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Veterinary & Biosecurity

Bukedi Region Leaders Collectively Sensitize & Mobilize Residents on Parish Development Model: AFRISA Actively Participates in the Process

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By Jacinta Nakaye

Bukedi region leaders carried out mobilization and sensitization exercises to enable residents in the region understand and embrace the Parish Development Model as an intervention to eradicate poverty in the country.

Spearheaded by Hon. Dr. Monica Musenero, Cabinet Minister for Science, Technology and Innovation, the leaders executed a couple of community mobilization and sensitization campaigns in different districts and parishes of the region. These exercises focused on mindset change of the residents in order for them to embrace the idea of enterprise development to increase household incomes from merely being subsistence producers.

These interventions entailed a visit by the State Dignitaries at the Model farmers’ household enterprises in Kaberekeke Parish, Petete Town Council, Butebo District on 22nd June, 2022, where the benchmarking processes for Parish Development Model (PDM) were undertaken. The visit at the Model Parish was to witness the transformationof farmers who benefited from the productivity acceleration trainings facilitated by the Africa Institute for Strategic Animal Resource Services and Development (AFRISA), College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), Makerere University.

The PDM piloting phase in Kabererekeke Parish was under the support of Science, Technology and Innovation, Office of the President (STI- OP).

Visit to Kabererekeke Model Farmers’ household enterprises

Model Farmers of Kaberekeke Parish, Butebo District together with the AFRISA team members welcome State Ministers to the Benchmarking and Bukedi region Parish Development Model (PDM) planning meeting held at St. Paul High School, Petete, Butebo District on 22nd June, 2022.
Model Farmers of Kaberekeke Parish, Butebo District together with the AFRISA team members welcome State Ministers to the Benchmarking and Bukedi region Parish Development Model (PDM) planning meeting held at St. Paul High School, Petete, Butebo District on 22nd June, 2022.

State Dignitaries visited the Model farmers in Kabererekeke Parish to witness the progress of their household enterprises and to undertake a benchmarking exercise on the functionality of PDM.

Dairy model farmer, Hajira reflected on her benefits from the productivity acceleration exercises facilitated by AFRISA during the demonstration phase of PDM in Kaberekeke.

“I previously had a cow of local breed and took a decision to sell it off so that I buy another which could give me some more litres of milk.  Fortunately, the money I got from selling my previous cow was just enough for me to buy a better one. I got a new cow, but it was only producing 3 litres of milk,” narrates Hajira. She added that, “on participating in the productivity acceleration trainings on livestock nutrition facilitated by AFRISA, I decided to change my cow’s mode of feeding. Within a period of only one month, my cow currently produces 5 litres of milk. I now make some more money from selling milk.” Hajira further testified that she currently sells off 4litres of milk and remains with 1litre for home consumption.

Poultry model farmer; Wanyana Sarah also highlighted on her benefits from the productivity acceleration trainings.

“With training from AFRISA, I learnt the practice of synchronized hatching and brooding of chicks. Synchronized hatching has swiftly enabled the multiplication of my chicken and it has helped us to take care of these birds very well; I am able to vaccinate the chicks at ago. I started with 10 chicken, but currently I have 30,” testified Wanyana.

Piggery Model Farmer, Yoko Lam also reflected on his benefits.

Yoko reported that from the productivity acceleration trainings of the PDM piloting phase, he managed to construct shelter for his pig using local technology, with guidance from the AFRISA Piggery Value Chain Programme Officer, Mr. Bwire Jolly Muchere, who facilitated piggery enterprise trainings while in Kaberekeke Parish. 

Piggery Model Farmer, Yoko Lam demonstrates how he feeds his pig during the State Dignitaries' visit to model farmers’ household enterprises in Kabererekeke Parish, Butebo District on 22nd June, 2022.
Piggery Model Farmer, Yoko Lam demonstrates how he feeds his pig during the State Dignitaries’ visit to model farmers’ household enterprises in Kabererekeke Parish, Butebo District on 22nd June, 2022.

He further reports that each household in Kaberekeke, within piggery value chain is set to construct a similar shelter for the pigs. Mr. Yoko also recalls the challenges he used to face in pig farming before the training.

