Natural Sciences
72nd Graduation: Doctoral Citations – CoNAS
ADAKU Christopher
Chemical Structure and Properties of Anthocyanins from Selected Plant Species from Uganda.
Mr. ADAKU Christopher investigated a class of bioactive phytochemicals known as anthocyanins from selected indigenous plants, with the purpose of identifying ingredients for the development of nutraceuticals and for application as natural food colourants. This follows the increasing availability of natural health products with unsubstantiated health claims and the health concern associated with the use of synthetic food colourants. During the study, eleven new and seven known compounds were isolated and their properties deciphered. The compounds exhibited colour and stability required for food colourant application and showed remarkable antioxidant activity which is indicative of their potential beneficial health effects. These findings will lead to the development of nutraceuticals and other natural health products with guaranteed safety and efficacy. The isolated compounds can also be used as natural functional food colurants, especially for colouring refrigerated foods such as yoghurt, ice cream and beverages. This study was funded by SIDA through DRGT and MUTHI and supervised by Prof. Byamukama Robert and Prof. Kiremire Bernard (RIP).
ANYWAR Godwin
Ethnopharmacology, cytotoxicity, antiviral and immunomodulatory profiles of medicinal plant species used by herbalists in treating people living with HIV/AIDS in Uganda
Mr. ANYWAR Godwin investigated the cytotoxicity, antiviral activity and immunomodulatory potential of medicinal plant species used by herbalists to treat people living with HIV/AIDS (PLHIV) in Uganda. The study was motivated by the fact that PLHIV widely use untested herbal medicines even when already on antiretroviral treatment. The results from this study showed several plant species are mainly used to treat opportunistic infections among PLHIV. Two of the most widely used plant species, Albizia coriaria and Warburgia ugandensis were highly toxic to the human glioblastoma cell line used (U87.CD4.CXCR4). Regression analysis also showed that the plant extracts had varying selective anti-HIV-1 activities in vitro. The plant extracts also elicited different immune responses by stimulating different cytokines from Peripheral Mononuclear Blood Cells (PMBCs). Godwin recommend testing of crude plant extract mixtures used by the herbalists, and isolating and testing pure compounds from the most promising plant species. The study was funded by the Consortium for Advanced Research Training in Africa (CARTA), and DAAD and supervised by Prof. Esezah Kakudidi, Dr. Andreas Shubert, Prof. Robert Byamukama and Prof. Christian Jassoy.
ENEKU John Paul
Optimization of the electrical resistivity of magnetron sputtered aluminium and boron co-doped zinc oxide thin films for solar cells.
Mr. ENEKU John Paul investigated co-doping of zinc oxide thin films with both aluminium and boron elements to develop a transparent thin film material of very low electrical resistivity for application as a transparent front electrode in thin film solar cells. This offers a low cost and eco-friendly alternative to the costly and toxic Indium Tin Oxide (ITO) electrode which currently dominates the solar cell market. The thin film based solar cells have the potential to significantly lower the price of photovoltaics based electricity. The investigation established that the co-doped zinc oxide thin film material can be used effectively as a transparent electrode in thin-film solar cells and can replace the costly standard Indium Tin Oxide (ITO). This study was funded by Makerere Universsity and International Science Program (ISP, Sweden) and supervised by Prof. Tom Otiti and Prof. Julius Mwabora.
BUTTIBWA Mary
Utilizing heated pollen and androgenesis pathways for the production of haploids in cassava
Ms. BUTTIBWA Mary investigated how heat-treatment of pollen facilitates production of haploids in cassava. Pollen, a fine powdery substance that comes from the male part of flowers and an equivalent of sperms animals, can be heat-inactivated and used hasten cassava embryo development. Because cassava’s reproduction cycle is too long it is difficult to quickly develop new varieties. The haploid technology can shorten this by 50%. Using heated pollen in pollination fostered the development of cassava embryos that further grew into haploid plants in a short time. The heated pollen germinated on the stigma but no fertilization was achieved; however, embryo development was stimulated. Early embryo rescue techniques rescued immature embryos on an artificial growth medium and re-generated into plants. This work contributes to the genetic improvement of cassava. The study was funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation through The International Centre for Tropical Agriculture and was supervised by Prof. Arthur Tugume and Dr. Robert Kawuki.
INUWA Badamasi
Effect of xenoestrogenic substances on fish health and reproductive potential of Nile tilapia, Nile perch and lungfish from two-distinctly polluted sites of Lake Victoria: the “more polluted”
Mr. INUWA Badamasi studied the effect of xenoestrogenic substances on fish health and reproductive potential of Nile tilapia, Nile perch and lungfish from two-distinctly polluted sites of Lake Victoria: the “more polluted” (Kasenyi, Ggaba, Port bell, Jinja) and the “less polluted” (Kasensero, Bale, and Bukakata). The motivation for this research was the decline in the wild fish stocks population of Lake Victoria, attributable to several factors, including pollution. Specifically, the study examined the liver conditions and gonadal development of fishes under different levels of pollution. Severe liver alterations were higher in fishes from more polluted compared to those from less polluted areas. Indeed, the chemical contamination of Lake Victoria could have caused the liver lesions and other changes in the fishes. Overtime, such chemical contamination could lead to negative impacts on the consumption of fish and fish products if actions are not taken to mitigate the risks. This study was funded by the Nigerian Federal Ministry of Education and supervised by Assoc Prof Charles Masembe and Dr. Robinson Odong.
