Agriculture & Environment
72nd Graduation: Doctoral Citations – CAES
ABEN Charles
Participatory Land use governance and livelihoods in Awoja Watershed, Uganda
Mr. ABEN Charles examined the effects of participatory natural resource governance on livelihoods in Awoja watershed in Uganda. In particular, the study assessed the contribution of local people’s participation to policy implementation. Further, the effects of social, economic and political motivation on actor involvement in the participatory governance were examined. The results suggest that the effective participation was contingent on the motivation of different actors involved in watershed management. This study was funded by DANIDA and was supervised by Dr. Okiror, Prof. Jacob Agea and Dr. EsbernFriis Hansen.
ALEXANDER Noah Ruley Jane
Bioremediation of Petroleum Contaminated Soils using Native plants and their Rhizobacteria in the Sudd regions of South Sudan
Ms. ALEXANDER Noah Ruley Jane’s study was to enhance bioremediation of Petroleum Hydrocarbon-(PHC) Contaminated soils for increased agricultural productivity of the Sudd region of South Sudan. Specially, the study examined the native plant species abundant in petroleum hydrocarbon contaminated soil and optimal rate of cattle manure for enhancing phytoremediation of PHC contaminated soil in the region. In the results, PHC contamination at concentration of 7002 mgkg-1 detected as cultivated land from drilling points, was higher that the critical value of 5000mgkg soil (Sudan) and 5600mgkg (International). In sum, use of plant species namely H. Rufa, T. diversifolia and G. barbadense with 2 tha -1 of cattle-manure greatly improves bioremediation of PHC contaminated soils in the Sudd region of South Sudan. This study was funded by NORHED and was supervised by Dr Alice Amoding and Assoc. Prof John Baptist Tumuhairwe.
ALFONSE Leonard
The Role of Host Plants, Temperature and Natural Enemies in the Development, Survival and Reproduction of Edible Grasshopper Ruspolia differens (Orthoptera: Tettigoniidae)
Mr. ALFONSE Leonard studied the edible long-horned grasshopper (Ruspolia differens Servile) which is a very important source of food and income in East Africa. The insect is currently obtained from seasonally swarming wild populations which are erratic and declining. His study focused on factors limiting artificial mass rearing of R. differens; these factors include the confusion over the identity of the grasshopper, paucity of information on the natural diets, diseases, and the optimal temperature requirements. He identified edible grasshopper in Uganda as Ruspolia differens (Serville), which is a polyphagous with grasses preference to other plants. The study determined temperatures ranging from 28°C to 32°C as optimum for artificial rearing of R. differens. He further investigated that fungi and bacteria isolated from wild-collected grasshoppers were threats to artificial rearing of the insect. Glaurocara flava was the only identified parasitoid of R. differens. He also found that the inclusion of naturally occurring host plants into artificial diets can improve the survival and reproduction of R. differens. The results from this study can contribute to the development of efficient mass rearing protocols of R. differens. This study was funded by the International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (icipe) and German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), and supervised by Prof. Samuel Kyamanywa from Makerere University, and Dr. James P. Egonyu and Dr. Sevgan Subramanian from International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (icipe).
KALANZI Fred
Socio-technological factors influencing smallholder farmers’ adaptation of agroforestry technologies in the eastern highlands of Uganda
Mr. KALANZI Fred studied smallholder farmers’ adaptation of agroforestry technologies in Uganda’s Eastern highlands to establish the rationale for smallholder farmers’ choices, use, and modification of agroforestry technologies. This followed a growing concern that despite the efforts to promote agroforestry technologies, smallholder farmers made contradictory choices and modified technologies in ways perceived by experts to compromise farm productivity and, consequently, food and income security. Results indicated that the technology’s perceived value in addressing the livelihood options of the smallholder farmers was the most critical sociotechnological factor influencing their choices of agroforestry technologies. The study also found that smallholder farmers made several modifications and generated their own practices with anticipated positive outcomes that made the agroforestry technologies more applicable to their unique contexts. The study suggests that while science may have a lot to offer to resource-poor smallholder farmers, their local knowledge and innovations should constitute building blocks in developing economically viable, environmentally compliant and socially acceptable agroforestry technologies. This study was supported by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) through the World Agroforestry Centre (ICRAF) and NARO and supervised by Dr. Prossy Isubikalu, Dr. Florence Birungi Kyazze and Dr. Lawrence J.B. Orikiriza.