“I had no idea about proper nutrition for pigs and used to gather some grass to feed my pig,” he recollects, adding that, “however, I got knowledge on proper feeding of pigs. Now, I have been using nutrition boosters with support from AFRISA to improve the quality of my animal. I expect it to have eight piglets, if I decide to sell off each piglet at two hundred thousand Ugandan Shillings; I can raise good money from this enterprise,” he asserts. 

The community mobilization

The leaders of the region were later engaged in the Parish Development Model planning meeting, which was held at St. Paul High School, Petete, Butebo District. The meeting was for the leaders to caucus and roll out the mobilization process throughout the region’s seven districts and twenty-two constituencies. The meeting was to also benchmark from the Kabererekeke Model Parish where the PDM demonstration was undertaken.

During an interview with Hon. Dr. Musenero, she called for unity among leaders in order to drive development in the region.

“In the past, leaders from Bukedi region have not worked closely very well with each other, but this time, we are coming together.  We really want to work as a team and this activity is setting us off. We have sat as members of the caucus and need to galvanize to work as a solid team. We need to have an agreed upon vision for the region and must develop an implementation plan,” she said.

Bukedi region comprises of seven districts, which include; Budaka, Butebo, Butaleja, Pallisa, Tororo, Busia, and Kibuku, all in which residents were involved in the mobilization and sensitization exercises on PDM.

During an interview with Hon. Richard Oseku, Member of Parliament representing Kibale County, Palisa District, who doubles as Chairperson of Bukedi Parliamentary Caucus, he appealed to the Government of Uganda for an affirmative approach towards Bukedi in regards to poverty eradication, given that the region is considered as one of the poorest in the county.

“Bukedi region falls among the poorest in the whole country, therefore at national level, H.E. the President of the Republic of Uganda has mainstreamed Bukedi as one that needs to be attended to. However, Parish Development Model is a general program for the whole country and there’s nothing as affirmative action specified for Bukedi,” said Hon. Oseku.

He added that, “besides the normal programs that are being implemented across the whole country, there is need to think of an affirmative action in order to transform Bukedi from the majority poor to household income earners and manage their livelihood fares.”

Bukedi region PDM sensitization and mobilization exercises commenced on 23rd June, 2022. These conventions brought together Ministers, Members of Parliament, the region’s residents, leaders at Local Government level (RDCs, LCs, Councilors, Sub county chiefs, and Parish Chiefs among others), technical teams from Science, Technology and Innovation- Office of the President (STI-OP), and Africa Institute for Strategic Animal Resource Services and Development (AFRISA), religious leaders and the Police. 

The leaders emphasized mindset change of their communities to make them understand the benefits of owning household enterprises, which is to increase household incomes.

The PDM target is to move 39% of the households out of subsistence production into the money economy in the next five years. 10% support is directed to the elderly, 10% to people with disabilities, 30% to women, 30% to youth, and 20% to the men. 

PICTORIAL

Hon. Dr. Monica Musenero, Cabinet Minister for Science, Technology and Innovation, who is also the team leader of PDM implementation in Bukedi region makes her remarks during the PDM sensitization and community mobilization district meeting in Budaka on  24th June, 2022.
Hon. Dr. Monica Musenero, Cabinet Minister for Science, Technology and Innovation, who is also the team leader of PDM implementation in Bukedi region makes her remarks during the PDM sensitization and community mobilization district meeting in Budaka on  24th June, 2022.

Hon. Hellen Asamo, Minister of State for Disability Affairs chairing a PDM sensitization and mobilization District meeting in Budaka on Friday, 24th June, 2022.
Hon. Hellen Asamo, Minister of State for Disability Affairs chairing a PDM sensitization and mobilization District meeting in Budaka on Friday, 24th June, 2022.

