Connect with us

Natural Sciences

Environmental Chemistry for Sustainable Development (ECSDevelop) Project Launched

Published

on

Overall Objective: The ECSDevelop Project launched at Makerere University on 8th June 2022 aims to increase capacity and contribution of environmental chemistry research in higher education in a bid to address the local and global priority needs in improving water quality.

The ECSDevelop Project Principal Investigator, Dr. Christine Betty Nagawa
The ECSDevelop Project Principal Investigator, Dr. Christine Betty Nagawa

East Africa faces serious challenges in relation to atmospheric, soil and water pollution. The Lake Victoria basin and the Albertine Graben have not been spared either. The Lake Victoria Basin that is shared by Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania has undergone rapid urbanization in the last three decades. The high population density, rapid industrial growth and wastewater treatment plants in the vicinity of the lake have been reported as some of the sources of environmental contaminants such as plastic debris and endocrine disrupting chemicals. Aquatic ecosystems such as Lake Victoria have been reported as endpoints for plastics of all sizes, including microplastics. The harmful effects of microplastics such as starvation, death, oxidative damage, developmental defects and neurotoxicity to organisms have been reported. However, studies on the extent of microplastics pollution in fresh water bodies such as Lake Victoria and River Nile are limited.

The Environmental Chemistry for Sustainable Development (ECSDevelop) project, a joint programme between Makerere University, Uganda; Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology, Kenya; the University of Natural Sciences and Life Sciences, Vienna; and Kyambogo University targets to investigate the seasonal fluxes, sources and trophic transfer of microplastics within the aquatic ecosystem of Lake Victoria and River Nile. To establish the effect of petroleum exploration and production activities carried out in the Albertine Graben, the research team will examine multifaceted application of nanotechnology in the field of bioremediation of petroleum hydrocarbons.

The Project team members - Dr Christine Betty Nagawa (L), and Dr Kyarimpa Christine (R) share notes at stakeholders engagement.
The Project team members – Dr Christine Betty Nagawa (L), and Dr Kyarimpa Christine (R) share notes at stakeholders engagement.

The overall objective of the ECSDevelop Project is to increase capacity and contribution of environmental chemistry research in higher education in a bid to address the local and global priority needs in improving water quality and advancement of remediation technologies. Through the project, the researchers will explore regional capacities to jointly streamline existing curricula on environmental chemistry and ecotoxicology; develop a novel cost-effective state of the art technology to track and clean up contaminants in wastewater using locally available resources such as moringa oleifera and other plant materials; and develop efficient remediation technologies for crude oil contaminated soils and water of the Albertine Graben, Uganda.

The project will also support training of 5 PhDs and 4 MSc graduate researchers at Makerere University, Kyambogo University and Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology, Kenya.

The Principal of CoNAS, Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta launched the project.
The Principal of CoNAS, Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta launched the project.

The three-year project launched by the Principal, College of Natural Sciences, Makerere University, Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta on 8th June 2022 is funded by the Austrian Partnership Programme in Higher Education and Research for Development (APPEAR). The Principal Investigator is Dr Christine Betty Nagawa from the Department of Forestry, Biodiversity and Tourism at the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Makerere University. Other members of the consortium are; Dr Patrick Sebugere from the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), Makerere University; Dr Christine Kyarimpa from Kyambogo University, Uganda; Dr Solomon Omwowa from Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST), Kenya; Mr Silver Odongo, Makerere University; and Ms. Emily Chelangat (KAFUCO).

Some of the participants at the ECSDevelop Project stakeholders engagement.
Some of the participants at the ECSDevelop Project stakeholders engagement.

Impact of the project

  • Under the project, curriculum in Environmental Chemistry and Ecotoxicology will be developed. It will be practical oriented to address the increasing societal challenges in environmental pollution and climate adaptations.
  • Publications, patents and policy briefs arising from research results will form an important baseline for new knowledge and technologies to be adopted. 
  • The project intends to equip local farmers with relevant skills to boost the production of moringa and gooseberries, which will be a sustainable source of the scaled-up bioremediation technologies. This will in the long run contribute to environmental conservation in the Lake Victoria basin and Albertine graben, and improve livelihoods among the famers through sale of moringa and gooseberries.
One of the Masters students supported by ECSDevelop, Mr Simon Ocakacon presents his research project.
One of the Masters students supported by ECSDevelop, Mr Simon Ocakacon presents his research project.

