General
Uganda’s IGE fellows in a Survey on Social Acceptance of Policy Instruments on Fossil Fuel, Plastic Pollution & Forest loss
Over 80 participants from the environment and natural resources sector including, senior civil servants, the academia, civil society organisation, members of the public and students converged at Makerere University to discuss and participate in a survey on opinions about policy instruments such as taxes, subsidies and bans.
This stakeholder workshop held on 15th July 2022 was part of the Inclusive Green Economy (IGE) capacity building program funded by Sida, implemented by EfD-Global Hub University of Gothenburg partnering with Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Ethiopia and Rwanda
Participants were mainly concerned with getting the perceptions of stakeholders on acceptability of IGE policy instruments and alternatives.
The purpose of this workshop was to increase the awareness of the current level of social acceptance in the country through presentation of results from the population survey that was carried out among Ugandans in 2021.
New knowledge regarding social acceptance among stakeholders was also collected through a short survey and discussions largely on three themes; Fossil fuel, Plastic pollution and Forest loss.
Opinions from the population survey indicated low levels of social acceptance while stakeholders’ opinions indicated high level of social acceptance of the policy instruments.
While opening the workshop, the Deputy Principal, College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), Dr. Yawe Bruno, said the matters of greening the economy were so central today.
He observed that for many years, Uganda has never experienced such unpredictable temperatures adding that those who might be alive 30-50years to come may need fire places in their houses with different architectural plans.
“We are reaping our fruits in regards to our managing the environment. The guiding principle should be, can we nurture nature so that nature can nurture us? We are hiding our heads in the sand blaming the cyclic issues but wherever one comes from, one feature that shows that we have messed up with the environment is how long does it take to find firewood that has come down on its own? In the villages, people worry about everything in the food chain from firewood and it is now worse with hiked prices”, Yawe explained.
He noted that matters of Inclusive Green growth are at the centre of the development agenda today and clearly spelt out in the national development plan and Vision 2040 with many SDGs on this same issue .
In his welcome remarks, the Director, EfD-Mak Centre Prof. Edward Bbaale said the initiative is heavily involved in undertaking research in environmental economics to inform policy in the matter of improving the environment and natural resources.
He said the Inclusive Green Economy is fully funded by Sida and implemented by the EfD-Global hub at the University of Gothenburg, Sweden in collaboration with EfD-Mak centre in case of Uganda but it is also taking place in other Eastern African Countries – Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda and Tanzania is in its year of implementation.
The program he added, targets senior civil servants and policy makers in the Environment and Natural Resources sector mainly the economists who undergo capacity building on the design and application of policy instrument .
Uganda’s IGE Policy engagement specialist Peter Babyenda said, they are training public servants in the green issues to change their understanding so that they can take care of the environment while undertaking projects and making decisions.
Babyenda said the purpose of the workshop was to discuss how to minimise the effects of three key issues namely; the use of fossil fuels, conversion of forest loss and plastic pollution.
Stakeholders, he said, were given a questionnaire on what they feel about suggested alternatives.
“A study was also conducted last year among a randomly selected population in Uganda’s 10 cities. Today we are discussing which alternatives we can come up with to get a win-win situation, what to tell plastic manufacturers so that they run a business that at the same time protects the environment. For fossil fuels, is it time to start talking of electric motor vehicles?” Babyenda asked.
The survey from the population indicated less acceptance of the policy instruments mainly due to lack of alternatives for fossil fuels, plastics and cooking techniques coupled with the issue of affordability.
These IGE fellows are being training to come up with policies that are inclusive i.e. leave no one behind.
Participants speak out
IGE Fellow, Calysts Bikwasi Ndyomugabi, who is the Principal Economist and Ag. Commissioner from the Ministry of Finance Planning and Economic Development said,
“We have been looking at the effects of the use of fossil fuels, forest use and plastics and how best we can engage stakeholders in terms of acceptance of policy instruments so that they are regulated to mitigate the current challenges such as climate change arising out of destruction of environment, sensitization and capacity building gaps to enhance green economy in Uganda and the region.”
Fred Onyai an IGE fellow from the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) noted that although environmental policies exist there is continued forest loss and low acceptance and implementation of policies.
“Greening the economy means we must come up with policies that are inclusive and where every stakeholder plays a role so that there is collective ownership, sustainability and acceptance and evaluation of the policies so that government does not own the process alone.
These policies must enhance environmental conservation vis-à-vis human livelihood and climate resilient because a green policy looks at conserving nature, ecosystem integrity and people must be able to withstand the shocks”, Onyai explained.