The Executive Director, AFRISA, Mr. Felix Okello making his remarks on AFRISA’s input in the PDM productivity acceleration of households during a parish meeting in Mulanda, Tororo District on 25th June, 2022. In the front with him is the Minister of State for Defence, Hon. Jacob Marksons Oboth-Oboth, who is spearheading the PDM implementation process in Tororo District.
The Executive Director, AFRISA, Mr. Felix Okello making his remarks on AFRISA’s input in the PDM productivity acceleration of households during a parish meeting in Mulanda, Tororo District on 25th June, 2022. In the front with him is the Minister of State for Defence, Hon. Jacob Marksons Oboth-Oboth, who is spearheading the PDM implementation process in Tororo District.

Hon. Max Ochai, Member of Parliament, representing West Budama North Constituency (standing) making his remarks during a PDM sensitization and mobilization meeting in Gule Parish, Magola, Tororo District on 25th June, 2022. To his left is Hon. Dr. Emmanuel Otiam Otala, Member of Parliament representing West Budama South Constituency, Tororo District, and the Minister of State for Defence, Hon. Jacob Marksons Oboth-Oboth (2nd left). To his right is AFRISA’s Executive Director, Mr. Felix Okello.
Hon. Max Ochai, Member of Parliament, representing West Budama North Constituency (standing) making his remarks during a PDM sensitization and mobilization meeting in Gule Parish, Magola, Tororo District on 25th June, 2022. To his left is Hon. Dr. Emmanuel Otiam Otala, Member of Parliament representing West Budama South Constituency, Tororo District, and the Minister of State for Defence, Hon. Jacob Marksons Oboth-Oboth (2nd left). To his right is AFRISA’s Executive Director, Mr. Felix Okello.

AFRISA’s Programme Officer for Pig Industry and Business, Mr. Bwire Jolly Muchere sensitizing the community on productivity acceleration of households through practicing piggery during a Parish meeting in Kabwangasi Sub county, Butebo District on 3rd July, 2022.
AFRISA’s Programme Officer for Pig Industry and Business, Mr. Bwire Jolly Muchere sensitizing the community on productivity acceleration of households through practicing piggery during a Parish meeting in Kabwangasi Sub county, Butebo District on 3rd July, 2022.

AFRISA’s Programme Officer for the Dairy Value Chain, Mr. Israel Baguma sensitizing the community on productivity acceleration of households during a Parish meeting in Mulanda, Tororo District on 25th June, 2022.
AFRISA’s Programme Officer for the Dairy Value Chain, Mr. Israel Baguma sensitizing the community on productivity acceleration of households during a Parish meeting in Mulanda, Tororo District on 25th June, 2022.

AFRISA’s Programme Officer for the Poultry Value Chain, Ms. Joyna Ofungi (Standing-Right) sensitizing the community on productivity acceleration of households during a PDM sensitization and mobilization meeting in Gule Parish, Magola, Tororo District on 25th June, 2022.
AFRISA’s Programme Officer for the Poultry Value Chain, Ms. Joyna Ofungi (Standing-Right) sensitizing the community on productivity acceleration of households during a PDM sensitization and mobilization meeting in Gule Parish, Magola, Tororo District on 25th June, 2022.

Mak Editor

Veterinary & Biosecurity

PREPARE4VBD Project Holds Final Workshop in Uganda; A Landmark in Vector-Borne Disease Preparedness

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A Group photo of a multidisciplinary team at Best Western Premier | Garden Hotel, Entebbe, Uganda after the final dissemination of Cross-Disciplinary Alliance to Identify, PREdict, and PrePARe for Emerging Vector-Borne Diseases (PREPARE4VBDs. Final dissemination workshop of the EU-funded project: A Cross-Disciplinary Alliance to Identify, PREdict, and PrePARe for Emerging Vector-Borne Diseases (PREPARE4VBDs) with Prof. Lawrence Mugisha Co-Principal Investigator from College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), Makerere University, held 5th-8th May 2025, Best Western Premier Garden Hotel, Entebbe, Uganda, East Africa.

By Joseph Odoi

The final dissemination workshop of the EU-funded project: A Cross-Disciplinary Alliance to Identify, PREdict, and PrePARe for Emerging Vector-Borne Diseases (PREPARE4VBDs) was successfully held from May 5th to 8th, 2025 at Best Western Premier Garden Hotel, Entebbe, Uganda, marking the culmination of a five-year, cross-continental research effort addressing vector-borne diseases in the era of climate change and globalization.