KITO Luliro Silas
The Numerical Range of Linear Relations and Stability Theorems.
Mr. KITO Luliro Silas studied the numerical range and stability theorems of linear maps on some mathematical spaces with the purpose of establishing the existence and uniqueness of solutions (solvability) to linear relation inclusions. In this study, he explored the effects of small alterations on certain maps between special spaces that are of mathematical interest in solving certain differential equations. The study found that within a certain degree of change, a small alteration on the map will not affect a particular set of characteristics of the map. These results are useful but not limited to; solving problems formulated when modelling airflow around an obstruction for example calculation of forces and moments on aircrafts, modelling fission weapon detonation, determination of mass flow rate of petroleum through pipelines, predicting weather patterns and ocean currents, solving fluid dynamics problems that require computation of fluid properties such as flow velocity, pressure, density and fluid temperature as functions of space and time. This study was funded by SIDA and was supervised by Assoc. Prof. Gerald Wanjala, Dr. Saul H. Nsubuga, Dr. Vincent. A. Ssembatya and Dr. Alex B. Tumwesigye.
KYOMUHANGI Annet
Reduced Modules Relative to Functors
Ms. KYOMUHANGI Annet’s study focused on the description of reduced modules and their dual using functors. She introduced and studied properties of a functor that measures how far a module defined over a commutative ring is from being reduced. She also found a machinery that allows one to associate a nil ideal to every ring. Since reduced modules are dualisable, Annet studied properties of their dual known as coreduced modules. She further introduced functors that describe coreduced modules and studied their properties. Moreover, she found that reduced modules simplify computations of local cohomology while coreduced modules simplify computations of local homology. The study was funded by Makerere-Sida bilateral programme (2015-2020); Project 316: Capacity building in Mathematics and its applications. Ms. Kyomuhangi was supervised by Dr. David Ssevviiri and Dr. Alex Samuel Bamunoba, both from Makerere University.
MAYANJA Edison
Mathematical Models for HIV-HCV Co-infection Dynamics under Various Control Strategies
Mr. MAYANJA Edison formulated mathematical models to study the dynamics of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and Hepatitis C virus (HCV) co-infection. The HIV-HCV co- infection mathematical models which had been developed before, either ignored infection stages or considered HCV in only two stages of infection: the acute and chronic infection. However, the chronic stage of HCV is very long and consists of infected individuals that are asymptomatic yet infectious. Thus, this required deep analysis that had not been fully elucidated. In his study, he analysed the HCV chronic stage split it into: before onset of cirrhosis and its complications (Latent stage) and after onset of cirrhosis (Advanced stage). He used these mathematical models to investigate how HIV infection impacts the dynamics of HCV infection and vice versa. The study revealed that, increasing the rate of enrolment on HIV treatment reduces HCV prevalence and vice versa. Transmission probability per sexual contact and average number of sexual partners acquired per year were equally likely to result into increased HIV and HCV infections and these parameters were the most sensitive in increasing each of HIV and HCV infections. The study was funded by SIDA and was supervised by Prof. Livingstone S. Luboobi, Prof. Juma Kasozi, and Dr. Rebecca N. Nsubuga.
NABAWANDA Olivia
Flattened partitions: Pattern Avoidance and Behavior of Permutation Statistics.
Ms. NABAWANDA Olivia studied a sorting procedure (run-sort function) on permutations, where runs are rearranged in lexicographic order. The aim of the study was to investigate the behavior of the run-sort function with different permutation statistics namely runs, descents, peak-values and left-right minima. Olivia used Mathematica, a computation/mathematical software to generate the necessary data, which in turn she used in combination with bijective proofs and generating functions as the main tools. New combinatorial interpretations to several counting sequences namely A124324, Catalan, Fibonacci, Motzkin and Powers of two among others were provided as already indexed on the On-line Encyclopedia of Integer Sequences (OEIS) database, hence contributing to the existing body of knowledge. She also proved that the descent generating polynomials for these permutations are real rooted, and satisfy an interlacing property similar to that satisfied by the Eulerian polynomials, which are known to be real-rooted. Moreover, the run-sort function was found to possess interesting probability distribution properties. The research findings exhibited an interplay between discrete mathematics, probability theory and complex analysis. The study was funded by SIDA and supervised by Dr. Alex Samuel Bamunoba, Prof. Paul Vaderlind and Prof. Fanja Rakotondrajao of Antananarivo.