Stakeholders engagement

The research team held a two-day (7th-8th June 2022) meeting to introduce the project to stakeholders. The two-day workshop featured the launch of the project, presentations by Masters and PhD students, and a plenary discussion on how best to manage the project.

During the workshop, the Principal, CoNAS, Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta and the Head, Department of Chemistry at Makerere University, Dr. John Wasswa pledged total support towards the implementation of the project.

The Head, Department of Chemistry, Dr. John Wasswa pledged full support to the project.
The Head, Department of Chemistry, Dr. John Wasswa pledged full support to the project.

At the plenary session, stakeholders deliberated on the best modes of engagement with different stakeholders to increase impact of the project. They also discussed the gaps in the project and brainstormed on ways of sustaining the project. Participants called for massive sensitization on the dangers of microplastics and involvement of communities in the implementation of the project.

Mr. Timothy Omara, a prospective PhD Student will investigate the sources, seasonal variations, trophic transfer and magnetic carbon nanotube removal of microplastics from Lake Victoria.
Mr. Timothy Omara, a prospective PhD student will investigate the sources, seasonal variations, trophic transfer and magnetic carbon nanotube removal of microplastics from Lake Victoria.

Research projects of students sponsored by the ECSDevelop project

  1. Application of Nano particles in Bioremediation of Oil Spill in the Albertine Graben, Uganda– Abura Tobby Oliwit from the Department of Chemistry, CoNAS, Makerere University
  2. Assessment of Acaricide Residues in Trans Nzoia County and Mechanism of their Adsorption by Zeolites – Sifuna Douglas Bukhebi from Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST), Kenya
  3. Occurrence of microplastics in the gastrointestinal tract and gills of Oreochromis niloticus from fish breeding areas of northern Lake Victoria– Faith Atukwatse, Department of Zoology, Entomology and Fisheries Sciences, Makerere University
  4. Seasonal variations in the levels and trophic transfer of microplastics and nanoplastics in Lake Victoria basin – Godfrey Muhwezi, Department of Chemistry, Kyambogo University
  5. Investigating Sources of Microplastic Contaminants into Lake Victoria through Nakivubo Channel – Simon Ocakacon, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Makerere University
  6. Thermodynamics and Kinetics of Hexachlorobenzene Adsorption on zeolites – Manada Timothy, Department of Physical Sciences, (JOOUST), Kenya
  7. Sources, Seasonal variations, trophic transfer and magnetic carbon nanotunbe-removal of microplastics from the Ugandan portion of Lake Victoria – Omara Timothy, Uganda National Bureau of Standards
  8. Sorption of Dichlorophenyltrichloroethane, Chlorpyrifos, Atrazine, and Glyphosate by activated charcoal and moringa husks in a packed small diameter column – Ahimbisibwe Michael, Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, Makerere University
  9. Quantification, spatial prediction and green nano remediation of crude oil contamination in the soils and water of the Albertine Graben, Uganda, Amina Nalweyiso, Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, Makerere University

Hasifa Kabejja

Natural Sciences

Makerere Researchers Call for Urgent Conservation of Medicinal Plants in Eastern Uganda

Published

on

The PI, Dr Patience Tugume at the research dissemination workshop in Namutumba District on 23rd July 2025. Researchers led by Dr Patience Tugume, Department of Plant Sciences, Microbiology, and Biotechnology, College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS) documented 174 medicinal plant species under project “Knowledge, Attitudes, and Conservation of Commonly Traded Medicinal Plants in a Climate-Changing Environment in Eastern Uganda,” funded by Government of Uganda through the Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund (MakRIF), research dissemination workshop, 23rd July 2025, Namutumba District, Uganda East Africa.

Researchers from the Department of Plant Sciences, Microbiology, and Biotechnology at the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), Makerere University have highlighted the urgent need to conserve medicinal plants in the face of increasing threats from climate change, over-harvesting, and habitat destruction.