The hybrid event attracted over 80 participants, including researchers, policymakers, health practitioners, veterinarians, early-career scientists, and students from Africa and Europe. The workshop featured two key sessions with; one at Best Western Premier Garden Hotel, Entebbe, and another at the Centre for Biosecurity, College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), Makerere University.

In his opening remarks, Professor Lawrence Mugisha (Uganda’s Co-Principal Investigator from CoVAB, Makerere University), officially welcomed all stakeholders and highlighted that the purpose of the workshop was to share research findings and engage stakeholders as the project wraps up. The project commenced in September 2021 and will end in August 2025.

Prof. Mugisha noted that the overall aim of PREPARE4VBD is to strengthen preparedness in Africa and Europe for emerging zoonotic vector-borne diseases, especially in an era of climate change and increasing global interconnectedness by  (a) Creating a broad, and conceptual knowledge about vector-borne disease emergence and responses to climate change that reaches beyond specific diseases, vector species, borders or scientific disciplines  (b)Improving prediction and preparedness in Africa and Europe for zoonotic vector-borne diseases transmitted by mosquitoes, ticks and freshwater snails to livestock and humans under climate change and globalization.

Professor Lawrence Mugisha welcoming participants to the event and sharing about PREPARE4VBD aim. Final dissemination workshop of the EU-funded project: A Cross-Disciplinary Alliance to Identify, PREdict, and PrePARe for Emerging Vector-Borne Diseases (PREPARE4VBDs) with Prof. Lawrence Mugisha Co-Principal Investigator from College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), Makerere University, held 5th-8th May 2025, Best Western Premier Garden Hotel, Entebbe, Uganda, East Africa.
Professor Lawrence Mugisha welcoming participants to the event and sharing about PREPARE4VBD aim.

In a project overview, the PREPARE4VBD Principal Investigator, Professor Anna-Sofie Stensgaard from the Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences at the University of Copenhagen, noted that vector-borne diseases are on the move, accounting for 17% of all infectious diseases and causing 700,000 deaths across the globe each year. She emphasized that zoonotics can’t be isolated as a human or animal health issue.

The PREPARE4VBD Principal Investigator, Professor Anna-Sofie Stensgaard from the Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences at the University of Copenhagen sharing about the PREPARE4VBD work and Outcomes. Final dissemination workshop of the EU-funded project: A Cross-Disciplinary Alliance to Identify, PREdict, and PrePARe for Emerging Vector-Borne Diseases (PREPARE4VBDs) with Prof. Lawrence Mugisha Co-Principal Investigator from College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), Makerere University, held 5th-8th May 2025, Best Western Premier Garden Hotel, Entebbe, Uganda, East Africa.
The PREPARE4VBD Principal Investigator, Professor Anna-Sofie Stensgaard from the Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences at the University of Copenhagen sharing about the PREPARE4VBD work and Outcomes.

“The problem is growing and they are on the move,” she said, pointing to increased outbreaks of Rift Valley Fever, Dengue, West Nile, Chikungunya, Fasciolosis, and Schistosomiasis.

Because of this, she noted that the project thought of the need for cross-cutting and in-depth knowledge to improve surveillance and build capacity for early detection, as vector-borne diseases respect no borders. This, she explained, justified the formation of a multidisciplinary team consisting of 10 complementary partner institutions in Europe and Africa.

In terms of approach, she noted that the project used a proactive approach that focuses on addressing VBDs at a lower level, rather than the usual reactive approach that tackles diseases after they present themselves in large numbers.

More specifically, Professor Anna-Sofie noted that PREPARE4VBD focused on four thematic areas aimed at

A) Building knowledge through baseline data collection of neglected tick-, mosquito-, and snail-borne VBDs of importance for animal and human health in endemic African countries.

B) Assessing their capacity to adapt and spread to new areas using a holo-genomics approach and state-of-the-art climate change impact modelling.

C) Developing novel, sensitive diagnostic tools and model-based surveillance for rapid VBD discovery and early warning.

