Connect with us

General

Mak-RIF Counts Gains, Discusses Commercialisation

Published

on

The Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund (Mak-RIF) on Monday 4th April 2022 held a special consultative meeting with University Management during which milestones, impact and future aspirations were shared. The meeting was presided over by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe.

To state that Mak-RIF has made some gains since it’s inception in the 2019/2020 financial year would be putting it rather lightly. Now in its third financial year 2021/2022, the UGX 30 Billion per year fund has to date awarded 774 grants out of 1,978 applications; a rate of 39.1%. Along the way, Mak-RIF has developed a number of tools and resources. These include;

  • A standard Request For Proposals (RFP) format,
  • A standard application template,
  • A standard Research & Innovations (R&I) judging template for reviewers,
  • A standard Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) report template,
  • A standard close-out and impact reporting template,
  • A pool of 350 vetted scientific reviewers, and
  • A searchable research database that can provide a lot of information.

“Recently the Office of the Vice Chancellor through the Quality Assurance Directorate (QAD) required an instant report on funding for the SDGs and our IT people ran a quick query and came up with all research projects that are in the seventeen SDG areas” remarked Dr. Roy Mayega who presented Mak-RIF’s progress on behalf of the Grants Management Committee (GMC).

Dr. Roy Mayega makes the presentation on behalf of Mak-RIF GMC.
Dr. Roy Mayega makes the presentation on behalf of Mak-RIF GMC.

“This database can answer a lot of questions for those who want information on research in the University and we wish the same can be rolled out to all other research (projects) so that it can easily be searchable for whatever someone wants” he added.

Dr. Mayega further shared that Mak-RIF has developed an online grants management system, that enables each Principal Investigator (PI) to access key project documents such as the contract, approved proposal and approved budget among others. The PIs also have the ability to enter project milestones into the system and provide quarterly reports on the same. The system then automatically updates the milestone tracker for each of the 774 projects.

Mak-RIF Thematic Areas

In order to ensure that grants are awarded based on national development as well as other priorities, the GMC held consultations with stakeholders from all sectors of Uganda’s economy. The result was a Mak-RIF Research Agenda with fourteen (14) thematic areas namely;

  1. Transforming the Agricultural sector,
  2. Sustainable Health,
  3. Re-Imagining Education,
  4. Water, Sanitation and Environmental sustainability,
  5. Harnessing the Social Sector to drive development,
  6. Harnessing Tourism, Wildlife and Heritage to drive development,
  7. Sustainable Planning, Finance and Monitoring,
  8. Leveraging Public Service and Local Administration for efficient service delivery,
  9. Defence and Security;
  10. Strengthening Law, Governance, Human Rights and International cooperation,
  11. Harnessing Information and Communication Technology to drive development,
  12. Manufacturing , Science and Technology as tools to accelerate development,
  13. Catalysing Business Enterprise, and
  14. Energy and Minerals as drivers of rapid economic development.

So far, the lion’s share of the awards (223) has been claimed by the Sustainable Health thematic area, followed by Transforming the Agricultural sector (100) and Re-Imagining Education (58). Conversely, the three thematic areas of Sustainable Planning, Finance and Monitoring, Defence and Security as well as Strengthening Law, Governance, Human Rights and International cooperation each received seven awards.

Head GAMSU-Prof. Grace Bantebya Kyomuhendo (standing) makes her submission as L-R: Deann of Students-Mrs. Winifred Kabumbuli, Academic Registrar-Mr. Alfred Masikye Namoah, Director Legal Affairs-Mr. Javason Kamugisha and Deputy Principal CHS-Prof. Isaac Kajja (Right) listen keenly.
Head GAMSU-Prof. Grace Bantebya Kyomuhendo (standing) makes her submission as L-R: Dean of Students-Mrs. Winifred Kabumbuli, Academic Registrar-Mr. Alfred Masikye Namoah (Rear), Director Legal Affairs-Mr. Javason Kamugisha and Deputy Principal CHS-Prof. Isaac Kajja (Right) listen keenly.

Additionally, Dr. Mayega pointed out that females received only 26% of the awards, which could partly be attributed to current staffing ratios. According to the 2020 Makerere University Self Assessment Report by QAD, females on average constitute 40% of Human Resources (Academic-29%, Administrative-51% and Support-50%).

To help improve staff potential to compete for Mak-RIF’s as well as other agencies’ grants, the GMC in collaboration with units such as the Directorate of Finance and Office of the University Secretary regularly carries out capacity building activities at college level. Areas previously covered include; grants writing, grants management, research communication and financial reporting. However, further needs assessment revealed project management as one of the areas that ought to be covered by future capacity building activities.

