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Agriculture & Environment

Mak-CAES, UNBS Launch Edible Insect Products & Standards

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Edible insects have the potential to fill the nutrition and income gaps in Uganda and Kenya. They are rich in protein and cheaper to manage. However, edible insect value chains are under-developed yet the demand is high. Business enterprises for rearing and processing quality insect food products do not exist and the business potential has not been evaluated.

Through a project titled INSBIZ – “INSect-based agriBIZiness for Sustainable grasshopper and cricket production and processing for food in Kenya in Uganda” researchers from the Department of Food Technology and Nutrition, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Makerere University in collaboration with partners from the International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (icipe) set out to improve the profitability and nutritional benefits of edible insects.

The Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (C) and the Executive-Director of UNBS Mr.-David-Livingstone Ebiru (L) getting information on the products from the Project PI Dr Dorothy-Nakimbugwe (R).
The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (C) and the Executive Director of UNBS, Mr. David Livingstone Ebiru (L) getting information on the products from the Project PI, Dr Dorothy Nakimbugwe (R).

Objectives of the project

The development objective of the project was to contribute to improved food and nutritional security, job creation and income generation, and reduction of the gender gap for the most vulnerable groups in East Africa in general and specifically in Kenya and Uganda through edible insects production and processing.  Specific objectives included; (1) assessing the market size and testing the market performance of insect-based foods; (2) adapting and piloting of mass rearing protocols for crickets and grasshoppers; (3) developing, characterizing and commercializing insect-enriched food products; and (4) creating a favourable enabling environment for insect-based food through policy/standards, advocacy and awareness creation.

Some of the products launched at the INSBIZ Project closing workshop.
Some of the products launched at the INSBIZ Project closing workshop.
Some of the snacks enriched with cricket powder launched at the INSBIZ Project closing workshop.
Some of the snacks enriched with cricket powder launched at the INSBIZ Project closing workshop.

The three-year project funded by the Swedish International Development Agency (SIDA) through the BioInnovate Africa Programme Phase II was headed by Dr Dorothy Nakimbugwe, an Associate Professor in the Department of Food Technology and Nutrition at CAES. Other members on the project included Dr. Geoffrey Ssepuuya from the same department, and Dr. Jackline Bonabana-Wabbi from the Department of Agribusiness and Natural Resource Economics.


Project closing meeting

During the project closing meeting held in the School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bio-Engineering Conference Hall on 28th March 2022, Makerere University together with Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) launched edible insect products and standards for the enterprise. The event was presided over by Makerere University Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe and Uganda National Bureau of Standards Executive Director, Mr. David Livingstone Ebiru. It was witnessed by the Principal of CAES, Dr Gorettie N. Nabanoga; the Commissioner in charge of Entomology at the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, Mr. Gidudu Masaba Ambrose; and representatives from icipe led by Dr. Chrysantus Mbi Tanga.

The products launched included shelf-stable, safe and well packaged grasshopper products, cricket enriched flours, snacks, and cookies enriched with crickets.

Project outcomes

The PI Dr. Dorothy Nakimbugwe presents an overview of the project.
The PI, Dr. Dorothy Nakimbugwe presents an overview of the project.

Addressing participants, Dr Nakimbugwe said the products would largely reduce nutritional challenges. “The majority of our people are not able to improve their diets because the foods that are high in protein, vitamins and minerals like chicken, beef and fish are expensive. We turned to insects because they address some of those problems. They are more nutritious than the conventional animal proteins like chicken, beef and fish. In addition, they take a shorter time to grow. Crickets grow in a matter of weeks compared to the other livestock. They can be harvested within 4 to 7 weeks. They also have a high feed conversion. The amount of feed you need to produce 1kg of insect is only about one and half kilogrammes. When it comes to the producing 1 kg of chicken, the amount of feed increases to about 5 kgs. If you are to produce 1 kg of beef, the amount of feed you need is 50kgs. The insects convert feed rapidly and efficiently and produce protein faster and of the same quality. They also require less space for rearing and present an opportunity to close the food and nutrition gap especially around proteins, vitamins and minerals,” she explained.

According to Dr Nakimbugwe, the project also sought to formalize the sector to make it more profitable. “For a long time, we have not had a certified product on the market because the Uganda National Bureau of Standards did not have a standard. The sector has been very informal. Insects are sold on streets and not controlled. In this project, we wanted to improve that situation. Together with the UNBS, we developed a standard for Uganda which was approved and is now available for use. For the first time you will be able to find certified insect products on the Ugandan market,” she noted.