D) Strengthening the capacity for detection and surveillance of the targeted VBDs through training, effective communication, and dissemination of freely available data.

As part of project activities, Professor Anna-Sofie shared that the project conducted

  • Training of 4 MSc students and 11 PhD fellows, as well as early-career researcher summer schools in Uganda and Kenya.
  • Engaging fellows in the  poster sessions and technical workshops, such as molecular diagnostics and VBD modeling.
  • Promotion of transdisciplinary collaboration and knowledge exchange among partners across Africa and Europe.

In terms of key project achievements, she noted the project was able to achieve the following

  • The development of a new AI-assisted Mini-FLOTAC microscope model.
  • Creation of a model for Rift Valley Fever transmission and analysis of climate change impacts on snail-borne diseases.
  • Discovery of an Ixodes tick species in Kenya, which was previously only known in Europe.
  • Large-scale vector-snail warming experiments conducted across different climates, from South Africa to Denmark.
  • Creation of a Global Vector Database (GVD) for centralized vector data collection.
  • Development of non-invasive diagnostic tools, including PCR tools for pathogen detection in livestock blood/tick fluids, environmental DNA methods for liver fluke detection, and establishment of standard operating procedures (SOPs) and training videos, all publicly accessible online.

Research Highlights in Uganda

In terms of consortium research highlights from the VBD project in Uganda, Adriko Moses from the Ministry of Health shared a multi-stakeholder approach to mitigate risks of liver fluke infections, a zoonotic disease affecting humans and animals.

Adriko Moses from the Ministry of Health sharing about importance of a multi-stakeholder approach to mitigate risks of liver fluke infections. Final dissemination workshop of the EU-funded project: A Cross-Disciplinary Alliance to Identify, PREdict, and PrePARe for Emerging Vector-Borne Diseases (PREPARE4VBDs) with Prof. Lawrence Mugisha Co-Principal Investigator from College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), Makerere University, held 5th-8th May 2025, Best Western Premier Garden Hotel, Entebbe, Uganda, East Africa.
Adriko Moses from the Ministry of Health sharing about importance of a multi-stakeholder approach to mitigate risks of liver fluke infections.

Six districts near lake basins were studied: Hoima, Buliisa, Apac, Lira, Jinja, and Mayuge. The study involved 300 human samples, with 2 positive cases identified. Findings also highlighted damaged livers in slaughtered animals.

To address this trend in Uganda, the following policy recommendations were made from the study

Policy Recommendations for Control and Prevention of Liver Fluke Disease in Uganda

  • Strengthen meat inspection policy in Uganda, including livestock testing before slaughter and enhanced meat testing protocols.
  • Promote vegetable hygiene to control zoonotic fascioliasis—a parasitic infection transmitted through contaminated food.
  • Scale up veterinary interventions in livestock through collaboration between farmers and veterinary services.
  • Establish surveillance systems to monitor infections among livestock.
  • Increase community engagement to improve health education and foster community-led health initiatives.

Remarks from Government and Academia

Dr. Peter Wanyama, representing the Commissioner for Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF), commended the consortium for selecting Uganda and recognized the threat of VBDs to both animal and human health, as well as national development. He noted the challenge of tick resistance, and that MAAIF is constructing 69 diagnostic laboratories to address emerging vector-borne threats. He emphasized the need for local knowledge, effective communication, and knowledge translation.

Dr. Peter Wanyama sharing noted that MAAIF is constructing 69 diagnostic laboratories to address emerging vector-borne threats. Final dissemination workshop of the EU-funded project: A Cross-Disciplinary Alliance to Identify, PREdict, and PrePARe for Emerging Vector-Borne Diseases (PREPARE4VBDs) with Prof. Lawrence Mugisha Co-Principal Investigator from College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), Makerere University, held 5th-8th May 2025, Best Western Premier Garden Hotel, Entebbe, Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Peter Wanyama sharing noted that MAAIF is constructing 69 diagnostic laboratories to address emerging vector-borne threats.

Dr. Allan Muruta, Guest of Honour and Commissioner for Animal Health Services at the Ministry of Health, welcomed the multidisciplinary team to Uganda on behalf of the Minister of State for Primary Health Care.