Mak-RIF Projects with notable impact

Statistics shared by Dr. Mayega revealed that 241 (31.1%) of 774 Mak-RIF projects awarded to date have been completed. 172 of these projects have submitted their closeout reports. The projects that have completed their closeout reports may be classified according to three categories. These include; Physical Products (102), Policy Advisories (52) and Capacity Building (24), which brings the total number to 178. The discrepancy in total is attributed to a few projects whose outcomes belonged to more than one category, hence creating overlaps.

Furthermore, the completed projects may be classified according to three levels namely; Start-up, Point of transition to scale and While already undergoing scale. 52 (29%) of the projects ended at start-up level, while the majority (111 or 62%) ended at the point of transition to scale. The least (15 or 9%) ended while already undergoing scale. This calls for the adoption of strategies that can facilitate more projects to end while already undergoing scale.

Dr. Mayega’s presentation nevertheless outlined some projects as having notable impact at the time of completion. These included;

  • Strengthening Integrated Screening for TB and COVID-19 in Kampala, Uganda by Dr. Fred Collins Semitala – Results stimulated policy change at the Ministry of Health.
  • Drug and Substance Abuse (DASA) in Primary and Secondary Schools in Uganda: Baseline Survey Implications for National Sensitizations by Dr. Leon Matagi – Findings were used by National Drug Authority (NDA) in their national sensitization programme.
  • Deployment of the new Maksoy soybean varieties for on-farm income enhancement, Food and Nutrition security, Enterprise Development and Job creation in Eastern Uganda by Prof. Phinehas Tukamuhabwa – Led to development of an improved process of soy flour transformation into soy powder. Powder can be fortified so as to yield an instant soy milk powder.
  • Transforming Presumptive Age Estimation In Uganda: Methods, Certainty And The Law by Dr. Annet Kutesa – Provided policy recommendations on age estimation among juveniles undergoing criminal proceedings. May also be used for screening of refugees by UNHCR and Players by Sports Federations.
  • Product formulation and evaluation of a herbal acaricide containing bioactive extracts of Albizia coriaria on acaricide resistant Rhipicephalus ticks by Aguma Bush Herbert – In touch with pharmaceutical manufacturers, Government to undertake large scale production.
  • Optimization of the dosage, adjuvant and route for the candidate anti-tick vaccine by Dr. Kokas Ikwap – Determined appropriate dosage of tick vaccine that elicits highest antibodies. Engaged Alfasan U Ltd. to manufacture vaccine candidate under Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP)
  • Determinants of Death Registration Uptake by Dr. Leonard Atuhaire – Study recommends development of a civil registration and vital statistics policy to guide implementation of death registration in Uganda.
  • Developing an automatically controlled commercial solar-dryer and efficient resource recovery innovations for sustained market responsive fruit production in Uganda by Ahamada Zziwa – Makerere, Renewable Energy Department of MEMD and Lutheran World Relief (LWR) collaborating to scale out dryer among arabica coffee farmers.
  • Enhancing Value addition on Potato-Sorghum enterprises for Improved Livelihoods in Uganda (EVaPoSIL) by Prof. Johnny Mugisha – Developed a range of high quality potato-sorghum based products e.g. cookies, biscuits, waffles. Farmers are encouraged to grow more potatoes, more entrepreneurs in value addition and commercialisation were created.

“In terms of academic research output, we have 103 published papers” said Dr. Mayega, adding that this could be a conservative estimate owing to the fact that researchers are still responding to the circular calling for publications arising from Mak-RIF funding.

Head Mak-RIF, Prof. Fred Masagazi Masaazi makes his submission.
Head Mak-RIF, Prof. Fred Masagazi Masaazi makes his submission.

Constraints

The notable gains notwithstanding, Dr. Mayega concluded by pointing out low researcher capacity for project management as one of the biggest challenges. This plays out in the form of gaps in timeliness and completeness of periodic reports, as well as lack of timely and quality accountability for funds received. To remedy this, the Mak-RIF GMC will work with the Grants Administration and Management Support Unit (GAMSU) to establish college grants support units.

The financial year versus realistic time-frames for project execution was another challenge outlined by the GMC. This, they suggested may be overcome by classifying the release as a fund that spans at least three years, other than an annual grant. Dr. Mayega also noted financial regulations that restrict the release of money, especially the cap on advances, which leads to several small requisitions that have to each be accounted, as a challenge to smooth project implementation.