Despite Namutumba District’s rich diversity of medicinal plants, conservation efforts are limited, and several species are already classified as globally and nationally threatened. This highlights the urgent need for focused conservation strategies to safeguard these vulnerable medicinal plants.

Dr Tugume addressing the workshop participants on the key research findings. Researchers led by Dr Patience Tugume, Department of Plant Sciences, Microbiology, and Biotechnology, College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS) documented 174 medicinal plant species under project “Knowledge, Attitudes, and Conservation of Commonly Traded Medicinal Plants in a Climate-Changing Environment in Eastern Uganda,” funded by Government of Uganda through the Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund (MakRIF), research dissemination workshop, 23rd July 2025, Namutumba District, Uganda East Africa.
Dr Tugume addressing the workshop participants on the key research findings.

Under a project titled “Knowledge, Attitudes, and Conservation of Commonly Traded Medicinal Plants in a Climate-Changing Environment in Eastern Uganda,” a team of researchers led by Dr Patience Tugume documented 174 medicinal plant species. The goal was to assess the existential threats facing these plants due to unsustainable harvesting practices and the lack of effective conservation measures. These species are widely used to treat various health conditions, including malaria, syphilis, diabetes, hypertension, and certain cancers. The findings of the study are intended to guide the development of species-specific, evidence-based interventions to curb possible extinction and loss of medicinal plant resources. The research revealed troubling trends in the availability of key medicinal plants, including:

  1. The herbalists mostly collected their medicinal plants from bushlands (92.0%), markets (82.3%) and wetlands (74.7%) and were rarely cultivated. This is of great concern regarding the conservation and future availability of these resources.
  2. It was noted that 36% of the herbal products were made from roots, which presents a conservation threat since the heavy utilization of roots affects the regeneration of the medicinal plants.
  3. Common plants used were: Kigelia africana (Naibere), Erythrina abyssinica (Ekiyirikiti) and Geranium sauveolens (Lokowe). Kigelia africana was the most cited species by the herbalists, indicating heavy utilization and a high conservation threat if deliberate measures are not taken to ensure its future availability.
  4. Almost all respondents (289, 96.3%) acknowledged a considerable decline in the availability of 13 medicinal plants species including Aloe wollastonii (Ekigagi), Commiphora africana (Nkulidho), Myrica kandtiana (Mukikimbo) and Acacia sieberiana (Mufundawuzi).
  5. Four plant species i.e. Tamarindus indica (Enkoge), Warburgia ugandensis (Balwegira), Mitragyna rubrastipulata (Mutamatama) and Mondia whitei (Mulondo) appear on the Red List of Globally and Nationally Threatened Species and were mentioned among the plants whose population has greatly declined.
  6. The causes of decline in availability of medicinal plants included climate change, overharvesting, agricultural expansion, habitat destruction, land use change and inadequate regulations.
  7. There were no medicinal plant conservation efforts by herbalists.
Kigelia africana was the most cited species by the herbalists, indicating heavy utilization and a high conservation threat. Researchers led by Dr Patience Tugume, Department of Plant Sciences, Microbiology, and Biotechnology, College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS) documented 174 medicinal plant species under project “Knowledge, Attitudes, and Conservation of Commonly Traded Medicinal Plants in a Climate-Changing Environment in Eastern Uganda,” funded by Government of Uganda through the Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund (MakRIF), research dissemination workshop, 23rd July 2025, Namutumba District, Uganda East Africa.
Kigelia africana was the most cited species by the herbalists, indicating heavy utilization and a high conservation threat.

Participants included leaders of the herbalist associations, traders and research assistants. Researchers led by Dr Patience Tugume, Department of Plant Sciences, Microbiology, and Biotechnology, College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS) documented 174 medicinal plant species under project “Knowledge, Attitudes, and Conservation of Commonly Traded Medicinal Plants in a Climate-Changing Environment in Eastern Uganda,” funded by Government of Uganda through the Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund (MakRIF), research dissemination workshop, 23rd July 2025, Namutumba District, Uganda East Africa.
Participants included leaders of the herbalist associations, traders and research assistants.