NALULE Rebecca Muhumuza
Hierarchical Models and Spatio-Temporal Processes In Data Analysis
Ms. NALULE Rebecca Muhumuza studied Hierarchical Models and Spatio-Temporal Processes in Data- Analysis with the aim of analyzing data which possesses both temporal and spatial dependence. She developed a non-linear general spatio-temporal model by extending Serfling’s model. Rebecca applied the theoretical findings to data of an outbreak of influenza in Southern Germany between 2001 and 2007. She also extended the random effect model by introducing the correlation coefficient between random effects in its definition. She again considered the problem of Bayesian estimation of heterogeneity parameter in the generalized random effects model where a comparison between the obtained results with the existing approaches was made. Rebecca used the findings for consensus building in meta-analyses of measurement results for the Newtonian constant of gravitation data and for the effectiveness of antiretroviral pre-exposure prophylaxis in preventing HIV infection. The study was funded by SIDA and was supervised by Prof Olha Bodnar, Dr. John Bosco Asiimwe and Dr. Rebecca N. Nsubuga.
NANFUKA Mary
The use of Splines for solving ill-posed problems, with application to the Cauchy problems for the Heat and Helmholtz equations
Ms. NANFUKA Mary developed a regularization procedure based on splines. The procedure was used to solve the Cauchy problems for the heat and Helmholtz equations, which are ill posed problems. The Cauchy problem for the heat equation had been previously solved by the Fourier transform method. The method, assumed that the time derivative, represented a periodic function which is not realistic. Thus, as an alternative, Mary approximated the time derivative by a cubic smoothing spline. The spline method effectively bounded the errors in the output solution according to the stability estimates. The Cauchy problem for the Helmholtz equation was regularized, by introducing a bounded approximation of the second derivative in the x-variable using cubic smoothing splines. A bound for the approximate
derivative was derived. The stability estimates, showed that the method worked pretty well and produced accurate results. The newly developed method was applied to an industrial setting for determining the surface temperature of steel and good results were achieved. The method is recommended for use for the solution to inverse problems that occur in the engineering and medical fields. The research was funded by Sida and supervised by Dr. Fredrik Berntsson, Dr.Godwin Kakuba and Assoc Prof. John Mango.
OCHEN William
Measurement and Modelling of Residual Stress in Porcelain Tiles Formulated from Different Quartz Particle Sizes in Uganda
Mr. OCHEN William studied residual stress in porcelain tiles formulated from different quartz particle sizes in Uganda. He measured residual stress using X-ray diffraction method, and modeling based on finite element method using abaqus software. His study was prompted by numerous complaints concerning the strength of the locally manufactured tiles. His study found out that residual stress decreases with an increase in quartz particle size over a range of 45-200μm. The decline in residual stress is attributed to the formation of cracks, which affects strength and hardness of the tiles. He further noted that upon sintering at 13000C, tiles with quartz particle size of 90μm exhibited properties that satisfied the ISO 13006 standard. His study therefore recommends the idea of fine quartz milling in a range of not more than 90μm. This study was funded by DAAD and supervised by Prof. Florence Mutonyi D’ujanga and Dr. Bosco Oruru.
OKELLO Omwonylee Joseph
Limiting Behaviours of the Longest Gaps Between Occurrence Epochs in Poisson Processes.
Mr. OKELLO Omwonylee Joseph investigated the asymptotic properties of longest gaps between occurrence epochs in Poisson processes using the theory of large deviations, based on the laws of large numbers. To do this, the global estimation of the distribution functions of longest gaps was derived with the help of discretization argument and the Slivnyak’s formula of Palm theory. The derived global estimation was then used to achieve Laplace transform asymptotics of the longest gaps. Through the application of Fenchel-Legendre transform, it was found out that the longest gaps satisfy two large deviation principles with exponential and power rate functions. Since this study was about the probabilistic analysis of rare events, the results not only fill the literature gaps but also provide a very useful planning tool to insurance companies, risk analyst, department of disaster preparedness, operation managers and others. The study was funded by SIDA and was supervised by Dr. Xiangfeng Yang; Dr. Richard Awichi Opaka and Dr. Fred Mayabala.
SSENYUNZI Richard Cliffe
Modelling Precipitable Water Vapour Using Global Navigation Satellite System Data over the East African Tropical Region.
Mr. SSENYUNZI Richard investigated the temporal and spatial variability of the zenith total delay and precipitable water vapour (PWV) data over the East African tropical region. The PWV data was collected from 13 geodetic permanent GNSS stations for the years 2013 to 2016. Lack of key variables such as the atmospheric water vapour, has been affecting the accuracy of weather predictions over the East African tropical region. The lack of this important parameter has been partly due to insufficient data and very scarce and unreliable tropospheric water vapour monitoring instruments in the region. In this study, the PWV, pressure and the weighted mean temperature linear models have been developed. The site-specific models developed can be utilized to supplement the GNSS and the weather stations data over the thirteen stations since they can provide estimates of nearly a similar degree of precision compared to the measured values. The study was funded by the African Development Bank and supervised by Prof. Florence Mutonyi D’ujanga and Dr. Bosco Oruru.
WAMONO Felix
Contributions to reduced rank regression modelling with applications to small area estimation.
