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Mak implored to research into the Centralization of Forest Governance in Uganda

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Mpigi District Local Government and stakeholders in the forestry sector want Environmental economists from Makerere University to conduct research into the impacts of centralizing the governance of national forests in Uganda.

According to section 54 (1) a of the National Forestry Act, 2003, management of all Central Forest Reserves is the mandate of National Forestry Authority (NFA) whereas that of Local Forest Reserves is the direct responsibility of the district forest officer as specified under section 48 (3) e of National Forestry Act, 2003. All forestry activities are guided by the National Forestry Policy 2001.

Poor forest governance has been blamed for the depletion of the ecosystem in Uganda. The people of Mpigi contend that since government mandated NFA to manage national forests, most of the forests have been depleted and they want national forests governance decentralized.

A section of the panelists contributing to the discussion.
A section of the panelists contributing to the discussion.

To achieve this districts officials and stakeholders say, Makerere University should conduct research into the impact of centralizing national forest governance to provide evidence for policy change. This call was made during the policy dialogue held at the district chambers organized by the Environment for Development Initiative (EfD-Mak) Centre on 22nd November 2022. The university team was led by the Director represented by Dr. John Sseruyange.

The meeting brought together representatives of the district political and technical arms, civil society organizations, the private sector, elders and opinion leaders, farmers leaders under the theme, “Forestry and Biodiversity: Addressing Challenges of Forest degradation and Enhancing Environmental Management in Uganda”.

The participants discussed the key governance issues in the forestry sector, how communities can  be strengthened to participate in forest recovery programs and what best forest restoration mechanisms should be adopted to revert the forest destruction trends in Uganda.

Dr. John Sseruyange representing the Director EfD-Mak centre.
Dr. John Sseruyange representing the Director EfD-Mak centre.

 Governance here referred to,  “the norms, institutions, and processes that determine how power and responsibilities over forests are exercised, how decisions are taken and how citizens – including women, men, youth, indigenous people and local communities – secure access to, participate in, and are impacted by the management of forests”

Presenting the status of forests in  Mpigi district, the  Chief Administrative Officer represented by the District Natural Resources Officer Mwidyeki Anthony said the management of forests in Mpigi has been so challenging and has on a number of occasions raised many issues involving NFA, the district and the community living adjacent to the forests.

EfD-Mak centre research fellows Dr. John Sseruyange (Left), Dr. Alice Turinawe (Standing) and Fred Kasalirwe during the meeting.
EfD-Mak centre research fellows Dr. John Sseruyange (Left), Dr. Alice Turinawe (Standing) and Fred Kasalirwe during the meeting.

“It should be noted that, the once thick forests in Mpigi district which had a collection of Muvule, Setaala, Musizi and other indigenous tree species have and are still gradually being reduced to empty land or replaced with eucalyptus trees for many reasons.

The natural forests reported that indigenous species that had survived for ages are now being abruptly ruined. This tragedy has befallen all the natural forests in Mpigi, a district once blessed with a wide range of biodiversity. Most natural forests in Muduuma and Kiringente have completely gone”, Mwidyeki submitted.

Mwidyeki  explained that all the central forest reserves in Mpigi district with exception of Mpanga forest have been faced with the problem of encroachment in form of cultivation, grazing and settlement while in  most of all the reserves, conflicts resulting from unclear boundaries are very common and  have sometimes resulted in court cases leading to loss of time and money.

Mr. Mwidyeki Anthony speaking during the dialogue.
Mr. Mwidyeki Anthony speaking during the dialogue.

The vegetation cover of most Central Reserve Forests in Mpigi according to Mwidyeki have been changed into eucalyptus plantations, boundary markers uprooted, increasing forest encroachment, land grabbing and conflicts between NFA staff and communities living adjacent to these forests.

Besides population pressure that has increased the demand for fire wood, charcoal and land for settlement, Mwidyeki alleged that there has been creation of illegal land tittles in these reserves, construction of roads and industrialization.

Mwidyeki however highlighted a number of initiatives undertaken  to promote forestry. These included; Sensitization and training of communities in forestry management, distribution of tree seedlings across the district, establishment of the district nursery bed, training and supervision of nursery owners on acquisition of quality tree seed and conducting routine inspections to detect and deter illegal forestry activities.

Maria Lubega (Left) interacts with the opinion leader Frank Kawooya (Right).
Maria Lubega (Left) interacts with the opinion leader Frank Kawooya (Right).

Representing the Director, EfD Mak Centre, Research Fellow Dr. John Sseruyange underscored the importance of forests as major stores of atmospheric carbon contributing to the regulation of climate change, water quantity, mitigating the effects of high flows in wet periods and low flows in the dry periods.