Dr. Allan Muruta, Guest of Honour and Commissioner for Animal Health Services at the Ministry of Health sharing his remarks. Final dissemination workshop of the EU-funded project: A Cross-Disciplinary Alliance to Identify, PREdict, and PrePARe for Emerging Vector-Borne Diseases (PREPARE4VBDs) with Prof. Lawrence Mugisha Co-Principal Investigator from College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), Makerere University, held 5th-8th May 2025, Best Western Premier Garden Hotel, Entebbe, Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Allan Muruta, Guest of Honour and Commissioner for Animal Health Services at the Ministry of Health sharing his remarks.

He thanked the consortium for a well-done multidisciplinary effort addressing the growing challenge of vector-borne diseases in Africa. As a technical officer in surveillance, Dr. Muruta appreciated the project’s clear planning and timely execution.

“Africa is endemic to zoonotic diseases but allow me to share what the Ministry of Health has done. Our Integrated Surveillance Department has set up coordinated responses to several public health issues,” he shared.

He welcomed the findings and policy briefs developed through the research, noting they are relevant, science-based, and practical. He said the Ministry of Health has clear structures for handling policy issues and committed to engaging further to ensure policy uptake and action.

“All the policy briefs are feasible, new, and based on up-to-date science. The Ministry will follow through to see these policies implemented.”

He further noted that Uganda already has a functional One Health platform bringing together directors from health, water, and wildlife sectors. However, he emphasized the need to strengthen data sharing across the sub-national level. The Ministry, he said, is engaging with different sectors to make this happen.

Dr. Muruta reaffirmed the Ministry of Health’s openness to more collaboration in tackling zoonotic diseases and strengthening the One Health approach.

Prof. Frank Mwine, Principal of CoVAB, Makerere University, welcomed participants and applauded collaborative efforts in addressing vector-borne diseases.

In his remarks at Makerere University, Prof. Frank Mwine welcomed the diverse participants and thanked Prof. Lawrence Mugisha for his proven coordination and mobilization around One Health. He acknowledged the growing threats posed by climate change and emphasized the interconnectedness of ecosystems citing how birds migrate from Europe to Africa—as a reason for cross-border collaboration.

He commended the PREPARE4VBD project team for their unique research and innovations aimed at addressing vector-borne diseases and appreciated the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme for supporting such a critical initiative.

Looking ahead, Prof. Mwine stressed the importance of training the next generation  to strengthen preparedness and response efforts in the future.  

In a cross-country experience-sharing session involving Côte d’Ivoire, Uganda, and South Africa, coordinated by Prof. Moses J. Chimbari (South Africa), participants agreed on the urgent need to integrate One Health into university curricula and bring together diverse disciplines to address vector-borne diseases caused by climate change and other complex factors.

In this engagement, there were a number of panel discussions revolving around translating policy recommendations into practical actions for long-term impact. Prof Lawrence Mugisha at this engagement announced that another dissemination on VBDs project outcomes will be held specifically for Students who were doing exams at the time of the Project dissemination

Workshop Highlights

Key research outcomes were presented, including the development of a Global Vector Database (GVD), AI-assisted diagnostic tools, and predictive climate-disease models.

The Entebbe session hosted high-level stakeholders, including representatives from the Ministries of Health and Agriculture, NGOs, and international research bodies. Discussions emphasized the importance of translating research into policy and action.

For outreach and dissemination, thirteen policy briefs were shared, alongside posters, infopacks, risk maps, peer-reviewed publications, newsletters, and fellow-driven blog posts  all aimed at sustaining knowledge exchange beyond the project lifespan.

Notable to mention was the development of a knowledge co-production model under the project, titled “Knowledge Co-Construction in Stakeholder Engagement Workshops in Health Research” by Kathrin Heitz Tokpa, Lawrence Mugisha, Moses Chimbari, and Bassirou Bonfoh.

The project has notably enhanced Africa Europe scientific cooperation and empowered local institutions with tools and training to detect, track, and control emerging diseases.