Contributing to National Development Priorities

Associate Prof. Charles Masembe who presented on the role of universities in influencing national development noted that the COVID-19 pandemic provided useful lessons on the potential for research and innovations that exists within higher education institutions. “When every country was having challenges, we did not get many people from abroad coming here to help us, we looked inward.”

Mak-RIF GMC Members L-R: Dr. Zahara Nampewo, Associate Prof. Charles Masembe, Dr. Sabrina Kitaka, Prof. Frank Mwine and Prof. Moses Joloba listen to proceedings.
Mak-RIF GMC Members L-R: Dr. Zahara Nampewo, Associate Prof. Charles Masembe, Dr. Sabrina Kitaka, Prof. Frank Mwine and Prof. Moses Joloba listen to proceedings.

He noted that socioeconomic transformation takes universities, the government and the business sector working together like a system of gears, with innovations as the vital input into the chain. Citing emerging programmes such as the Parish Development Model (PDM), Assoc. Prof. Masembe said the GMC is ready to include this model as well as other Government programmes into Mak-RIF’s Needs-Responsive Track programme so as to increase Makerere University‘s relevance to national development strategy.

Commercialisation of Research

According to statistics shared by Dr. Roy Mayega in his presentation, only 15 (9%) of 178 projects were completed while already undergoing scale. Dr. Zahara Nampewo who presented on commercialisation of research defined the term as “transfer of knowledge and discoveries to industry by making them into beneficial marketable products/services and therapies that benefit the public.”

Dr. Zahara Nampewo presents on Commercialisation of Research.
Dr. Zahara Nampewo presents on Commercialisation of Research.

Commercialisation of research at Makerere is guided by the Research and Innovations Policy 2008 and the Intellectual Property Management Policy 2008. At the National level, it is guided by the Industrial Property Act 2014 and the Copyright and Neighbouring Rights Act 2006.

From the preceding definition, it is clear that commercialisation is a process that ought to be guided by the appropriate legal framework in order to benefit the public and inevitably, the researcher. In this regard, Dr. Nampewo outlined five steps of research commercialisation. These are;

  1. Protection of Intellectual Property (IP) – currently handled by the Makerere University IP Management Office
  2. Commercialisation Assessment – through conducting market research
  3. Partnerships – assess opportunities with industry, entrepreneurs and investors
  4. License the technology to a third party in order to move it to the market through a formal license agreement
  5. Own ventures – with support from the University as guided by the IP policy or seeking the funding opportunities from Government or other partners to further develop the innovation.

Reactions to presentations

The Head GAMSU, Prof. Grace Bantebya Kyomuhendo in her submission noted that whereas statistics of attempts by researchers to commercialise their findings from Mak-RIF projects stood at 9%, further university-wide analysis was likely to reveal even more projects yet/unable to undertake commercialisation of their innovations.

The University Secretary-Mr. Yusuf Kiranda (standing) reacts to the presentation as L-R: University Bursar-Mr. Evarist Bainomugisha, Principal CoCIS-Prof. Tonny Oyana, University Librarian-Associate Prof. Helen Byamugisha, Ag. DVCFA-Prof. Henry Alinaitwe and the Vice Chancellor-Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe listen.
The University Secretary-Mr. Yusuf Kiranda (standing) reacts to the presentation as L-R: University Bursar-Mr. Evarist Bainomugisha, Principal CoCIS-Prof. Tonny Oyana, University Librarian-Associate Prof. Helen Byamugisha, Ag. DVCFA-Prof. Henry Alinaitwe and the Vice Chancellor-Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe listen.

She added that together with Mak-RIF, GAMSU will build a comprehensive and robust research management system to capture the variables required by the university. The system, she added, would provide useful data for identifying gaps that can then be used to inform capacity building activities.

The Head Mak-RIF and Facilitator of the day’s discussions, Prof. Fred Masagazi Masaazi in his remarks thanked the Vice Chancellor, Members of Management and all participants for the impressive attendance of the consultative meeting. He said that Mak-RIF had generated a lot of data over the years, which will provide useful pointers for conducting research and managing teams going forward, with emphasis on mutidisciplinarity.

“As a matter of priority, we are going to make a follow-up on some of these projects for commercialisation. This has been a fruitful interaction and we hope to have many more subsequently” added Prof. Masagazi Masaazi.

Addressing himself to the items in the presentations related to funding, the University Secretary Mr. Yusuf Kiranda outlined 1) The Budget 2) Release of funds to the University 3) Release of funds to researchers 4) Accountability for funds released to researchers and 5) Reporting to the Government as five closely interlinked elements that ought to each be taken seriously for successful project implementation.