He said forests contribute to soil and water protection and biodiversity conservation and supply well over 90% of Uganda’s energy requirements in the form of fuel wood.

“Sustainably managed forests give environmental benefits, sustainable economic development and improve the quality of life of people across the country”, Dr. Sseruyange said

The Deputy RDC Maria Lubega (Left) listens as the District Police Officer contributes.
The Deputy RDC Maria Lubega (Left) listens as the District Police Officer contributes.

Sseruyange reported that the Uganda forestry sector reforms (1998 – 2003) aimed at providing more efficient and effective forest administration, management and utilization of Uganda’s forest resources, through: The Forestry Policy (2001), The National Forestry Plan (2002),

The NFTPA (2003) and a new institutional framework for the management of forestry resources in the country.

These resulted in the birth of institutions such as: The NFA, the UWA, the DFS, private forest owners and community forests owners which distributed responsibilities between the central government, local government agencies, the private sector, NGOs, community based organizations and the local communities.

EfD-Mak Data Manager Fred Kasalirwe giving a brief about the centre.
EfD-Mak Data Manager Fred Kasalirwe giving a brief about the centre.

The reforms according to Sseruyange aimed at promoting multi-stakeholder participation, transparency, integrity and professionalism in management of the forestry sector.

“Despite these good intentions, the forest estate in Uganda has continued to shrink from 4.9 million hectares in 1990 to currently 2.3 million hectares, NFA (2015) a loss of over half of the forests in a span of 25 years. …. However, over this period, 46% of protected woodlands- mostly those under NFA, were lost.

The reasons for this decline are mostly attributed to poor forest governance, and particularly problems with forest law enforcement and governance, and associated institutional issues” , He stated.

EfD-Mak Data Manager Fred Kasalirwe interacts with the police commander after the meeting.
EfD-Mak Data Manager Fred Kasalirwe interacts with the police commander after the meeting.

The main causes of deforestation according to Dr. Sseruyange relate to issues of governance in the forestry sector, illegal and unregulated trade of forest products and the unsecured forest tenure rights. Other issues are the conversion of forest land to other land use types such as agriculture and urbanization, and rampant felling of trees for firewood and charcoal burning.

In her closing remarks the Deputy Resident District Commissioner Maria Lubega described  the dialogue as timely,  thanked the university for  choosing Mpigi, pledging  the district commitment to support efforts  geared towards  restoring the environment.

Lubega wants an evidence based report on forest governance from Makerere University for presentation to the relevant government organs.

Deputy RDC Maria Lubega delivering her closing remarks.
Deputy RDC Maria Lubega delivering her closing remarks.

“Two weeks ago, the President sent someone from his office to come because he was interested in the environment restoration, and we are working on this report. When the report about this dialogue is ready share with us because it is timely, and I shall share with it directly with the president because NFA is just an authority and the other one is a fountain of honor so we shall take our views to the president”. She said.

Participants speak out

During the panel and plenary discussions participants expressed the need to decentralize the management of all forest reserves to the district.

“The forest sector is the least funded. Officers vehicles get stuck with no fuel. The moral fabric of the people of Mpigi is filled with, I don’t care attitude. NFA has been nicknamed as “nfa” meaning I am dying.  NFA efforts are not coordinated with the district office. The District Natural resources officer should have been a member of NFA, there is a lot of political interference while implementing policies with orders from above”, The District Senior Entomologist Onyango Oluoch decried.

The District Forestry Officer Ssengendo Micheal says the major issue is governance.

“When you look back, the forests were intact and management was proper. All regulations were being followed. With the new changes in the policy of 2001 when they brought in NFA, that is where we all lost it because there was confusion and no coordination because of the bad governance.

The first thing we need to do is to revert back the old system. We need to have staff at every level. We need the forest guards, forest rangers but all these were reduced by two per district which is really over whelming when it gets to implementation of our forest management”. 

Nsamba Benon, a Political leader says, districts had powers to safeguard forests but more damage has been done when powers were shifted from local government to central government.

“Ever since NEMA took over, there is a very big damage on our forests as compared to long ago. It is our mandate to protect the environment. The business of centralizing powers has done more harm than good to our country.

It is possible to bring all stakeholders to board to protect the environment but it cannot be possible if people are seeing non-residents cutting away indigenous trees planting and owning eucalyptus trees. The biggest issue here is policy. It should  be reversed and our Forest Officer takes charge”.

Opinion leader, Frank Kawooya says the laws are weak and segregatively applied to a few.

