Engineering, Art & Tech
72nd Graduation: Doctoral Citations – CEDAT
LWANYAGA Joseph Ddumba
Application of process technologies for improved salt production from Lake Katwe, Uganda
Eng. LWANYAGA Joseph Ddumba designed a process that selectively extracts salt from the brines of Lake Katwe coupled with a techno-economic analysis to foster commercial exploitation of the Salt Lake. Through thermodynamic modelling, the study revealed that the mineral precipitation sequence mainly started with sulfate followed by chlorides and lastly carbonates with halite as the most abundant mineral. His study further revealed that the salt pan should be as shallow as practically possible with an optimal depth of 0.1 m. Results from the techno-economic analysis showed that halite of purity >99% was produced after the flotation of burkeite and trona. Additionally, soda ash and sodium sulfate were produced by a combination of flotation, carbonation and calcination techniques. The unit production cost of halite was 0.2629 and 0.4724 $/kg with a NPV of $2,447,853 and -12,085,796 of the solar salt and mechanical evaporation processes respectively. As a result, the solar salt extraction process proved feasible from both engineering and economic standpoints and thus can be scaled up to a pilot scale using conventional industrial equipment. The study was funded by SIDA and was supervised by Prof. John Baptist Kirabira and Dr. Hillary Kasedde.
MAKABAYI Brian
Ground Deformation Modelling Based On Causal Factors in Landslide-Prone Areas. A Case Study of Bududa District, Uganda.
Mr. MAKABAYI Brian undertook a study to model ground deformation in Bududa landslide-prone area. He developed a model for predicting ground deformation hence the occurrence of landslides resulting from a number of casual factors such as rainfall, soil, slope and infiltration. He tested the model using two space technologies namely Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) and Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR) techniques. This model can be used by stakeholders such as the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM), the Ministry of Disaster Preparedness and Refugees and local authorities to predict ground deformation as a precursor to landslides. This study was funded by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) and supervised by Prof Moses Musinguzi and Dr John Richard Otukei.
MAZIMWE Allan
Pattern Driven Data interoperability in situation awareness systems. A case of the disaster management community in Uganda
Mr. MAZIMWE Allan studied how to manage semantic barriers to data sharing and integration in disaster situation awareness systems for early warning purposes. Such barriers arise from the fact that stakeholders manage information using different policies and interfaces while at the same time describing data using different vocabularies and conceptualisations. As a solution, the study adopts the use of patterns (best practices) as building blocks for interoperable architectures that address semantic barriers in line with Findable, Accessible, Interoperable and Reusable (FAIR) principles. The study examines the extent to which vocabularies and related best practices for organising data in the disaster risk community are FAIR. A pattern-driven architecture for organising disaster risk knowledge is developed based on existing data-sharing challenges in the disaster community. As a proof of concept, the drought risk-informed response prototype was developed to illustrate the use patterns as building blocks for managing data interoperability in disaster situation awareness systems. The study was funded by SIDA and supervised by Prof. Imed Hammouda and Assoc. Prof Anthony Gidudu.
NAKISANZE Sarah
Social Sustainability and the Ugandan Haute Couture Visual Aesthetic: Articulating The Contemporary Value of Past Tradition
Ms. NAKISANZE Sarah interrogated haute couture artefacts which exhibit Uganda’s traditional cultural heritage fused with aspects of contemporary dress to produce haute couture as a visual language representing social sustainability. Sarah was intrigued by the stride backwards to move forward amidst modern fashion aesthetic innovations, and has established and articulated the value of the traditional aesthetic in the present. The traditional aesthetic is an engender of sustainable development; and haute couture shaped by the aesthetic is an inclusive knowledge dissemination platform. In addition, the past traditions are an agential tool that facilitate agents’ negotiation of contemporary global stage dynamics. The study recommends that the traditional aesthetic is developed beyond traditional culture heritage, but as an aesthetic with contemporary socio-economic sustainability value towards the development of the creative industry and safe environments. The study was jointly funded by the researcher and Makerere University, and supervised by Dr. Nakazibwe Venny and Dr. Ssengendo May.
