Agriculture & Environment
Mak-CAES research projects to boost food security through climate smart innovations
Food insecurity and malnutrition are on the rise in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). The slow progress towards food security is partly attributed to demographic pressure, soil quality deterioration, and climate change that have adversely affected agricultural productivity.
To address the challenge, Makerere University College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) in collaboration with the Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU) is implementing two 5-year (2021-2026) capacity building projects aimed at improving food security and livelihoods using climate smart agricultural technologies. The projects namely: “Climate-smart Innovations in Agriculture in Sub Saharan Africa: Improved food security, livelihoods, and soil carbon” (ClimSmart), and “Climate Smart Agriculture in Sub Saharan Africa” (NORHED II) are supported by the Norwegian Research Council (NRC) and the Norwegian Agency for Development Cooperation (NORAD). Partner institutions in Norway include the Norwegian Geotechnical Institute (NGI) and Menon Economics while in the South, partners include Gulu University’s Faculty of Agriculture and Environment; Rural Enterprise Development Solutions (REDS); Hawassa University’s Wondo Genet College of Forestry and Natural Resources; University of Zambia’s School of Agricultural Sciences; and University of Juba’s School of Natural Resources and Environmental Studies.
The overall objective of the ClimSmart project is to contribute to increased food security, on-farm profitability, and entrepreneurship in communities of smallholder farms in Uganda, thus improving livelihoods through training and implementation of novel climate-smart practices in Agriculture. The overall objective of the NORHED II project is to generate and share new knowledge and to contribute to capacity building with respect to food security and on-farm profitability in Sub-Saharan Africa through innovative and sustainable climate-smart technologies.
The project sites in Uganda are in Alebtong and Mubende districts representing two distinct agro-ecological zones. Broad activities under the projects´ objectives include setting up, running, and monitoring controlled field experiments and pot experiments; setting up randomized control trials and conducting surveys; training farmers on Climate Smart Agriculture technologies; collecting and analyzing data for all experiments; and knowledge generation and knowledge transfer.
Expected outputs under the NORHED II project
Expected outputs under the NORHED II project include; 8 MSc students and 5 PhD students in the South; One PhD funded by NMBU -MINA; two post-doctoral scholarships; strengtheningresearchcapacity at the participating institutions; andabout 30 peer reviewed joint scientific publications. Further capacity building is expected through organization of three summer schools involving all partners, students from the five universities, as well as NGO’s and government representatives. Each summer school will involve one student from NMBU and two students from each of the partner institutions in the South leading to a total of 48 students trained in novel Climate Smart Agriculture (CSA) technologies. Other outcomes will include scientific exchange stimulated by scholarships for two students or staff at each of the partner institutions in the South for short-term mobility from South-North; Curricula development; developed CSA innovations packaged into policy briefs, and extension manuals; 1000 farmers trained in pigeon pea production in Uganda and Zambia and 500 smallholders trained in biochar production in both Zambia and Uganda, using pigeon pea biomass as feedstock. In addition, methods and results for CSA and impact assessments will be integrated into academic curricula on sustainable agriculture in the partner universities.
Expected outcomes
Overall, the project is expected to enhance agricultural productivity and income of smallholder farmers through sustainable intensification in the target countries as well as a better qualified workforce in Sub Saharan Africa. It is also expected to strengthen the quality and relevance of education and research programmes of the participating organizations, increase capacity and competence of university staff and students, and improve stakeholder engagements.
CAES Researchers, Norwegian Professors discuss project implementation plan
In a bid to streamline and strengthen the NORHED II project activities, Prof. Vegard Martinsen and Prof. Jan Mulder from the Norwegian University of Life Sciences visited Uganda on 2nd-11th March 2022 to engage their counterparts on a number of issues. On 4th March 2022, the two Professors met the project team in Uganda to deliberate on the implementation plan. The meeting held at the School of Agricultural Sciences, CAES was attended by, among others, Prof. Samuel Kyamanywa (PI of NORHED II CSA), Dr Jackline Bonabana-Wabbi (PI ClimSmart and Co-PI NORHED II CSA), Dr Basamba Ali Twaha Ateenyi (project member), representatives of partner institutions including; Dr. Alfred Obia, Coordinator of the projects at Gulu University and Mr. Edward Gitta from Rural Enterprise Development Solutions, as well as PhD students supported by the project. Other members on the project are; The Principal of CAES, Dr Gorettie N. Nabanoga from the Department of Extension and Innovation Studies; Prof. Frank Kansiime from the Department Environmental Management; Prof. Majaliwa Mwanjalolo from the Department of Geography, Geoinformatics and Climatic Sciences; Dr Yazidhi Bamutaze from the Department of Geography, Geoinformatics & Climatic Sciences; and Dr. Patrick Musinguzi from the Department of Agricultural Production.
Planned research activities under the NORHED II project
Under the project, the research team intends to address issues related to crop production, soil water management, soil fertility management, and the socio-economic aspects in regard to climate smart technologies in agriculture. Under soil fertility management, the researchers plan to among other things, assess biomass production and soil carbon sequestration in rain-fed cropping systems under different climate change scenarios. They also plan to study the dominating food production systems to unravel bottlenecks in terms of yield and quality, and to identify and optimize inexpensive (on farm) sources of mineral nutrition such as farmyard manure and household compost.
Under Soil Water Management, the research team will determine the effects of traditional tillage systems, soil bunds and other CSA strategies on rainwater harvesting, runoff, soil erosion and nutrient loss at different scales. They will also examine the effects of CSA practices on soil physical properties, soil water availability and crop yield. The researchers will also quantify different aspects of the water balance under different CSA management practices to ensure sustainable use of surface and subsurface water and minimize erosion risks.