“These laws are weak. Those who are supposed to manage forests cut the forests and replace them with eucalyptus. Now we see that forests have begun being shared. Am touched,  in the past forestry students at Makerere would not be awarded degrees without coming to study in Lwamata forest . Today no child ever comes to study because forests are no more.”

Frank Kawooya and other three panelist during the policy dialogue.
Frank Kawooya and other three panelist during the policy dialogue.

The District Environmental Police Commandant  says those mandated to guard the forest are the ones that cut the trees. He is opposed to the idea of replacing natural forests by eucalyptus and says enforcement is also problem.

“In 1924 we had an inventory for counting trees in Masaka.  We counted trees about 2000. There is a forest called Buzilango but, of recent when went there, I found that there are people living there. It was no longer a forest for government. Forest guards are the ones who cut trees and sell to bakeries and schools. Eucalyptus is not good because they drain water at a high speed and, were introduced by industrialists who wanted to build industries.

But we of enforcement have a problem. You go and see a person with a car carrying timber and there is no legal document showing. When you stop the car, you will hear the person referring you to talk to another person.  Sometimes there is collaboration with NFA and timber dealers connected from above. I suggest the powers should be brought back, decentralize forest reserves so that districts own, oversee and manage the forests. We need to sensitisize masses to look beyond financial gains but the future generation because in 50 years, we may not have any natural forest”.

A representative from the NGO forum called for sensitisation of the people on district and national forests.

“Different roles must be emphasized. Demarcations for individual, district and national forests must be emphasized. After sensitization they will know the species to plant”.

The District Farmers’ Chairperson Stella Nantamba says farmers are in weather crisis.

“Farmers rely on land. Soil is infertile, weather patterns have changed and many have resorted to forests and wetlands. Information given to farmers is distorted and weather changes are adverse Intervention requires adoption of agroforestry for environmental conservation and food security”.

But for teacher Emmanuel, charity begins at home and community. Sensitization form the community level will help children internalize the importance of forests.

“There is need for mindset change of those mandated to protect the environment so that children learn from them. Privatization of forests should be discouraged to save forests”, he said.

Jane Anyango

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Uganda Urged to Embrace Community-Based Conservation Approaches to Tackle Biodiversity Crisis

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Two-day high-level training for 40 Ugandan government officials on biodiversity conservation, community-based natural resource management, and economic valuation of national parks Organized by EfD Uganda, 20th-21st August 2025, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Over 40 Ugandan government officials have been called to integrate communities into biodiversity conservation following a two-day high-level training (August 20–21, 2025) at Makerere University.

Organized by EfD Uganda, the workshop focused on biodiversity conservation, community-based natural resource management, and economic valuation of national parks. Led by renowned environmental economist Prof. Edwin Muchapondwa, the training emphasized aligning conservation efforts with community involvement for lasting impact.

Prof. Edwin Mchapondwa facilitating the workshop at Makerere University. Two-day high-level training for 40 Ugandan government officials on biodiversity conservation, community-based natural resource management, and economic valuation of national parks Organized by EfD Uganda, 20th-21st August 2025, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Edwin Mchapondwa facilitating the workshop at Makerere University.

“Communities must be seen not just as beneficiaries but as co-managers of biodiversity,” said Prof. Muchapondwa. “Policy frameworks need to devolve rights to local people to increase their stake in conservation outcomes.”

Participants from ministries and agencies explored Uganda’s biodiversity challenges—including habitat loss, agricultural expansion, poaching, and climate change. Sessions covered conservation principles, legal frameworks, ecosystem valuation, and regulatory tools to integrate biodiversity into national planning.

A section of participants. Two-day high-level training for 40 Ugandan government officials on biodiversity conservation, community-based natural resource management, and economic valuation of national parks Organized by EfD Uganda, 20th-21st August 2025, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
A section of participants.

Valuing Nature to Shape Policy

A central theme was the economic valuation of ecosystems—putting monetary value on biodiversity to inform policy and investment decisions.

“When we reduce everything to a common metric, we can make objective, evidence-based decisions—especially when weighing development against conservation,” Prof. Muchapondwa said.

Participants in a group discussion. Two-day high-level training for 40 Ugandan government officials on biodiversity conservation, community-based natural resource management, and economic valuation of national parks Organized by EfD Uganda, 20th-21st August 2025, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Participants in a group discussion.

Officials practiced applying valuation methods like contingent valuation and payment for ecosystem services in real-world policy settings, including environmental impact assessments and Uganda’s National Development Plan III.

Despite strong conservation policies on paper, implementation remains weak. “The issue isn’t policy absence but execution,” he noted. “We must adapt successful community-based models from Southern Africa to Uganda’s context.”