Ag. DVCFA, Prof. Henry Alinaitwe makes his remarks.
Ag. DVCFA, Prof. Henry Alinaitwe makes his remarks.

Under element 1) The Budget, Mr. Kiranda included a sub-element of Planning, which he said researchers ought to harness by splitting budgets for multi-year projects over two or more financial years in order to avoid stifling project activities. “With proper planning, we can make this problem cease to exist.”

Delays in procurement are some of the other factors affecting accountability for funds released to researchers. In this regard, Mr. Kiranda offered to, at the next Management meeting, move that an independent contracts committee be created for Mak-RIF, owing to its fund value.

Concluding remarks

The Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration)-Ag. DVCFA, Prof. Henry Alinaitwe who also serves as the Chairperson GAMSU Steering Committee reiterated the need for GAMSU and Mak-RIF to work closely together to put in place systems that will lead to effective management of research and boost outputs. He also called for the need to further strengthen the IP Management Office so as to boost commercialisation of research.

The DVCAA, Associate Professor Umar Kakumba makes his submission.
The DVCAA, Associate Professor Umar Kakumba makes his submission.

“As we think about commercialisation, we need to think about big funding as well as reliable partners who will not take advantage of initiatives by our researchers. I challenge our Directorate of Legal Affairs to scrutinise all contracts and MoUs so that they are watertight” emphasised Prof. Alinaitwe.

The Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs)-DVCAA, Associate Prof. Umar Kakumba admitted that the advent of Mak-RIF had brought to light the immense potential of Makerere staff to conduct research that informs national development priorities.

“One of the requirements of Mak-RIF is that teams must work with different organs outside the university and we are seeing the University being taken out of the Ivory Tower. Under Mak-RIF we were able to see the connection between Makerere and the rest of the stakeholder communities and agencies, both Government and Non-Governmental” added the DVCAA.

Associate Prof. Kakumba nevertheless urged the Mak-RIF GMC to go beyond the statistics and focus on impact evaluation. “We need to touch base with what has been the real value of transformation that our research has done to the community.”

The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe thanked the Mak-RIF GMC for a job well done so far.
The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe thanked the Mak-RIF GMC for a job well done so far.

Delivering the meeting’s final remarks, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe thanked the Mak-RIF GMC for the a job well done in as far as effectively managing the funding from Government, hence bringing great pride to the university. “But as you have heard from the comments, we can do much more with the money the Government is giving us to help the transformation of our country. That is why we are here.”

One of the proposals put forward by the GMC in response to a request from Management was the inclusion of a PhD support component in Mak-RIF starting financial year 2022/2023. Lauding this decision, the Vice Chancellor noted that, “as Africa we need to produce more PhDs. If we don’t, we are doomed… the older generation are retiring and we must replenish.”

Reiterating the need for commercialisation of research, the Prof. Nawangwe called for the setting up of more business incubation centres (beyond the Food Technology and Business Incubation Centre), provided that the University Intellectual Property Management Policy is strictly adhered to.

Mark Wamai

General

Makerere University Inaugurates 2nd Health User Committee

Published

on

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (C) with L-R: Ms. Kevin Nabiryo, Mr. Godfrey Othieno, Dr. Allen Kabagenyi, Dr. Daniel Ruhweza, Dr. Lillian Tukahirwa and Prof. Josaphat Byamugisha after the inauguration on 20th April 2026. Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe inaugurates Second Makerere University Health User Committee (Mak-HUC) chaired by Dr. Allen Kabagenyi, 20th April 2026, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe on 20th April 2026 inaugurated the Second Makerere University Health User Committee (Mak-HUC). The Committee was established by the Vice Chancellor in 2022 as part of his strategic mandate to strengthen and oversee the University’s health service delivery.

Chaired by Dr. Allen Kabagenyi from the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), Mak-HUC has as its members; Prof. Josaphat K. Byamugisha-Director Makerere University Health Services (MakHS) and Dr. Daniel Ronald Ruhweza-Department of Law and Jurisprudence, School of Law.

Other members include; Dr. Arthur Kwizera-Department of Anaesthesia and Critical Care, College of Health Sciences (CHS) and Makerere University Academic Staff Association (MUASA) Representative, Dr. Lillian Tukahirwa-Makerere University Administrative Staff Association (MASA) Representative, Mr. Godfrey Othieno- National Union of Educational Institutions (NUEI) Representative, and as Secretariat, Ms. Kevin M. Nabiryo-Directorate of Human Resources.

Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe inaugurates Second Makerere University Health User Committee (Mak-HUC) chaired by Dr. Allen Kabagenyi, 20th April 2026, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (C) interacts with members of the 2nd Mak-HUC.

The 2nd Mak-HUC has been appointed for a period of four years effective 1st January 2026 with a mandate to: Guide, monitor and oversee delivery of health services by MakHS; Represent the interests and concerns of staff and students that use MakHS; Advise on alignment with sustainable health financing and insurance models; Strengthen systems for fraud prevention, digital transformation and access to specialized treatment, among other responsibilities.

The 1st Mak-HUC was chaired by Dr. Allen Kabagenyi and had as members; Prof. Josaphat Byamugisha, Dr. Fred Mayambala, Dr. Zahara Nampewo, Mr. Othieno Godfrey, Mr. Apunyo Paul Okiria and Ms. Ikiriza Racheal. Milestones during the first era included; Outpatient Department visits growth from 4,802 (2022) to 7,388 (Nov 2025) for staff and 14,641 (2022) to 19,069 (Nov 2025) for students.

Others milestones included; Commissioning of a fully equipped Operating Theatre, Establishment of a modern Imaging Hub, Development of a fully functional Audiology Unit, Expansion of the Temporal Bone Laboratory, Launch of the Olink Proteomics Platform and Enhancement of the Dental Unit with 32 dental chairs and experienced personnel.

Related article: https://news.mak.ac.ug/2025/12/three-years-of-impact-makerere-university-health-user-committee-presents-status-report/

Mak Editor

Continue Reading

General

End of a Distinguished Era as Mrs. Patience Mushengyezi Hands-Over Senate Division Office

Published

on

The Academic Registrar-Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi (R) witnesses as Mrs. Patience Mushengyezi (L) officially hands over office to Ms. Gladys Khamili on 20th April 2026. Academic Registrar, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi and his Senior Management Team (SMT) witness the official handover of office of Deputy Academic Registrar in charge of the Senate Division, from Mrs. Patience Mushengyezi to Ms. Gladys Khamili, who assumes the role in an acting capacity, 20th April 2026, Senate Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

By Gerald Ochwo

On Monday, 20th April 2026, the Academic Registrar, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi and his Senior Management Team (SMT) convened to witness the official handover of office within the Senate Division. The ceremony, attended by representatives from the Directorate of Internal Audit, marked an important moment of transition and continuity in the University’s academic administration. The outgoing Deputy Academic Registrar in charge of the Senate Division, Mrs. Patience Mushengyezi, formally handed over office to Ms. Gladys Khamili, who assumes the role in an acting capacity.

In his remarks, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi underscored the significance of the transition, situating it within a broader institutional context. He observed that the Department of the Academic Registrar has, over the years, experienced a steady wave of retirements, particularly among senior staff. He noted that this trend is expected to continue, with a considerable number of experienced personnel due to retire within the next two years.

While acknowledging the institutional gaps created by these departures, he reassured staff that the University is actively addressing the situation to ensure the continued efficiency of the Department.

“You will agree with me that the Department has, over the years, witnessed the retirement of many senior colleagues. Their departure leaves behind a significant institutional gap. However, the University is fully aware and will address it through targeted recruitment,” he stated.

In her detailed handover report, which she delivered verbatim, Mrs. Patience Mushengyezi reflected on her tenure with gratitude and a deep sense of fulfillment. She paid tribute to the Vice-Chancellor, in his capacity as Chairperson of the University Senate, for his steadfast guidance and support throughout her service. She also expressed sincere appreciation to the Academic Registrar, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, for his pragmatic and results-oriented leadership.

Academic Registrar, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi and his Senior Management Team (SMT) witness the official handover of office of Deputy Academic Registrar in charge of the Senate Division, from Mrs. Patience Mushengyezi to Ms. Gladys Khamili, who assumes the role in an acting capacity, 20th April 2026, Senate Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Ms. Gladys Khamili.

Academic Registrar, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi and his Senior Management Team (SMT) witness the official handover of office of Deputy Academic Registrar in charge of the Senate Division, from Mrs. Patience Mushengyezi to Ms. Gladys Khamili, who assumes the role in an acting capacity, 20th April 2026, Senate Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Members of the Academic Registrar’s Senior Management Team witness the handover.

I remain deeply grateful for the support from the Vice-Chancellor and all members of Senate for the trust they accorded me. I equally thank the Academic Registrar, Prof. Buyinza, for his results-oriented approach to administration. His support enabled us to achieve remarkable progress under the DARP (Digitalization of Academic Records and Processes) Project, including the successful digitalization of Senate minutes, some dating as far back as the 1990s, which are now easily retrievable,” she noted.

