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Request for Expression of Interest: Writing the CTCA Story

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Project Title: The story for the Centre for Tobacco Control in Africa Ltd then, along and
now

Expression of Interest Number: CTCA/EOI/ 2022-001

Background on CTCA

The Centre for Tobacco Control in Africa (CTCA) was established in July 2011 following a recommendation of the stakeholder meeting that was held in Accra, Ghana in June 2008. The Centre was established by World Health Organisations (WHO) through a competitive process in response to a call by Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF). MakerereUniversity, housed the center at the School of Public Health.

The Centre has had three phases of funding. Phase 1 covered 2011-2014 was executed under the oversight of the Work health organization; Phase 2 was implemented from mid 2014 through early 2019 under the African Capacity Building Foundation; Phase III started mid 2019 to September 2022. All phases were funded by Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. This funding formed the core of CTCA. There were multiple other funding streams from IDRC, Research Council UK, WHO, Government of Uganda, USAID and NIH not aligned to the funding phases presented above but specific to announcements for funding as they became
available.

The core business of CTCA is Capacity Development for Tobacco Control (TC) and research forms a strong arm to generate continuous evidence for time focused and tailored interventions.

The Center has correspondingly undergone evolution to a self-operating legal entity to serve the African continent on the tobacco control front and on the path to a Go-to-Centre of excellence and reference. During its period of existence, the Center has had paradigm shifts in program focus from policy-focused support interventions to strategy, and now sustainability.

Vision of CTCA

CTCA has a defined institutional direction reflected in its profile and program hierarchy as hereunder. The vision of CTCA is to achieve a “Tobacco-free Africa”. The mission is to enhance African governments’ capacity to formulate and implement Tobacco Control programs through partnerships and cooperation. The goal of the Centre is to reduce the production and consumption of tobacco by supporting governments in implementing evidence-based tobacco control strategies in Africa.

Currently the Centre is guided by a 7-year $15.9 million strategic plan spanning 2019 to 2025 with 5 strategic objectives namely to; SO1: To strengthen the capacity of countries in Africa to formulate and implement FCTC compliant programs; SO2: To promote evidence-based tobacco control policy formulation and program implementation; SO3: To mobilize human, material, and financial resources for sustainable tobacco control in Africa; SO4: To promote partnerships for tobacco control at national, regional and international levels; SO5: To enhance CTCA’s ability to support capacity development in tobacco control.

The strategic objectives are anchored in five pillars of CTCA Strategic Plan 2019/2025 based on the overarching strategic issues that call for attention in the planning and implementation periods. They form the very issues upon which success is measured. They are: Pillar 1: Capacity Development; Pillar 2: Expanding evidence; Pillar 3: Resource Mobilisation; Pillar 4: Partnerships; Pillar 5: Institutional development

Rationale for CTCA journey, “then-along-and-Now”

The objective of assignment is to tell the CTCA story from inception, along and now. Understanding the trajectory and journey will inform future discussions in shaping the Africa continental TC response. The story should chronical the events as they occurred in the CTCA journey then, during and now to propose the future path.

CTCA seeks to contract a competent, qualified, and experienced consultant(s) to undertake this important assignment over a 30-person days period.

Scope and Method of the assignment

The consultant is required to undertake a search strategy for extensive documents review and conduct key stakeholder consultations. The scope of the assignment will include;

a) Review of phase 1, 2 and 3 documents including the appraisal documents, grant agreements, performance reports, program review reports, missions reports, program strategy and policy documents, and institutional manuals (WHO, ACBF, Makerere, CTCA)
b) A trend analysis of governance manuals, success stories, lessons, challenges, minutes, and concept notes.
c) Review and examine the organizational governance and technical structure over time and how this has impacted CTCA performance
d) Examine the pre-CTCA context and justification for its birth, the status during the business phase and project the future outlook.
e) Tell key success stories and the stakeholder’s overtime
f) Analyze the philosophy and theory of change of CTCA to inform the future direction.
g) Relevant graphics and pictures through the review period for story
h) Document the impact trend of CTCA interventions in Tobacco Control then, along, and now