A section of participants. Two-day high-level training for 40 Ugandan government officials on biodiversity conservation, community-based natural resource management, and economic valuation of national parks Organized by EfD Uganda, 20th-21st August 2025, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
A section of participants.

Tourism and Development: A Delicate Balance– Prof. Edward Bbaale

Speaking at the opening, Prof. Edward Bbaale, Director of the EfD–Mak Centre, emphasized collaboration between academia and government to support tourism development and sustainable resource use.

He praised Prof. Muchapondwa as a “pillar of the Environment for Development network” and highlighted the urgent need for research that connects tourism, conservation, and economics.

Prof. Edward Bbaale opening the training. Two-day high-level training for 40 Ugandan government officials on biodiversity conservation, community-based natural resource management, and economic valuation of national parks Organized by EfD Uganda, 20th-21st August 2025, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Edward Bbaale opening the training.

“We’ve had little research from Makerere on tourism and natural resource valuation,” Bbaale said. “Yet this is exactly where government seeks advice.”

Bbaale underscored Uganda’s ambition to grow GDP tenfold—from $50 billion to $500 billion—through sectors like tourism, agro-industrialization, and manufacturing, urging researchers to support this growth with evidence-based insights.

Prof. Edward Bbaale during the introductions. Two-day high-level training for 40 Ugandan government officials on biodiversity conservation, community-based natural resource management, and economic valuation of national parks Organized by EfD Uganda, 20th-21st August 2025, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Edward Bbaale during the introductions.

Makerere houses the highest concentration of PhDs in this country,” he said. “If this research isn’t happening here, where else should it happen?”

The event concluded with a renewed call for stronger partnerships among academia, government, and communities to ensure conservation and development go hand-in-hand.

Mchapondwa presenting at Makerere University Uganda. Two-day high-level training for 40 Ugandan government officials on biodiversity conservation, community-based natural resource management, and economic valuation of national parks Organized by EfD Uganda, 20th-21st August 2025, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mchapondwa presenting at Makerere University Uganda.

Public Sector Must Rethink Economic Policy Through Biodiversity Lens– Dr. Peter Babyenda

Uganda risks jeopardizing its natural wealth if it continues to undervalue its ecological resources, warned Dr. Peter Babyenda, Research Fellow and Policy Engagement Specialist at EfD–Mak Centre.

“Our forests, wetlands, and ecosystems are routinely excluded from GDP calculations due to limited technical capacity and funding,” he said. “Kenya has made progress—Uganda must catch up.”

Peter Babyenda Policy Engagement specialist. Two-day high-level training for 40 Ugandan government officials on biodiversity conservation, community-based natural resource management, and economic valuation of national parks Organized by EfD Uganda, 20th-21st August 2025, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Peter Babyenda Policy Engagement specialist.

To bridge the gap, EfD–Mak Centre, with support from SIDA, has launched a training program for technical staff from ministries and agencies like the Ministry of Tourism, Uganda Wildlife Authority, and NEMA.

“These are the people who draft policy,” Dr. Babyenda said. “We’re training them to use data and evidence, not emotion, when defending policies.”

Some of the group presentations. Two-day high-level training for 40 Ugandan government officials on biodiversity conservation, community-based natural resource management, and economic valuation of national parks Organized by EfD Uganda, 20th-21st August 2025, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Some of the group presentations.

He cited recent transport policy missteps—such as a speed enforcement proposal that failed due to lack of public engagement—as an example of why community participation is essential.

“Especially with human-wildlife conflicts, you must involve locals,” he said. “Solutions like electric fencing must be safe and community-driven.”

Conservation vs. Economic Growth

Uganda’s ambitious goal to grow its economy from $50 billion to $550 billion by 2040 presents risks to biodiversity, particularly from agricultural expansion. Dr. Babyenda stressed the need to balance development with environmental preservation.

“We must promote agriculture without destroying forests and wetlands,” he said. “Our tourism sector, which depends heavily on biodiversity, must also be protected.”

Prof. Mchapodwa delivering the lecture at EfD Uganda. Two-day high-level training for 40 Ugandan government officials on biodiversity conservation, community-based natural resource management, and economic valuation of national parks Organized by EfD Uganda, 20th-21st August 2025, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Mchapodwa delivering the lecture at EfD Uganda.

He urged officials to present conservation as an economic asset. “If you show that every additional dollar invested in tourism marketing creates jobs and boosts GDP, people will listen.”

Aligning with Uganda’s National Development Plan IV, Dr. Babyenda called for cross-sector policy coherence.

