Veterinary & Biosecurity
72nd Graduation: Doctoral Citations – CoVAB
BALINANDI Karabyo Stephen
Ticks and tick-borne diseases of cattle in selected districts of Uganda: zoonotic potential and public health implications
Dr. BALINANDI Karabyo Stephen investigated the diversity of ticks infesting cattle, and their importance for public health attention in Uganda. This is because ticks are now increasingly recognized as a major factor in the epidemiology of various zoonotic diseases. The field work was done in the districts of Kasese, Hoima, Gulu, Soroti and Moroto, between September and November 2017. In total, 4,362 ticks were collected from 500 cattle, from which 15 tick species were found. Prior to this study, the economically important tick species, Rhipicephalus microplus, that spreads fatal babesiosis in cattle, was only found in Serere district. With the work herein published, Rhipicephalus microplus has been found also in Gulu and Soroti districts. This study also identified several viruses that were circulating in Ugandan cattle, including 4 potential novel viruses. In addition, it was revealed from this study that Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever, one of the most important tickborne infections for humans around the world, was widely spread in Uganda. Overall, this study highlighted the need for increased surveillance of tickborne diseases in Uganda, and for government policy to focus on control of ticks as an important vector of human diseases. The study was funded by the Swedish Research Council and supervised by Assoc Prof Lawrence Mugisha, Assoc Prof Maja Malmberg and Dr. Julius J. Lutwama.
NAMAYANJA Monica
Trypanosoma brucei brucei – host interactions associated with biological barrier traversal
Ms. NAMAYANJA Monica studied how Trypanosoma brucei brucei, interacts with host cells when crossing different biological barriers. First, a mouse model was employed to seek whether crossing of the blood-brain barrier commences at the same time for different strains. Further, in vitro models, confocal and scanning electron microscopy were used to determine the crossing mechanism. Subsequently, a protein previously suspected to be involved in blood brain barrier traversal was localized. Findings showed that different strains cross the blood brain barrier at different time points, that crossing of different biological barriers is different, and modification of the host plasma membrane was observed. The expressed protein localized in the mitochondria ruling out its involvement in blood brain barrier traversal. This thesis, for first time demonstrated the modification of the host plasma membrane by T. b. brucei and pointed to factors that can be exploited for the development of new interventions against African Trypanosomiasis. The study was funded by National Key Basic Research Program of China, the Organization of Women in Science for the Developing World; and supervised by Prof George W. Lubega and Assoc Prof. Enock Matovu.
SEBULIME Perigrine
Phytochemical Composition of Capsicum Frutescens And Its Effect On Growth, Carcass Yield And Organoleptic Characteristics Of Indigenous And Broiler Chickens
Mr. SEBULIME Perigrine investigated phytochemical composition and dietary inclusion levels of Capsicum frutescens powder with positive effects on growth, carcass yield and organoleptic characteristics of indigenous chickens and broilers. A completely randomized design was used to conduct Capsicum frutescens feed inclusion levels experiments for broiler and indigenous chicken. It was found that C. frutescens powder had alkaloids, terpenoids, coumarins, saponins, anthracenosides and reducing compounds. The total flavonoids, phenols, alkaloids and saponins were 83.33 mgRE/100g, 587.75 mg GAE/100g, 6.8% and 23.5%, respectively. The antioxidant activity scores based on 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity at concentrations 100, 200, 400, and 500 ug/mL were 17.1, 20.8, 29.8, and 33.3%, respectively. It was shown that it was possible to improve carcass yield when C. frutescens was included at a level of 2.2% in the diets of sunflower seed cake, introduced to birds aged six months for the duration of thirty-seven days. However, there was no evidence to suggest that Capsicum frutescens could interfere with the most desirable organoleptic characteristics of the carcasses. Notably, the findings of this study offer guidance for integrating Capsicum frutescens in intensive production systems within Uganda to produce safer chicken meat with reduced risks to health of consumers.
Browse Citations by College below:
< Director’s Message | CAES | CoBAMS | CoCIS | CEES | CEDAT | CHS | CHUSS | CoNAS | CoVAB | LAW | MUBS >
Veterinary & Biosecurity
First Symposium on Bacteriophage Research & Applications in Uganda Highlights Remarkable Milestones & Future Prospects
Bacteriophage research and its applications were the focal point of the 1st Symposium on Bacteriophage Research and Applications, convened by Makerere University‘s College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) on Thursday, March 27, 2025. This landmark event showcased Uganda’s strides in harnessing bacteriophages as innovative solutions to antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and other pressing health and agricultural challenges.
Key speakers included Dr. Jesca Nakavuma, CoVAB (Makerere University), who showcased Uganda’s pioneering phage research initiatives and vision. Tobi Elaine Nagel, the President of Phages for Global Health (USA), discussed the global significance of phage research. Prof. Martha Clokie, from the University of Leicester’s Centre for Phage Research (UK), shared insights into the latest advancements in phage therapy. Dr. Robert Blasdel, representing VASALE (Belgium), presented innovative solutions using bacteriophages. Ms. Abigail Riggs, from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (UK), emphasized international partnerships and policy development.
Speaking at the event, Prof. Edward Wamala, Makerere University’s Director of Research, Innovation and Partnerships, who represented the Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe at the event, highlighted the critical role of bacteriophage research in addressing the global threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). He explained how the misuse and overuse of antibiotics in human health, agriculture, and aquaculture have accelerated the emergence of drug-resistant bacterial strains, rendering standard treatments ineffective. Citing statistics from the World Health Organization, he pointed out that AMR claims over 1.3 million lives annually, a number expected to rise without urgent action. He lamented the stagnation of new antibiotic development due to high research costs and rapid bacterial resistance, making bacteriophage therapy a powerful and promising alternative.