Jane Anyango is the Communication Officer, EfD-Mak Centre
On Wednesday 16th July 2025, Makerere University lost one of its most cherished sons, Professor Livingstone Sserwadda Luboobi. Described as a mathematician, academic leader, and humble servant, Professor Luboobi devoted more than five decades to the university, rising through the ranks to become Vice Chancellor, and leaving a legacy defined by simplicity, service, and scholarship.
Born to Lameka Serwadda and Sanyu Serwadda on 25th December 1944 in Mitondo, Kalisizo, Kyotera District, Professor Luboobi’s academic career begun as a third-year student at Makerere and continued with unwavering loyalty until his passing. His life’s work reflected not only a commitment to mathematics but also nurturing generations of scholars and leaders across Uganda and beyond.
A funeral service was held in his honour at St. Francis Chapel, Makerere University on 18th July 2025. It was a moment of solemn remembrance and heartfelt tribute. Rev. Canon Dr. John Senyonyi delivered the sermon titled “Only God Knows,” reminding mourners of the mystery and grace of life’s journey. Rev. Canon Geoffrey Byarugaba represented the Kampala Diocese at the service, while former St. Francis Chaplain, Rev. Dr. Canon Johnson Ebong thanked Professor Luboobi for spearheading the Chapel’s expansion. Friends, colleagues, and family members filled the chapel, joined in mourning but also in gratitude for a life that had deeply touched theirs.
Mrs. Lorna Magara, Chairperson of the University Council, spoke movingly about Professor Luboobi’s faithfulness, likening his life to the biblical call in Mark 10:43, “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.”
In his condolence message, the Vice Chancellor, Professor Barnabas Nawangwe, hailed Professor Luboobi as a visionary leader whose legacy is deeply woven into Makerere’s identity as a research-led institution. He credited Professor Luboobi with laying the groundwork for a culture of inquiry—championing graduate programmes, encouraging doctoral training, and fostering international collaborations that strengthened the university’s research profile. “He believed in building systems, not just structures,” noting that many of Makerere’s current research policies stem from his leadership. Even in retirement, Professor Luboobi remained a source of wisdom and guidance, quietly shaping the future of the university he so deeply loved.
Speaker after speaker painted a portrait of a man who led not by pomp, but by quiet strength and deep conviction. The Principal, Professor Winston Tumps Ireeta, speaking on behalf of the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), described Professor Luboobi as a foundational figure whose influence is deeply etched in the structures and spirit of the college. He spoke with emotion about Luboobi’s unwavering commitment to academic integrity and his belief in the power of mentorship.
“He was not just a mathematician,” Professor Ireeta said, “he was a visionary who understood the soul of the university. Even in retirement, he remained an advisor, a guide, and a quiet force of wisdom.” He concluded by saying that the college would continue to draw from his example as it navigates the future of science and innovation in Uganda.
Professor Luboobi’s illustrious career at Makerere University included serving as Head, Department of Mathematics from 1990 to 1991. The current Head of Department, Dr. Ismail Mirumbe remembered him as a pillar in the teaching and development of mathematics in Uganda
Professor John Mango, who served as Head, Department of Mathematics during Professor Luboobi’s term as Vice Chancellor from 2004 to 2009 described him as a towering figure of integrity and principle, someone who not only upheld the highest standards of academic conduct but insisted that others around him do the same. “He was a pillar in the department,” Prof. Mango remarked, “and his moral compass was unwavering.”
He recalled instances where Professor Luboobi made firm decisions, including terminating contracts when integrity was compromised, setting a tone that shaped the department’s reputation for honesty and excellence. Even as Vice Chancellor, he remained deeply involved in the department’s affairs, teaching, supervising students, all the while handling top administrative duties punctually. Prof. Mango spoke with great admiration of a man who led by example, mentored many, and whose contributions to mathematics education, research, and policy-making continue to shape the future of the discipline in Uganda and beyond.
According to an article from 1990 written by Dr. Vincent Ssembatya and Andrew Vince at the University of Florida, the Uganda Mathematical Society (UMS), which was formally established on 25th November, 1972 has since inception enjoyed major support from Makerere University and Kyambogo University in terms of infrastructure and leadership. Professor Paul Mugambi, who was also present at Professor Luboobi’s funeral service was elected first president of the UMS. Dr. Saul Nsubuga from the Department of Mathematics represented UMS at the service, honouring Professor Luboobi’s pioneering role in the discipline.
The service also featured tributes from close friends and family. Loved ones shared stories of a man who remained grounded no matter how high he rose, a man who valued relationships and walked closely with his faith. His children and grandchildren remembered him as a father who was ever-present, a listener, and a source of steady guidance.