The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe delivers his remarks.
The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe delivers his remarks.

The project also aimed mitigate the effects of climate change and greenhouse emissions that are high for animals and much lower for insects.

Other contributions included building capacity for research in this field. “The research in insects for food and feed is fairly new compared to other fields so we needed a lot of capacity development. The project was able to train the farmers and harvesters on handling of insects. We also trained students from PhDs, to MAs, undergraduates, fellows and technicians. This was necessary to sustain the research and development of this fairly noble field.”

Under the project, the researchers developed a compound feed to sustain large scale production of the insects. “If you are going to do commercial production, it is important that you have a standardized feed. In this development, we were very careful to exclude input that are also human food like silver fish and soy. Most of the feed in Uganda is in competition with the human food chain. In the project we were careful to avoid that. We formulated feed using the Black soldier fly larvae,” she explained.

The Executive Director of UNBS Mr. David Livingstone Ebiru briefs participants on the standardization process.
The Executive Director of UNBS, Mr. David Livingstone Ebiru briefs participants on the standardization process.

Other outputs included strengthened edible insect value chains – cricket farmers linked to markets; large scale production, processing and marketing of cricket and grasshopper products; approved insect based food standards in Kenya and Uganda; improved grasshopper trapping method (cost-effective, sustainable and safer); more sustainable cricket rearing – using developed feed and container prototypes; and improved food and nutritional security through increased diversity of available nutritious and safe edible insect foods. All the products developed have shelf-life of over 6 months. For the grasshopper product, this implies all-year availability to consumers.

The project also contributed to the improvement of consumer health and safety through consumption of UNBS (and KEBS)-certified insect food products; increased incomes as a result of lower post-harvest losses for cricket farmers and grasshopper harvesters through use of improved post-harvesting techniques to maintain quality and safety;  increased jobs creation and job security through improved capacity of young researchers, technicians and actors along the edible insects’ value chains; higher profile of and support for insect foods due to increased public awareness of their nutritional and commercial importance through various programmes.

The Principal of CAES Dr. Gorettie N. Nabanoga delivering her remarks.
The Principal of CAES, Dr. Gorettie N. Nabanoga delivering her remarks.

During the event, a cricket farmer from Masaka shared her experience with the enterprise. She noted that with support from the project, cricket rearing had greatly transformed her life and is now able to pay fees for her children. The project supports over 50 cricket farmers in Masaka.

Remarks by the Vice Chancellor

In his remarks, Makerere University Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe applauded the researchers noting that the project would largely address challenges of food insecurity in the country. “Makerere University researchers are taking the issue of food security seriously. In Africa, the biggest challenge we have is feeding the growing population. The traditional foods are not expanding in volume and some are actually disappearing yet we have this abundancy of what you can call the animal world. There are insects that we have traditionally eaten but these are seasonal. There are also insects which we assume we should not eat but are highly nutritious and eaten by people all over the world. Researching into ways of making their products more attractive will largely increase their consumption and boost food security,” he explained. He acknowledged the efforts of the researchers towards transforming Makerere into a research-led University as per the 2020-2030 Strategic Plan.

Dr Chrysantus Mbi Tanga from icipe addressing participants.
Dr Chrysantus Mbi Tanga from icipe addressing participants.

Speaking on the need to move the country to middle income status, the Vice Chancellor urged the researchers to transform the innovations into business enterprises. “We need to move towards setting up companies that will address challenges of unemployment but also boost our economy. With these great ideas, you can become billionaires and less dependent on salary,” he advised. He cautioned researchers to work towards patenting their products.   

The Vice Chancellor appreciated SIDA and BioInnovate Africa for the support extended to the project. He also thanked the Government of Uganda for supporting research activities at the University. He urged researchers to continue engaging the government and private sector in projects, noting that research is more impactful when they work together.  

The Dean, School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bio-Engineering, Dr. Abel Atukwase at the workshop.
The Dean, School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bio-Engineering, Dr. Abel Atukwase at the workshop.

Remarks from CAES Leadership

The Principal of CAES, Dr Gorettie N. Nabanoga applauded the project team for what she described as cutting-edge research that will greatly address challenges of food insecurity, malnutrition and improve food safety. “You have made CAES and Makerere proud with this level of success registered from the project,” she said.