Prof. Wamala expressed Makerere University’s commitment to advancing research that addresses critical societal challenges, aligning with its mission of generating transformative knowledge and fostering sustainable development. He emphasized Uganda’s potential to lead in bacteriophage research, driven by multi-disciplinary partnerships and capacity building. He also highlighted ongoing studies into aquaculture-specific bacteriophages at CoVAB as an example of how phage technology can revolutionize sectors like agriculture while addressing AMR. Through such efforts, the university aims to position Uganda as a global leader in innovative solutions to combat antimicrobial resistance and enhance public health.
Dr. Jesca Nakavuma, widely regarded as the mother of phages in Uganda, delivered a compelling presentation at the Symposium, where she detailed the impressive progress of phage research in Uganda since its inception in 2017. She highlighted Makerere University’s pioneering efforts, starting with a cohort of five undergraduate students, which have since expanded into groundbreaking research addressing challenges in agriculture, clinical health, food safety, and environmental safety. Key achievements include advancements in E. coli and Salmonella detection, tackling avian colibacillosis, and innovations in decontamination methods, underscoring the transformative potential of phage technology in combating antimicrobial resistance and enhancing public health.
The symposium honored collaborative efforts, including the establishment and accomplishments of Phage Team Uganda, which developed a repository of 125 characterized phage isolates and trained over 20 PhDs, MScs, and BSc students. Partnerships with international organizations such as IDRC InnoVet AMR and AU Safe Fish have significantly contributed to advancements in antimicrobial resistance and aquaculture.
Despite these achievements, Dr. Nakavuma noted challenges such as insufficient facilities for large-scale phage production, regulatory limitations, and financial constraints. She affirmed that despite the challenges, the team remained ambitious, envisioning the creation of a fully equipped Phage Research and Development Center, the commercialization of phage products, and the establishment of policy frameworks to support the use of phages in Uganda.
The Deputy Principal of CoVAB, Prof. James Acai Okwee, warmly welcomed the partners to the conference and acknowledged their invaluable contributions to the college’s research efforts. He emphasized the importance of collaboration in driving innovation and achieving impactful results, highlighting the pivotal role that partnerships play in fostering academic and scientific growth. Prof. Okwee’s remarks set an encouraging tone for the conference, reinforcing the college’s commitment to advancing research initiatives and creating opportunities for shared learning and development.
The event that attracted the participation of various stakeholders including academia, civil society, and policy makers, concluded with acknowledgments of the efforts of Phage Team Uganda, collaborators, and funders, setting the stage for an exciting future in Uganda’s journey to combat antimicrobial resistance and ensure food and environmental safety.
The Makerere University Biomedical Laboratory Technology Students Association (MUBLISA) recently organized a transformative mentorship meeting at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources, and Biosecurity (CoVAB) at Makerere University, inspiring students to excel in biomedical laboratory technology. The mentorship session aimed to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and real-world application while promoting diversity, inclusion, and professional development.
Two accomplished alumni were present at the event and they shared invaluable insights into thriving in the professional landscape beyond academic lectures. Their stories resonated with attendees, providing practical advice and motivation to navigate the challenges of building successful careers. It was also attended by the Dean, of the School of Biosecurity, Biotechnology and Laboratory Sciences (SBLS), Dr. Claire M. Mugasa.
Dr. Kiyemba Stephen Kaggwa, the distinguished director of Ebenezer Laboratories, delivered an uplifting keynote address that left a lasting impression on students and professionals alike. Known for his groundbreaking contributions to biomedical laboratory technology, Dr. Kaggwa encouraged aspiring professionals to explore their field’s untapped potential and underscored the transformative role of mentorship in fostering personal and professional growth.
Dr. Kaggwa, who leads Ebenezer Laboratories, an institution celebrated for its dedication to accurate diagnostics and advancing medical science in the region as a prominent clinical laboratory based in Kampala, further demonstrated his commitment to healthcare innovation and patient-centered care. The inspiring event served as a powerful reminder of the importance of leadership, mentorship, and innovation in shaping the next generation of professionals. It left students motivated to not only succeed but also to make a meaningful impact in their chosen fields.
The other speaker, Ms. Eunice Ainomugisha, the Vice Chair of the Allied Health Professionals Council where she represents the medical laboratory reiterated the value of building meaningful relationships and staying organized to seize opportunities. Ainomugisha who illustrated her points by using her own experience as a struggling young girl to seize the available opportunities in the field, encourages the students to dream big and seek out the best for themselves despite the circumstances.
Dr. Gabriel Tumwine, representing the head of the Biomedical Laboratory Technology Department, Dr. Kato Drago highlighted the need for mentorship alongside academic training. He commended MUBLISA for taking the lead in empowering students to develop connections and skills essential for their careers. Students were inspired by the event’s message of perseverance, hard work, and the “power of right connections.” This pioneering mentorship program set the stage for many more initiatives aimed at equipping biomedical laboratory technology students with tools for success in academia, research, and industry.
The mentorship meeting not only celebrated the achievements of the department but also served as a powerful reminder of the impact Makerere University‘s graduates continue to make in advancing health and scientific research.
-
General2 weeks agoMastercard Foundation Scholars Program Scholarship Announcement AY 2025/2026
-
General5 days agoPre-Entry Examinations for Admission to Bachelor of Laws 2025/26
-
General7 days agoSsentamu Churchill Sworn-in as 91st Makerere Guild President
-
Business & Management2 weeks agoThe Women RISE Project: Building Resilience among Adolescent Girls and Young Women in Artisanal Mining Communities through Transformative Research
-
Agriculture & Environment7 days agoNew Project to Improve Relevance of CAES PhD Graduates