The study recommended the following practices to ensure conservation of the medicinal plants:

  1. Promote the use of sustainable harvesting techniques to ensure conservation of medicinal plants.
  2. Conduct capacity building for stakeholders in the medicinal plants sector on conservation, value addition and standardization.
  3. Establish community botanical gardens raw plant collection and sensitization programmes.
  4. Advocate for agroforestry among herbalists to reduce the dependence on natural habitats.
  5. Develop and enforce regulations on accessing natural areas for medicinal plants.
  6. Promote conservation awareness campaigns.
Dr Tugume appreciating the Chief Administrative Officer-Namutumba, Mr. Ofwono Emmanuel for hosting the Dissemination Workshop at the District Offices. Researchers led by Dr Patience Tugume, Department of Plant Sciences, Microbiology, and Biotechnology, College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS) documented 174 medicinal plant species under project “Knowledge, Attitudes, and Conservation of Commonly Traded Medicinal Plants in a Climate-Changing Environment in Eastern Uganda,” funded by Government of Uganda through the Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund (MakRIF), research dissemination workshop, 23rd July 2025, Namutumba District, Uganda East Africa.
Dr Tugume appreciating the Chief Administrative Officer-Namutumba, Mr. Ofwono Emmanuel for hosting the Dissemination Workshop at the District Offices.

Research Dissemination in Namutumba District

At the research dissemination workshop held in Namutumba District on 23rd July 2025, and attended by district leaders, researchers, and local herbalists, the project team led by Dr Patience Tugume expressed hope that the insights gained from the project, particularly in medicinal plants conservation approaches, will be invaluable for minimising the decline in medicinal plants.

The Resident District Commissioner-Namutumba, Mr. Fred Aggrey Bangu (Standing), the PI, Dr Patience Tugume (Right), and the LC5 Chairperson, Mr. Mutyaba Patrick (Left). Researchers led by Dr Patience Tugume, Department of Plant Sciences, Microbiology, and Biotechnology, College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS) documented 174 medicinal plant species under project “Knowledge, Attitudes, and Conservation of Commonly Traded Medicinal Plants in a Climate-Changing Environment in Eastern Uganda,” funded by Government of Uganda through the Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund (MakRIF), research dissemination workshop, 23rd July 2025, Namutumba District, Uganda East Africa.
The Resident District Commissioner-Namutumba, Mr. Fred Aggrey Bangu (Standing), the PI, Dr Patience Tugume (Right), and the LC5 Chairperson, Mr. Mutyaba Patrick (Left).

In her remarks, Dr Tugume, thanked the Government of Uganda through the Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund (MakRIF) for funding the project. She expressed gratitude to the research team composed of Dr Abubakar Sadik Mustafa, Dr Jamilu E. Ssenku, Dr Savina Asiimwe, and Dr Abdul Walusansa who have worked with her closely from project inception in February 2024. She further thanked the research assistants and all respondents, mainly the herbalists that participated in the study.

In a special way, she appreciated Mr. Fred Aggrey Bangu (Resident District Commissioner), Mr. Ofwono Emmanuel (Chief Administrative Officer), Mr. Kiire Noah (Communication Officer), Mr. Mugunywa Enock (District Community Development Officer), Mr. Kirya Moses (District Environmental Officer), Mr. Bamusubire William (District Forest Officer) and the leaders of herbalist associations for providing support throughout the study and sparing time to attend the dissemination workshop.

The MakRIF research Team. Left to right: Mr. Ronald Muwanika, Dr Savina Asiimwe, Dr Patience Tugume (Principal Investigator), Dr Abubakar Sadik Mustafa, and Dr Abdul Walusansa. Researchers led by Dr Patience Tugume, Department of Plant Sciences, Microbiology, and Biotechnology, College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS) documented 174 medicinal plant species under project “Knowledge, Attitudes, and Conservation of Commonly Traded Medicinal Plants in a Climate-Changing Environment in Eastern Uganda,” funded by Government of Uganda through the Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund (MakRIF), research dissemination workshop, 23rd July 2025, Namutumba District, Uganda East Africa.
The MakRIF research Team. Left to right: Mr. Ronald Muwanika, Dr Savina Asiimwe, Dr Patience Tugume (Principal Investigator), Dr Abubakar Sadik Mustafa, and Dr Abdul Walusansa.

