Agriculture & Environment
Mak-CAES Holds 2nd International GORILLA Conference
Published
3 years agoon

The International Conference on Geographical Science for Resilient Communities, Ecosystems and Livelihoods Under Global Environmental Change (GORILLA) seeks to contribute to the realization of the Global Development Agenda 2030 and the AU Agenda 2063.
Overview
The resilience of ecological and social systems has gained heightened attention globally and are at the center of the United Nations Global Development Agenda 2030 manifesting in; (a) the 17 Sustainable Development Goals and 169 targets, (b) the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, 2015-2030 with its four priorities and 7 targets, (c) the Paris Agreement geared at keeping temperature within the 1.5 º-2 ºC threshold.

Substantial efforts by the global community have been variously invested in resilience building and sustainable systems in light of multiple exposures and threats. But huge gaps and challenges still remain that compromise realizing the desired goals. The effects of the global financial crisis, existing geo-political tensions and the emergence of COVID19 altered the resilience trajectory with new dimensions in health, natural resources and poverty. Moreover, recent events exemplified by record temperatures registered in several countries but most notably in the UK, the increasing frequency and magnitude of hydrometeorological hazards as witnessed in Uganda, the increasing loss of biodiversity (>1,000,000 species lost) as recently reported by Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) have heightened the need for urgent interventions that protect vulnerable societies. A consequence of these processes coupled with other factors including but not limited to land use and land cover conversions, rapid urbanization, is that mixed progress has been registered in realizing the sustainability targets for 2030 (https://sdg-tracker.org) with Sub Saharan Africa (SSA) countries posting dismal progress. Uganda currently ranks 136/163 in SDG performance with an SDG Index Score of 53.5 (https://dashboards.sdgindex.org/profiles/uganda). Contextual knowledge creation and utility coupled with harnessing evolving and emerging technology are critical ingredients in building sustainable and resilience pathways and systems which the Global Sustainability Agenda aspired to achieve.

The 2nd GORILLA Conference
The 2ndGORILLA Conference organized by the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Makerere University, and the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) sought to make a contribution to the realization of the Global Development Agenda 2030 and the AU Agenda 2063 by addressing two fundamental questions; (1) “how science, research and the academia can contribute to the expedited achievement of global targets and resolve societal challenges? (2) how local, regional and international partnerships as well as interactions between science, policy and practice can enhance the delivery and achievement of the global development targets?

The conference held on 8th-9th December 2022 at Protea Hotel in Kampala was coordinated by Prof. Yazidhi Bamutaze, Associate Professor in the Department of Geography, Geoinformatics and Climatic Sciences, also Deputy Principal, CAES (Chair), and Dr Jerome S. Lugumira, Natural Resources Manager (Soil and Land Use), NEMA (Co-Chair). Sponsored by UNESCO, Biodiversity Foundation, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, NORAD, UK Research and Innovation, BRAC Uganda, ARUA Water Centre of Excellence (CoE), and the Regional Centre for Mapping Resources for Development (RCMRD), the conference was attended by eminent scholars, researchers, representatives from the government and civil society organizations, and policy makers.It was presided over by the Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Hon. Dr. Monica Musenero Masanza, and graced by the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University represented by the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Finance and Administration, Prof. Henry Alinaitwe; the representative of the Executive Director, NEMA, Dr Daniel Babikwa; the Principal of CAES, Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga; and the Dean, School of Forestry, Environmental and Geographical Sciences, Prof. Fred Babweteera.

The conference featured a number of keynote speeches and presentations in relation to nature-based systems in mitigating Hydro-Meteorological hazards and disasters; climate smart agriculture for sustainable resilience; land degradation; migration and displacement; water management; biogeography, biodiversity and ecosystem conservation; and the future of smart cities and urban systems in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Keynote addresses
Prof. Tonny J. Oyana, Principal College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS), Makerere University, also GIS and Spatial Analysis expert shared insights on optimizing biodiversity data science for societal benefits in developing countries. Dr Joy Obando, an Associate Professor in the Department of Geography at Kenyatta University delivered a presentation on building climate resilient communities and ecosystems in Sub Saharan Africa, whereas Dr Justine Namaalwa, an Associate Professor and Head, Department of Environmental Management at Makerere University addressed participants on the significance of optimizing green assets as a pathway to achieving the global development agenda. In her remarks, Prof. Namaalwa emphasized the need to preserve nature.