KALULE Wamala Stephen
Farmer Learning Behaviours: A Case of the student-to-farmer university outreach of Gulu University in Uganda
Mr. KALULE Wamala Stephen utilized a sample of 283 host farmers of the student-to-famer outreach of Gulu University to examine the influence of psychosocial factors on farmer learning behaviour. The results show that the most important and positive facilitating condition for farmer learning behaviour was faculty supervision support to students. For the motivational factors, satisfaction of relatedness learning needs and formation of learning intentions were the positive and significant predictors farmer learning behaviour. This study funded by RUFORUM and was supervised by Dr. Haroon Sseguya, Assoc Prof. Duncan Ogeng and Dr. Gabriel Karubanga.
KYALLO Martina
Identification and Characterization of Cassava Mosaic Begomovirus-like viruses Associated with Non Cassava Plants in Kenya
Ms. KYALLO Martina study was on sustainable management of cassava mosaic disease by determining the role non-cassave hosts of Cassava Mosaic Disease (CMD) like viruses and their associated viruses play in the epidemiology of CMD in Kenya. The study identified M. Lutea as a potential alternative host for East African Cassava Mosaic Virus in Uganda revealing the adaptive potential for the virus and expanding our current knowledge of the host range of CMD in Kenya. This study was funded by Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and was supervised by Dr. Mildred Ochwa Ssemakula and Dr. Robert A. Skilton.
LOGA Dorcas Elizabeth
Enhancing Group Sustainability and Innovativeness of Youth in Agriculture; a Comparative Study of Government and Non-government Interventions in Mid-western Uganda.
Ms. LOGA Dorcas Elizabeth studied how government and Non-Government agencies support youth groups in mid-western Uganda to engage in agriculture. The focus was on discovering the conceptual underpinnings that inform and shape the nature of support, enhancing the sustainability of youth groups, and youth innovativeness. The study revealed that government support is premised on the assumption that the youth lack capital, therefore focusing on capitalization through credit and free input provision; while the NGO support is premised on the assumption that youth lack entrepreneurial skills and extension services, and therefore focused on capacity building. The NGO-supported groups were more likely to be sustainable than the Government supported groups. Amidst numerous challenges, the groups post a higher score of innovativeness with an average innovation index of 0.536 reflecting a high potential for youth to revolutionize agriculture. Strengthening coordination to ensure cooperation and complementarity among interventions can enhance the innovativeness and sustainability of youth groups, and make agriculture more gainful. The study was funded by DAAD and Carnegie Corporation of the New York through RUFORUM; and supervised by Assoc. Professor Paul Kibwika and Dr. Florence Birungi Kyazze.
MAWA Christopher
Effects of community-based forest management initiatives on conservation and rural livelihoods in mid-western Uganda
Mr. MAWA Christopher examined the socio-ecological outcomes of community-based forest management initiatives in mid-western Uganda. The study found that positive social and ecological outcomes were simultaneously produced in areas where local community members were either actively co-managing forest resources with the state or were being supported by non-governmental organizations to formally manage and own them. Specifically, the initiatives enhanced community access to legally-sourced forest resources for both subsistence and cash. Additionally, households that had members belonging to conservation groups were more likely to benefit from alternative livelihood schemes promoted by state and non-state actors in the area. However, these alternative livelihood schemes mostly encouraged survival-led as opposed to accumulation-led livelihood diversification pathways. This study was funded by NORHED and was supervised by Prof. David Mwesigye Tumusiime and Assoc. Prof Fred Babweteera.