 Addressing the participants, the Resident District Commissioner, Mr. Fred Aggrey Bangu urged all stakeholders to engage in a collaborative discussion on how the study findings can be translated into practical solutions to promote sustainable use and conservation of commonly used medicinal plants in Namutumba District amidst adverse effects of climate change.

The MakRIF project team with leaders of the Traditional Herbalist Associations. Researchers led by Dr Patience Tugume, Department of Plant Sciences, Microbiology, and Biotechnology, College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS) documented 174 medicinal plant species under project “Knowledge, Attitudes, and Conservation of Commonly Traded Medicinal Plants in a Climate-Changing Environment in Eastern Uganda,” funded by Government of Uganda through the Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund (MakRIF), research dissemination workshop, 23rd July 2025, Namutumba District, Uganda East Africa.
The MakRIF project team with leaders of the Traditional Herbalist Associations.

Mr. Ofwono Emmanuel, the Chief Administrative Officer, praised the Makerere research team for selecting Namutumba as the study area. He said the research served as an eye-opener to the district officials and community, especially regarding the pressure exerted on natural medicinal resources.

Front left to right: Mr. Ronald Muwanika (Coordinator), Mugega Amos (Sec. Health), Mutyaba Patrick (LC 5), Bangu Fred (Resident District Commissioner), Dr Patience Tugume (Principal Investigator), Ms. Kiire Noah (Communication Officer), Dr Abubakar Sadik Mustafa (Researcher). Back left to right: Mugunywa Enock (District Community Development Officer), Kirya Moses (District Environmental Officer), Bamusubire William (District Forest Officer). Dr Savina Asiimwe (Researcher), and Dr Abdul Walusansa (Researcher). Researchers led by Dr Patience Tugume, Department of Plant Sciences, Microbiology, and Biotechnology, College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS) documented 174 medicinal plant species under project “Knowledge, Attitudes, and Conservation of Commonly Traded Medicinal Plants in a Climate-Changing Environment in Eastern Uganda,” funded by Government of Uganda through the Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund (MakRIF), research dissemination workshop, 23rd July 2025, Namutumba District, Uganda East Africa.
Front left to right: Mr. Ronald Muwanika (Coordinator), Mugega Amos (Sec. Health), Mutyaba Patrick (LC 5), Bangu Fred (Resident District Commissioner), Dr Patience Tugume (Principal Investigator), Ms. Kiire Noah (Communication Officer), Dr Abubakar Sadik Mustafa (Researcher). Back left to right: Mugunywa Enock (District Community Development Officer), Kirya Moses (District Environmental Officer), Bamusubire William (District Forest Officer). Dr Savina Asiimwe (Researcher), and Dr Abdul Walusansa (Researcher).

Report compiled by Dr Patience Tugume and Dr Abubakar Sadik MustafaDepartment of Plant Sciences, Microbiology and Biotechnology, CoNAS, Makerere University

View on CoNAS

Hasifa Kabejja

Continue Reading

Natural Sciences

Beyond Being a Dean of Science & Vice Chancellor Emeritus, Prof. Luboobi was a Friend. Just That!

Published

on

Professor Livingstone Sserwadda Luboobi, Vice Chancellor Emeritus, during his term of office 2004-2009. Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
A Tribute by Assoc. Prof. Arthur K. Tugume, Dean, School of Biosciences, CoNAS. Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
A Tribute by Assoc. Prof. Arthur K. Tugume, Dean, School of Biosciences, CoNAS.

Prof. Livingstone Sserwadda Luboobi, Africa’s Icon of Mathematics is gone. The continent has lost a true giant in the field of mathematics, specifically biomathematics. This dynamic and evolving discipline, which applies mathematical principles to the study of biological systems and phenomena, has been deeply shaped by Prof. Luboobi’s legacy. At Makerere University and across Africa, his influence is etched into the fabric of research, mentorship, and innovation. Prof. Luboobi’s contributions have left lasting marks, on the hundreds, perhaps thousands, of lives he touched directly and indirectly. Each of us carries a unique memory, a lesson, or an inspiration drawn from his life and work. We will dearly miss Prof. Luboobi, a brilliant mind, a generous mentor, and a true icon of African science.