Professor Daniel Kibuule, son of the late Professor Luboobi and Dean, Faculty of Health Sciences at Busitema University, delivered a deeply personal tribute that painted a full portrait of his father’s life, values, and final days. He expressed gratitude to the University leadership, family, friends, and medical professionals who stood with them during a challenging period. He particularly thanked his siblings, Dr. David Kimera and Dr. Irene Nakiyimba for their unwavering role in caring for Professor Luboobi through illness.
He spoke of a man who, despite great academic accolades, remained deeply humble and committed to discipline, simplicity, and faith. From instilling punctuality and responsibility to ensuring his children charted their own paths, none bearing his surname “Luboobi”, Prof. Luboobi was intentional in every lesson he passed on. Kibuule recalled his father’s insistence on being at home even in his final moments, his strong connection to Christ, and his quiet strength despite his failing health.
Former students and mentees echoed the same sentiments, of a teacher who was generous with his time and invested deeply in others’ growth. The community that gathered was not only there to grieve but to celebrate the quiet legacy of a man whose example continues to live on.
Among the mourners were public figures and leaders, including Hon. Abed Bwanika, Member of Parliament for Kimanya-Kabonera, Hon. Nyombi Thembo, the Executive Director Uganda Communications Commission, and Hon. Dr. Ham-Mukasa Mulira, former Minister of ICT, among others.
In his passing, Makerere University has lost a pillar, but his life reminds us that greatness lies in consistency, in humility, and in service to others. Professor Luboobi’s memory will continue to live on in the minds he shaped, the systems he built, and the values he embodied. He ran his race with grace.
The Writer is a Volunteer in the Public Relations Office, Makerere University
Please click the embedded video below to view the service livestream
Legal and accounting officers from public universities across Uganda have convened, for a high-level training workshop organized by Makerere University. The three-day training, taking place from July 16th to 18th, 2025, is aimed at strengthening legal frameworks, improving institutional governance, and ensuring compliance with public finance and procurement laws within higher education institutions.
Ms. Lorna Magara, Chairperson of the Makerere University Council and Guest of Honour at the opening session, commended the initiative as timely and necessary. She addressed the growing backlog of court cases affecting Makerere and other public universities and outlined measures already taken to mitigate legal risks. These include the establishment of a Legal Rules and Privileges Committee and the Directorate of Legal Affairs, part of a broader strategy to improve legal compliance and foster good governance.
Representing the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Winston Tumps – Ag. Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration), described the training as both strategic and practical. “It is imperative that we learn from each other, especially in how we handle employee litigation and institutional legal risks,” he remarked. He added that the program is designed to promote experience-sharing across universities and enhance collective institutional growth.
In his address, Mr. Yusuf Kiranda, University Secretary at Makerere University, emphasized the urgent need for robust legal oversight and more effective case management mechanisms within public universities.
The training featured a keynote address by the Attorney General of Uganda, Hon. Kiryowa Kiwanuka, who provided critical insights into legal expectations for public institutions. He warned that failure to heed legal advice could result in personal liability for accounting officers, citing a precedent involving the Uganda Cancer Institute. “Universities must consult the Attorney General’s chambers before entering into major contractual obligations,” he advised, urging legal officers to document decisions meticulously as proper record-keeping forms the first line of defense in legal disputes.
Hon. Kiwanuka further discussed the government’s ongoing efforts to recentralize legal services to ensure alignment with the Attorney General’s office. He cautioned in-house counsel against becoming overly entangled in decision-making processes, stressing the need for objectivity. Other key issues he addressed included contract approvals, misuse of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), and lapses in procurement processes, particularly at the close of financial years.
Participants also benefited from insights by Hon. Justice Musa Ssekaana of the Court of Appeal, who offered an in-depth analysis of judicial review and its significance in promoting lawful, transparent university governance. He called on university legal officers to act with clarity, timeliness, and accountability.
Lady Justice Joyce Kavuma, Judge of the High Court, delivered a comprehensive presentation on dispute and claim management involving public universities. She addressed emerging trends in civil litigation, emphasizing the importance of due process, transparency, and clear communication in resolving employment, student, and contractual disputes. Drawing on real case examples, she urged institutions to strengthen internal systems, embrace participatory governance, and adopt regional best practices to minimize litigation and protect institutional reputation.
The training reflects a shared commitment among public universities to build a more accountable, legally sound, and strategically aligned higher education system in Uganda. Through peer learning and collaboration, participating institutions aim to reduce litigation, enhance institutional autonomy, and uphold the rule of law.
Participating universities include Makerere University, Kyambogo University, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Busitema University, Mountains of the Moon University, and Lira University.
The training concludes on July 18th 2025, with sessions focusing on employment dispute management in public universities and the implications of recent PPDA Appeals Tribunal decisions on procurement and disposal practices within public entities.
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