WADEMBERE M. Ismail
A Localized Geometrical Alignment Technique for updating Geo-Spatial Databases
Mr. WADEMBERE Mugumbu Ismail developed a Localized Geometrical Alignment Technique (LGAT) for Updating Geo-spatial databases. The innovative technique uses differences between corresponding objects so that only the changed parts are updated than copying entire objects between geodatabases. This helps to minimize geometrical errors emanating from openings or overlaps of objects. This technique will facilitate efficient data update within the Uganda national spatial data infrastructures. It will also exploit the potential presented by the Internet computing paradigm in terms of data sharing, utilization of Volunteered Geographic Information, and lead to more use of spatial information in decision-making. This study was funded by Kyambogo University, Makerere University, and Nuffic Project of Dutch Ministry of Development Cooperation; and was supervised by Prof. Patrick Ogao and Prof. Moses Musinguzi.
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Engineering, Art & Tech
Makerere University Innovation Pod Launches Electric Mobility Skilling Programme
On 22nd October 2024, Makerere University Innovation Pod, in partnership with Kiira Motors Corporation, and the United Nations Development Programme in Uganda, launched a skilling program designed to equip students with expertise in electric mobility and related technologies for industrial application.
The launch team consisted of the Executive Chairman of Kiira Motors Corporation (KMC) Prof. Tickodri-Togboa, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Resident Representative Ms. Nwanne Vwede-Obahor, and Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi (Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor Academic Affairs) who represented the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga, Chairperson of the Steering Committee of the Makerere University Innovation Pod (Mak-UniPod) and Dr. Peter Turyakira, the Acting Manager of Makerere University Innovation Pod (Mak-UniPod).
This strategic direction of building the required pool of young people to drive Uganda’s electric mobility such as production of electric cars targets Makerere University students who are not only excelling in the academics, but also interested in innovation and development.
“When I heard about this project, I thought about this innovation. I realized it comes with so many opportunities starting from employing many people, but also helping in the world agenda in transiting to green energy. When the call was shared, I thought I could grab this opportunity and also contribute to the sector that is seemingly a virgin one,” remarked Twinomujuni Mutunji, a student selected from the Bachelor of Electrical Engineering program.
The first cohort consists of a total of 25 students selected from Electrical, Biomedical, Software, Mechanical, Computer Engineering, and Bachelor of Science in Physics courses. Of the selected students, 12 are female and 13 are male. They were selected in a competitive process where only those with grades in the first and second upper classes were subjected to interviews and the top 25 were subsequently enrolled.
The program’s main objectives include providing participants with foundational knowledge in electric vehicle technology, renewable energy systems, battery cell technology, smart grid systems, and electric vehicle powertrains. It also emphasizes the development of practical skills through hands-on training and project-based learning, enabling students to apply theoretical concepts to real-world scenarios.
Additional goals of the initiative include promoting innovation and problem-solving by encouraging participants to explore solutions to challenges in clean energy technologies. It also seeks to prepare students for careers in the electric vehicle industry and its related sectors.
During the launch, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi emphasized Makerere University’s pioneering role in innovation, stating that the electric mobility skilling programme represents a significant step in Uganda’s transition to green energy.
“As Makerere, we always pride ourselves on trailblazing. The electric vehicle journey and sector in this country started with the KiiraEv produced by staff and students from our College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology. The skills and knowledge led to the formation of the Kiira Motors Corporation. Through the launch of electric mobility skilling programme, Makerere University is committing itself to championing electric mobility and the green revolution,” said Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi.
Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi asserted that with this cohort taught and skilled in the field of electrical vehicles, they will be able to contribute to the transition from fossil fuel to green energy and also reduce pollution that is caused by traditional means of transport.
This country in terms of transport, we are very familiar with the two wheelers (a n influx of boda bodas) and these are the major polluters, how do we overcome this, it is the initiative that we are launching today. We really believe that through this mega start, by training experts in the field, we should able to transition to green energy and also reduce on our pollution rates,” Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi said.
Speaking on behalf of Mak-UniPod, Dr. Peter K. Turyakira said that the skilling program is timely because it comes at a time when the country is embracing the global shift toward electric mobility. “Uganda is embracing the global shift toward electric mobility. This program is intended to give young people the opportunity to develop skills, drive innovation in e-mobility, and influence the economic development of the country,” remarked Dr. Turyakira.
On her part, UNDP Resident Representative, Ms. Nwanne Vwede-Obahor, hailed the program as a solution to youth unemployment and a creator of green jobs in Uganda.