To me and my peers, he was our Dean, Faculty of Science in 1995, and he read-out our names at our graduation in January 1999. Later in 2004 as Vice Chancellor, he signed off my official 4-year PhD study leave in Scandinavia. When the 4 years elapsed before I could complete, we returned to the table and successfully negotiated for extra 2 years of grace which enabled me to complete in excellence in January 2010.

May you rest in eternal peace, Professor. Your legacy continues to inspire
May you rest in eternal peace, Professor. Your legacy continues to inspire

Lately, after his retirement, we found ourselves closely intimate, sharing deeper thoughts on a number of social, development, strategic leadership and governance, and academic matters. As a plant biologist, spending time with a retired Professor of Mathematics, one could wonder what we would possibly have to talk about. And yet, our discussions were rich and thought-provoking. One moment that left a lasting impression on me was his quiet humility. Despite the respect and priority I extended to him, he never assumed entitlement. If he sensed I was busy, he would simply wait outside my office, whether at the Botany Building or my current Dean’s office at CONAS, without interrupting. That gesture spoke volumes.

We often talked about science, and I had much to learn from him. I asked how he had managed to start and sustain the Uganda Mathematical Society (UMS), since we were in the process of setting up the Biology Society of Uganda (BioSU) at the time. I also wanted to hear about his journey – from his undergraduate days to becoming a retired professor. As he shared his story, pausing to catch his breath after long sentences, I sensed he was deeply concerned about something. His concern was that, as of 2017, nearly all senior academics at Makerere University had begun their careers humbly as teaching assistants and risen through the ranks in various disciplines, but that opportunity had since been lost.

He believed that trying to establish a sustainable staffing system without a pool of junior staff, selected directly from the best-performing undergraduate students, was a risky path for the university’s future. With a troubled tone, he said: “I wonder how you people will manage university staffing in the long term when you have removed the foundation…” There were many lessons in that conversation for me.

In October 2023, I started assembling a grant application together with my European and American colleagues (5 Universities) for submission to National Science Foundation (NSF, USA), addressing a certain plant disease conundrum in East Africa. I realized Prof. Luboobi’s expertise in Biomathematics could be relevant. I co-opted him along with another colleague from the Department of Mathematics. I was fascinated at the express knowledge he displayed in modelling biological systems, and in our case, plant disease modelling. Much as his physical strength was less, the intellect was razor-sharp. Even though we didn’t succeed on that attempt, I had numerous other lessons to learn from his seniority.

We shared personal stories. I re-learnt that living simple as much as possible helps a lot. Although this was not new, hearing it from one you respect takes on a whole new meaning. If I died today, I wonder what my peers or junior colleagues would say about me? I would not hear it, though. I am happy I had chance to tell Prof. Luboobi what he meant to me when he was still alive.

I regret his death. We usually say it is untimely, but will death of a loved one ever be timely? Holy Scripture says, Seeing his days are determined, the number of his months is with You; You have appointed his bounds that he cannot pass.” – Job 14:5. This is an emphasis of God’s sovereignty over life and death, highlighting that He determines the length of a person’s life and sets unchangeable limits, just as He does in setting boundaries and limits for all His creation. Prof. Luboobi could not cross the boundary set by the creator.

I am grateful that the Principal, College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), Makerere University and his team did their best to mobilize support at the most critical moment of need. I am grateful to God for gifting Makerere University with Prof. Luboobi, and for allowing me in particular a chance to walk a little close with him in his evening days of his life between 2023-2025.

Good bye Prof. Livingstone S. Luboobi! Go and serve God with the angels. We will also join you, in the course of time! See you later when that time comes!