Examining the socio-economic aspects in relation to Climate Smart Agriculture (CSA) technologies, the researchers will determine the contribution of CSA technologies to yield, net farm incomes, food security and poverty reduction. They will assess social acceptance and socio-economics of CSA technologies; determine farmers’ willingness to accept CSA technologies; establish stakeholder perceptions of CSA technologies using the SWOT-AHP approach to ascertain their relative strength and weaknesses; determine business opportunities associated with developed CSA technologies; and investigate the most appropriate uptake pathways for scaling CSA technologies and limiting attrition rates once adopted.
Guest lectures
During the week-long visit, the Norwegian professors toured the project sites in Alebtong and Mubende districts and delivered guest lectures to the University community.
During the guest lectures delivered on 11th March 2022, Dr Alfred Obia from the Faculty of Agriculture and Environment at Gulu University discussed the potential of biochar as a soil enhancer in crop production, shedding light on the effects of biochar on soil physical and chemical properties, and its contribution towards mitigating the effects of climate change. Biochar refers to carbonized biomass obtained from sustainable sources and sequestered in soils to sustainably enhance their productivity.
Prof Gerard Cornelissen, a technical expert at the Norwegian Geotechnical Institute and a professor at the Norwegian University of Life Sciences, explained the process of making biochar from contaminated organic waste to clean-up water and soil, whereas Prof. Vegard Martinsen a researcher at the Norwegian University of Life Sciences and Principal Investigator of the ClimSmart and NORHED II projects shared insights into conservation agriculture in Sub Saharan Africa.
In his presentation titled “Testing the pigeon pea – biochar – maize value chain”, Jan Mulder, a Professor of Soil Science at the Norwegian University of Life Sciences explained how the pigeon pea and its biochar greatly enhance soil fertility through increased soil organic matter, improved water retention, improved retention nutrient cations, improved soil structure (aggregates), decreased erodibility, increased nitrogen availability and increased phosphorus availability.
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.
Agriculture & Environment
From Campus to Community: Universities Lead Teso in Fight Against Greenhouse Gas Emissions
By John Omoding
When Immaculate Acom inhaled smoke from traditional firewood stoves, it was a daily struggle. Her eyes watered, her lungs ached, and cooking became a source of illness rather than nourishment.
Today, Acom’s home in Aten Village, Odudui Parish, Arapai Sub-county, Soroti District, has transformed into a living laboratory for green energy solutions, a hub where university researchers, students, and local farmers collaborate on practical strategies to combat climate change.
“I used to cough every time I cooked. Now, with a biogas digester built by my husband, I can cook and light our home safely,” she says, pointing to the small green dome beside her house. “This is a relief for all the mothers in the community.”
Bringing Academia to the Grassroots
Acom’s story is part of the TORCH Project, a multi-university initiative involving Makerere University, Busitema University, Kabale University, and the University of Juba. The project seeks to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainable practices at the community level.
Unlike conventional environmental campaigns, the TORCH Project emphasizes direct engagement with local communities. Role models within villages are identified and trained in modern agricultural practices, clean energy use, and environmentally friendly living standards.
Dr. Jolly Akullo Oder, TORCH Project Coordinator at Busitema University, explains:
“Our mandate is to go to the community, share knowledge, listen to their challenges, and co-create solutions. This is not about lecturing – it’s about learning together.”
The project’s operational area spans a ten-square-kilometer zone around Busitema University’s Arapai campus, where researchers, students, and community members meet regularly to exchange ideas and implement practical solutions.
A Living Lab for Green Growth
The initiative, branded as a living lab, aims to achieve green growth, rural carbon credits, and the adoption of affordable green technologies.
Dr. Patrick Musinguzi, Principal Investigator from Makerere University, emphasizes the community-centric approach: “We are here to sit at the table with the community, discuss the challenges of global warming and greenhouse gas emissions, and chart a path forward together. Awareness is the first step to action.”
The project focuses on tangible interventions, including biogas digesters, sustainable tree planting, and energy-efficient farming methods, to reduce carbon emissions at the household and community level.
Community Voices: From Awareness to Action
For local farmers like John Michael Elebu, the university outreach is both eye-opening and practical. “I’ve never seen academics come to the community and engage with us so openly. I hope they can provide free improved tree seedlings to support our farming and fight climate change,” Elebu said.
Acom urges men in the community to take an active role in adopting clean energy technologies. Her husband, David Okwi, is among those championing the integration of green technologies into everyday agricultural practices.
“Promoting renewable energy and sustainable farming isn’t just about protecting the environment,” Okwi says. “It also improves health, saves money, and strengthens the resilience of our families.”
Universities as Catalysts for Environmental Change
The TORCH Project represents a unique model of academic-community collaboration, where research and practical application intersect.
Universities provide expertise, training, and access to modern technologies.
Community members contribute local knowledge, labor, and willingness to adopt change.
Together, they tackle climate change, energy poverty, and environmental degradation at the grassroots.
Dr. Akullo notes that the initiative will expand its activities continuously, monitoring outcomes, adapting approaches, and scaling up best practices across Teso and neighboring regions.
Way forward
By turning households into living laboratories, the TORCH Project aims to bridge the gap between knowledge and action.
For residents like Acom and Okwi, the benefits are immediate: cleaner air, reduced health risks, and practical solutions for everyday life. For Teso, the project could serve as a blueprint for climate-smart rural development across East Africa.
“Change begins at home,” Dr. Musinguzi says. “When communities understand the challenges of green gas emissions and know how to respond, the impact spreads far beyond one village or household.” In Aten Village, the hum of a biogas stove and the sight of thriving tree seedlings offer a glimpse of what is possible when universities partner with communities, creating hope for a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future.
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