“Compromise nature then you fall on the targets of the Global Development Agenda.There is need to take stock of our natural assets and reflect on their value. If we are to continue with the mantra of no one should be left behind, there should be national ownership over the development process. We also need to adopt informal and formal knowledge systems,and embrace citizen science as well as global partnerships,” she explained.

Prof. Jan Ketil from the Department of Geography, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) briefed participants on the geography of disaster risk and participatory risk management, sharing insights on harnessing sensors and geospatial technology for disaster risk management. Dr Samuel Partey from UNESCO Regional Office in Nairobi, Kenya highlighted the significance of biosphere reserves in building resilient ecosystems and societies. Dr Partey is the youth focal person for science, and the evaluation focal point for UNESCO’S Oversight Unit at the Office in Nairobi.

In his presentation, Prof. Heiko Baltzer from the University of Leicester, UK called for improved satellite earth observation as a measure to strengthen forest governance and livelihood resilience in Africa.

Panel discussion
The conference also featured a panel discussion on a number of topical issues in regard to Sustainable Development Goals (SDG); research and policy formulation; building resilient communities;prioritization of resilience in government planning and budgeting;factors undermining innovativeness; and the use of geoinformation in the quest to achieve sustainable development. Discussants included Hon. Dr. Magolo John Faith, Member of Parliament Bungokho County North and member of the Parliamentary Committee on Climate Change; Mr. Othieno Odoi, Senior Planner, Trade and Tourism at the National Planning Authority; Ms. Celia Nalwadda, Senior Research Officer, Uganda National Academy of Sciences (UNAS); Ms. Hellen Aketch, Project Manager BRAC Uganda; and Dr Anastasia Wahome, Lead, Science/Data at the Regional Centre for Mapping Resources for Development, Nairobi.

In his submission,Hon. Magolo informed participants that Parliament had passed the National Environment Act, 2019and the National Climate Change Act, 2021 to fast track the implementation of SDG 13 (Climate Action). Brac Project Manager, Ms. Hellen Aketch called for strengthened partnerships between universities and industry for increased uptake of research and sustainability of innovations. Ms. Anastasia Wahome emphasized the importance of geoinformation in disaster planning and management, whereas Dr Othieno Odoi from National Planning Authority noted that checks had been put in place to ensure issues regarding resilience, climate change, gender, and environment are catered for before government plans and budgets are passed. The discussion was moderated by Dr Patrick Byakagaba, a Lecturer in the Department of Environmental Management, CAES, Makerere University.

Remarks by the Minister – Hon. Dr. Monica Musenero Masanza
In her remarks, the Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Hon. Dr. Monica Musenero Masanza urged Africans to embrace technology development as a measure to foster socio-economic transformation on the Continent. “Science contributes 50% to our national development. However, we haven’t done much to embrace technology development. We are blindly technology consumers, mainly relying on imports which makes it hard for us to achieve sustainable development. Africans should stop delegating thinking and work towards developing their own technology. We need to stop thinking of ourselves as consumers of technology and work on educating a thinking generation that can develop our own technology. Universities have done well but I encourage them to change their mindset and focus more on developing technology. We cannot afford as a country, in this new dispensation of green energy economies, post COVID19, and the future as envisioned in Vision 2040, to remain dependent on imported technology. We need to be more innovative,” she advised.

In line with the conference, the Minister emphasized the importance of geospatial tools in conserving ecosystems. Highlighting the significance of geography in developing the mobility industry, the Minister called for development of newer construction technologies. “The continued use of soil and stones in construction will lead to deformation of the ecology,” she noted.

Addressing participants, the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Finance and Administration, Prof. Henry Alinaitwe decried the continued depletion of ecosystems.“Climate change resulting from the continued destruction of ecosystems has led to erratic weather conditions with severe consequences for humanity. Because of erratic weather conditions, we cannot have good produces in terms of food and we are likely to have long spells of hunger. Achieving resilient and sustainable livelihoods requires continued research and invention of technologies to address challenges of climate change. It is gratifying that this conference seeks to address many of these challenges,” he noted.