View on CoNAS

Hasifa Kabejja

Continue Reading

Natural Sciences

CoNAS Participates in the 2025 National Science Week Exhibition

Published

on

Participants at one of the policy dialogues at Kololo Independence Grounds on Monday, 16th June 2025. Over 300 Ugandan innovators, among them students from the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS) and other science-based colleges at Makerere University are participating in the 2025 National Science Week exhibition, currently underway at the Kololo Independence Grounds, 15th-20th June 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

*****15 students from different departments at CoNAS are showcasing their projects.

Over 300 Ugandan innovators, among them students from the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS) and other science-based colleges at Makerere University are participating in the 2025 National Science Week exhibition, currently underway at the Kololo Independence Grounds.

Launched in 2021, the National Science Week is an annual event organized by the Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) Secretariat under the Office of the President. The exhibition serves as a strategic platform for showcasing Uganda’s advancements in science, technology, and innovation, both at the national level and on the global stage.

Held under the theme “Made in Uganda: Innovation to Market”, the 2025 edition (running from 15th-20th June) aims to highlight the country’s growing capacity to transform home-grown scientific ideas and research into viable, market-ready products and technologies.

Team Leader Bill Garvin with team members Kalanguka Patience Pearl and Nuwagaba Victor showcase their project – converting invasive water hyacinth into sustainable biofuels through hydrothermal liquefaction. Over 300 Ugandan innovators, among them students from the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS) and other science-based colleges at Makerere University are participating in the 2025 National Science Week exhibition, currently underway at the Kololo Independence Grounds, 15th-20th June 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Team Leader Bill Garvin with team members Kalanguka Patience Pearl and Nuwagaba Victor showcase their project – converting invasive water hyacinth into sustainable biofuels through hydrothermal liquefaction.

Key highlights from the official launch of the National Science Week

During the official launch held on 13th May 2025, the Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation, Hon. Dr. Monica Musenero Masanza, outlined several milestones Uganda has achieved over the past year, including:

  1. The commencement of clinical trials for locally developed therapeutics, marking a significant step in Uganda’s biopharmaceutical sector.
  2. Notable growth in the electric vehicle (EV) industry, including the deployment of over 5,000 electric motorcycles and 27 electric buses across the country.
  3. Establishment of critical green infrastructure, including 140 battery swapping stations and more than 30 direct current (DC) fast chargers nationwide.

According to the Minister, these developments demonstrate Uganda’s advancing capabilities in green technology and sustainable mobility solutions.

The Minister also highlighted additional achievements by the STI Secretariat, including the revitalization of Sukulu Phosphates, the launch of both the Deep Tech and Climate Tech summits, and the operationalization of vaccine production lines for both human and animal health. Dr. Musenero expressed gratitude to the Government of Uganda for its continued support, emphasizing its strategic vision of leveraging science, technology, and innovation as a transformative vehicle to position Uganda as a continental leader in deep tech innovation.  

Team Leader Mwebaze Bruce, with team members Atim Martha and Sebastian Jordan, showcase their Anti-fungal and Anti-bacterial Gel Research Project, an innovative solution aimed at enhancing public health in communities with limited access to conventional treatments. Over 300 Ugandan innovators, among them students from the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS) and other science-based colleges at Makerere University are participating in the 2025 National Science Week exhibition, currently underway at the Kololo Independence Grounds, 15th-20th June 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Team Leader Mwebaze Bruce, with team members Atim Martha and Sebastian Jordan, showcase their Anti-fungal and Anti-bacterial Gel Research Project, an innovative solution aimed at enhancing public health in communities with limited access to conventional treatments.

The 2025 National Science Week Activities

The National Science Week is designed to be an interactive experience for all attendees. According to Ms. Cathy Muhumuza from the STI, the exhibition will feature various activities including the official opening by the President of the Republic of Uganda, H.E. Yoweri Kaguta Tibuhaburwa Museveni, expected to take place on Thursday, 19th June 2025. Other activities will include policy dialogues, the Academia Day dedicated to young innovators, and the Investor Day providing a platform for innovators to connect with potential investors.

Additionally, the event will host a “Made in Uganda Supermarket,” allowing visitors to purchase products directly from exhibitors.  