Some of the group presentations. Two-day high-level training for 40 Ugandan government officials on biodiversity conservation, community-based natural resource management, and economic valuation of national parks Organized by EfD Uganda, 20th-21st August 2025, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Some of the group presentations.

“Tourism, agro-industry, and mineral development must be guided by sound, evidence-based policy,” he concluded. “Otherwise, we risk losing it all.”

Participants Reflections from the Training

Adson Tumwebaze – National Environment Management Authority (NEMA)
As someone working in the Research and Innovations Unit at NEMA, this training was a timely eye-opener. We’ve gained valuable insights into how economic valuation can be integrated into our research and planning frameworks. Understanding the tangible benefits ecosystems provide—and knowing how to quantify those benefits—equips us with the tools to make informed decisions when balancing development and conservation.

For us at NEMA, this goes beyond theory. It supports our mandate of protecting ecosystems and helps us align our work with national policies such as the National Biodiversity Action Plan and BISAP. One of my key takeaways is that you cannot talk about implementing a project on an ecosystem without understanding its value. Once we can economically define these benefits, we can also justify conservation measures, influence policy, and guide budgeting processes more effectively.

Alice Nalweera – Economic Policy Researcher
This training brought clarity to a challenge many of us are grappling with: the growing threats to biodiversity in the face of urbanization, climate change, and population pressure. As we pursue economic development and strive for goals like those outlined in the 2040 export-oriented strategy, we must ask: Can biodiversity and development coexist?

Tourism is one of Uganda’s biggest earners, and it’s entirely dependent on biodiversity—the parks, wildlife, flora, and fauna. Without protecting these resources, our economic aspirations could collapse. What struck me most is the urgent need for accurate data. We can’t conserve what we haven’t identified or valued. Accounting for our natural resources is not optional—it’s essential.

Arthur Ebong – National Planning Authority
From the national planning perspective, this training helped bridge a crucial gap between policy and implementation. While NDP III and NDP IV highlight biodiversity mainstreaming, they often lack depth in practical conservation measures. We used to insert the term “biodiversity” into plans, but lacked the tools to truly value and integrate it.

Learning about valuation methods like hedonic pricing and travel cost analysis opened new avenues for making biodiversity count—literally—in our national plans. And beyond the technical tools, this session also promoted inter-agency collaboration. With stakeholders like NEMA, UWA, and the Ministry of Water in the same room, we can now work more cohesively toward a shared goal.

The training has also inspired curriculum reviews. If we want future planners and policymakers to value biodiversity, we must train them early—through revised academic programs and capacity-building initiatives. This is not just about today’s policies, but the long-term socio-economic transformation of Uganda.

Gertrude Kirabo – Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA)
At UWA, we face the challenge of balancing conservation with increasing economic pressure around protected areas. This training has been invaluable in helping us understand how to defend conservation efforts using data-driven economic valuation.

Previously, arguments for protecting a forest or wetland often sounded emotional or abstract. Now, we can present facts—cost-benefit analyses that compare the long-term value of ecosystem services with short-term economic gains. This also supports practical decisions like adjusting park permit fees or advocating for higher conservation budgets.

Personally, this training served as a wake-up call. It made me realize how often we’ve given away resources without truly valuing them. I strongly recommend that more field officers and institutional planners go through this kind of training. It’s one thing to learn these concepts in school, and another to see their real-world application. It’s time we started backing conservation with data and strong economic logic.

Jane Anyango is the Communication Officer EfD Uganda.

Jane Anyango

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Exploring Africa’s Growth and Global Challenges: Participants rallied on effective utilization of resources, and adoption of green economy strategies

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Dr. Paul Mpuga (3rd Left) poses for a group photo with participants after his presentation on 19th August 2025. Presentation: “Africa’s Growth Trends and Prospects in Light of Evolving Global Challenges” by Dr. Paul Mpuga, a visiting Scholar and Division Manager for Microeconomic Policy, Debt Sustainability, and Forecasting in the Economic Governance and Knowledge Management Vice-Presidency of the African Development Bank Group, 19th August 2025, Conference Room, Level 2, Block B, College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

By Ritah Namisango and Monica Meeme

On 19th August 2025, the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) at Makerere University, hosted a public presentation titled Africa’s Growth Trends and Prospects in Light of Evolving Global Challenges.”

Dr. Paul Mpuga, a visiting Scholar and Division Manager for Microeconomic Policy, Debt Sustainability, and Forecasting in the Economic Governance and Knowledge Management Vice-Presidency of the African Development Bank Group, delivered the presentation, which attracted both physical and virtual participants, comprising researchers, teaching staff, graduate, and undergraduate students.

