Agriculture & Environment
CONSORMIP Project boosts Nutritional & Market Value of Sorghum & Millet
Commercialization of New Sorghum and Millet Products for Improved Nutrition and Socio-Economic Gains in Eastern Africa (CONSORMIP)
Sorghum and millet are key crops in Uganda’s agricultural food systems and directly and indirectly support over 10 million livelihoods in the country. The two crops are tolerant to arid and dry environments. They are highly nutritious, not known to be allergenic, have low glycemic index (help lower the risk of conditions like type 2 diabetes and heart diseases), and contain phytochemicals beneficial to health. Despite their nutritional benefits, “the crops are increasingly disappearing from our diets”.
With support from SIDA through BioInnovate Africa, researchers from the Department of Food Technology and Nutrition at the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), together with their counterparts from Sokoine University of Agriculture in Tanzania and Hawassa University in Ethiopia in 2018 set out to study and improve the nutritional and market value of the crops.
Through a project titled; “Commercialization of New Sorghum and Millet Products for Improved Nutrition and Socio-Economic Gains in Eastern Africa (CONSORMIP)”, the researchers including Prof. Yusuf Byaruhanga (Principal Investigator), Prof. Kyamuhangire William, and Dr. Gaston Ampe Tumuhimbise, targeted to improve food and nutrition security, incomes and livelihoods of smallholder farmers and other stakeholders in the sorghum and millet value chains in Eastern Africa.
The project specifically aimed to address the market gap – lack of value added, convenient sorghum and millet products, and to commercialize instant flour, snacks and complimentary feed made from sorghum and millet using lean business start-up and business incubation approaches. In the course of implementing the project, each partner country targeted to deliver at least one start-up enterprise commercializing one product and its attendant technology.
Project closing meeting
On 4th May 2022 the research team led by Prof. Yusuf Byaruhanga held an end of project meeting at which they disseminated the findings and achievements registered. The meeting held at the School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bio-Engineering was graced by Makerere University Vice Chancellor, represented by the First Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic Affairs, Prof. Umar Kakumba and attended by the Principal of CAES, Prof. Gorettie N. Nabanoga; the Dean, School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bio-Engineering, Dr. Abel Atukwase; the Head, Department of Food Technology and Nutrition, Dr. Ivan Mukisa Muzira; and senior members of staff at CAES.
Achievements registered
Presenting the achievements, Prof. Byaruhanga noted that the project team had developed novel value-added products including instant sorghum and millet flours, expanded snack food, complimentary feed, and breakfast cereal products. Other achievements included processing protocols and formulations for the four product types; creating new business opportunities; and boosting capacity for research and development in the sorghum and millet value chains. The project trained three research fellows, one MSc research graduate, and several BSc research graduates. The project also developed and supported SMEs in each partner country as a vehicle for commercialization of the developed value-added products in the respective countries. It also trained four farmer groups in postharvest handling of grain foods.
Lessons learnt
- In the production of cereals, maize still has an economic advantage over sorghum and millet. Therefore, there is need for high yielding and quick maturing sorghum and millet varieties.
- Drudgery is one of the reasons for less millet and sorghum on the market.
- Commercialization is different for each product.
- The ultimate value of a product or innovation is in the market and not patent. “Many times we focus on patenting of our products but the biggest value of an innovation is in marketing,” Prof. Byaruhanga explained.
Remarks by the DVC Academic Affairs
Addressing the meeting, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (DVC) in charge of Academic Affairs, Makerere University, Prof. Umar Kakumba applauded the research team for uplifting the name and ranking of the University. “CAES ranks highly in terms of research output at Makerere University and plays a pivotal role in linking the University with communities,” he noted. Despite the achievements registered in research and innovation, Prof. Kakumba said the university was not faring well in the area of knowledge translation. Reechoing the vision of the University that seeks to transform Makerere into a thought leader of knowledge generation for societal transformation and development, Prof. Kakumba explained that knowledge generated at the University must inform the processes of the transforming the country. He acknowledged the efforts of Professors in advancing the University’s research agenda. He expressed gratitude to SIDA and BioInnovate Africa for the support accorded to the project and other research activities at the University. He also appreciated the Government of Uganda for supporting high impact and transformative research at the University. Additionally, he appreciated the project partners, noting that such collaborations are crucial in building strategic partnerships. He reminded the research team to work towards patenting their products.