Students showcasing their product aimed at detecting harmful aflatoxins in food. Over 300 Ugandan innovators, among them students from the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS) and other science-based colleges at Makerere University are participating in the 2025 National Science Week exhibition, currently underway at the Kololo Independence Grounds, 15th-20th June 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Students showcasing their product aimed at detecting harmful aflatoxins in food.
The team led by Ayebare Sam is developing a reliable fuel gauge detector to improve vehicle fuel management and efficiency. Over 300 Ugandan innovators, among them students from the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS) and other science-based colleges at Makerere University are participating in the 2025 National Science Week exhibition, currently underway at the Kololo Independence Grounds, 15th-20th June 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The team led by Ayebare Sam is developing a reliable fuel gauge detector to improve vehicle fuel management and efficiency.

CoNAS Students’ projects

Among the many innovators featured at the exhibition are several talented student teams from CoNAS, presenting a diverse array of projects across scientific disciplines, including biotechnology and green energy. Guided by their lecturers and coordinated by Prof. Juma Kasozi, Deputy Principal of CoNAS, the students are showcasing the following projects:

  1. Anti-fungal and Anti-bacterial Gel Research Project
    Team Leader: Mwebaze Bruce
    Team Members: Atim Martha, Sebastian Jordan
    This project explores the development of a topical gel with both anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties, aimed at improving public health outcomes in communities with limited access to conventional treatments.
  2. Minoxidil Production for Hair Regrowth
    Team Leader: Keinembabazi Melissa
    Team Members: Hashima Nanyiri, Nkamusiima Andrew
    Focused on producing affordable, locally made Minoxidil, this project aims to provide a cost-effective solution for treating hair loss.
  3. Infrared Biosensor for Aflatoxin Detection
    Team Leader: Rubeihayo Randolp
    Team Members: Namuleme Martha, Wabitereza Teddy
    This innovation utilizes spectrophotometry to develop an infrared biosensor capable of detecting harmful aflatoxins in food, contributing to food safety and public health.
  4. Biofuel Production from Water Hyacinth
    Team Leader: Bill Garvin
    Team Members: Kalanguka Patience Pearl, Nuwagaba Victor
    The project converts invasive water hyacinth into sustainable biofuels using hydrothermal liquefaction, offering an environmentally friendly alternative energy source.
  5. Automobile Fuel Gauge Detector
    Team Leader: Ayebare Sam
    Team Members: Achieng Rosemary, Nakirinda Winnie
    This project involves the development of a reliable fuel gauge detector to improve vehicle fuel management and efficiency.
Students of CEDAT participating in the exhibition. Over 300 Ugandan innovators, among them students from the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS) and other science-based colleges at Makerere University are participating in the 2025 National Science Week exhibition, currently underway at the Kololo Independence Grounds, 15th-20th June 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Students of CEDAT participating in the exhibition.
Over 300 Ugandan innovators, among them students from the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS) and other science-based colleges at Makerere University are participating in the 2025 National Science Week exhibition, currently underway at the Kololo Independence Grounds, 15th-20th June 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Students from the College of Health Sciences participating in the exhibition. Over 300 Ugandan innovators, among them students from the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS) and other science-based colleges at Makerere University are participating in the 2025 National Science Week exhibition, currently underway at the Kololo Independence Grounds, 15th-20th June 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Students from the College of Health Sciences participating in the exhibition.
Over 300 Ugandan innovators, among them students from the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS) and other science-based colleges at Makerere University are participating in the 2025 National Science Week exhibition, currently underway at the Kololo Independence Grounds, 15th-20th June 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Other exhibitors at Kololo. Over 300 Ugandan innovators, among them students from the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS) and other science-based colleges at Makerere University are participating in the 2025 National Science Week exhibition, currently underway at the Kololo Independence Grounds, 15th-20th June 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Other exhibitors at Kololo.
Over 300 Ugandan innovators, among them students from the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS) and other science-based colleges at Makerere University are participating in the 2025 National Science Week exhibition, currently underway at the Kololo Independence Grounds, 15th-20th June 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Over 300 Ugandan innovators, among them students from the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS) and other science-based colleges at Makerere University are participating in the 2025 National Science Week exhibition, currently underway at the Kololo Independence Grounds, 15th-20th June 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

View on CoNAS

Hasifa Kabejja

Continue Reading

Trending