The presentation covered critical topics including: Regional differences in growth performance and outlook, Inflation in Africa, Opportunities and Challenges to growth, emerging risks, and key policy recommendations.

The presentation provided valuable insights into the current economic challenges and opportunities facing Africa. His analysis highlighted the importance of sound policies, economic integration, and investment in key sectors such as education, infrastructure, and green growth. The discussion emphasized the need for collaboration among governments, the private sector, and academia to drive sustainable development and inclusive growth across the continent.

Associate Professor Faisal Buyinza. Presentation: “Africa’s Growth Trends and Prospects in Light of Evolving Global Challenges” by Dr. Paul Mpuga, a visiting Scholar and Division Manager for Microeconomic Policy, Debt Sustainability, and Forecasting in the Economic Governance and Knowledge Management Vice-Presidency of the African Development Bank Group, 19th August 2025, Conference Room, Level 2, Block B, College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Associate Professor Faisal Buyinza.

Welcoming the participants, Associate Professor Faisal Buyinza, the Acting Dean of the School of Economics, emphasized that Dr. Mpuga’s work is significant not only for his academic contributions, but also for his role as a mentor, having taught and influenced many of the current faculty members.

“His impressive career journey, which began at the World Bank’s Kampala office and later took him to Ethiopia and other countries, reflects his deep expertise in key economic roles across the continent,” said Associate Professor Buyinza. He disclosed that Dr. Mpuga’s extensive experience has significantly contributed to the development of macroeconomic design and policy skills, an asset particularly crucial as Uganda navigates current economic challenges.

In addition to his professional achievements, the Acting Dean of the School of Economics commended the humanitarian spirit of Dr. Mpuga, recalling how he used to share meals with street children in Uganda, reflecting his compassion and values beyond academia.

In his address, the College Principal, Prof. Edward Bbaale welcomed Prof. Mpuga back to Makerere University. “Dr. Mpuga is a former Lecturer. Today, he returns to the School of Economics, his academic home, to share with us, his versatile knowledge, experience and expertise on a topic crucial for Africa’s transformation,” said the Principal. He commended Dr. Mpuga’s decision to deliver the presentation, highlighting that such academic engagements are vital and should become a regular part of the College’s culture.

Prof. Edward Bbaale. Presentation: “Africa’s Growth Trends and Prospects in Light of Evolving Global Challenges” by Dr. Paul Mpuga, a visiting Scholar and Division Manager for Microeconomic Policy, Debt Sustainability, and Forecasting in the Economic Governance and Knowledge Management Vice-Presidency of the African Development Bank Group, 19th August 2025, Conference Room, Level 2, Block B, College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Edward Bbaale.

Reiterating the role of knowledge sharing and mentorship within the academic community, the Principal shared his personal testimony, acknowledging Dr. Mpuga’s pivotal role in his own academic journey. He recounted how Dr. Mpuga mentored him early in his career by including his name on a research project—an opportunity that opened doors to numerous collaborations, professional growth, and academic advancement.

The Principal called upon the staff and students present to embrace a culture of regular academic public presentations, such as lunch-hour sessions across the School of Economics, School of Business, and the School of Statistics and Planning. He noted the close connections between the disciplines, highlighting the potential for cross-disciplinary learning and collaboration.  The Principal emphasized that as Makerere University implements its research agenda, sustained academic engagement is a key defining aspect of this identity.

Prof. Bbaale affirmed the College’s support for such initiatives, including modest research grants that have already enabled the publication of around 70 research papers, soon to be compiled under the CoBAMS Working Paper Series.

Expressing the commitment to this strategic approach, the College Principal used the opportunity to introduce Dr. Peter Babyenda, a Lecturer at the School of Economics, who was appointed as the College’s Policy Engagement Coordinator to support academic activities.  Prof. Bbaale assured all in attendance of the maximum support for this initiative and encouraged active participation from everyone.

Dr. Peter Babyenda. Presentation: “Africa’s Growth Trends and Prospects in Light of Evolving Global Challenges” by Dr. Paul Mpuga, a visiting Scholar and Division Manager for Microeconomic Policy, Debt Sustainability, and Forecasting in the Economic Governance and Knowledge Management Vice-Presidency of the African Development Bank Group, 19th August 2025, Conference Room, Level 2, Block B, College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Peter Babyenda.

Beginning his presentation, Dr. Paul Mpuga, Division Manager at the African Development Bank, offered a comprehensive overview of Africa’s economic realities, challenges, and opportunities. He emphasized that economic progress is not driven by sentiment, but by certainty, sound policies, and strategic investment.