Her remarks painted a picture of dedication, progress, and institutional strengthening, leaving behind a legacy that will continue to benefit the University.

In her acceptance remarks, Ms. Gladys Khamili expressed heartfelt appreciation to the Academic Registrar for the confidence placed in her. She acknowledged the weight of responsibility that comes with the role and pledged her commitment to upholding the standards and gains established by her predecessor.

She paid glowing tribute to Mrs. Mushengyezi’s exceptional service, noting that her impact within the Senate Division is both profound and enduring.

Academic Registrar, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi and his Senior Management Team (SMT) witness the official handover of office of Deputy Academic Registrar in charge of the Senate Division, from Mrs. Patience Mushengyezi to Ms. Gladys Khamili, who assumes the role in an acting capacity, 20th April 2026, Senate Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Ms Khamili paid glowing tribute to Mrs. Mushengyezi’s exceptional service.

“I am truly honored by the trust bestowed upon me. I am committed to building on the strong foundation laid by Mrs. Mushengyezi, whose remarkable contribution and dedication will continue to inspire us all,” she said.

The ceremony not only marked the end of a distinguished era in the Department of the Academic Registrar, but also the beginning of a new phase, underscored by continuity, renewal, and a shared commitment to excellence in academic administration at Makerere University.

Gerald Ochwo is the Liaison and Communication Officer, Office of the Academic Registrar

Mak Editor

Continue Reading

General

Youth Leaders and Scholars Chart Africa’s Leadership Future at the 2026 Nyerere Lecture

Published

on

Participants pose for a group photo at the event held on April 13, 2026. 2026 Julius Nyerere Leadership Lecture and Youth Conversations at Makerere University. Convened by the Julius Nyerere Leadership Centre (JNLC) in partnership with the Council for the Development of Social Science Research in Africa (CODESRIA), April 13, 2026, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

At a time when Africa stands at the intersection of demographic opportunity and governance uncertainty, a powerful question is emerging across the continent: what kind of leadership will define Africa’s future?

This question took centre stage at the 2026 Julius Nyerere Leadership Lecture and Youth Conversations, held on April 13, 2026, at Makerere University. Convened by the Julius Nyerere Leadership Centre in partnership with the Council for the Development of Social Science Research in Africa (CODESRIA), the event brought together policymakers, scholars, diplomats, and youth leaders from across East Africa under the theme: “Africa’s Next Generation: Youth Agency and the Leadership Africa Needs.”

Held on the birth anniversary of Mwalimu Julius Kambarage Nyerere, the gathering was not merely commemorative. It was deliberately forward-looking—an effort to reinterpret Nyerere’s legacy in light of contemporary realities and to position young people as central actors in shaping Africa’s political, economic, and social trajectory.

Dr. Nansozi K. Muwanga, Executive Director of the Julius Nyerere Leadership Centre giving her opening remarks. 2026 Julius Nyerere Leadership Lecture and Youth Conversations at Makerere University. Convened by the Julius Nyerere Leadership Centre (JNLC) in partnership with the Council for the Development of Social Science Research in Africa (CODESRIA), April 13, 2026, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Nansozi K. Muwanga, Executive Director of the Julius Nyerere Leadership Centre giving her opening remarks.

A Defining Moment for Leadership in Africa

Opening the event, Dr. Nansozi K. Muwanga, Executive Director of the Julius Nyerere Leadership Centre, framed the conversation within a broader continental context marked by a rapidly expanding youth population, rising political awareness, and increasing demand for accountability.

“Africa is not short of potential,” she noted. “What is at stake is whether that potential is matched by the kind of leadership required to transform it into sustainable development and inclusive progress.”

Her remarks underscored a critical shift: young Africans are no longer passive participants in governance processes. Across communities, institutions, and political spaces, they are organizing, contesting, innovating, and demanding accountability. The challenge, she argued, is to ensure that this energy is channelled into ethical, competent, and service-oriented leadership capable of transforming institutions and delivering long-term change.

Major General Paul Kisesa Simuli, High Commissioner of the United Republic of Tanzania to Uganda delivering his opening remarks. 2026 Julius Nyerere Leadership Lecture and Youth Conversations at Makerere University. Convened by the Julius Nyerere Leadership Centre (JNLC) in partnership with the Council for the Development of Social Science Research in Africa (CODESRIA), April 13, 2026, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Major General Paul Kisesa Simuli, High Commissioner of the United Republic of Tanzania to Uganda delivering his opening remarks.