About the Project

PREPARE4VBD is a multi-disciplinary consortium that brings together 10 university and ministerial partners from 5 African and 3 European countries, united to address a future with increasingly changing global patterns of zoonotic vector-borne diseases through a holistic, pro-active approach that reaches beyond specific diseases, vector species, borders or scientific disciplines.

Project partners included; Makerere University, Sokoine University of Agriculture, University of KwaZulu-Natal, University of Naples Federico II, Swiss TPH, University of Bern, ICIPE, Uganda’s Vector Control Division, Centre Suisse de Recherches Scientifiques, and Tanzania’s NIMR.

The project is part of Horizon 2020’s research and innovation actions (Grant agreement No. 101000365: https://cordis.europa.eu/project/id/101000365) and is coordinated by the University of Copenhagen’s GLOBE Institute and Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences.

To read more about the project, visit the PREPARE4VBD website (www.prepare4vbd.eu), which offers key resources on vector-borne disease preparedness, including open-access tools, training materials, and research outputs to support continuous capacity building.

Mak Editor

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Alumni of Molecular Biology Honor Prof. George William Lubega for Outstanding Contributions

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Professor George William Lubega. Alumni of molecular biology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), Makerere University honor Prof. George William Lubega, a distinguished teacher whose dedication to nurturing scientists has left an indelible mark on Uganda's scientific community, 28th March 2025, Mestil Hotel, Kampala, Uganda East Africa.

On Friday, March 28th, 2025, alumni of molecular biology gathered at Mestil Hotel in Kampala to honor Prof. George William Lubega, a distinguished teacher whose dedication to nurturing scientists has left an indelible mark on Uganda’s scientific community.

The event, organized by the alumni, celebrated Prof. Lubega’s pivotal role in transforming students into leaders in molecular biology. Dr. Claire Mack Mugasa, Dean of the School of Biosecurity, Biotechnical, and Laboratory Sciences at Makerere University, shared heartfelt recollections of Prof. Lubega’s impact, including his scholarship support and passionate teaching style. Dr. Mugasa noted, “The scientists we have in Uganda are a testimony to his boldness. He has been a father to us in science, and now we are fathers of others.”

Prof. Lubega expressed gratitude for the honor and acknowledged the mentorship he received from his teachers. He also highlighted his groundbreaking contributions, including patented vaccines against trypanosomiasis, and thanked Makerere University for providing an enabling environment for scientific advancement.

The event emphasized the importance of continuing his legacy through initiatives like an association of molecular biologists. The alumni expressed their deep appreciation for Prof. Lubega’s selfless efforts, which have transformed the landscape of science education in Uganda.

This celebration stands as a testament to Prof. Lubega’s lasting influence on his students, colleagues, and the scientific community at large.

Harriet Musinguzi

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Uganda Advances Bacteriophage Research in Fight against Antimicrobial Resistance

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Researchers and policy makers together with partners from the UK and USA that took part in the symposium. Makerere University College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity convened symposium to explore bacteriophage applications in combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and addressing health, agricultural, and environmental challenges. Organized by The Alliance for Phage Research and Development Uganda Ltd (PhageTeam Uganda), March 2025, Hilton Garden Inn, Kampala, East Africa.

Makerere University convened a symposium to explore bacteriophage applications in combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and addressing health, agricultural, and environmental challenges. Organized by The Alliance for Phage Research and Development Uganda Ltd (PhageTeam Uganda), the event brought together researchers from Makerere University, Kyambogo University, Kampala International University, and Ian Clarke International University, and other players, highlighting a collaborative approach to tackling global and local issues.

Day two of the symposium saw researchers and policy makers together with partners from the UK and USA hold a discourse on the best way forward in the promotion of bacteriophage research and production in the country to support efforts against anti-microbial resistance.

Dr. Jesca Nakavuma, the lead phage researcher from the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), gave the background to the workshop. Makerere University College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity convened symposium to explore bacteriophage applications in combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and addressing health, agricultural, and environmental challenges. Organized by The Alliance for Phage Research and Development Uganda Ltd (PhageTeam Uganda), March 2025, Hilton Garden Inn, Kampala, East Africa.
Dr. Jesca Nakavuma, the lead phage researcher from the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), gave the background to the workshop.