Mr. WAMONO Felix studied the problem of decomposing residuals in the GMANOVA-MANOVA model with rank restrictions on parameters with applications in small area estimation. Firstly, Residuals in the GMANOVA-MANOVA model with rank restrictions on the mean parameters was considered. The main objective was to define residuals useful for evaluating the reduced rank restriction model. We decomposed linear spaces into four subspaces as it can be done for the Extended Growth Curve model with two “profiles”. The new residuals were defined by orthogonal projections on these subspaces. It was discussed how the new residuals could be used to test model assumptions. Secondly, Survey data from Uganda, including the 2014 Uganda Population and Housing Census data was analysed using small area estimation methodology. The GMANOVA-MANOVA model with rank restrictions on parameters was used to estimate the small area means. This study was funded by SIDA and was supervised by Prof. Dietrich von Rosen, Prof. Martin Singull, Assoc. Prof. Leonard Atuhaire and Dr. Innocent Ngaruye.
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Natural Sciences
From World’s Worst Water Weed to Worth: Makerere Researchers Turn Water Hyacinth into Valuable Products
For communities living along Uganda’s lakes and rivers, water hyacinth is more than an invasive weed. Its rapid spread can choke waterways, disrupt fishing and transportation, restrict access to water and interfere with livelihoods and essential community services.
But what has for years been viewed primarily as an environmental menace could also become a source of economic opportunity.
Turning an environmental challenge into an opportunity
Researchers at Makerere University, with support from the Government of Uganda through the Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund (MakRIF), have demonstrated how water hyacinth can be harvested and transformed into useful, value-added products through a small-scale community bio-refining approach.
Their project, titled “From World’s Worst Water Weed to Worth: Small-scale Community Bio-refining of Water Hyacinth to Produce Value-added Commercially Valuable Products,” sought to shift the focus from simply removing and disposing of the invasive plant to exploring opportunities for value addition, innovation and enterprise.
Led by Dr. Alice Nabatanzi from the Department of Plant Sciences, Microbiology and Biotechnology at the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), Makerere University, the research was inspired by the experiences of communities affected by water hyacinth, including residents of Katosi Ward in Mukono District, where the weed has had significant socio-ecological impacts.
According to a community assessment conducted as part of the research, 68.7% of the respondents reported extreme impacts on fishing, while 65.0% reported extreme impacts on water transport.
During community engagements, residents described how the proliferation of water hyacinth had blocked waterways, disrupted fishing and transportation, affected access to water and created significant challenges for household livelihoods. In some instances, obstructed waterways affected children’s access to essential services.
These experiences provided an important starting point for the research team.
Through different processing methods, the team successfully developed three products from the harvested biomass: a bio-fertilizer, briquettes, and biodegradable sanitary pads.
Water hyacinth transformed into bio-fertilizer
One of the products developed by the researchers was a bio-fertilizer made from water hyacinth biomass.
The process began with harvesting the weed from affected water bodies and shredding the biomass to facilitate processing. The researchers explored biological processing approaches, including composting, vermicomposting and anaerobic digestion, to break down the plant material and release its organic matter and nutrients.
Following processing and curing, the resulting material was developed into an organic soil amendment, providing a productive use for harvested water hyacinth while returning organic matter and nutrients to the soil.
Briquettes offer an alternative solid fuel
The project team also developed briquettes from water hyacinth biomass, demonstrating its potential as an alternative solid fuel.
The innovation could, with further research, development and appropriate commercialization pathways, contribute to community-based enterprises.
From water hyacinth fibre to biodegradable sanitary pads
Another distinctive innovation emerging from the research is a biodegradable sanitary pad.
To produce the absorbent material, researchers extracted cellulose-rich fibre from the petioles of water hyacinth and combined it with other locally available plant fibres, including banana fibre and papyrus.
The resulting plant-based material was incorporated into sanitary pads that were subsequently developed and tested to assess their performance as a menstrual hygiene product.
According to the research findings, the water-hyacinth-based pads demonstrated higher liquid absorption capacity and potential health and safety advantages compared with conventional pads. Their use of locally available plant fibres also offers potential to reduce production costs and improve accessibility.
Research generating scientific knowledge
In addition to developing value-added products, the project has generated scientific knowledge on the socio-ecological effects of water hyacinth on affected communities.
The research findings have been published in Scientific Reports, Springer Nature Journal, in a peer-reviewed paper by Nabatanzi, A., Nambejja, C. and Byarugaba, I. (2026) titled “Socio-ecological impacts of water hyacinth (Pontederia crassipes (Mart) Solm) on livelihoods in Katosi Ward, Uganda.”
The study provides evidence of the impacts of water hyacinth on livelihoods, while the wider project demonstrates how the same invasive resource can be investigated as a potential source of useful products.
Other research outputs: Production of personal care and wellness products from different plant materials
Beyond their work on value-added products from water hyacinth, Dr. Alice Nabatanzi and her research team are also translating scientific research into a growing range of locally developed skincare, personal care and wellness products under AURENE AURA, a Ugandan innovation emerging from the Makerere University Plant Sciences, Microbiology and Biotechnology (PMB) Product Development Hub.