The Principal, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga reiterated the need to build resilient communities and ecosystems for improved livelihoods. “Through research, we are looking for ways of improving community resilience in order to have sustainable ecosystems for improved livelihoods. This conference serves as a platform for us to share experiences in the different ecosystem research areas and best practices in trying to curb climate change. Climate change is real and a lot has to be done. We need to re-adjust the way we do things. There are practices we have come up with in relation to our day to day activities like water conservation and soil management that will help us combat some of the hazards resulting from climate change, and at this conference, we are focusing on climate smart agriculture. As a country, we purpose to move from substance climate smart agriculture to an income-oriented climate smart agriculture,” she said.The Principal also noted that the College was committing more efforts towards achieving the sustainable development goals. “As a country, we committed to having an input to achieving the SDGs.At this conference, we are emphasizing our intention and being very proactive in ensuring that we tackle the SDGs, putting it in mind that we have only 8 years to hit our target.As researchers, we are purposing to make contribution to the realization of all SDGs, with special focus on Goal 1 that seeks to alleviate poverty.”

Addressing participants, the Chair of the Organizing Committee, Prof. Yazidhi Bamutaze said the conference presented a great opportunity for conceptual, empirical and theoretical discourse on pressing sustainability and resilience issues. “The GORILLA conference serves as a platform for bridging the science-policy-practice gaps and deriving actionable and policy-oriented measures that can potentially transform societies,” he noted. He said a special publication had been planned with the African Geographical Review (AGR) journal in commemoration of Mak@100. He expressed gratitude to the sponsors of the conference and the local organizing committee.

Delivering his remarks, the Head, Department of Geography, Geoinformatics and Climatic Sciences, Makerere University, Prof. Mugagga Frank appreciated the sponsors of the conference and the participants for committing time and resources to address issues crucial for sustainable management of ecosystems and livelihoods. He also appreciated the International Geographical Union (IGU) for its support towards the Uganda Geographical Association. “We profoundly thank IGU, through Prof. Michael Meadows for supporting us when we petitioned against the merger of the Bachelor of Geographical Sciences with Meteorology and Environmental Sciences at Makerere University. The petition was successful and the programmes were left as distinct disciplines,” he noted. Prof. Mugagga is the President of the Uganda Geographical Association, an organization that works to develop professional geographers with knowledge and skills to effectively address global environmental challenges. The Association conducts research on pertinent issues affecting humanity such as climate change adaptation and mitigation, landslides, floods, soil erosion and sedimentation, land degradation, regional development, ecosystems management, urbanization, population growth and development, water scarcity and food security. The Association also holds periodic retooling courses for geography teachers and other civil servants. Prof. Mugagga congratulated Prof. Yazidhi Bamutaze upon being elected IGU Vice President for Africa.

In his closing remarks, Dr Jerome S. Lugumira, Natural Resources Manager (Soil and Land Use), NEMA said government was committed to the use of science in fostering national development. He reiterated the power of networking in trying to address global development challenges and urged researchers to actively engage policy makers in their projects.

Pre-conference hackathon and training
Satellite Earth Observation (EO) provides a wide range of environmental data information which is key to the effective planning and monitoring of the environment. In this regard, the College held a three-day pre-conference hackathon on geospatial-based cloud computing for biodiversity and ecosystem resilience with the aim of engaging early career scientists, researchers and practitioners with diverse backgrounds to foster collaboration in the use of geospatial technology and earth observation to address sustainable development issues, especially on biodiversity and ecosystem resilience.

The College also held a three-day training on optimizing emerging geospatial technologies in evaluating climate change impacts on vegetation. Vegetation resources in tropical Africa are under increasing threat both from climate change and a spate of anthropogenic activities. Yet a substantial proportion of livelihoods in Africa is linked to environment and natural resources. Thus, the need for improved monitoring to ensure integrity and resilience of vegetation resources and ecosystems is apparent in line with the goals and tenets of the Global Development Agenda 2030. Geospatial technologies occupy a vintage position in monitoring, analysis and overall resilience building. The training aimed to, 1) equip participants with emerging tools and technologies that can be harnessed in analyzing climate change impacts on vegetation and ecosystems, 2) build an ecosystem of champions to propel the utility of geospatial technology, 3) to improve the ecosystem and vegetation resilience to climate change.