Reclaiming Unity as a Strategic Imperative

The importance of unity—long championed by Mwalimu Nyerere—featured prominently throughout the discussions. Representing Tanzania, Major General Paul Kisesa Simuli emphasized that Pan-Africanism must evolve from a historical ideal into a practical framework for cooperation and development.

“Africa’s unity is not optional,” he observed. “It is a necessity for survival in an increasingly competitive and interconnected world.”

He pointed to education, language, and shared values as critical foundations for building a cohesive regional identity, highlighting the need for deliberate investment in systems that strengthen cross-border collaboration. His intervention reinforced a central theme of the lecture: that regional integration and collective action are indispensable to Africa’s long-term stability and prosperity.

Keynote Speaker, Mr. Israel Laryea - Executive head, Influencer Africa. 2026 Julius Nyerere Leadership Lecture and Youth Conversations at Makerere University. Convened by the Julius Nyerere Leadership Centre (JNLC) in partnership with the Council for the Development of Social Science Research in Africa (CODESRIA), April 13, 2026, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Keynote Speaker, Mr. Israel Laryea – Executive head, Influencer Africa.

Leadership in Transition: From Authority to Influence

The keynote address by Israel Laryea provided a compelling reflection on how leadership itself is evolving. Drawing from Africa’s political history, he argued that the continent has moved through distinct phases—from liberation-era “builders,” to “controllers,” and now to a generation navigating democratic transitions that remain incomplete.

Yet, despite these transitions, a fundamental gap persists.

“Africa has never lacked leaders,” he remarked. “The real question is the kind of leadership each generation chooses to tolerate.”

In today’s context, he argued, leadership is increasingly shaped not only by formal authority but by influence, credibility, and the ability to mobilize and organize. Digital platforms have expanded access to information and participation, but they have also introduced new complexities—where visibility does not necessarily translate into power.

For young Africans, this presents both an opportunity and a challenge. While they are more connected and engaged than ever before, their influence in formal decision-making spaces remains limited. Bridging this gap requires a shift from digital engagement to structured political and institutional participation.

“Youth Voices Roundtable: Youth, Leadership, and the Future of a Sustainable Africa” featured Mr. Alionzi Lawrence, Mayor of Arua City; Ms. Shadia Tushemerirwe; and Ms. Anna Nabulya, Programme Manager at UYDEL. 2026 Julius Nyerere Leadership Lecture and Youth Conversations at Makerere University. Convened by the Julius Nyerere Leadership Centre (JNLC) in partnership with the Council for the Development of Social Science Research in Africa (CODESRIA), April 13, 2026, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
“Youth Voices Roundtable: Youth, Leadership, and the Future of a Sustainable Africa” featured Mr. Alionzi Lawrence, Mayor of Arua City; Ms. Shadia Tushemerirwe; and Ms. Anna Nabulya, Programme Manager at UYDEL.

The Knowledge Question: Leadership and Intellectual Responsibility

A recurring theme across the lecture was the centrality of knowledge in shaping effective leadership. Scholars warned against the risks of historical distortion, shallow engagement with complex issues, and leadership divorced from intellectual grounding.

Discussions emphasized that Africa’s development challenges are not simply technical—they are deeply political and ideological. Addressing them requires leaders who are not only well-intentioned but also analytically grounded, historically informed, and ethically driven.

The idea that “ignorance remains one of the greatest obstacles to progress” resonated strongly, reinforcing the need for continuous learning, humility, and critical reflection as essential components of leadership.

Bringing together diverse perspectives, the #PanelConversation on “Innovating for Impact: #Youth and Mid-Career Leadership in Governance and Development” featured two alumni of the Julius Nyerere Leadership Centre, Ms. Joan Itungo and Mr. Onek Charles, both young entrepreneurs, alongside Ms. Daisy Wannyana from the Next Generation Leadership Programme, and Mr. Kidega Moses, a lawyer and youth leadership advocate. 2026 Julius Nyerere Leadership Lecture and Youth Conversations at Makerere University. Convened by the Julius Nyerere Leadership Centre (JNLC) in partnership with the Council for the Development of Social Science Research in Africa (CODESRIA), April 13, 2026, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Bringing together diverse perspectives, the #PanelConversation on “Innovating for Impact: #Youth and Mid-Career Leadership in Governance and Development” featured two alumni of the Julius Nyerere Leadership Centre, Ms. Joan Itungo and Mr. Onek Charles, both young entrepreneurs, alongside Ms. Daisy Wannyana from the Next Generation Leadership Programme, and Mr. Kidega Moses, a lawyer and youth leadership advocate.