Dr Nabanoga appreciated the development partners and the Government of Uganda for the continued support towards research at Makerere. She also appreciated the Vice Chancellor for the untiring support towards CAES activities.

The Head, Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering (DABE), Makerere University, Dr. Ivan Muzira Mukisa,
Dr. Ivan Muzira Mukisa, the Head, Department of Food Technology and Human Nutrition

In their remarks, the Dean of the School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bio-Engineering, Dr Abel Atukwase and the Head Department of Food Technology and Nutrition, Dr Ivan Muzira Mukisa congratulated the research team upon the successes registered. They also appreciated the project partners and funders for the support extended to various programmes at CAES.

The Executive Director of Ugandan National Bureau of Standards, Mr. David Livingstone Ebiru urged the research team to extensively disseminate and rollout the project to other parts of the country. He called for innovative measures of ensuring sustainability of the projects when donor funding stops.

Ms. Josephine Nabanja a cricket farmer from Masaka sharing her experience with the enterprise and how the project has supported her.
Ms. Josephine Nabanja a cricket farmer from Masaka sharing her experience with the enterprise and how the project has supported her.

Please see below for presentations from the workshop.

Agriculture & Environment

FoodLAND Project Research Dissemination: Nakaseke District Farmers Sensitized on Modern Agricultural Practices & Proper Nutrition

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Participants including leaders of farmer groups in Nakaseke and District officials at the training venue at Butalangu District Headquarters. Food and Local, Agricultural, and Nutritional Diversity (FoodLAND) project, Department of Food Technology and Nutrition, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa, Funded to the tune of 7 million Euros by the European Commission within the Horizon 2020 programme, research dissemination, Nakaseke District, 16th July 2024.

******Food and Local, Agricultural, and Nutritional Diversity (FoodLAND) project aims to develop, implement and validate innovative, scalable, and sustainable technologies aimed at supporting the nutrition performance of local food systems in Africa, while strengthening agro-biodiversity and food diversity as well as diversity of healthy diets.


Experiences of Nakaseke District farmers

Farmers in Nakaseke District are indebted for the support and training received from the FoodLAND Project. Although many had been engaged in the activity, they lacked knowledge and skills of modern farming. Connected to FoodLAND through VEDCO, a non-governmental and not for profit agricultural organization, the farmers have acquired skills on value addition, precision irrigation/fertigation, smart storage systems, gardening and hydroponics systems, biodegradable mulching, precision crop protection systems, precision harvesting systems and agro-ecological intensification practices.

Dr. Richard Bukenya disseminated the project findings and achievements on behalf of the PI. Food and Local, Agricultural, and Nutritional Diversity (FoodLAND) project, Department of Food Technology and Nutrition, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa, Funded to the tune of 7 million Euros by the European Commission within the Horizon 2020 programme, research dissemination, Nakaseke District, 16th July 2024.
Dr. Richard Bukenya disseminated the project findings and achievements on behalf of the PI.

According to Ms. Nakawuba Sarah, a widow and tomato farmer in Kapeeka Sub County, Nakaseke District, the knowledge acquired has enabled her to expand, and gain more profits. “I extend my gratitude to FoodLAND and the funders of the project. The knowledge acquired over time has enabled me to expand my farm and earn more money. Due to ignorance, we used to be exploited – people would buy our products cheaply because we lacked knowledge of preservation. The training on value addition has helped us learn how to preserve our products and we are now benefiting more from them. At the time my husband died, we had just a small house built on his father’s land. I am happy that with the support received from VEDCO and FoodLAND, I have bought a plot of land, built a house, and I am able to pay school fees for my children. I once again thank VEDCO and the FoodLAND. Although the FoodLAND project is ending soon, I request that they do not leave us. They should continue training us so that we further improve our skills.”

Mr. Lubowa Samuel Sunday, also a farmer in Kapeeka Sub County, Nakaseke District is equally grateful. Through FoodLAND, several farmers in Nakaseke District have acquired knowledge of climate smart agriculture. “Farming in the dry season is no longer a challenge. Our harvest has increased and we are now earning more. However we still face a number of challenges including the high cost of fertilizers and pesticides. We appeal to the project team to conduct more research on natural remedies for the challenges we are experiencing.”