The trainings were coordinated by Dr Daniel Waiswa from the School of Forestry, Environmental and Geographical Sciences, Makerere University; and conducted by Dr Allan Mazimwe from the Department of Geomatics and Land Management, College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT), Makerere University; Dr Bernard Barasa from the Department of Geography, Kyambogo University; and Mr. Thomas Enuru from the School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bio-Engineering, CAES.
Details on the 1st GORILLA Conference at: https://news.mak.ac.ug/2020/12/the-1st-international-gorilla-conference-opens-at-mak/
Please see below for conference documents.
GORILLA Keynote Presentation_Dr. Samuel Tetteh Partey, UNESCO: https://doc-0s-58-docs.googleusercontent.com/docs/securesc/b07ld2tllpi647jp9b09m7chohgqnct1/tv2v4ikl813e11s5vhhkmrlatg2j282v/1670919975000/13459373403972771569/11467171637526004956/14Vc2iWRxryo_MNXMxq0I_dLBYocO7O34?e=download&authuser=0
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Agriculture & Environment
Makerere Students Urged to Register Agricultural Innovations to Avoid Plagiarism
Published
1 week agoon
August 1, 2025
By Hasifa Kabejja & Buwule Joseph Mary
The Principal of the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) at Makerere University, Prof. Gorettie Nabonoga has urged student innovators to safeguard their intellectual property rights. Speaking at the end-of-recess exhibition organized by the School of Food Technology, Nutrition, and Biosystems Engineering to showcase student-led innovations, she cautioned students about the risks of intellectual theft.

“It is essential to take proactive measures to protect your ideas,” Prof. Nabanoga emphasized. “If you have developed something original and useful, make sure to register your innovation. Intellectual property rights are essential for securing the recognition and rewards you deserve. Remember, plagiarism is not just an academic issue – it affects business and innovation.”
She commended the students for their creativity and responsiveness to local market needs.

Held at the School premises on 24th July 2025, the exhibition, attended by students, staff and industry stakeholders, featured a wide array of student-created products, including solar-dried fruit snacks, low-cost grain sorters, biodegradable packaging from crop waste, and nutrient-rich baked goods targeting malnutrition. Students presented petri dishes from a microbial analysis of street-vended mangoes sold around Makerere University, revealing that the fruits may be unhygienic and potentially unsafe for consumption. They also demonstrated a low-cost water purification technology designed for cleaning and reusing wastewater from pilot or food processing plants. The system utilizes moringa seed powder, charcoal, sand, stones, and cotton wool to produce clean, clear water suitable for reuse, such as for cleaning. Additionally, the students showcased the use of activated charcoal and beeswax to extend the shelf life of fruits like bananas and passion fruit. These innovative, low-cost technologies have the potential to be further developed and adopted by farmers and traders to reduce postharvest losses. The innovations were developed during a 10-week recess programme that immerses students in hands-on fieldwork, research, and product development.

In his remarks, Prof. Ivan Muzira Mukisa, Head, Department of Food Technology and Nutrition, encouraged the students to envision their projects beyond the academic realm and focus on transforming them into viable commercial enterprises. “The future of agriculture lies in innovation. The students have demonstrated the potential to solve pressing challenges, create jobs, and build businesses. Their work shouldn’t end at the exhibition. It should continue into the market,” he said.

Dr. Stella Byakika, Coordinator of the recess programme, emphasized the importance of experiential learning in shaping Uganda’s next generation of agricultural leaders. “This programme goes beyond fulfilling academic requirements. It is a practical training platform where students apply their knowledge to real-world problems. We are preparing them not just to graduate, but to lead in transforming Uganda’s agricultural and agro-processing sectors,” she explained.