Built around the integration of research, nature and innovation, AURENE AURA brings together botanical ingredients and formulation science to develop products designed for diverse skincare and personal wellness needs. The growing collection includes medicated acne-control bars, radiant and brightening soaps and lotions, hypoallergenic goat-milk cleansing bars, moisturizing shower gels, baby-care jelly, lip balms and lip gloss, liquid soaps and other personal-care formulations.
The portfolio also extends to fragrances and botanical perfume mists, herbal respiratory wellness products, and botanical teas and wellness blends, demonstrating the team’s efforts to explore the potential of locally sourced natural ingredients beyond conventional applications.
According to the team, the products are developed through a research-to-product process that involves identifying specific user needs, selecting appropriate botanical and active ingredients, formulation, testing, refinement and packaging. This approach seeks to combine the benefits of botanical ingredients with formulation science, product stability and user safety.
Research dissemination workshop
Dr. Nabatanzi and her research team presented the findings and innovations to the Makerere University community and key stakeholders during a research dissemination workshop held on 22nd September 2026 at the Department of Plant Sciences, Microbiology and Biotechnology.
The seminar provided a platform for the team to share the research outcomes, demonstrate the innovations and discuss pathways for translating the findings into practical solutions with environmental, social and economic value.
Remarks from the Chair, MakRIF
Representing the Chairperson of the Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund (MakRIF), Dr. Michael Owor commended the research team for moving beyond documenting the water hyacinth challenge to developing practical innovations with potential community and commercial applications.
He noted that the project exemplifies MakRIF’s mandate, established by the Government of Uganda to support research and innovation that responds to national development challenges.
“This project exemplifies that mandate by moving beyond describing the problem of water hyacinth to developing practical solutions that communities, enterprises and public institutions can potentially adopt,” he said.
He, however, noted that research findings and prototypes do not automatically translate into sustainable impact, stressing the need for stronger collaboration amongst stakeholders to advance product validation, safety, quality, affordability, regulatory compliance, intellectual property protection and market access.
He urged stakeholders to use the workshop to agree on concrete pathways for advancing the innovations, including further testing, standards development, community-based production, manufacturing and distribution partnerships, and resource mobilisation for scale-up.
Regarding the biodegradable sanitary pads, Dr. Owor stressed the need for sustained engagement with women and girls, schools, health professionals and relevant regulatory institutions to ensure that the product is safe, acceptable, affordable and responsive to the users’ needs.
He further challenged the research team to develop a clear post-project action plan.
“Dissemination should not mark the end of the project; it should serve as a transition from research findings to adoption, enterprise development and demonstrable community impact,” he said.
On behalf of the MakRIF Grants Management Committee, Dr. Owor appreciated the Government of Uganda for its continued investment in research and innovation through the MakRIF, and acknowledged the University Management for providing an enabling environment for the research.
He also recognized the contribution of the participating communities and stakeholders whose knowledge and experiences informed the project.
CoNAS: Turning knowledge into solutions for society – Remarks by the College leaders
On behalf of the Principal of the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), the Deputy Principal, Prof. Godwin Kakuba, congratulated Dr. Nabatanzi and her team on undertaking impactful, transformative and accessible research that demonstrates how a persistent environmental challenge can be turned into an opportunity for innovation, livelihoods and sustainable development.
Referring to the priorities of Uganda’s National Development Plan IV (NDP IV), Prof. Kakuba emphasized the importance of harnessing the country’s innovation capacity to drive socio-economic transformation. “Such research demonstrates how university-generated knowledge can contribute to addressing real-world environmental and socio-economic challenges.”
He commended Dr. Nabatanzi for involving communities and students in the research process, noting that such engagements strengthen the relevance of university research while providing students with practical opportunities to apply scientific knowledge to challenges affecting society. He further underscored the need to strengthen industry-academia partnerships to facilitate the translation of research findings into products and technologies that can be adopted.
Prof. Kakuba also linked the initiative to the principles of competency-based learning, noting that practical, problem-solving research equips students with skills beyond the classroom and prepares them to contribute meaningfully to national development.
He urged Dr. Nabatanzi and the research team to widely disseminate their findings to increase awareness, uptake and potential commercialisation of the innovations. He also called for increased support to enable the project to progress beyond research and product development towards further validation, refinement, scaling and potential adoption by communities and industry.
The Head of the Department of Plant Sciences, Microbiology and Biotechnology at CoNAS, Dr. Jamilu Ssenku, equally commended Dr. Nabatanzi and her team for undertaking impactful research that demonstrates the potential of science to address pressing environmental and socio-economic challenges. He noted that the project contributes to the department’s growing body of impactful research, which continues to generate practical solutions and innovations with relevance to communities, industry and national development.
MUTIC support
The Acting Manager of the Makerere University Technology and Innovation Centre (MUTIC), Prof. Michael Lubwama, commended the research team for its innovative approach to research and effective dissemination of the findings, noting that the project provides a valuable model that could be benchmarked by other research projects. He appreciated the contributions of the stakeholders, particularly the local communities whose participation was central to the success of the project. Prof. Lubwama further pledged MUTIC’s support in advancing the innovations towards product development, commercialization and wider community impact.