MUKHONGO Wilhem Ruth
Abbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi for Enhanced Nutrient and Moisture Utilization in Sweet Potato Production
Mr. MUKHONGO Wilhem Ruth investigated the composition and spore abundance of Abbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF) in sweet potatoes producing regions in Uganda for local inoculum production. Further, the study sought to determine the efficacy of the native AMF and phosphorus on growth and yield of sweet potatoes. In the findings, the assessment of the composition and spore abundance of AMF in sweet potatoes zones yielded a similarity in the AMF communities with Glomus and Acaulospora species accounting for 38% and 20% respectively. This study was supervised by Assoc. Prof. John Baptist Tumuhairwe, Dr. Peter Ebanyat and Dr. Cargele Masso.
MULINDE Catherine
Climate Adaptation and Crop Productivity in Coffee-Based Farming Systems of Uganda
Ms. MULINDE Catherine focused on determining the most sustainable climate adaptation practices that are likely to increase current and future crop productivity, and mitigate climate vulnerabilities in Arabica and Robusta coffee-based farming systems of Uganda by 2040. She adopted qualitative, quantitative and modeling approaches in assessing climatic-crop suitability, adoption-drivers and effectiveness of major adaptation practices. Coffee and banana were revealed as more vulnerable to climate change than maize and beans in eastern, central and western Uganda; and that agroforestry, inorganic fertilizer, organic manure, mulch, trenches and soil bunds can potentially reduce crop yield losses especially if future climate becomes drier than wetter. The study recommends the promotion of these adaptation practices with an agile extension service considering the diverse adaptation
needs of coffee-farmers rather than ‘one-size-fit-all’ adaptation strategies; identification of efficient on-farm water-draining technologies; and bioengineering of crop varieties adaptive to wetter-conditions across various altitudes. This study was supervised by Prof. Majaliwa
Mwanjalolo and Dr. Revocatus Twinomuhangi, and funded by USAID.
NAKITTO Aisha Musaazi Sebunya
Solanum anguivi Lam. fruits’ nutritional quality and potential effect on type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Ms. NAKITTO Aisha Musaazi Sebunya investigated the morphological characteristics, bioactive compound contents (BCC) and antioxidant activity (AA) of fourteen accessions of Solanum anguivi Lam. The impact of various ripeness stages and thermal treatments on the BCC and AA of Solanum anguivi Lam. fruits (SALF) was determined, where the unripe stage and boiling exhibited the highest AA. Further, the potential of dietary SALF to prevent and manage type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM)-like phenotypes was investigated using the fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster (D. melanogaster) model organism. D. melanogaster has been previously shown to develop a T2DM-like phenotype upon high-sugar diet (HSD) intake. The study showed for the first time that dietary SALF lowers HSD-induced glucose levels in D. melanogaster, which was not mediated through an up-regulation of central genes (Srl, dIlp3 and dIlp6) of the fly’s energy metabolism. Simultaneously, dietary SALF increased the flies’ survival, thus suggesting a protective effect of SALF against premature death associated with a T2DM-like phenotype. Dietary SALF may therefore help prevent and manage T2DM in humans. This study was funded by the DAAD and FTBIC and was supervised by Prof. John Muyonga, Prof. Anika Wagner and Assoc. Prof Yusuf Byaruhanga.