On behalf of her classmates, Ms. Ndegema Daphine, a Third Year student of Human Nutrition, expressed gratitude for the hands-on experience gained during their internship. “During the recess term, we had the opportunity to work directly with children suffering from severe acute malnutrition, including cases with edema and dermatosis. We participated in both inpatient and outpatient therapeutic care, which gave us a real-world perspective on the clinical management of these conditions. Unlike in the classroom, where we only study such cases theoretically, the internship allowed us to witness the treatment process a nd see patients recover first-hand. With guidance from our supervisors, we were able to conduct clinical assessments for malnutrition and edema, as well as evaluate dietary needs. We also put into practice what we had learned in our communication skills course by delivering nutrition education sessions, helping patients and caregivers understand the importance of proper nutrition in recovery and long-term health.”

Delivering her remarks, the Dean of the School of Food Technology, Nutrition, and Biosystems Engineering (SFTNB), Dr Julia Kigozi appreciated the University and College Administration for their unwavering support towards students’ projects and academic endeavours. She commended the students for their creativity and commitment to excellence in their work. “Our goal is to nurture and produce well-rounded graduates who not only excel academically but also embody an entrepreneurial mind-set, a strong work ethic, a deep sense of social responsibility, and respect for authority. These values are essential as they prepare to make meaningful contributions to society and the broader global community.”


Held annually, the recess programme equips students with field experience through community-based projects, agribusiness development, and food innovation. The culminating exhibition serves as a platform for feedback, exposure, and networking with industry professionals.
More photos from the exhibition




Agriculture & Environment
CAES Revitalizes Internship Programme to Boost Students’ Field Experience & Community Impact
Published
1 week agoon
July 30, 2025
In an effort to enhance practical learning and support community and government initiatives, the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) at Makerere University has taken significant steps to revitalize its internship programme. The renewal offers students immersive field experiences, allowing them to develop crucial skills, gain first-hand insight into industry challenges, and make meaningful contributions to agricultural development. It equally fosters stronger collaborations with agricultural industries, research institutions, and community organizations.
This year, 51 students from various departments within the College engaged in diverse agricultural activities on farms across Mpigi and Masaka Districts, with a strong focus on the Parish Development Model (PDM) and the 4-Acre Model. In Mpigi, the training took place in Kasamu village, while in Masaka, the students were assigned to farms located in the Kyesiiga, Buwunga, and Kyanamukaka sub-counties. The primary host farms were Mbulamu Integrated Farm in Mpigi District and Green Valley Farm in Masaka District. Coordinated by Dr. Emmanuel Opolot from the Department of Soil Science and Land Use Management and Dr. Gabriel Karubanga of the Department of Extension and Innovation Studies, the internship aimed to provide hands-on learning in sustainable farming practices while sharing innovations with local farmers. The students engaged in multiple agricultural enterprises, including coffee, poultry, banana, and maize farming. They also acquired and shared expertise in modern irrigation techniques, production of renewable energy, and record keeping.

Key Enterprises and Training Areas
- Coffee Production
Over 60% of coffee quality is influenced by the method of harvesting, making it a critical focus area for improvement. In collaboration with local farmers, the students engaged in knowledge sharing and capacity building on sustainable farming practices aimed at increasing yields and improving both harvest and post-harvest handling processes. The students emphasized the importance of proper harvesting techniques, highlighting the differences between good and poor practices and how these can directly impact the quality of coffee. Training sessions covered key stages of post-harvest handling, including selective harvesting of ripe cherries, the floating process to remove defective beans, proper drying techniques to avoid mold and fermentation, accurate weighing and packaging, as well as safe storage and transportation methods to maintain bean quality. Additionally, the students gained practical knowledge in establishing and managing high-quality nursery beds. They learned how to produce healthy, disease-free seedlings by avoiding common mistakes in coffee farming, such as poor soil preparation, overcrowding, or inadequate pest control.

- Poultry Farming and Management
The students gained and exchanged knowledge on sustainable poultry farming practices. Key areas of learning included the significance of proper chick brooding, essential components of an effective brooding system, and step-by-step procedures for setting up and managing a successful brooder. Emphasis was placed on the care and management of chicks throughout the brooding period to ensure optimal growth and health. In addition, students acquired practical skills in egg quality assurance and grading based on established standards, which are crucial for market readiness and consumer safety. They also explored innovative and eco-friendly practices such as azolla farming for supplemental feed, and the use of black soldier fly larvae as a sustainable source of high-protein poultry feed. Furthermore, the importance of strict biosecurity measures to prevent disease outbreaks and maintain flock health was emphasized throughout the training.