Speaking at the event held at Hilton Garden Inn, Dr. Jesca Nakavuma, the lead phage researcher from the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), Makerere University, stressed the urgent need for alternative antimicrobial agents due to the rise in drug resistance and limited discovery of new antibiotics. Bacteriophages, natural viruses that target bacteria, she said, were identified as a promising solution to revolutionize disease control, treatment, and food security. She said research in this area was key because humankind was at risk of the impending calamity of life-threatening treatment failure.

Prof. Robert Wamala, represented the VC, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe. Makerere University College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity convened symposium to explore bacteriophage applications in combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and addressing health, agricultural, and environmental challenges. Organized by The Alliance for Phage Research and Development Uganda Ltd (PhageTeam Uganda), March 2025, Hilton Garden Inn, Kampala, East Africa.
Prof. Robert Wamala, represented the VC, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe.

Prof. Robert Wamala, Makerere University‘s Director for Research, Innovations, and Partnerships, who spoke on behalf of the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, underscored the importance of building local capacity in phage research. He noted that such efforts could enhance Uganda’s resilience against AMR and yield homegrown solutions for human, animal, and crop health.

As the world grapples with the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), bacteriophage research offers a promising alternative. Phages, which are natural enemies of bacteria, have the potential to revolutionize the approach to treatment, disease control, and food security, he noted.  He said building local expertise in phage application can enhance Uganda’s resilience against AMR and produce sustainable homegrown solutions to health and environmental challenges.

A section of the stakeholders who participated in the discourse listened attentively. Makerere University College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity convened symposium to explore bacteriophage applications in combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and addressing health, agricultural, and environmental challenges. Organized by The Alliance for Phage Research and Development Uganda Ltd (PhageTeam Uganda), March 2025, Hilton Garden Inn, Kampala, East Africa.
A section of the stakeholders who participated in the discourse listened attentively.

Prof. Robert Wamala said Makerere University was committed to supporting cutting-edge research and innovation that addresses national and global challenges in line with the university’s role in knowledge generation, technology advancement, and policy influence. The importance of regulatory institutions, he said, cannot be overemphasized in this endeavor, since they enforce compliance, uphold ethical standards, and foster an enabling environment for impactful research and innovation.  He said the engagement presented an opportunity to strengthen collaboration between researchers, institutions, and regulatory bodies to ensure that the outcomes are scientifically sound and are aligned to the national development priorities and global best practices.

Dr. Claire M. Mugasa, the Dean of the School of Biosecurity, Biotechnical and Laboratory Sciences (SBLS), CoVAB reiterated the fact that antimicrobial resistance was on the rise in Uganda and Africa, more than elsewhere in the world. She said it was time now that efforts be intensified in looking for sustainable options to curb the dangerous trends.  She said this cuts across the human and the animals.  She said it was an opportune time for players to come together to find ways of getting the required alternative.  She said by coming together, the different ideas developed individually would in a concerted effort, pulling resources together for a way forward.

Dr. Claire M. Mugasa, the Dean of the School of Biosecurity, Biotechnical and Laboratory Sciences (SBLS) addressed the meeting. Makerere University College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity convened symposium to explore bacteriophage applications in combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and addressing health, agricultural, and environmental challenges. Organized by The Alliance for Phage Research and Development Uganda Ltd (PhageTeam Uganda), March 2025, Hilton Garden Inn, Kampala, East Africa.
Dr. Claire M. Mugasa, the Dean of the School of Biosecurity, Biotechnical and Laboratory Sciences (SBLS) addressed the meeting.

During the discourse, several subjects were addressed, including an introduction to antimicrobial resistance, phage biology, phage application, and lessons learnt from the establishment of a phage research centre in the UK, which was presented by Prof. Martha Clokie from the University of Leicester. This initiative reflects a commitment to fostering innovation, collaboration, and regulatory compliance, positioning Uganda as a leader in sustainable solutions for global challenges.

The symposium was sponsored by Global AMR Innovation Fund (GAMRIF), through a grant to the UK Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) in partnership with Phages for Global Health.

Harriet Musinguzi

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