NDAULA Sulaiman
Psychosocial factors in rural smallholder farmers’ decision to accept orange-fleshed sweet potato in Uganda
Mr. NDAULA Sulaiman studied the acceptance of orange-fleshed sweet potato (OFSP) within households that already grow White-fleshed sweet potato (WFSP). With vitamin A deficiency enduring as a major public health concern in many developing countries, OFSP continues to be promoted as a food-based alleviation strategy for the deficiency. This study sought to enhance understanding of the role of rural smallholder farmers’ socio-cognitive contexts in OFSP acceptance in Uganda. The study revealed that farmers at the various stages of the OFSP cultivation process (under consideration, trial, or maintenance) differ in the belief sets they held about OFSP relative to the WFSP sweet potato varieties. Also, sustained OFSP cultivation was enhanced by social pressure, farmers’ valuation of their capability to cultivate OFSP as compared to cultivating WFSP and health-related risk perceptions. Through compliance and conformity to peer pressure, farmers created a cycle of low cultivation intensity that led to limited access to vines, low appreciation of relative advantage of OFSP over WFSP and the attendant cultivation defections. This study points to a cardinal role for processes that create supportive social and cognitive environments for the acceptance of bio-fortified technologies such as the orange-fleshed sweet potato. This study was funded by DAAD and supervised by Dr. Frank Matsiko, Dr. Richard Miiro, and Dr. Haroon Sseguya.
OBUA Tonny
Genetic Improvement of Nutritional Traits and Yield of Tropical Soybean in Uganda
Mr. OBUA Tonny investigated the genetic diversity and population structure of 89 tropical soybean germplasm, and determined the variability of nutritional traits of 52 soybean core collections from diverse sources. He further conducted a genome-wide association study based on 92 soybean genotypes, as well as determination of environmental effect on protein content and yield in soybean. The results showed that the genetic diversity among the studied germplasm was low, and the phylogenetic tree and Principal Component Analysis grouped the 89 genotypes into three major clusters. The low genetic diversity could be attributed to the cleistogomous nature of soybean and the sample of genotypes used that were mainly released varieties and advanced breeding lines; that have been genetically fixed at all loci in regard to general consumer preferences after many cycles of selections. Low diversity in the studied germplasm pool is a reflection of genetic erosion of the existing germplasm pool, which calls for widening of the current germpalsm base. The study further identified several soybean genotypes that protein and oil content above the reported averages. Total oil content varied significantly between origins with genotypes from Zimbabwe showing the highest mean of 20.13% while those from Taiwan had the lowest mean of 18.3%. The study was funded by Soybean Africa Limited, Makerere University Center for Soybean Improvement and Development, Biosciences Eastern and Central Africa – International Livestock Research Institute Hub; and was supervised by Prof. Phinehas Tukamuhabwa and Dr. Thomas L. Odong.
OCHIENG Hannington
Biological assessment of River Aturukuku in Tororo, Uganda: a tropical river with potential environmental threats from its catchment
Mr. OCHIENG Hannington undertook a biological assessment of River Aturukuku in order to contribute towards its conservation and sustainable utilisation by the riparian communities. His research compared the utility of two macroinvertebrate based Biological Monitoring Working Party indices, from England (temperate region) and Costa Rica (tropical region) for assessing water quality, and explored the assemblages of benthic macroinvertebrates and diatoms along River Aturukuku. His research showed that the two foreign biomonitoring indices could not separate sites based on pollution gradients, attributable to biogeographical differences in environmental conditions and pollution tolerances among macroinvertebrates. The diversity of benthic macroinvertebrates and diatoms in the river was low, with pollution-tolerant taxa dominating. The development of indigenous biotic index for Uganda and specific mitigation measures for conservation of the entire river for sustainable utilisation is recommended. The study was funded by the National Geographic Society and was supervised by Prof. James Okot-Okumu and Dr. Robinson Odong.
SYOFUNA Agatha
Prevalence and impact of stem canker diseases on Eucalyptus grandis and selected Hybrid clones in Uganda
Ms. SYOFUNA Agatha studied the prevalence and impact of stem canker diseases on Eucalyptus grandis and selected Hybrid clones in Uganda. This was based on the background that there is a drive for re-afforestation and a high timber demand in the country, both of which are being solved by extensive plantation development. The study revealed that Eucalyptus plantations are threatened by Botryosphaeria and Teratosphaeria canker diseases throughout the Country mostly in the Central, Eastern and Albertine regions. Five species of Botryosphaeriaceae were identified based on multi-locus phylogenies (ITS and β-tubulin). Pathogenicity tests using species of Botrosphaeriaceae and Teratosphaeria revealed variation in susceptibility of Eucalyptus grandis and selected hybrid clones, suggesting that disease-tolerant Eucalyptus genotypes could be selected for disease management. Furthermore, an assessment of the anatomical, physical, and mechanical properties, revealed brittle failure and high shrinkage in wood from diseased trees, indicating that it is not suitable for some construction applications and should be used with caution. The study was funded by African Development Bank and DAAD, and supervised by Dr Grace Nakabonge and Prof. Abwoli Y. Banana.