Participants during one of the training sessions. Food and Local, Agricultural, and Nutritional Diversity (FoodLAND) project, Department of Food Technology and Nutrition, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa, Funded to the tune of 7 million Euros by the European Commission within the Horizon 2020 programme, research dissemination, Nakaseke District, 16th July 2024.
Participants during one of the training sessions.

Ms. Nankya Jane, a coffee and banana farmer Semuto Sub County, Nakaseke District, the irrigation skills acquired through the project have greatly improved her farm. “The place where I do my farming was so dry, and this, in many cases, affected my yields. Through VEDCO, we were taken to the Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK) where we acquired skills on proper irrigation and value addition using technologies developed by the FoodLAND Project. If I had acquired these skills when I started 7 years ago, I would be very far. My appeal is that you continue offering training to us. There is a lot more that we need to learn.”

About the FoodLAND project

Launched in 2020, the main objective of the FoodLAND project was to develop, implement and validate innovative, scalable and sustainable technologies aimed at supporting the nutrition performance of local food systems in Africa, while strengthening agro-biodiversity and food diversity as well as diversity of healthy diets.

Butalangu Town Clerk, Ms. Rashida Mutebi on behalf of the Chief Administrative Officer appreciated the project for reaching out and working with the local communities to improve their livelihoods. Food and Local, Agricultural, and Nutritional Diversity (FoodLAND) project, Department of Food Technology and Nutrition, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa, Funded to the tune of 7 million Euros by the European Commission within the Horizon 2020 programme, research dissemination, Nakaseke District, 16th July 2024.
Butalangu Town Clerk, Ms. Rashida Mutebi on behalf of the Chief Administrative Officer appreciated the project for reaching out and working with the local communities to improve their livelihoods.

Funded to the tune of 7 million euro by the European Commission within the Horizon 2020 programme, and led by Alma Mater Studiorum – University of Bologna (Italy), the project committed to developing a range of innovations for local agriculture and aquaculture development, as well as to nudging consumers towards healthier eating behaviour in six African countries: Morocco, Tunisia, Ethiopia, Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania. The project specifically aimed to empower smallholder farmers and food operators, foster nutrition responsive and sustainable agro-biodiversity, reinforce the productivity and resilience of food supply chains, and create new market opportunities at both the local and global scales, thereby encouraging the flourishing of rural communities. The project was envisaged to create a network of 14 local Food Hubs—paired with 14 separate cities in these countries—that would mobilise relevant actors in rural, urban and peri-urban communities and serve as injection points for testing and introducing the innovations. The 28 partners that comprise the FoodLAND consortium (18 of them African institutions while the other 10 are European) were expected to work together to develop, implement and validate 12 technological innovations; which include organizational and technological innovations for both vegetable and fish farming and food processing systems, together with 17 novel local food products, ranging from fresh, dried and processed vegetables and fish to composite flours and therapeutic foods.

DPMO Wandera James addressing participants. Food and Local, Agricultural, and Nutritional Diversity (FoodLAND) project, Department of Food Technology and Nutrition, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa, Funded to the tune of 7 million Euros by the European Commission within the Horizon 2020 programme, research dissemination, Nakaseke District, 16th July 2024.
DPMO Wandera James addressing participants.

In Uganda, the project was implemented in 6 districts namely; Masaka, Nakaseke, Kamuli, Lwengo, Mukono and Wakiso, and was led by Prof. John Muyonga from the Department of Food Technology and Nutrition, College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Makerere University. Other members on the project were: Prof. Johnny Mugisha from CAES; Dr. Cassius Aruho, Dr. Puline Nakyewa, Dr. Margaret Masette, Dr. Getrude Atukunda and Dr. Justus Rutaisire from NARO; Mr. Henry Nsereko from VEDCO; and Prof. Dorothy Nakimbugwe from Nutreal.

To date, the project team in Uganda has registered a number of achievements including;