Using a simple analogy, Dr. Mpuga explained that a baker doesn’t bake bread unless they are sure it will sell. In the same way, investors and entrepreneurs, will only take risks in economies where policy certainty and confidence are assured. He underscored the urgent need for policy coherence and economic stability, both globally and within African nations.

Reiterating the importance of Domestic Revenue Mobilization, Dr. Mpuga noted that Africa’s average tax-to-GDP ratio stands at just 17%—significantly lower than the 25–28% seen in more advanced economies such as South Africa and Botswana. These countries are able to finance up to 90% of their expenditures through domestic revenues, a target that many others on the continent still struggle to achieve.

He underscored the urgent need for reforms in tax systems and public finance management to reduce the over-reliance on external borrowing. “Africa requires an estimated $150–$170 billion annually for infrastructure development, yet currently mobilizes only about $80 billion, leaving a funding gap of $70–$100 billion,” he stated.

Dr. Paul Mpuga presents “Africa’s Growth Trends and Prospects in Light of Evolving Global Challenges.” Presentation: “Africa’s Growth Trends and Prospects in Light of Evolving Global Challenges” by Dr. Paul Mpuga, a visiting Scholar and Division Manager for Microeconomic Policy, Debt Sustainability, and Forecasting in the Economic Governance and Knowledge Management Vice-Presidency of the African Development Bank Group, 19th August 2025, Conference Room, Level 2, Block B, College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Paul Mpuga presents “Africa’s Growth Trends and Prospects in Light of Evolving Global Challenges.”

Dr. Mpuga emphasized that infrastructure such as roads, energy, water systems, and transport is not a luxury, but a necessity for connecting production to markets and driving sustainable development.

He stated that youth unemployment remains alarmingly high, with 30–40% of African youth (aged 15–34) unemployed in some countries. “Many young people are not in education, employment, or training, leading to wasted talent and increasing social risks,” he highlighted. He emphasized the need for greater investment in skills development and education, noting that sustainable economic transformation depends on a well-equipped and empowered workforce.

Dr. Mpuga pointed out that economic integration and managed migration are strategies that can boost GDP growth, enhance policy stability, and reduce export concentration.

He noted that, despite being one of the regions most affected by climate change, Africa has made limited progress in green growth investments. “The continent is rich in natural resources, yet underutilized in terms of climate-smart development,” he stated.

Presentation: “Africa’s Growth Trends and Prospects in Light of Evolving Global Challenges” by Dr. Paul Mpuga, a visiting Scholar and Division Manager for Microeconomic Policy, Debt Sustainability, and Forecasting in the Economic Governance and Knowledge Management Vice-Presidency of the African Development Bank Group, 19th August 2025, Conference Room, Level 2, Block B, College of Some of the staff that attended the presentation. Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Some of the staff that attended the presentation.

He indicated a major opportunity gap, when he disclosed that the global green economy is valued at an estimated $3 trillion, but Africa’s private sector participation stands at only 14%.

He advocated for greater private sector involvement, the adoption of green infrastructure practices, and natural capital accounting to help African countries value, protect, and benefit from their resources.

For Africa to realise inclusive growth, Dr. Mpuga highlighted the following practical policy recommendations:

  • Improving fiscal transparency and efficiency
  • Strengthening tax administration using digital tools
  • Aligning monetary and fiscal policy, especially around inflation targeting
  • Building foreign reserves to cushion against shocks
  • Ensuring debt is used for productive investments such as energy and infrastructure
  • Accelerating structural reforms and economic diversification
  • Promoting integrated infrastructure planning (for instance roads with energy and ICT links)
  • Investing in value addition and agro-processing to uplift rural economies
Part of the audience. Presentation: “Africa’s Growth Trends and Prospects in Light of Evolving Global Challenges” by Dr. Paul Mpuga, a visiting Scholar and Division Manager for Microeconomic Policy, Debt Sustainability, and Forecasting in the Economic Governance and Knowledge Management Vice-Presidency of the African Development Bank Group, 19th August 2025, Conference Room, Level 2, Block B, College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Part of the audience.

Using a humorous reference to Uganda’s famous grasshopper delicacies, Dr. Mpuga illustrated the need for economic transformation, saying, “We need to move beyond traditional activities and create value chains that can package and export even local foods globally. We shouldn’t be running to donors every day when we sit on so much wealth,” he noted. “Let us value what we have, manage it well, and build a prosperous, united, and green Africa.”