In her remarks, the Principal of CAES, Prof. Gorettie N. Nabanoga appreciated the School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bio-Engineering for its outstanding contribution to research and Innovation at the University. Despite the small number of staff, the School has won many big grants and has successfully implemented many high impact research projects. The School features prominently with respect to resource mobilization,” she noted, reiterating the need to patent and commercialize all products and innovations generated at the University.
The Principal appreciated Makerere University Management for supporting research and innovation development. She also appreciated SIDA and BioInnovate Africa for supporting research at CAES and the University in general.
The Dean, School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bio-Engineering, Prof. Abel Atukwase appreciated the research team for the great outputs intended to boost food security. He equally appreciated the SIDA and BioInnovate Africa for supporting Makerere University’s agenda of becoming a research-led University. Commenting on the relevance of Professors in generating research grants, supervising and mentoring junior staff and students, he appealed to Management to work out measures of retaining all professors post retirement.
The Head, Department of Food Technology and Nutrition, Dr. Ivan Muzira Mukisa appreciated the contribution of senior researchers and Professors towards research and innovation at Makerere University. He equally appreciated the development partners for supporting research and innovation at the University.
The workshop was moderated by Dr. Gaston Ampe Tumuhimbise from the School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bio-Engineering, CAES.
Agriculture & Environment
Launch of the MUJAES Online Submission System & Call for Manuscripts for Volume 15 (Issue 1)
Makerere University students have once again demonstrated academic excellence and commitment to environmental conservation after emerging as the overall winners in the Uganda Wildlife Authority Tertiary Institutions Conservation Competitions held during the national celebrations to mark the World Wildlife Day.
On 25th February, a team of eight students, including members of the Makerere University Tourism Association (MUTA), proudly represented the university at the competitions organized by the Uganda Wildlife Authority. The event took place at the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre in Entebbe and brought together students from various tertiary institutions across the country to showcase knowledge and innovation in wildlife conservation.
The competitions formed part of the activities marking World Wildlife Day and were held under the theme “Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: Conservation, Health, Heritage and Livelihoods.” The theme highlighted the importance of protecting plant biodiversity, particularly species that support traditional medicine, cultural heritage, and sustainable livelihoods.
After a highly competitive contest that tested participants’ knowledge of conservation, biodiversity, and environmental sustainability, Makerere University emerged as the overall winner. The Uganda Wildlife Research and Training College finished as the first runner-up, while Nkumba University secured the second runner-up position.
The team’s achievement was officially recognized during the national World Wildlife Day celebrations held on 3rd March at the Entebbe Works Grounds. During the ceremony, the students were awarded a trophy in recognition of their outstanding performance.
The award was presented by Uganda’s Prime Minister, the Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja, alongside the Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Hon. Tom Butime, and the State Minister for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Martin Mugarra. The leaders commended the students for their remarkable achievement and emphasized the critical role young people play in promoting conservation and protecting Uganda’s natural heritage.
The winning team comprised students from diverse academic disciplines as follows:
- Iradikunda Jemimah – Bachelor of Biomedical Laboratory Technology
- Nankabirwa Edith Mirembe – Bachelor of Science in Tourism and Hospitality Management
- Agenrwoth Brenda – Bachelor of Science in Tourism and Hospitality Management
- Joel Kibirango – Bachelor of Science in Tourism and Hospitality Management
- Elvis Mujuni Kamara – Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences (Botany/Zoology)
- Kamyuka Ben – Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences (Botany/Zoology)
- Karisa Geofrey – Bachelor of Science in Forestry
- Nyangoma Caroline – Bachelor of Science in Forestry
According to Prof. Jim Ayorekire, Head, Department of Tourism at Makerere University, the win not only highlights Makerere University’s continued leadership in conservation education but also underscores the importance of empowering young people to take an active role in protecting biodiversity and promoting sustainable use of natural resources.