Innovation, commercialization and intellectual property
Ms. Esther Kabinga from the Makerere University Intellectual Property Management Office congratulated Dr. Nabatanzi and her team on the achievement and urged them to prioritise intellectual property protection as they advance the innovations towards wider use and commercialisation. She highlighted the need to formally register the innovations to safeguard them against unauthorised use, imitation and misappropriation, and pledged support in securing the necessary intellectual property rights.
Inspiring young women and advancing menstrual dignity
The Guild President of Makerere University, H.E. Gracious Kadondi, represented by the Guild Minister for Academic Affairs, Ms. Kalazani Neena Elsie, equally applauded Dr. Alice Nabatanzi and her research team for the achievements.
She particularly commended the development of biodegradable sanitary pads, noting that the innovation could help promote menstrual dignity among women and girls, especially those from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
Ms. Kalazani also described Dr. Nabatanzi’s achievement as an important source of inspiration for young women and students pursuing science and research. She called for greater involvement of students and young people in research and innovation, noting that such opportunities can nurture the next generation of scientists and innovators capable of developing solutions to challenges affecting their communities.
Communities at the centre of research impact
On behalf of the Najjembe community in Buikwe District, Ms. Nabukeera Sylvia expressed gratitude to Dr. Alice Nabatanzi, MakRIF, and the wider University community for the continued support extended to local communities through the Alice Mabira Foundation (AMAF) and other research initiatives undertaken in the area.
Ms. Nabukeera said the community had greatly benefited from Dr. Nabatanzi’s work and the support provided through the Alice Mabira Foundation, which she established to empower households to develop home-based enterprises and cottage industries. Through the Foundation, community members have gained practical skills in baking, processing food and medicinal products, and preserving and sustainably utilising important tree species.
She noted that these initiatives have enabled community members to turn knowledge and locally available resources into livelihood opportunities and solutions to everyday challenges, demonstrating the value of research that responds directly to community needs. She expressed gratitude to the researchers and partners for their continued engagement with the Najjembe Community and called for sustained collaboration to ensure that the innovations generated through university research continue to reach communities and create tangible social and economic benefits.
Future prospects
The research has laid the groundwork for transforming water hyacinth from an environmental challenge into a potential source of community enterprise and sustainable livelihoods through bio-refineries and circular bio-economies.
Moving the innovations from research to wider application will require collaboration among researchers, communities, government, industry and other stakeholders to refine the technologies, assess production and market opportunities, strengthen quality standards and establish pathways for scale-up and commercialisation.
Beyond the three products already developed, the research also opens opportunities for exploring additional value chains, including animal feed, crafts and other potentially marketable products, subject to further research to establish their safety, technical feasibility and economic viability.
If successfully scaled, the innovations could create new opportunities for employment, income generation and community enterprise, while contributing to the sustainable management of water hyacinth and the restoration of affected waterways.
Natural Sciences
Prof. Juma Kasozi Hands Over the Office of Deputy Principal, CoNAS to Prof. Godwin Kakuba
Prof. Juma Kasozi has formally handed over the office of Deputy Principal, College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), Makerere University, to Prof. Godwin Kakuba.
The handover ceremony, held on Friday, 11th September 2026, followed the appointment of Prof. Kakuba as substantive Deputy Principal of CoNAS for a four-year term, effective September 2026. His appointment was approved at the 814th meeting of the Makerere University Appointments Board held on 3rd September 2026.
Prof. Kasozi, who served as Deputy Principal from 1st April 2022, handed over the office after more than four years of service. Both Prof. Kasozi and Prof. Kakuba are members of staff in the Department of Mathematics, School of Physical Sciences, CoNAS, and have previously served as Heads of the Department.
Principal Commends Prof. Kasozi’s Service
In his remarks, the Principal of CoNAS, Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, commended Prof. Kasozi for his dedicated service and invaluable contribution to the advancement of academic affairs at the College.
He particularly recognized Prof. Kasozi’s role in strengthening academic processes and facilitating the effective coordination of teaching, learning and graduate education at CoNAS.
Prof. Ireeta also commended Prof. Kasozi for his humility, commitment and willingness to offer wise counsel, describing him as a dependable adviser whose contribution extended beyond the routine responsibilities of his office.
“Prof. Kasozi has been a humble, committed and invaluable adviser to the College. His contribution to the development and review of the CoNAS Strategic Plan, in particular, demonstrated his commitment to the long-term growth and transformation of the College,” Prof. Ireeta said.
In recognition of his service, the Principal presented Prof. Kasozi with a Distinguished Service Award,acknowledging his dedicated service and exemplary leadership as Deputy Principal of CoNAS.
Prof. Ireeta congratulated Prof. Kakuba upon his appointment and expressed confidence in his ability to build on the achievements of the College and contribute to its continued growth and transformation. He wished Prof. Kakuba a successful and impactful tenure, noting that his experience, expertise and commitment to academic excellence would be valuable in advancing the College’s mandate in teaching, learning, research and innovation.