Youth Leadership in Practice: From Ideas to Implementation

Beyond theory, the lecture provided a platform for young leaders to demonstrate how leadership is already being exercised in practical and impactful ways.

Across panel discussions, participants shared experiences in governance, entrepreneurship, and community development. These contributions highlighted a growing shift toward solution-oriented leadership, where young people are not waiting for opportunities but actively creating them.

Key insights emerging from these engagements included:

  • The importance of policy reforms that enable youth participation, particularly in economic and governance spaces
  • The role of innovation and technology in addressing local challenges and expanding opportunities
  • The need for community-centred approaches that prioritize inclusion and social impact

What became evident is that Africa’s youth are not merely a demographic category—they are an active force shaping new pathways for development and leadership.

Group photo after the (Ekyooto) Cross-Generational Fireside Conversation on “Pan-Africanism: A Pathway to Africa’s Transformation?” with panelists. 2026 Julius Nyerere Leadership Lecture and Youth Conversations at Makerere University. Convened by the Julius Nyerere Leadership Centre (JNLC) in partnership with the Council for the Development of Social Science Research in Africa (CODESRIA), April 13, 2026, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Group photo after the (Ekyooto) Cross-Generational Fireside Conversation on “Pan-Africanism: A Pathway to Africa’s Transformation?” with panelists.

Intergenerational Dialogue: Bridging Legacy and Aspiration

The Ekyooto fireside conversations provided one of the most reflective moments of the event, bringing together seasoned leaders and emerging voices in an open and candid dialogue.

These conversations explored the deeper questions of identity, purpose, and responsibility. Participants emphasized that the future of Africa will depend on a generation that understands not only the challenges it faces but also the values and principles required to address them.

Lena Nyerere, representing the Nyerere family, highlighted the enduring relevance of Pan-Africanism as a vision rooted in unity, dignity, and collective progress. Her presence served as a symbolic bridge between legacy and the future—reminding participants that leadership is both inherited and redefined across generations.

Professor Julius Kiiza. 2026 Julius Nyerere Leadership Lecture and Youth Conversations at Makerere University. Convened by the Julius Nyerere Leadership Centre (JNLC) in partnership with the Council for the Development of Social Science Research in Africa (CODESRIA), April 13, 2026, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Professor Julius Kiiza.
Panel Session: Reflections on the Meaning and Relevance of Mwalimu Nyerere to Today’s Youth Featuring Ms. Lena Nyerere, Professor Julius Kiiza, and Hon. Lawrence Alionzi. 2026 Julius Nyerere Leadership Lecture and Youth Conversations at Makerere University. Convened by the Julius Nyerere Leadership Centre (JNLC) in partnership with the Council for the Development of Social Science Research in Africa (CODESRIA), April 13, 2026, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Panel Session: Reflections on the Meaning and Relevance of Mwalimu Nyerere to Today’s Youth Featuring Ms. Lena Nyerere, Professor Julius Kiiza, and Hon. Lawrence Alionzi.

From Reflection to Action

As the day concluded, a clear consensus emerged: Africa’s transformation will depend on the ability of its young people to move beyond participation toward active leadership and institutional influence.

This transition requires:

  • Strengthening leadership development pathways
  • Investing in education and critical thinking
  • Expanding opportunities for meaningful participation in governance and policy processes
  • Building a shared sense of Pan-African identity and purpose

Equally important is the need to move beyond episodic conversations toward sustained programmes, structured mentorship, and institutional support systems that enable young leaders to grow, collaborate, and lead effectively.

Looking Ahead: Reimagining Leadership for Africa’s Future

The 2026 Julius Nyerere Leadership Lecture and Youth Conversations ultimately served as more than a platform for dialogue—it was a strategic intervention in shaping Africa’s leadership trajectory.

As the Julius Nyerere Leadership Centre continues to expand its work in youth leadership training, regional engagement, and policy dialogue, the challenge ahead is clear: to translate ideas into action, and action into lasting institutional change.

Africa’s future will not be determined by its challenges alone, but by the quality of leadership that emerges to confront them. In this regard, the legacy of Mwalimu Julius Nyerere is not a static memory—it is a living framework for leadership grounded in service, unity, and responsibility. The task for this generation is to reimagine that legacy in practical terms, and to carry it forward with clarity, courage, and purpose.

Mak Editor

Continue Reading

Trending