Agriculture & Environment
From Campus to Community: Universities Lead Teso in Fight Against Greenhouse Gas Emissions
By John Omoding
When Immaculate Acom inhaled smoke from traditional firewood stoves, it was a daily struggle. Her eyes watered, her lungs ached, and cooking became a source of illness rather than nourishment.
Today, Acom’s home in Aten Village, Odudui Parish, Arapai Sub-county, Soroti District, has transformed into a living laboratory for green energy solutions, a hub where university researchers, students, and local farmers collaborate on practical strategies to combat climate change.
“I used to cough every time I cooked. Now, with a biogas digester built by my husband, I can cook and light our home safely,” she says, pointing to the small green dome beside her house. “This is a relief for all the mothers in the community.”
Bringing Academia to the Grassroots
Acom’s story is part of the TORCH Project, a multi-university initiative involving Makerere University, Busitema University, Kabale University, and the University of Juba. The project seeks to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainable practices at the community level.
Unlike conventional environmental campaigns, the TORCH Project emphasizes direct engagement with local communities. Role models within villages are identified and trained in modern agricultural practices, clean energy use, and environmentally friendly living standards.
Dr. Jolly Akullo Oder, TORCH Project Coordinator at Busitema University, explains:
“Our mandate is to go to the community, share knowledge, listen to their challenges, and co-create solutions. This is not about lecturing – it’s about learning together.”
The project’s operational area spans a ten-square-kilometer zone around Busitema University’s Arapai campus, where researchers, students, and community members meet regularly to exchange ideas and implement practical solutions.
A Living Lab for Green Growth
The initiative, branded as a living lab, aims to achieve green growth, rural carbon credits, and the adoption of affordable green technologies.
Dr. Patrick Musinguzi, Principal Investigator from Makerere University, emphasizes the community-centric approach: “We are here to sit at the table with the community, discuss the challenges of global warming and greenhouse gas emissions, and chart a path forward together. Awareness is the first step to action.”
The project focuses on tangible interventions, including biogas digesters, sustainable tree planting, and energy-efficient farming methods, to reduce carbon emissions at the household and community level.
Community Voices: From Awareness to Action
For local farmers like John Michael Elebu, the university outreach is both eye-opening and practical. “I’ve never seen academics come to the community and engage with us so openly. I hope they can provide free improved tree seedlings to support our farming and fight climate change,” Elebu said.
Acom urges men in the community to take an active role in adopting clean energy technologies. Her husband, David Okwi, is among those championing the integration of green technologies into everyday agricultural practices.
“Promoting renewable energy and sustainable farming isn’t just about protecting the environment,” Okwi says. “It also improves health, saves money, and strengthens the resilience of our families.”
Universities as Catalysts for Environmental Change
The TORCH Project represents a unique model of academic-community collaboration, where research and practical application intersect.
Universities provide expertise, training, and access to modern technologies.
Community members contribute local knowledge, labor, and willingness to adopt change.
Together, they tackle climate change, energy poverty, and environmental degradation at the grassroots.
Dr. Akullo notes that the initiative will expand its activities continuously, monitoring outcomes, adapting approaches, and scaling up best practices across Teso and neighboring regions.
Way forward
By turning households into living laboratories, the TORCH Project aims to bridge the gap between knowledge and action.
For residents like Acom and Okwi, the benefits are immediate: cleaner air, reduced health risks, and practical solutions for everyday life. For Teso, the project could serve as a blueprint for climate-smart rural development across East Africa.
“Change begins at home,” Dr. Musinguzi says. “When communities understand the challenges of green gas emissions and know how to respond, the impact spreads far beyond one village or household.” In Aten Village, the hum of a biogas stove and the sight of thriving tree seedlings offer a glimpse of what is possible when universities partner with communities, creating hope for a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future.
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