“Through this skilling programme, Makerere University and Kiira Motors Corporation are going to find solutions to the youth unemployment question and create green jobs in Uganda.”
She urged the students in the first cohort to make the most of this opportunity to contribute to the global green energy agenda and to shape their own futures.
“To the E-Mobility Skilling Program students, this is a great opportunity for you. I hope you understand that you are creating for yourself an opportunity, not open to others. You are part of a nascent group. You are part of history. You are the first cohort. The opportunities are beyond Uganda and Africa. There are many opportunities in the world. I am very glad to see the number of young ladies who are part of this first cohort,” she said.
Adding that; “I appeal to you today, take this opportunity and run with it, give it all you can. Immerse yourself into it and focus. I will create time to return, and have a special session with the ladies who are part of this cohort. I want to be sure that you have mentorship,” she stated.
Ms. Vwede-Obahor also explained that UNDP decided to fund the project as it aligns with Uganda’s development plans, especially its commitment to transitioning from fossil fuel-powered vehicles to electric ones.
“Why e-mobility? This is born out of the fact that we in the UN always support the national development aspirations of the countries where we serve,” she pointed out.
“In this regard, we noted that Uganda has recently taken initiatives to support the importation of electric vehicles into the country. We have taken note of the zero-emissions that Uganda wants to attain by 2063 which protect the environment,” she said.
The UNDP Resident Representative thanked Makerere University for the vision, and appealed to the private sector in Uganda to come to the Makerere University Innovation Pod (Mak-UniPod) to support the student innovators.
Recognizing Makerere University as the cradle of E-Mobility in Uganda, Prof. Tockodri-Togboa acknowledged the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe for being a very instrumental figure in this milestone and always providing guidance in this journey.
Prof. Tickodri-Togboa, the Chairman Board of Directors, Kiira Motors Corporation, said that he is grateful that this program has started and he believes, that it will significantly contribute to the transformation of the transport sector, address climate change concerns and save the environment from pollution.
“We are grateful for this opportunity to drive change. To the pioneering scholars on this program, today you have taken action and I believe the resulting progress will transform you and the lives of many as we build towards the future,” said Prof. Tickodri Togboa.
In the same spirit, he commended UNDP for supporting Makerere University innovators through the Makerere University Innovation Pod.
Engineer Fred Matovu of Kiira Motors Corporation outlined the program’s structure, detailing the seven modules that students will complete over the course of the year. These modules will range from introductory topics on electric vehicles to discussions of future trends in electric mobility. Matovu explained that each module will be followed by assessments, and at the end of the program, every student will be required to complete a capstone project to showcase their knowledge and skills. The program will consist of both theoretical and practical sessions, starting with an introduction to the fundamentals of electric vehicles.
“As part of the program arrangement, we shall have theoretical classes where we shall give foundation knowledge and later we shall have practical sessions where the students shall be allowed to try what they have learned, so we shall take these students to spaces to get a hands-on experience on the usage of some of the technologies,” he said.
“The modules will start with an introduction to electrical vehicles, before going into the theoretical concepts, among others,” Matovu added.
Eng. Matovu explained that throughout the program, they will have sessions where they link students to mentors from their respective faculties in their primary programs at the University.
He further explained that they will do that in order to make sure that these students as they are getting electrical vehicle skills, they do not neglect their core academic programs. In this, they will also be having the mentors’ general report to confirm their performance in the respective academic programs at Makerere University.
Mr. Twinomujuni Mutunji, a student selected from the Bachelor of Electrical Engineering program, and who is part of the inaugural cohort of the E-Mobility Skilling Program, informed Mak Public Relations News team that he had always hoped to make an impact in the transition to green energy, which he views as a promising and untapped field.
Mr. Twinomujuni’s view fits in so well with the vast opportunities awaiting students who will remain focused and excel during this one-year E-Mobility skilling programme.
According to Engineer Fred Matovu, in addition to field tours, extensive capacity building, and a capstone project where each student will demonstrate what he or she has been doing, the successful students will feed into research and development, the E-Mobility industry, and the Kiira Motors Corporation Internship Programs.