Key deliverables

i) Inception report, completed within one week of commencement of assignment. The inception report shall include:

  • A detailed description of the methodology and timeline for developing CTCA story
  • The documents to review
  • The list of persons to interview.
  • A description of the meetings/workshop(s) and any other activities envisaged if any.

j) Consultative process report
k) Draft story book
l) Final validated story book

Institutional arrangement

The Consultant will report directly to the Chief Operations Officer. The Chief Operations Officer will provide all the necessary background documents and support the consultant(s) in organising meetings and activities all stakeholders.

Expected attributes of the consultant(s)

a) Experience in report writing
b) Demonstrated experience in program reviews, evaluations, and compiling program profiles
c) Should have published at leas five articles in peer reviewed journals
d) Strong analytical skills
e) Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to negotiate and work with teams
f) Excellent communication skills and fluency in English and or French or bilingual

Timing

The activity should be executed within 30 person days spread between 15th September to 30th October 2022

How to apply

All applications should be addressed to the Chief Executive Officer, CTCA. Apply electronically including a cover letter, CV, copies of academic and professional documents with at least 2 reference letters. Address your application EOI@ctc-africa.org

Application Deadline:

Wednesday 7th September 2022 at 5:00pm EST

Mark Wamai

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Makerere University-ND Sign MoU to Enhance Collaboration

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The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (L) and the ND 18th President, Rev. Robert A. Dowd shake hands after signing the MoU. Makerere University Kampala, Uganda and the University of Notre Dame, South Bend, Indiana, USA (ND) sign MOU, which opens opportunities for collaboration between the two historic and leading research institutions in the areas of staff and student exchange, joint research and training, joint supervision of graduate students, and others, May 2026.

Makerere University and the University of Notre Dame, Indiana, USA (ND) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), which opens opportunities for collaboration between the two historic and leading research institutions in the areas of staff and student exchange, joint research and training, joint supervision of graduate students, and others.

Officials pose for a group photo with the signed MoU. Makerere University Kampala, Uganda and the University of Notre Dame, South Bend, Indiana, USA (ND) sign MOU, which opens opportunities for collaboration between the two historic and leading research institutions in the areas of staff and student exchange, joint research and training, joint supervision of graduate students, and others, May 2026.
Officials pose for a group photo with the signed MoU.

The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe signed on behalf of Makerere University and Rev. Robert A. Dowd, the 18th President signed on behalf of the University of Notre Dame. The ceremony, which was held at the University of Notre Dame campus at South Bend, Indiana was witnessed by Dr. Lorna Magara, the Chairperson of the Council of Makerere University, who led the Mak delegation.

The Chairperson of Council Dr. Lorna Magara (Centre) presents Mak Coffee to an ND official as University Secretary-Mr. Yusuf Kiranda (Right) witnesses. Makerere University Kampala, Uganda and the University of Notre Dame, South Bend, Indiana, USA (ND) sign MOU, which opens opportunities for collaboration between the two historic and leading research institutions in the areas of staff and student exchange, joint research and training, joint supervision of graduate students, and others, May 2026.
The Chairperson of Council Dr. Lorna Magara (Centre) presents Mak Coffee to an ND official as University Secretary-Mr. Yusuf Kiranda (Right) witnesses.

Dr. Magara appreciated the institutionalisation of the collaboration between the two universities and the very warm hospitality accorded to the Mak delegation.