Responding to the questions, Dr. Mpuga emphasized the importance of formalizing economies, strengthening trade links, and building public confidence through sound policy frameworks such as inflation targeting and social contracts. He cautioned against excessive reliance on Artificial Intelligence in academic and professional settings. “AI can be useful for checking work or assisting with calculations, but it cannot replace human thought, creativity, or critical reasoning,” he advised.

Dr. Mpuga mentioned the need for better monitoring and maintenance systems, such as ensuring broken streetlights are tracked and fixed, drawing attention to practical governance concerns that affect everyday life.

 Monica Meeme contributed to this story as a Guest Writer

Ritah Namisango
Ritah Namisango

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Business & Management

Strengthening Capacity in Public Investment Management: Two-Week Training Underway in Fort Portal

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Fort Portal, August 18, 2025 — The Public Investment Management Centre of Excellence (PIM CoE), in collaboration with the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development (MoFPED) and Cambridge Resources International (CRI), has kicked off a two-week intensive training on Economic Appraisal and Stakeholder Analysis for public officers from various Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs). The training, taking place from August 18 to 29, 2025 in Fort Portal, marks the final module of the Investment Appraisal and Risk Analysis (PIAR) II Course.

Dr. John Sseruyange from PIM CoE. Public Investment Management Centre of Excellence (PIM CoE), College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) launch of five-day training in the Essentials of Public Investment Management (PIM) for officials from the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), 19th May 2025, CoBAMS Conference Hall, Makerere University, Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. John Sseruyange from PIM CoE

In his opening remarks, the Manager of PIM CoE, Dr John Sseruyange, welcomed participants and commended them for their commitment to completing the course. He emphasized that the training was designed to deepen participants’ skills in investment appraisal and ensure that government projects deliver tangible benefits to society. “This training is essential for understanding the impact of development initiatives on people’s welfare. I encourage you to give your undivided attention throughout these two weeks,” he noted. 

Prof. Eria Hisali.
Prof. Eria Hisali.

Speaking at the same event, Prof. Eria Hisali, Co-Principal Investigator of the PIM CoE, highlighted the centrality of this program to Uganda’s development agenda. He urged participants to appreciate the training not only for their personal growth but also for the wider benefit of the country. “Upon completion, you will be expected to add value by ensuring that only projects with the highest returns on investment and the greatest benefit to the economy are developed and implemented,” he said. 

Delivering the remarks of the Permanent Secretary/Secretary to the Treasury (PSST), Principal Analyst-Ms. Esther Ayebare reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening the Public Investment Management System (PIMS). She noted that the training would empower participants with critical tools for evaluating the economic and financial viability of projects in line with the PIMS framework.

Ms. Esther Ayebare. Public Investment Management Centre of Excellence (PIM CoE), College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) launch of five-day training in the Essentials of Public Investment Management (PIM) for officials from the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), 19th May 2025, CoBAMS Conference Hall, Makerere University, Uganda, East Africa.
Ms. Esther Ayebare.

 The PSST encouraged participants to seize the opportunity to engage, share expertise, and apply the knowledge gained in their professional roles to strengthen Uganda’s public investment outcomes.

Dr. Kagarura conducts one of the training sessions. Public Investment Management Centre of Excellence (PIM CoE), Makerere University, Kampala, Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development (MoFPED) and Cambridge Resources International (CRI), two-week intensive training on Economic Appraisal and Stakeholder Analysis for public officers from MDAs in Fort Portal, August 18 to 29, 2025, Final Module of the Investment Appraisal and Risk Analysis (PIAR) II Course.
Dr. Kagarura conducts one of the training sessions.

The PIM CoE expressed gratitude to all partners for their continued collaboration and reaffirmed its commitment to building strong institutional and individual capacities for effective public investment management in Uganda.

The course content will cover a wide range of areas including:

  • The role of Economic and Stakeholder Analysis in Investment Appraisal.
  • Economic Analysis of Education, Human Capital, and Infrastructure Projects.
  • Practical tools and frameworks for assessing the viability of public investments.
A section of participants listen to Dr. Kagarura. Public Investment Management Centre of Excellence (PIM CoE), Makerere University, Kampala, Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development (MoFPED) and Cambridge Resources International (CRI), two-week intensive training on Economic Appraisal and Stakeholder Analysis for public officers from MDAs in Fort Portal, August 18 to 29, 2025, Final Module of the Investment Appraisal and Risk Analysis (PIAR) II Course.
A section of participants listen to Dr. Kagarura.

Participants will be guided by a team of expert facilitators from CRI, MoFPED, the National Planning Authority (NPA), and Makerere University, ensuring a blend of theoretical rigor and practical application. 

Betty Kyakuwa
Betty Kyakuwa

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