TURYAHIKAYO Willy
Network governance dynamics that influence the generation and implementation of innovative activities within the Agricultural Innovation Platforms.
Mr. TURYAHIKAYO Willy investigated the network governance dynamics that influence the generation and implementation of innovative activities within the Agricultural Innovation Platforms. The study findings showed that the level and structure of interactions have got a profound effect on generation and implementation of new ideas within the agricultural innovation platforms. However, owing to the informal nature of networks, this study revealed stringent collective sanctions in the IPs can negatively impact the innovative activities. The study recommends increased actor interactions in terms of duration and frequency of interactions between actors within the platforms. This study was funded by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), and supervised by Dr. Frank B. Matsiko, Dr. John J. Okiror, Dr. Richard F. Miiro and Prof. Jon Hanf.
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Agriculture & Environment
Vice Chancellor Closes International Conference on Food Systems Transformation for Climate Action
Certificates awarded to participants as Makerere reaffirms commitment to climate-smart agriculture
Makerere University has today October 29, 2025 closed the International Conference on Food Systems Transformation for Climate Action, with participants awarded certificates for their contribution and completion of the intensive two-day engagements. The conference brought together researchers, policymakers, students, and international partners to deliberate on how to transform food systems in the face of growing climate challenges.
Speaking at the closing ceremony held at the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe commended the organizers and participants for their active engagement and commitment to addressing challenges in food systems and climate change.
“This training has been very useful. Every conference I attend teaches me something new, and I can see that this has been a rich learning experience for everyone here,” said Prof. Nawangwe. “We must continue to innovate and work closely with smallholder farmers to ensure that even the smallest pieces of land are used productively. Technology, artificial intelligence, and affordable irrigation systems can make a real difference.”
The Vice Chancellor emphasized the importance of turning university research into practical solutions that benefit communities, noting that Makerere’s scientists must go beyond publications to create commercial products and start enterprises that add value to their innovations.
“Our professors should not only retire on government pension but also on royalties from their innovations,” he added. “We must transform our research into products and services that create jobs and wealth.”
He further highlighted the importance of protecting intellectual property and promoting collaboration between universities and industries, drawing lessons from global examples such as Malaysia and China, where research and innovation have powered industrial growth.
Representing the Principal of CAES, Dr. Julia Kigozi, the Dean of the School of Food Technology, Nutrition, and Bioengineering, appreciated the Vice Chancellor for gracing the conference and commended participants for their enthusiasm.
“We explored challenges, trends, and opportunities in food systems and climate change, and this conference has given our researchers and PhD students valuable insights,” she said. “It reminded us that while challenges are shared across countries, we can each start small and still make a difference.”
Dr. John Baptist Tumuhairwe, one of the conveners, emphasized the importance of integrating climate action into food systems transformation, noting that the conference had strengthened Makerere’s networks in food and agricultural sciences.
“This meeting has expanded our collaborations and reaffirmed the university’s leadership in advancing sustainable food systems,” he said. “It was also deliberate in engaging the youth, who are our next generation of innovators.”
On behalf of the OIC Standing Committee on Scientific and Technological Cooperation (COMSTECH), Dr. Haris Akram, the Program Manager, thanked Makerere University for hosting the international gathering and reiterated the need for continued collaboration.
“We must ask ourselves whether this workshop will make a difference in our lives and practices,” he remarked. “The real success lies in how we apply the knowledge gained to improve food security and sustainability.”