Makerere University on 14th August 2024 received portable lighting test equipment from the East African Centre of Excellence for Renewable Energy and Efficiency (EACREEE), the execution partner of the Energy Efficient Lighting and Appliances (EELA) project in East and Southern Africa. The equipment was received on behalf of Makerere by the Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi from the Executive Director EACREEE, Canon Goddy Muhanguzi Muhumuza. On hand to witness the handover were the University Secretary, Mr. Yusuf Kiranda, Principal, College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT), Prof. Moses Musinguzi, the Dean School of Engineering, Prof. Dorothy Okello and EACREEE/EELA officials.
The equipment which will be under the custody of CEDAT will according to the ED EACREEE allow for “screening of lighting products on the market in terms of their compliance with the country’s national regulatory framework as well as with the regional minimum energy performance standards developed in the EELA project.
“One of the objectives of the EELA project is to strengthen the capacity of national and regional institutions, testing centres and stakeholder groups in the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) regions in order to drive a market transformation towards efficient and high-quality lighting and appliances” added Canon Muhumuza.
The EELA project which will bring regional support to private sector-led activities is funded by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida) and implemented by the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) in collaboration with the SADC Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency (SACREEE) and EACREEE.
In his acceptance remarks, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi thanked Sida for funding the EELA project as well as the implementing partners UNIDO, SACREEE and EACREEE for enabling the project gain traction. He equally thanked the ED EACREEE Canon Muhumuza for ensuring that his Alma Mater Makerere University remains on the cutting edge of working with partners to monitor the standard of energy efficient lighting and appliances both domestically and regionally.
Notable among the projects being undertaken by EACREEE especially in the wake of mitigating the effects of climate change are the Energy Access and Green Transition Collaboratively Demonstrated in Urban and Rural Areas in Africa (ENERGICA) project funded the European Union with UNIDO, EAC, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and SADC as partners. To-date, ENERGICA has installed four (4) charging station demo sites and acquired over 200 electric motorbikes in Kenya.
EACREEE has also conducted; fourteen (14) trainings on SMART grids for 400 participants, three (3) trainings for small hydropower plants for 53 participants, as well as 4 trainings on solar PV for 175 technicians, students, operators, entrepreneurs and energy professionals in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.
Canon Muhumuza concluded by sharing that EACREEE sees great potential of value addition to Makerere University in the form of internship positions for graduate students, mentorship and career talks for students, developing demonstration sites, jointly organizing events and contributing to topics of mutual interest.
Mr. Kaconco James successfully defended his PhD thesis at a public defense session held at the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT).
His thesis was titled; Master Production Scheduling, Total Quality Management and Blood Production Towards Blood Transfusion Sustainability in Uganda.
ABSTRACT
This study investigated the relationship between master production scheduling, total quality management, blood production, and transfusion sustainability in Ugandan blood banks. It aimed to address the challenges of blood safety and shortages in healthcare, leading to canceled or postponed transfusions and patient fatalities.
The study used was correlational and cross-sectional in nature with a pragmatic paradigm and a mixed-method strategy. It surveyed seven regional and seven university teaching hospital blood banks, using random and purposive sampling. Data came from self-administered questionnaires and interviews with key informants. Data analysis used SPSS20 and AMOS23 to determine relationships among variables. Qualitative data was analyzed using Nvivo software. Pilot tests ensured questionnaire and interview guide validity and reliability.
Findings showed a significant model for the relationship between master production scheduling and blood transfusion sustainability. Demand and supply significantly related to transfusion sustainability, while perishability had a positive but not significant relationship. Surprisingly, total quality management did not mediate the master production scheduling-blood transfusion sustainability link; instead, blood production fully mediated it. When considering both total quality management and blood production as serial mediators, both played a partial mediating role. Qualitative findings aligned with these results, highlighting various strategies used by Ugandan blood banks to enhance sustainability.
This study has managerial implications, emphasizing the importance of factors such as blood demand, staff involvement, continuous improvement, customer-centric approaches, and efficient bloodstock management in enhancing transfusion sustainability. Recommendations for policymakers include establishing a fund to support blood banks for knowledge dissemination and capacity development. They should also enhance annual evaluation, recognition, and awards for blood donors, individuals, and partners dedicated to transfusion sustainability. Establishing a dedicated unit under UBTS for compliance monitoring is recommended. Blood bank managers should invest in staff training, seek expert consultation on transfusion sustainability, and recognize and reward employees and teams demonstrating a strong commitment to transfusion sustainability.