  1. New nutrient enhanced food products – Noodles containing orange fleshed sweet potatoes and biofortified beans; instant flours containing orange fleshed sweet potatoes, biofortified beans and grain amaranth; and dry eggplant. Arrangements are in place for commercialization of the technologies by SMEs.
  2. Establishment of infrastructure at MUARIK for research and training on fertigation (irrigation that supplies water together with manure) and precision irrigation.
  3. Development of technology for smart cold storage of perishable foods such as fruits and vegetables. The technology allows for remote monitoring of temperature and relative humidity.
  4. Development of technology for rodent control in stores. This technology has been shown to be effective in preventing of rodent damage to food in stores.
  5. Promotion of agro-ecological intensification – Applying ecological principles to ensure sustainable agricultural production.
  6. Testing application of bio-based packaging of food
  7. Training of 100 farmers in different production technologies.
  8. Training of 3 M.Sc.
  9. Developing of nutrition guidelines for adults and the elderly.
Mr. Baraka Price training the farmers on precision irrigation. Food and Local, Agricultural, and Nutritional Diversity (FoodLAND) project, Department of Food Technology and Nutrition, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa, Funded to the tune of 7 million Euros by the European Commission within the Horizon 2020 programme, research dissemination, Nakaseke District, 16th July 2024.
Mr. Baraka Price training the farmers on precision irrigation.

Dissemination of the project findings and achievements to farmers and district leaders in Nakaseke

On 16th July 2024, the project team held a dissemination workshop for Nakaseke District leaders and farmers to sensitize them on different aspects including the research findings and recommendations for improved farming practices. Coordinated by Ms. Josephine Kisakye, and conducted at Butalangu District Headquarters, the workshop was attended by representatives of farmer groups in Nakaseke as well as the district officials, including the CAO, DHO, DPMO and RDC. On behalf of the Project Coordinator, Dr Richard Bukenya, also a member of staff in the Department of Food Technology and Nutrition briefed the farmers on the findings of the project, highlighting the project objectives and progress made thus far, including the technologies, novel raw materials, ingredients and food products developed.  Under the project, a number of technologies for smart farming have been developed and are being tested. These include: Digital tools for precision agriculture, farming management systems like the rodent control system as part of smart storage systems, and the food processing systems like the solar drier.

The farmers receiving training on value addition. Food and Local, Agricultural, and Nutritional Diversity (FoodLAND) project, Department of Food Technology and Nutrition, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa, Funded to the tune of 7 million Euros by the European Commission within the Horizon 2020 programme, research dissemination, Nakaseke District, 16th July 2024.
The farmers receiving training on value addition.

During the workshop, Mr. Barak Price, a student on the project sensitized participants on the rodent control system. He also trained the farmers on precision irrigation/fertigation. The farmers were also taken through the processes of value addition. Ms. Josephine Kisakye, a researcher on the project discussed the nutrition recommendations developed by the project. In the course of the project activities, it was noted that diets in Uganda are mainly composed of starchy staples, especially cereals, roots, tubers and bananas, with legumes constituting the main protein source. Intake of micronutrient-rich foods is low, despite various interventions to promote consumption of fruits, and vegetables. Ugandan adult and elderly population in both rural and urban areas were found to be at risk of under-nutrition and micro-nutrient deficiencies. Nutritional recommendations included: i) Daily consumption of locally available fruits and vegetables, whole starchy staples, and protein-rich foods; including beans, peas, nuts, fish, eggs, and meat; ii) Limiting the consumption of fried foods, salt, alcohol, and sweetened beverages; iii) Hydrate with fluids, preferably water; Regular engagement in moderate-intensity physical activity like brisk walking, digging, swimming, aerobics, and cycling; vi) Undertaking medical examination at intervals of no longer than 6 months to facilitate timely detection and treatment of ailments like diabetes, hypertension, high plasma cholesterol and cancers.

Some of the products developed under the project. Food and Local, Agricultural, and Nutritional Diversity (FoodLAND) project, Department of Food Technology and Nutrition, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa, Funded to the tune of 7 million Euros by the European Commission within the Horizon 2020 programme, research dissemination, Nakaseke District, 16th July 2024.
Some of the products developed under the project.

Appreciation by the District officials

Butalangu Town Clerk, Ms. Rashida Mutebi on behalf of the Chief Administrative Officer appreciated the project for reaching out and working with the local communities to improve their livelihoods. “The trainings on value addition will go a long way in saving our farmers losses,” she noted, calling for resilience and cooperation amongst the farmers. “It is important that you work together. Always share best practices if you are to improve yourselves and gain more from farming. I also implore you to always keep records of your farming activities.”

In his remarks, Nakaseke District Health Officer, Dr Alija Simon noted that the challenge of non-communicable diseases was on the raise due to poor feeding habits. He expressed gratitude to the project for incorporating the important aspect of nutrition in its research.