Deans Applaud Prof. Kasozi’s Contribution
The ceremony was witnessed by the Dean, School of Biosciences, Prof. Arthur Tugume, and the Dean, School of Physical Sciences, Prof. David Ssevviiri, who equally commended Prof. Kasozi for his dedicated service and significant contribution to the College.
They particularly appreciated his efforts towards streamlining academic processes, including the timely appointment and payment of graduate supervisors, which contributed to strengthening graduate supervision.
Prof. Kasozi’s Contribution to Strengthening Academic Administration at CoNAS
The Office of the Deputy Principal plays a pivotal role in the academic administration of the College and in advancing the University’s core functions of teaching and learning, research and outreach.
During his tenure, Prof. Kasozi provided leadership across a wide range of academic responsibilities. These included chairing the College Academic Board, coordinating academic programmes, overseeing programme accreditation and review, managing examinations and results, and strengthening graduate education.
He also oversaw the appointment of supervisors and examiners for graduate students, coordinated field attachments and internships, administered supplementary examinations, promoted CoNAS academic programmes, and facilitated timely communication of key academic information to staff and students.
Prof. Kasozi further played a significant role in aligning CoNAS academic programmes with the Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET) framework, a major institutional transition aimed at enhancing the relevance, quality and responsiveness of university education.
Key achievements during his tenure included the accreditation of several undergraduate and graduate programmes by the National Council for Higher Education (NCHE); strengthened student support systems; increased student enrolment and growing demand for postgraduate education; more efficient academic proposal and examination processes; and improved graduate student completion rates and examination outcomes.
Appreciation from Prof. Kasozi
In his handover message, Prof. Kasozi congratulated Prof. Kakuba upon his appointment and welcomed him to the office, expressing confidence that he would build on the work already undertaken.
He thanked the University Management, led by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, for entrusting him with the opportunity to serve in the position. He also the appreciated the Principal, the Deans, Heads of Departments, administrators and the wider CoNAS community for their cooperation and support throughout his tenure.
Reflecting on his time in office, Prof. Kasozi described his service as a privilege and honour, noting that the handover marked the conclusion of his tenure as Deputy Principal rather than his departure from Makerere University.
“I leave the door open for continued friendship and service,” Prof. Kasozi said, as he expressed his best wishes to Prof. Kakuba and prayed for the continued growth and success of the Deputy Principal’s office.
Following the handover, Prof. Kasozi is set to return to the Department of Mathematics, where he will continue teaching, research and outreach activities, with a particular focus on Insurance Mathematics and Financial Mathematics.
Remarks by Prof. Kakuba
For Prof. Kakuba, the transition brings a new responsibility within a College where he has already served in academic and administrative capacities. His experience in the Department of Mathematics and previous service as Head of Department provide a strong foundation as he takes on the leadership of the Deputy Principal’s office.
In his remarks, Prof. Kakuba acknowledged and commended Prof. Kasozi for his dedicated service and the achievements registered during his tenure. He appreciated the University Management for entrusting him with the responsibility and pledged to build on the foundation laid by his predecessor.
Prof. Kakuba noted that he was taking over the office with confidence, having inherited a strong foundation established by Prof. Kasozi.
Her expressed commitment to working collaboratively with the Principal, College leadership, staff and students to sustain the progress made.
Pictorial of the ceremony: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1XOZU67Rll-P_CaEzRScIVULIqvyBT34z?usp=sharing
Agriculture & Environment
Makerere Hosts Inaugural Falling Walls Lab Competition as Innovators Pitch Solutions to National Challenges
Students and researchers from Makerere University and other institutions pitched 12 innovations addressing challenges in healthcare, clean energy, agriculture, waste management and community resilience during the inaugural Falling Walls Lab Kampala, held at the School of Public Health Auditorium, Makerere University.
The competition brought together emerging innovators to present solutions to practical challenges through a three minute pitch, followed by questions from a panel of judges.
Modelled on the Falling Walls format that originated in Berlin, the event required each participant to identify a “wall” a problem or barrier, and demonstrate how their innovation seeks to break it down.
Mudhasi wins with newborn jaundice screening device
Andrew Mudhasi of Makerere University emerged as the overall winner with a score of 90 per cent for a low cost medical device designed to improve newborn jaundice screening across different skin tones.
Mudhasi explained that the device uses optical sensor technology and a skin tone targeting algorithm to provide a rapid reading, with the aim of helping nurses and clinicians identify jaundice more efficiently.
During questions from the jury, Mudhasi said the device had not yet been tested on actual babies but had undergone laboratory testing using simulated skin tones.
He reported an accuracy rate of 94 per cent when the device was compared with laboratory spectrophotometers.
The innovation is intended initially for use in clinics and hospitals, with Mudhasi saying the team is also considering a version that could eventually allow mothers to screen babies at home.
Mudhasi’s innovation has previously received recognition at the African Business Concept Challenge and the iF Design Student Award, according to his presentation.
Rhonda’s innovation tackles diaper waste
Rhoda John of the University of Nairobi emerged in second place with 89.6 per cent for an innovation addressing the problem of used diaper waste.