The conference, organized by Makerere University’s College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences in partnership with OIC-COMSTECH, brought together experts from across Africa and Asia to share experiences on sustainable food production, agro-processing, and climate-smart innovations.
Officially closing the conference, Prof. Nawangwe in his remarks reaffirmed Makerere University’s commitment to leading research and innovation in agriculture, food systems, and climate resilience.
“Agriculture remains the backbone of our country and the most important driver of our future,” he concluded. “Let us put our heads and hands together to transform this sector and build a sustainable future for our people.”
Agriculture & Environment
Makerere hosts International Conference on Food Systems Transformation for Climate Actions
By Betty Kyakuwa and Eve Nakyanzi
Makerere University will from 28th to 30th October 2025 host the International Conference and Training Workshop on Food Systems Transformation for Climate Actions (ICTW-FSTCA 2025) under the COMSTECH Forum for Environment and Ecosystem Restoration (CFEER). COMSTECH is the Standing Committee for Scientific and Technological Cooperation, one of four standing committees of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) dedicated to the promotion and cooperation of science and technology activities among the member states.
Speaking at the opening ceremony on 28th October, the High Commissioner of Pakistan to Uganda, H.E. Muhammad Hassan Wazir, commended Makerere University and COMSTECH for convening discussions on such a timely and relevant theme. Emphasising the urgency of collective action, he remarked, “Climate change is real. While the whole world has been feeling its impact for several years, we in Pakistan witnessed devastation. We recently experienced a large-scale cloud burst, severe flood, flash flooding and melting of the glaciers in the Himalayas.”
H.E. Wazir noted that such experiences reveal the deep vulnerabilities of global food systems and the need for coordinated solutions. The High Commissioner also applauded Uganda’s progress in infrastructure and economic stability, describing it as an attractive environment for investment and collaboration. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to work closely with African countries—particularly Uganda—in areas such as agro-processing, water-saving irrigation technologies, and climate-resilient crops, as part of the “Look Africa Policy”, an initiative launched in 2018 to strengthen bilateral and multilateral cooperation between Pakistan and the African continent.
In his welcome address, the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, emphasized the importance of universities in addressing Africa’s pressing food security challenges amid high population growth and climate change. He highlighted Makerere’s century-long legacy of academic excellence, innovation, and contributions to regional development, including breakthroughs in medicine, agriculture, and technology. Prof. Nawangwe underscored the university’s commitment to research, innovation hubs, and youth entrepreneurship as key solutions for building resilient and sustainable food systems, and expressed hope that the knowledge shared at the workshop would benefit educators, students, and farmers alike.
In his keynote address, Dr. Logan Cochrane, Dean of the College of Public Policy at Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) Qatar, outlined the pressing challenges and promising opportunities shaping global food systems today. He noted that climate change is creating new public health risks, such as malaria spreading to areas that had previously been unaffected, while also disrupting agricultural productivity. Equally concerning are shifts in global diets: more people are consuming processed, salty, and fatty foods, resulting in an unprecedented situation where, in 2025, as many children are overweight as are underweight—approximately 10% of the global population in each category. This dual challenge, he observed, underscores that food systems are not only insufficient but increasingly unhealthy. Dr. Cochrane also highlighted structural vulnerabilities, including overreliance on global food trade, limited irrigation, poor road networks, and inadequate access to markets, hospitals, and schools as factors that reduce the African continent’s efficiency and resilience.
Despite these challenges, Dr. Cochrane emphasized optimism and actionable opportunities. He shared that sustainable local production, especially of regionally relevant crops like Ethiopia’s taro and false banana, can improve nutrition and domestic food security. Strengthening regional trade networks, particularly through initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Agreement, presents a US$50 billion opportunity for Africa to reduce dependence on imports.