Ms. Josephine Kisakye sensitizing the farmers on the nutritional recommendations developed under the project. Food and Local, Agricultural, and Nutritional Diversity (FoodLAND) project, Department of Food Technology and Nutrition, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa, Funded to the tune of 7 million Euros by the European Commission within the Horizon 2020 programme, research dissemination, Nakaseke District, 16th July 2024.
Ms. Josephine Kisakye sensitizing the farmers on the nutritional recommendations developed under the project.

DPMO Wandera James appreciated the Government of Uganda for investing in farming. He also appreciated the project team for the trainings offered to the farmers in the district, noting that value addition was a key area of focus in the Parish Development Model. “Nakaseke is now becoming a food hub. I thank Makerere University for working with the communities. Initially, research was done but stopped in the shelves of the University. We are happy that you are now working with the communities to identify solutions to the challenges undermining agriculture. Research should be conducted for development.”

Addressing participants, the Assistant RDC, Nakaseke District, Mr. Muhoozi Michael appreciated Makerere University, specifically the FoodLAND Project, calling for more innervations to support farmers in the district out of poverty. He implored the farmer groups to form a cooperative, noting that the latter forms a better platform for soliciting support.  

Nakaseke District Health Officer, Dr Alija Simon decried the high level of NCDs as a result of unhealthy feeding habits. Food and Local, Agricultural, and Nutritional Diversity (FoodLAND) project, Department of Food Technology and Nutrition, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa, Funded to the tune of 7 million Euros by the European Commission within the Horizon 2020 programme, research dissemination, Nakaseke District, 16th July 2024.
Nakaseke District Health Officer, Dr Alija Simon decried the high level of NCDs as a result of unhealthy feeding habits.

A similar dissemination exercise was conducted in Kamuli District in Eastern Uganda.

More photos from the FoodLAND project Nakaseke Dissemination

The Assistant RDC, Nakaseke District, Mr. Muhoozi Michael appreciated Makerere University, specifically the FoodLAND Project, calling for more interventions to support farmers in the district out of poverty. Food and Local, Agricultural, and Nutritional Diversity (FoodLAND) project, Department of Food Technology and Nutrition, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa, Funded to the tune of 7 million Euros by the European Commission within the Horizon 2020 programme, research dissemination, Nakaseke District, 16th July 2024.
The Assistant RDC, Nakaseke District, Mr. Muhoozi Michael appreciated Makerere University, specifically the FoodLAND Project, calling for more interventions to support farmers in the district out of poverty.

Ms. Nankya Jane, a farmer in Semuto Sub County, Nakaseke District, also beneficiary of the FoodLAND Project training irrigating her farm. She's grateful for the training received from the project. Food and Local, Agricultural, and Nutritional Diversity (FoodLAND) project, Department of Food Technology and Nutrition, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa, Funded to the tune of 7 million Euros by the European Commission within the Horizon 2020 programme, research dissemination, Nakaseke District, 16th July 2024.
Ms. Nankya Jane, a farmer in Semuto Sub County, Nakaseke District, also beneficiary of the FoodLAND Project training irrigating her farm. She’s grateful for the training received from the project.

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Agriculture & Environment

Mak, Oregon State University Sign Cooperation Agreement

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The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe signing the MoU between Makerere University and Oregon State University. Makerere University and Oregon State University MoU Signing to collaborate on i) Exchange of scholars and faculty staff, ii) Exchange of undergraduate and graduate students for research and study, iii) Exchange of academic information and materials, iv) Joint research activities and publications, v) Participation in conferences and academic meetings vi) Joint running of short-term academic programs, vii) Resource mobilization, 19th July 2024, Frank Kalimuzo Central Teaching Facility, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Makerere University Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe on 19th July 2024 endorsed the Memorandum of Understanding between Makerere University and Oregon State University to collaborate in different aspects of academics. The MoU signing ceremony was witnessed by members of staff from the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) namely; Dr Revocatus Twinomuhangi, Dean, School of Forestry, Environmental, and Geographical Sciences; Dr Lawrence Orikiriza Head, Department of Forestry, Biodiversity and Tourism; and Prof. Jim Ayorekire from the same department. Oregon State University was represented by Dr Ian E. Munanura, an Associate Professor in the Department of Forest Ecosystems and Society, College of Forestry, and Ms. Racheal Fahrenbach, Manager International Programs at the College of Forestry.  At Makerere, the MoU will be implemented by the Department of Forestry, Biodiversity and Tourism under the leadership of Prof. Jim Ayorekire. At Oregon State University, it will be implemented by the College of Forestry.