- Banana Farming
The students acquired skills in the agronomic practices essential for successful banana cultivation. This included learning how to select high-quality planting materials to ensure healthy crop establishment. They were trained in proper planting techniques and maintenance practices such as weeding, mulching, and composting to improve soil health and moisture retention. The training also covered the appropriate application of manure and fertilizers to promote optimal plant growth. Additionally, students gained practical knowledge in pruning, propping, and desuckering to manage plant structure and enhance yield. The students equally attained skills in effective pest and disease management to protect the crop from common threats.

- Maize Farming
The students gained and exchanged valuable insights on the essential conditions necessary for the successful growth and development of maize. Mr. Lubwama Fred, a maize farmer from Mpambire village in Mpigi District, who benefits from support under the Parish Development Model (PDM), highlighted the positive impact of this knowledge-sharing. He explained that the information provided by the students helped him to effectively address several challenges that had been limiting productivity on his farm. These challenges included pest infestations such as monkeys and other pests, crop diseases, unpredictable price fluctuations in the market, and issues related to soil infertility. With the new strategies and techniques learned, Mr. Lubwama has been able to improve crop health and yield, demonstrating the practical value of the internship programme.

- Artificial Insemination and Silage Making
In the livestock sector, students were provided with practical training and hands-on experience in artificial insemination techniques, an essential method for enhancing genetic quality and improving breed performance in farm animals. Additionally, they learned the intricacies of silage making, a vital process for preserving high-quality forage to ensure consistent and nutritious livestock feed during dry seasons.

- Smart Irrigation and Water Conservation in Agriculture
In collaboration with farmers, the students explored advanced and innovative irrigation methods aimed at promoting water conservation in agriculture. They gained hands-on experience with various systems such as drip irrigation, sprinkler irrigation, solar-powered pumps, and manual watering techniques. Alongside understanding how these technologies function, the students also learned essential maintenance practices to ensure the longevity and efficiency of irrigation equipment. They were introduced to practical water-saving strategies that can help optimize water usage, reduce wastage, and contribute to sustainable farming practices.

- Sustainable Solar Drying for a Bountiful Harvest
During their training, the students acquired valuable skills in sustainable solar drying techniques. This eco-friendly method harnesses the power of the sun to effectively dry agricultural produce, helping to preserve quality while reducing reliance on conventional energy sources. By mastering these techniques, the students are better equipped to promote environmentally responsible practices that contribute to increased food security and reduced post-harvest losses.

- Record Keeping
Students developed a comprehensive understanding of record-keeping practices, recognizing it as a crucial component of modern farming. Accurate and systematic record keeping enables farmers to track crop performance, manage resources efficiently, monitor financial transactions, and make informed decisions to enhance productivity and sustainability in agricultural operations.

- Biogas Production
During their internship, students actively engaged in hands-on training in biogas production. This practical experience allowed them to understand the underlying biological and chemical processes, operate relevant equipment, and appreciate the environmental and economic benefits of renewable energy generation through biogas technology.

CAES Field Days and End of Internship Programme
The 8-week internship programme, which commenced in June 2025, concluded with field day activities held on 22nd and 23rd July at Mbulamu Integrated Farm in Mpigi District and Green Valley Farm in Masaka District, respectively. According to Dr. Emmanuel Opolot, one of the internship coordinators, the event aimed to showcase the students’ work and foster an exchange of experiences between the interns and local farmers. Additionally, the activities provided a valuable opportunity to gather feedback from the farmers on the training gaps. During the event, participants, including the students’ supervisors from CAES, Makerere University, and farmers from the respective districts, toured the various projects the students had been working on.

Students’ Reflections
Sharing their experiences, the students, led by Mr. Mayson Wangusa (Mpigi District) and Mr. Clever Asiimwe (Masaka), explained how the programme had profoundly transformed their mind-set and equipped them with essential skills in modern agriculture. “Initially, when we travelled to these remote villages for our internship, the sheer isolation almost discouraged us from continuing. However, as time passed, we adapted to the environment and began to truly appreciate and enjoy the training. Through this hands-on experience, we acquired invaluable practical skills that have significantly enriched our understanding of agricultural practices. We are deeply grateful to the University and College Management, our dedicated coordinators, the supervisors, and our generous hosts for their unwavering support throughout this journey. Their guidance and encouragement played a crucial role in making this learning experience both meaningful and rewarding.”