He added that Governments can play a transformative role by enabling smallholders and the private sector through infrastructure improvements, policy support, and food reserve systems. Reducing food loss and waste, which can reach up to 50% from farm to kitchen, he noted, is another key area for efficiency gains. Furthermore, he said that social protection programs, early warning systems for pests and diseases, and school-based nutrition initiatives can safeguard vulnerable populations while supporting farmers’ livelihoods.
Finally, Dr. Cochrane highlighted the need to make agriculture “cool” for young people, by integrating technology, circular food systems, and innovative approaches to attract the next generation to agricultural careers. By leveraging these opportunities, he argued, food systems can become healthier, more resilient, and more sustainable for the future.
Mr. Alex Bambona who represented the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF) highlighted Uganda’s commitment to the global food systems transformation agenda. He noted that in September 2021, Uganda joined international efforts to address food security and recognized several challenges in fully harnessing the country’s natural endowments. “Uganda is a beautiful country, gifted by nature, and has the potential to feed not only East Africa but much of the continent,” he said. However, he stressed that gaps remain, particularly in the application of science and technology to transform agriculture. Mr. Bambona also identified climate change as a significant challenge, acting as a negative driver that must be addressed for Uganda to realize its full potential in sustainable food production.
Ms. Angela Atukunda, representing the Secretary General of the Uganda National Commission for the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)/ Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), highlighted Uganda’s longstanding engagement with international cooperation through its membership in the OIC since 1974, which also brought the country into ICESCO. She explained that UNATCOM, as Uganda’s National Commission for UNESCO/ICESCO, plays a key role in promoting science, innovation, education reform, and cultural heritage preservation in collaboration with government ministries, academia, civil society, and international partners.
Ms. Atukunda emphasized that platforms provided by events such as ICTW-FSTCA 2025 are crucial for sharing knowledge, shaping policy, and building partnerships to address urgent climate action needs through food systems transformation. She noted that globally, food systems account for nearly one-third of greenhouse gas emissions, and without reform in production, processing, transport, and consumption, efforts to limit global warming will fall short.
She further noted that climate change is already threatening food security through unpredictable rainfall, soil degradation, droughts, floods, and pests—impacts that disproportionately affect smallholder farmers. She stressed the importance of climate justice and the development of homegrown solutions rooted in science, indigenous knowledge, innovation, and inclusive governance.
The opening ceremony held in the Senior Common Room, Main Building was virtually addressed Coordinator Genera, OIC-COMSTEC-H.E. Prof. Dr. Iqbal M. Choudhary and the Advisor/Director, Science and Technology, ICESCO-Dr. Muhammad Sharif. ICTW-FSTCA 2025 will feature a number of discussion and working sessions on Day 1 and Day 2 and conclude on 30th October with a filed visit to the National Crops Resources Research Institute (NaCRRI) in Namulonge and the Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK).
Agriculture & Environment
RUFS Empowers Smallholder Farmers to Build Resilience against Floods & Droughts
Smallholder farmers across the globe are increasingly confronted with the dual challenges of water-related stresses, ranging from devastating floods to prolonged droughts. These cyclical extremes threaten livelihoods, food security, and sustainable agricultural productivity. To effectively address these challenges, it is essential to implement resilient, integrated strategies that recognize the complex and fluctuating nature of water availability.
The Resilient Urban Food Systems (RUFS) project promotes innovative approaches that empower smallholder farmers to better manage water resources by capturing and storing excess water during periods of abundance, efficiently utilizing limited water supplies during dry spells, and building adaptive capacity to withstand and recover from extreme weather events. Through these solutions, RUFS helps create a foundation for sustainable farming that not only mitigates risks but also enhances productivity and long-term resilience in vulnerable agricultural communities.
Under the initiative titled “Strengthening Urban Food Systems Resilience to Flood and Drought Risks through New Strategic Partnerships: Consolidating Gains from the RUFS Project in Kasese Municipality and Mbale City, Uganda,” the team conducted an intensive two-day training workshop for smallholder farmers in Kasese Municipality. The workshop aimed to equip farmers with practical skills and knowledge, specifically in the production of organic pesticides and fertilizers, to enhance their adaptive capacity.
