere UniversityResearch and Innovations Fund (MakRIF) for funding the project. She expressed gratitude to the research team composed of Dr Abubakar Sadik Mustafa, Dr Jamilu E. Ssenku, Dr Savina Asiimwe, and Dr Abdul Walusansa who have worked with her closely from project inception in February 2024. She further thanked the research assistants and all respondents, mainly the herbalists that participated in the study.
In a special way, she appreciated Mr. Fred Aggrey Bangu (Resident District Commissioner), Mr. Ofwono Emmanuel (Chief Administrative Officer), Mr. Kiire Noah (Communication Officer), Mr. Mugunywa Enock (District Community Development Officer), Mr. Kirya Moses (District Environmental Officer), Mr. Bamusubire William (District Forest Officer) and the leaders of herbalist associations for providing support throughout the study and sparing time to attend the dissemination workshop.
The MakRIF research Team. Left to right: Mr. Ronald Muwanika, Dr Savina Asiimwe, Dr Patience Tugume (Principal Investigator), Dr Abubakar Sadik Mustafa, and Dr Abdul Walusansa.
Addressing the participants, the Resident District Commissioner, Mr. Fred Aggrey Bangu urged all stakeholders to engage in a collaborative discussion on how the study findings can be translated into practical solutions to promote sustainable use and conservation of commonly used medicinal plants in Namutumba District amidst adverse effects of climate change.
The MakRIF project team with leaders of the Traditional Herbalist Associations.
Mr. Ofwono Emmanuel, the Chief Administrative Officer, praised the Makerere research team for selecting Namutumba as the study area. He said the research served as an eye-opener to the district officials and community, especially regarding the pressure exerted on natural medicinal resources.
Front left to right: Mr. Ronald Muwanika (Coordinator), Mugega Amos (Sec. Health), Mutyaba Patrick (LC 5), Bangu Fred (Resident District Commissioner), Dr Patience Tugume (Principal Investigator), Ms. Kiire Noah (Communication Officer), Dr Abubakar Sadik Mustafa (Researcher). Back left to right: Mugunywa Enock (District Community Development Officer), Kirya Moses (District Environmental Officer), Bamusubire William (District Forest Officer). Dr Savina Asiimwe (Researcher), and Dr Abdul Walusansa (Researcher).
Report compiled by Dr Patience Tugume and Dr Abubakar Sadik Mustafa – Department of Plant Sciences, Microbiology and Biotechnology, CoNAS, Makerere University