Farmers’ Perspectives
According to Mr. Tonda Deogratious, the owner and proprietor of Mbulamu Integrated Farm in Mpigi District, the initiative is highly commendable. “I thank Makerere University for this kind of arrangement. While its primary goal was to equip students with practical skills, we as farmers have benefited immensely. The students have been incredibly resourceful and we have learned a lot from working with them. Their presence has broadened our approach to modern farming practices. With our 60-acre coffee farm, a student recommended introducing an Agricultural Production Log (APL) to improve management and is currently drafting for us a proposal in that line. The students also suggested using Indigenous Microorganism (IMO) solutions to enhance piggery management, and we are now collaborating on a proposal in that area. We have also gained valuable skills in tick management and record keeping. Given their expertise, I plan to continue working with the students. I also strongly encourage the University to sustain this partnership.”

Mr. Tonda further praised the students for their discipline and professionalism throughout the training programme.

As a farmer operating within the 4-acre model, Mr. Tonda highly advocates for mixed farming. “By integrating different types of agricultural activities, such as crop cultivation alongside livestock rearing, farm units can mutually support one another, leading to increased efficiency and resilience. This approach not only maximizes the use of available land and resources but also helps reduce overall costs by diversifying income sources and minimizing dependency on a single commodity.”

Mr. James Kabiito, the proprietor of Green Valley Farm located in Kyesiiga Sub County, Masaka District, is equally appreciative of the programme. He emphasized the vital role that universities play in advancing and transforming the agricultural sector. According to Mr. Kabiito, collaborating directly with students on his farm has been a significant benefit. Speaking during the field day activities on 23rd July 2025, he noted that the students had consistently demonstrated resourcefulness, bringing fresh ideas and energy that contributed positively to the farm’s operations. “This hands-on partnership not only supports the students’ practical learning but also enhances the overall productivity and innovation within the agricultural community.”

Remarks by the DPMOs
Mpigi District DPMO, Mr. Patrick Ssserwadda and Masaka District DPMO, Mr. Ssekayi Godfrey expressed gratitude for the programme, emphasizing its role in enhancing the partnership between academic institutions and grassroots communities. They noted that such initiatives not only provide practical solutions to local challenges but also create a platform for mutual learning and knowledge exchange. “The collaboration between the University and local governments is a significant step forward. It allows us to tap into academic research and innovation to improve livelihoods and drive sustainable development in our districts,” Mr. Sserwadda explained. Mr. Ssekayi echoed the sentiment, calling for even deeper collaboration in research and extension services. “Strengthening research partnerships will enable us to address community-specific needs more effectively, and ensure that interventions are both evidence-based and impactful,” he stated.

Remarks by the University officials
Speaking on behalf of the Dean of the School of Agricultural Sciences (SAS), Dr. Olupot Giregon praised the initiative, describing it as a transformative approach to enhancing the practical dimension of agricultural training. He emphasized that such hands-on experience is essential for bridging the gap between academic training and real-world agricultural practice. Dr. Olupot expressed the School’s commitment to ensuring the continuity and sustainability of the programme, highlighting its potential long-term benefits for both students and host communities. Furthermore, he advocated for the integration of a soil management component within the district production units, noting its critical role in enhancing agricultural productivity and sustainability. He thanked the host communities for their invaluable support and hospitality towards the students. He acknowledged the University and College leadership for their foresight and innovation in reshaping the internship programme to better meet the evolving needs of students and the agricultural sector.