The VC together with representatives from Makerere CAES and Oregon State University display the MoU after the signing ceremony. Makerere University and Oregon State University MoU Signing to collaborate on i) Exchange of scholars and faculty staff, ii) Exchange of undergraduate and graduate students for research and study, iii) Exchange of academic information and materials, iv) Joint research activities and publications, v) Participation in conferences and academic meetings vi) Joint running of short-term academic programs, vii) Resource mobilization, 19th July 2024, Frank Kalimuzo Central Teaching Facility, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The VC together with representatives from Makerere CAES and Oregon State University display the MoU after the signing ceremony.

Under the MoU, the two institutions have agree to mutually promote the following programmes, based on their respective academic and educational needs; i) Exchange of scholars and faculty staff, ii) Exchange of undergraduate and graduate students for research and study, iii) Exchange of academic information and materials, iv) Joint research activities and publications, v) Participation in conferences and academic meetings vi) Joint running of short-term academic programs, vii) Resource mobilization in respect of areas of mutual interest, and any other areas which may promote their mutual interests.

The delegation from CAES and Oregon State University brief the VC about the MoU. Makerere University and Oregon State University MoU Signing to collaborate on i) Exchange of scholars and faculty staff, ii) Exchange of undergraduate and graduate students for research and study, iii) Exchange of academic information and materials, iv) Joint research activities and publications, v) Participation in conferences and academic meetings vi) Joint running of short-term academic programs, vii) Resource mobilization, 19th July 2024, Frank Kalimuzo Central Teaching Facility, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The delegation from CAES and Oregon State University brief the VC about the MoU.

During the ceremony, the Vice Chancellor noted that programmes agreed on in the MoU were in line with the University’s Strategic Plan, and would greatly advance Makerere’s aspiration to become a research-led University. “As we move towards becoming a research-led University, we aim to contribute to the realization of Agenda 2063 which seeks to have Africa produce at least one million PhDs as one of the measures to eradicate poverty from the continent. Partnerships like this will help us achieve our target, by building our supervision capacity,” he explained, pledging support towards the implementation of the MoU.

The VC shares insights on the collaboration. Makerere University and Oregon State University MoU Signing to collaborate on i) Exchange of scholars and faculty staff, ii) Exchange of undergraduate and graduate students for research and study, iii) Exchange of academic information and materials, iv) Joint research activities and publications, v) Participation in conferences and academic meetings vi) Joint running of short-term academic programs, vii) Resource mobilization, 19th July 2024, Frank Kalimuzo Central Teaching Facility, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The VC shares insights on the collaboration.

Dr Ian Munanura on behalf of Oregon State University expressed gratitude to work with Makerere, noting that the partnership would strengthen research capacity of the two institutions and support the mentorship of the next generation of scientists to deal with the challenges facing humanity including climate change and unemployment.

The VC presents sovernirs to Ms. Racheal Fahrenbach. Makerere University and Oregon State University MoU Signing to collaborate on i) Exchange of scholars and faculty staff, ii) Exchange of undergraduate and graduate students for research and study, iii) Exchange of academic information and materials, iv) Joint research activities and publications, v) Participation in conferences and academic meetings vi) Joint running of short-term academic programs, vii) Resource mobilization, 19th July 2024, Frank Kalimuzo Central Teaching Facility, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The VC presents sovernirs to Ms. Racheal Fahrenbach.

About the Department of Forestry, Biodiversity and Tourism at Makerere

The Department of Forestry, Biodiversity, and Tourism under the School of Forestry, Environmental, and Geographical Sciences at the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Makerere University offers programmes namely; Bachelor of Science in Conservation Forestry and Products Technology; Bachelor of Social and Entrepreneurial Forestry; and Master of Science in Agroforestry. Specific courses offered under those programmes include; Agroforestry Systems, Practices And Technologies;  Drylands Agroforestry; Advanced Community Forestry; Gender Issues In Forestry; Advanced Biodiversity Conservation; Ecophysiology and Agronomy; Forestry For Rural Development; Natural Resource Management; Tropical Forest Ecology And Management; Forestry Business Management; Entrepreneurship In Forestry; Forestry And Food Security; Indigenous Knowledge in Resource Management; Biomass Energy Production and Conservation; Land Use Planning and Watershed Management; Forest Planning and Development; Forest Ecosystems and Livelihoods; and Forest Planning and Development. The Department also conducts a wide range of research in the fields highlighted above. The training offered exposes graduates from the department to a wide range of employment opportunities.