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Press Release: Government of Uganda and Partners Launch SAY Plus+ to Scale Youth Sexual Reproductive Health & Rights (SRHR) Impact in Underserved Regions

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Hon. Margaret Muhanga assisted by Dr. Charles Olaro officially launches the SAY Plus+ Programme as L-R: Amb. Signe Winding Albjerg, Amb. Frederieke Quispel, Ms. Kristine Blokhus and Prof. Henry Alinaitwe witness. The Government of Uganda, through the Ministry of Health officially launches the SAY Plus+ Programme, a Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) initiative designed to strengthen adolescent and youth rights, empowerment, protection and access to quality services in Uganda's underserved regions, Backed by a USD 50 million pooled fund from the Governments of Iceland, Denmark, the Netherlands, and Sweden, scheduled to operate between 2024 and 2030. 7th May 2026, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

USD 50 million national programme moves into full implementation, strengthening
adolescent and youth rights, empowerment, protection and access to youth-responsive
services in 13 districts across five sub-regions

KAMPALA, 7 MAY 2026: The Government of Uganda, through the Ministry of Health, today officially launched the SAY Plus+ Programme, a Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) initiative designed to strengthen adolescent and youth rights, empowerment, protection and access to quality services in Uganda’s underserved regions.

The launch, held at Makerere University‘s Freedom Square under the theme “My Voice Matters: Youth Voices for SAY Plus+” and the tagline “Nothing for us, without us”, marks the programme’s transition into full implementation.

SAY Plus+, formerly known as Strengthening Adolescents and Youth Rights and Empowerment: Scaling Impact, is led by the Ministry of Health, in coordination with other Ministries, with UNFPA Uganda serving as the Managing and Technical Agency.

Backed by a USD 50 million pooled fund from the Governments of Iceland, Denmark, the Netherlands, and Sweden, the initiative is scheduled to operate between 2024 and 2030. It is currently being rolled out across thirteen districts within five sub-regions, providing targeted assistance to regional referral hospitals in Jinja, Mbale, Moroto, Yumbe, Arua, and Gulu. Furthermore, the programme supports the Human Capital Development goals established in Uganda’s National Development Plan IV.

“SAY Plus+ represents a shift from fragmented interventions to a coordinated national effort that meaningfully places young people at the centre of both design and delivery. Through our partnership with the Government of Uganda, development partners, and implementing partners, we are investing not only in services, but in the systems, communities, and environments that enable adolescents and young people to thrive not only today but also in the future,” said Ms. Kristine Blokhus, Representative – UNFPA Uganda.

Officially launched by the Minister of State for Health Hon. Margaret Muhanga, the SAY Plus+ programme targets adolescents and young people aged 10 to 24 years, with particular focus on adolescent girls and young women, refugees and host-community youth, out-of-school young people, those not in employment, education or training, adolescents with disabilities, and young people in humanitarian and post-conflict settings.

“For many of us, things like this one are designed without listening to what we go through every day, think or even feel. SAY Plus+ feels different because it starts with our voices and gives us a real role in shaping solutions. It is not just about information, it is about being supported to make decisions, access services, and build the future we want.” – Jovia Dranzoa, Young person.

SAY Plus+ operates through three pillars. First, it empowers youth to exercise their rights and make informed choices. Second, it engages families, communities, and leaders to address harmful social norms. Third, it strengthens youth-responsive SRHR, HIV, and gender-based violence services via health facilities and community platforms, aiming to reach over 2.3 million direct and indirect beneficiaries.

The SAY Plus+ initiative stands as a model of international cooperation and multi-sectoral synergy. Through the combined support of the Governments of Iceland, Denmark, the Netherlands, and Sweden, and the technical leadership of UNFPA, Uganda is now equipped to scale-up critical interventions in HIV prevention, gender-based violence response, and reproductive health. With implementation now in high gear through 2030, the programme is poised to make a lasting contribution to the nation’s human capital development goals.

— ENDS —

Photos from the event

Prof. Henry Alinaitwe addresses participants at the launch. The Government of Uganda, through the Ministry of Health officially launches the SAY Plus+ Programme, a Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) initiative designed to strengthen adolescent and youth rights, empowerment, protection and access to quality services in Uganda's underserved regions, Backed by a USD 50 million pooled fund from the Governments of Iceland, Denmark, the Netherlands, and Sweden, scheduled to operate between 2024 and 2030. 7th May 2026, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Henry Alinaitwe addresses participants at the launch.