On behalf of the Principal of CAES, Dr. Richard Miiro from the Department of Extension and Innovation Studies expressed gratitude to the host farmers for their willingness to train and mentor the students. “Makerere University deeply values this partnership, as farmers play a pivotal role in driving the growth and development of the agricultural sector, which remains the cornerstone of Uganda’s economy.” Dr. Miiro highlighted the significant impact of the programme, noting that it has been instrumental in reshaping the perspectives and attitudes of the students toward agriculture. “Through hands-on experience and direct engagement with farming communities, our students gain practical knowledge and skills, leaving the field better equipped and more confident as future agricultural professionals.” Furthermore, he appreciated the Government of Uganda for its continued support and commitment to advancing agricultural education and development. This collaboration, he noted, is a vital step toward strengthening the sector and fostering sustainable agricultural practices that benefit the nation. He commended the coordinators of the programmes for the guidance and mentorship provided to the students. On behalf of the College, Dr Miiro handed over two irrigation pumps to farmer groups in Mpigi and Masaka Districts. He also handed over a soil testing kit donated to the Masaka District Production Unit.

The coordinators represented by Dr. Opolot expressed gratitude to the College and University Management for their visionary efforts in redesigning the agricultural internship programme. “This thoughtful restructuring will significantly enhance the learning experience and better prepare students for the evolving demands of the agricultural sector.” He further praised the students for their resilience, unwavering dedication, and enthusiastic commitment to learning throughout the internship period. “You have demonstrated great potential to drive transformation in the agricultural sector.”

The LC5 Chairman, Masaka District
The LC5 Chairman of Masaka District, Mr. Andrew Battemyetto Lukyamuzi, appreciated the government for its continued support of internship programmes at the district. He highlighted the importance of establishing soil fertility centres within the district to improve crop productivity and ensure sustainable agricultural practices. Mr. Lukyamuzi also called for increased support in providing affordable agricultural inputs to farmers, alongside initiatives aimed at reskilling and empowering them to enhance agricultural output. He underscored the vital role of partnerships between universities and local communities, noting that such collaborations are essential for driving innovation and boosting agricultural production. He advised students to maintain discipline throughout their studies, and encouraged them to approach the job market with an open and adaptable mind-set.

More photos on the activities at: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1EReMonIyk8zHtYdJMaEQVReIb8XXr1lI?usp=sharing
Agriculture & Environment
Mak Signs MoU with NAU China to Boost Agricultural Research and Innovation
Published
2 weeks agoon
July 28, 2025
Makerere University has today July 28, 2025, signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Nanjing Agricultural University (NAU) of China, aimed at strengthening institutional collaboration in agricultural research, training, innovation, and capacity building.
The agreement, to be implemented at Makerere University’s College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), marks a major milestone in the university’s efforts to foster global partnerships that support sustainable agricultural development and academic excellence.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Makerere University Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, emphasized the importance of the collaboration in enhancing the university’s strategic objectives in agricultural science and innovation. “This MoU is a testament to our shared commitment to advancing research that responds to local and global food security needs. It opens up pathways for our staff and students to gain international exposure while co-developing solutions with NAU,” he said.
Prof. Zhu Yan, Vice President of NAU, led the Chinese delegation and expressed great optimism about the future of the partnership. “NAU is proud to join hands with Makerere University, one of Africa’s premier institutions. Together, we will pursue impactful research, promote knowledge exchange, and cultivate the next generation of agricultural scientists and innovators,” she noted.
Also speaking at the event, Hon. Vincent Bamulangaki Ssempijja, who led the delegation from NAU, expressed confidence in the partnership and its potential to transform Uganda’s agricultural sector. He particularly noted the opportunity to improve the coffee value chain, enhance marketing strategies, and support the production of organic fertilizers through collaborative research and technology transfer. “This partnership is timely. It aligns well with Uganda’s agricultural transformation agenda, and I am confident it will yield lasting impact for our farmers and agro-industrial players,” he said.

The five-year MoU outlines collaboration in various areas including:
- Joint research projects in agriculture, environmental sciences, food systems, and biosystems engineering;
- Student and staff exchanges for training, internships, and fellowships;
- Development of innovative teaching and learning technologies;
- Joint resource mobilization and participation in global partnerships with bodies such as the UNDP and WHO;
- Promotion of knowledge transfer and sustainable solutions to community challenges.
The ceremony was witnessed by university leaders, faculty, and government officials from both institutions, and concluded with a commitment to initiate pilot programs and joint research activities within the next academic year.
This partnership adds to Makerere University’s growing portfolio of global collaborations aimed at expanding its reach, influence, and contribution to solving some of the world’s most pressing challenges through science and innovation.
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