Conducted on 13th and 14th October 2025 at the residence of Bishop Stephen Nsibambi on Kilembe Road, Kasese Municipality, the training built upon insights and outcomes from the inception meeting of the RUFS Phase II held 18th–21st August 2025. The initiatives under Phase II of the RUFS Project aim to reduce damage from natural hazards, improve drainage and water storage, conserve soil moisture, decrease reliance on rainfall, and ultimately bolster resilience against water-related extremes.
The project is led by Prof. Frank Mugagga from the Department of Geography, Geo-Informatics, and Climatic Sciences at Makerere University, and funded through the AgriFoSe2030 Programme.
Achievements Registered from the Workshop
The training enhanced the resilience of smallholder farmers by equipping them to better withstand natural hazards, with a special focus on reducing their vulnerability to floods and droughts. The two-day workshop concentrated on the production and use of pesticides and fertilizers derived from locally available, nutrient-rich plants such as Tithonia (Kimyula), Wandering Jew (Naanda), Amaranthus spp. (Ddodo), Black Jack (Sere), and Phytolacca (Luwoko). It also covered the use of ash, animal and human urine, as well as techniques for harvesting and purifying rainwater.
Specifically, smallholder farmers in Kasese Municipality gained practical skills in the production of natural, effective plant teas using decomposing and hairy plants combined with ash, an eco-friendly method to enrich soil sustainably. They were trained in rainwater harvesting through trench digging and other methods, as well as rainwater purification using charcoal. Additionally, the farmers were taken through the process of producing fertilizers using a mixture of cowdung, water and ash, as well as human urine and locally available plants. Furthermore, farmers learned to make organic pesticides from readily available materials such as ash, animal urine, onions, papaya leaves, water, pepper, and soap.
Overall, the training promoted sustainable, eco-friendly farming practices while strengthening smallholder farmers’ skills in pest management and climate-resilient agronomic techniques. It was led by Mr. Henry Stanley Mbowa, Head of Research at AidEnvironment and a member of the RUFS Project.
Insights from the farmers’ representative
Mr. Sunday Salveri, a dedicated smallholder farmer from Kasese, highlighted the critical role of active farmer participation in forming and sustaining a farmer group and association. In his address, he urged fellow farmers to become more engaged and take proactive steps to improve their livelihoods through active group participation. He emphasized that increased involvement is essential for maintaining a vibrant, effective group that benefits all members. Mr. Salveri also encouraged more farmers to join the group, viewing collective effort as key to achieving economic sustainability. “Expanding membership is vital for the association’s growth and resilience,” he noted.
Furthermore, Mr. Salveri stressed the importance of applying practical business lessons learned on the ground. He suggested that farmers produce fertilizers and pesticides themselves as a way to both generate income and reduce costs for members. To facilitate knowledge sharing and skill development, he proposed establishing a demonstration site to train other farmers. Recognizing the role of family support, Mr. Salveri emphasized involving family members in these activities, highlighting that their participation is crucial for the long-term success and sustainability of agricultural endeavors.
He underscored the need to think beyond agriculture, advocating for the continued existence of the cluster and the RUFS initiative. He expressed hope that these efforts will bring sustained benefits to farmers and their families.
Courtesy Call
The RUFS team paid a courtesy call on the Bishop of Rwenzori region – Lord Nason Baluku who appreciated the team’s efforts. The meeting provided an opportunity to strengthen relationships and reaffirm mutual commitment toward the initiatives.
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![[L-R] Dr.Godfrey Akileng - Dean School of Business, Prof. Sarah N. Ssali - Ag. Vice Chancellor, Chief Guest - Mr. Odrek Rwabwogo, and Gordon Katwirenabo-Assistant Commissioner, Quality Assurance and Value Addition, MAAIF at the Congress.](https://news.mak.ac.ug/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Entreprenuership-Congress-2025-400x240.jpg)
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