Ms. Kristine Blokhus. The Government of Uganda, through the Ministry of Health officially launches the SAY Plus+ Programme, a Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) initiative designed to strengthen adolescent and youth rights, empowerment, protection and access to quality services in Uganda's underserved regions, Backed by a USD 50 million pooled fund from the Governments of Iceland, Denmark, the Netherlands, and Sweden, scheduled to operate between 2024 and 2030. 7th May 2026, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Ms. Kristine Blokhus.

Part of the audience at the event. The Government of Uganda, through the Ministry of Health officially launches the SAY Plus+ Programme, a Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) initiative designed to strengthen adolescent and youth rights, empowerment, protection and access to quality services in Uganda's underserved regions, Backed by a USD 50 million pooled fund from the Governments of Iceland, Denmark, the Netherlands, and Sweden, scheduled to operate between 2024 and 2030. 7th May 2026, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Part of the audience at the event.

Some of the young people that attended the event. The Government of Uganda, through the Ministry of Health officially launches the SAY Plus+ Programme, a Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) initiative designed to strengthen adolescent and youth rights, empowerment, protection and access to quality services in Uganda's underserved regions, Backed by a USD 50 million pooled fund from the Governments of Iceland, Denmark, the Netherlands, and Sweden, scheduled to operate between 2024 and 2030. 7th May 2026, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Some of the young people that attended the event.

Prof. Henry Alinaitwe signs the commemorative piece. The Government of Uganda, through the Ministry of Health officially launches the SAY Plus+ Programme, a Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) initiative designed to strengthen adolescent and youth rights, empowerment, protection and access to quality services in Uganda's underserved regions, Backed by a USD 50 million pooled fund from the Governments of Iceland, Denmark, the Netherlands, and Sweden, scheduled to operate between 2024 and 2030. 7th May 2026, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Henry Alinaitwe signs the commemorative piece.

L-R: Prof. Henry Alinaitwe, Dr. Charles Olaro, Hon. Margaret Muhanga, Amb. Signe Winding Albjerg, Amb. Maria Håkansson, Amb. Frederieke Quispel, Amb. Unnur Orradottir Ramette, Ms. Kristine Blokhus and a young lady during the press interviews. The Government of Uganda, through the Ministry of Health officially launches the SAY Plus+ Programme, a Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) initiative designed to strengthen adolescent and youth rights, empowerment, protection and access to quality services in Uganda's underserved regions, Backed by a USD 50 million pooled fund from the Governments of Iceland, Denmark, the Netherlands, and Sweden, scheduled to operate between 2024 and 2030. 7th May 2026, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
L-R: Prof. Henry Alinaitwe, Dr. Charles Olaro, Hon. Margaret Muhanga, Amb. Signe Winding Albjerg, Amb. Maria Håkansson, Amb. Frederieke Quispel, Amb. Unnur Orradottir Ramette, Ms. Kristine Blokhus and a young lady during the press interviews.

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Notice: Medical Review Exercise for Persons with Disability 2026/2027

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Makerere University Students in a discussion group.

The Academic Registrar, Makerere University invites persons with disability who applied for admission to public universities under the disability entry scheme for 2026/2027 Academic Year to appear for medical/review exercise at Makerere University, Senate Building, Level Four Conference Hall.

NOTE: Only those who have the minimum entry requirements of at least two principal passes at A’ Level or its equivalent and at least five (5) passes at O’ Level or its equivalent will be interviewed.

 Only candidates who sat ‘A’ level in 2025, 2024 and 2023 are eligible for admission.

THE EXERCISE WILL BE CONDUCTED ON 18th, 19th, 20th, 21st and 22nd May, 2026 respectively from 9.00 A.M – 1.00 P.M each day.

See details below:

IMPORTANT:

(i) If you fail to appear on any of the given days above, there will be no other chance for you this year.

(ii) Applicants with other Government Scholarships are not eligible for admission through the Disability Entry Scheme

Prof. Mukadasi Buyinza
ACADEMIC REGISTRAR

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