The VC presents sovernirs to Dr Ian E. Munanura. Makerere University and Oregon State University MoU Signing to collaborate on i) Exchange of scholars and faculty staff, ii) Exchange of undergraduate and graduate students for research and study, iii) Exchange of academic information and materials, iv) Joint research activities and publications, v) Participation in conferences and academic meetings vi) Joint running of short-term academic programs, vii) Resource mobilization, 19th July 2024, Frank Kalimuzo Central Teaching Facility, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The VC presents sovernirs to Dr Ian E. Munanura.

About the College of Forestry, Oregon State University

The Oregon State University College of Forestry is an internationally recognized leader that is transforming education, research and policy for managing and sustaining working forest ecosystems in the 21st century. The College offers a world-class education that provides a wide variety of opportunities following graduation. Academic excellence is the hallmark of the College of Forestry programs at Oregon State University. Ranked as one of the premier forestry schools in the world, students find a variety of programs that offer broad education, rigorous depth and professional focus. The College is known for its collaborative research approach to advance knowledge and bring solutions to issues facing forest landscapes and ecosystems. It takes pride in creating new and innovative approaches to help partners enhance people’s lives while improving the health of lands, businesses and vital ecosystems.

A group photo with the VC at the signing ceremony. Makerere University and Oregon State University MoU Signing to collaborate on i) Exchange of scholars and faculty staff, ii) Exchange of undergraduate and graduate students for research and study, iii) Exchange of academic information and materials, iv) Joint research activities and publications, v) Participation in conferences and academic meetings vi) Joint running of short-term academic programs, vii) Resource mobilization, 19th July 2024, Frank Kalimuzo Central Teaching Facility, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
A group photo with the VC at the signing ceremony.

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Agriculture & Environment

Call For Abstracts: 3rd International GORILLA Conference

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The 3rd International Conference on Geographical Science for Resilient Communities, Ecosystems and Livelihoods under Global Environmental Change (GORILLA), 4-6 December, 2024. Call For Abstracts. Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

The 3rd International Conference on Geographical Science for Resilient Communities, Ecosystems and Livelihoods under Global Environmental Change (GORILLA) aims to take stock of emerging geographic oriented science and knowledge for advancing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The GORILLA Conference seeks to harness geographic science to advance knowledge and foster positive change in understanding and addressing sustainable development challenges and opportunities at local, regional, national, and global scales. The specific objectives are to;

  1. Facilitate exchange of contemporary resilience building knowledge and innovations in a transdisciplinary manner.
  2. Enhance dialogue to bridge the science-policy-practice interface to address deficits that are limiting the resolution of pressing resilience challenges and shape policy agendas.
  3. Enhance capacities and capabilities of early career scientists through mentorship and dedicated training focused on the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
  4. Increase knowledge and scientific outputs from Sub-Saharan Africa by facilitating special issue publications
  5. Provide an opportunity for increased networking and beneficial partnerships from attendees with varied backgrounds and professional affiliations to address complex sustainable development challenges.

Important dates

  • Conference Dates: 4th – 6th December 2024
  • Deadline for Submission of Abstracts: 30th August 2024
  • Latest Notification of Abstract Acceptance: 31st October 2024

Conference Topics

(a) Geographies of Climate Change, Climate Justice and Just Transition: Spaces and Patterns
(b) Biodiversity Informatics, Sustainable Ecosystems, Landscapes and People
(c) Green Growth and Transitions to Land Degradation Neutrality and Net Zero
(d) Water Governance and Watershed Resilience for Sustainable livelihoods
(e) Interconnected Geohazards and Disasters in a Changing World
(f) Polycrisis: Migration, Displacement, Conflict and Humanitarianism
(g) The changing Geography of Agrifood Systems
(h) Nature Based Solutions for Inclusive and Equitable Development
(i) Emerging and Novel Technologies for Societal Resilience
(j) Sustainable Cities and Urban Systems in SSA
(k) Geographies of Energy and Energy Transitions
(l) Environment and Health

Submission of Abstract

A 250-word abstract on the topics of the conference is required for those intending to make presentations. Both oral and poster presentations in the conference will be accepted. In addition, specific proposals for sessions may also be accepted. Abstracts will be submitted online at https://gorilla.mak.ac.ug.

Please see downloads for Conference Materials

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