Under the theme “Breaking the wall of diaper waste and drug soils,” Rhonda explained that her team extracts sodium polyacrylate, the absorbent polymer found in diapers, and replaces the sodium with potassium.
The resulting potassium based superabsorbent material is designed to act as a “water battery” in soil by absorbing and retaining water for plants during dry periods.
John said testing showed a 99 per cent increase in germination and a 23 per cent increase in drought resistance.
The innovation also seeks to reduce the amount of used diapers ending up in landfills and the environmental effects associated with their decomposition.
During the question and answer session, John explained that her team was working with government environmental officials in Nairobi on a pilot collection system to address the challenge of gathering used diapers at scale.
Mahera takes third place with herbal peptic ulcer treatment
Stuart Mahera of Makerere University finished third with 86.2 per cent for a herbal formulation targeting peptic ulcers.
Presenting under the theme “Breaking the wall of Nature and Modern Medicine,” Mahera argued that conventional treatment for peptic ulcers can involve multiple medicines and may be associated with side effects and antimicrobial resistance.
His proposed formulation, MARAC capsules, is intended as a monotherapy, combining properties required for peptic-ulcer treatment in a single capsule.
Mahera said his team had carried out quality control work, including characterisation and dose quantification, and had conducted preclinical trials on laboratory mice.
He also told the jury that an application had been submitted to the National Drug Authority as the team awaits the next stage of the regulatory process.
According to Mahera, the proposed seven day treatment would cost about Shs21,000, compared with the existing 14 day treatment approach.
Innovators present solutions to practical challenges
The remaining presentations covered a wide range of challenges.
Esther Nakungu of Utamu University presented Agri-Track, a digital record keeping solution intended to improve visibility, accountability and management of farm operations and financial information.
Dr. Jimmy Chachiga, a Makerere University participant, presented a solar photovoltaic cooker with a heat storage system designed to provide a cleaner and more reliable cooking option during both sunny and non sunny periods.
His presentation focused on reducing dependence on biomass fuels and addressing the challenges associated with intermittent solar energy.
Abdul Noor Luttamaguzi, a PhD student and senior government fisheries officer, presented a mobile application aimed at helping fish farmers and extension officers report, track and manage disease outbreaks.
Henry Duke Tamale presented a herbal cream targeting antibiotic resistant biofilm infections associated with diabetic foot ulcers.
Marvin Seruwu proposed adapting existing near infrared brain monitoring technology to help detect extra-axial brain bleeds in health facilities where access to CT and MRI equipment is limited.
His proposal seeks to repurpose existing technology towards a diagnostic need that could be particularly important in settings where advanced imaging facilities are not readily available.
Kennedy Kisame presented a poultry alert and diagnosis system combining satellite weather information with computer vision disease detection. The proposed system could be accessed through a smartphone application, SMS or USSD, making it potentially usable by farmers with limited internet access.
Frank Atwiine proposed a solar powered mobile diagnostic van designed to bring ultrasound and other diagnostic services closer to rural communities.
Johnson Makmot, a software and blockchain developer, presented a platform that combines GPS tracking and blockchain-based tokens to incentivise and verify plastic-waste collection in Kampala.
Dr. Nelson Ndugu, from a partner university, presented an artificial intelligence tool designed to translate agricultural research publications into local Ugandan languages and generate voice notes for radio-based extension delivery.
The final presentation came from Dr. Juliet Akola, a Ugandan post doctoral researcher at Mangosuthu University of Technology in South Africa.
Akola presented a community digital resilience initiative focused on mapping risks in Kampala’s informal settlements, including flooding, fire, poor sanitation, waste management and inadequate infrastructure.
Her proposal seeks to combine local community knowledge with geographical information systems and link identified risks to action plans involving municipalities and other stakeholders.
Nawangwe calls for more investment in innovation
Closing the event, Prof. Nawangwe congratulated all the participants and described their presentations as an important beginning for Makerere University, Uganda and the wider region.
Drawing on his experience attending the Falling Walls conference in Berlin, the Vice Chancellor said initiatives of this nature are important because innovation will play a major role in determining the future of countries.
He encouraged participants to make their pitches more precise by clearly identifying the problem they are addressing, explaining their proposed solution and demonstrating what they have already achieved.
Prof. Nawangwe also welcomed the participation of innovators from other universities and countries, noting that the Kampala event had attracted participants beyond Makerere.
He thanked the Africa Office of the Falling Walls Foundation for its role in bringing the initiative to Makerere and encouraged continued support for innovation.
The Vice Chancellor further linked innovation to Uganda’s growing youth population and the need to develop home-grown solutions to address challenges such as youth unemployment.
The inaugural Falling Walls Lab Kampala ultimately provided a platform for innovators to move ideas beyond the classroom and laboratory and demonstrate how research, technology and creativity can be applied to challenges affecting communities.
| Position | Winner | Institution | Score |
| 1st | Andrew Mudhasi | Makerere University | 90% |
| 2nd | Rhoda John | University of Nairobi | 89.6% |
| 3rd | Stuart Mahera | Makerere University | 86.2% |
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