General
Tanzanian PM Rt. Hon. Majaliwa Graces Islam@75 & MUMSA@50 Celebrations
The clouds gathered as the clock struck midday, threatening to pour out their rain, perhaps to bless the day’s proceedings, as the Muslim community gathered on Saturday 17th December 2022 at the Main Campus to celebrate 75 years of Islam and 50 years of the Makerere University Muslim Students Association (MUMSA). Suddenly, and as if sensing that the dignitaries were about to arrive, the dark clouds cleared, giving way to a bright sunny afternoon. Right on cue, a grand motorcade gently made its way to the Frank Kalimuzo Central Teaching Facility, stopping right in front of the Main Entrance. Out he alighted, graceful, resplendent in his flowing white tunic to exchange Salaams with the welcoming party.
Rt. Hon. Kassim Majaliwa Majaliwa, Prime Minister of the United Republic of Tanzania and Chief Guest at the celebrations had arrived, accompanied by the Tanzania Chief Mufti – Sheikh Dr. Aboubakary Zubeiry, Zanzibar Grand Mufti Sheikh Saleh bin Omar Kaabi, Ministers, Tanzanian High Commissioner to Uganda – H.E. Dr. Aziz Ponary Mlima and other dignitaries. On hand to receive the Chief Guest were the Minister for Kampala Capital City and Metropolitan Affairs – Hon. Hajjat Minsa Kabanda, Acting Vice Chancellor and Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs) – Prof. Umar Kakumba, Turkish Ambassador – H.E. Fikret Kerem Alp represented by his Deputy, Uganda Supreme Mufti – Sheikh Muhammad Shaban Galabuzi, Deputy Supreme Mufti – Sheikh Abdallah Semambo, Dean of Students – Mrs. Winifred Kabumbuli, Principal College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS) – Prof. Josephine Ahikire, University Imaam – Dr. Sowed Juma Mayanja, Patron MUMSA – Dr. Muhammad Kiggundu Musoke, Head Department of Journalism and Communication and Chairperson Makerere University Muslim Staff Association (MUMSTAF) – Dr. Aisha Sembatya Nakiwala and other officials.
Welcoming the Chief Guest, Prof. Kakumba conveyed the warm greetings of the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe who was away on official duty and thanked Rt. Hon. Majaliwa for leading the delegation to represent the President of the United Republic of Tanzania, H.E. Samia Suluhu Hassan at the esteemed occasion. “Makerere has grown by leaps and bounds from the good establishment and relationship it has enjoyed with the people and Government of the United Republic of Tanzania.”
The Acting Vice Chancellor added that the University Mosque, officially opened in May 1948 by His Highness Crown Prince Abdulla of Zanzibar, is testimony of this good relationship that has existed between Makerere and the Sultan of Zanzibar.
Prof. Kakumba noted that the University Management nevertheless takes cognizance of the fact that Makerere is a secular university that highly respects and gives due consideration to the different religious affiliations and the freedom of worship. “It is the reason why the Management has been very supportive of the different sects of religion and creating opportunity for their growth and engagement of knowledge. For example, under the leadership of the Principal of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Makerere University hosts many centres of languages, among them the Centre for Arabic Language.”
He concluded by admitting that in addition to priding itself in a century of training Human Capital and leadership for the region such as Tanzania’s Founding Father H.E. Julius Kambarage Nyerere, Makerere University is privileged to host the Julius Nyerere Leadership Centre. He therefore requested the Rt. Hon. Prime Minister to convey the institution’s warm greetings to H.E. Suluhu Hassan, whose role as Head of State has inspired many young women particularly those of the Muslim faith to take on leadership roles.
Congratulating Makerere upon celebrating 100 years of existence, Rt. Hon. Majaliwa Majaliwa recognized the University’s prestigious role in educating leaders for the region in general and H.E. Mwalimu Julius Nyerere and H.E. Benjamin Mkapa of Tanzania in particular.
“I also understand the relationship you have between Makerere and the University of Dar-es-Salaam and the programme of exchange of students. This is of course making the East African Community to be strong, and we expect to establish a lot of programmes that will develop our colleges” added the Rt. Hon. Prime Minister.
In the true spirit of the East African Community, Rt. Hon. Majaliwa Majaliwa delivered his congratulatory remarks in Kiswahili.
“I am happy to be here today because of two important reasons, one is we are celebrating 75 years of Islam and the second one, the Chief Guest today is going to deliver the speech through Kiswahili, which is the EAC language and AU language, so I will try to go slowly so that you don’t get lost” he counseled, much to the amusement of the majority English-speaking audience.
Prior to the Chief Guest’s address, the Deputy Turkish Ambassador in his remarks acknowledged that Makerere plays a vital role in developing human capital for the improvement of Uganda and the East African Community, “I think this country is lucky to have such a well-established and qualified university because education of new generations is the most essential part of development and stability of the country.”
He added that the Republic of Turkey seeks mutual gains and interests in its relationship with Uganda through humanitarian efforts that reach out to every corner of the country. “Currently, my Ambassador is in Lira, which is proof of our struggle to reach out to every corner of Uganda.”
Delivering a highly abridged version of his keynote address owing to the activity-packed programme, Prof. Abasi Kiyimba started by sharing that in 1997, Makerere was privileged to host both H.E. Benjamin Mkapa and H.E. Ali Hassan Mwinyi as the University, Islam and MUMSA celebrated 75, 50 and 25 years of existence respectively. He added that Makerere had benefited most from the Southern route through which Islam reached Buganda Kingdom from Zanzibar, in the form of teachers, scholars and the brand of Islam practiced. The other two routes through which Islam reached Uganda and Buganda Kingdom were the Eastern route through Mombasa and Northern route through Sudan.
He added that the formation of MUMSA in 1972 was a significant development in the history of the Muslim Community, for it helped to formalize the Association’s membership and constitution as well as nurture leaders such as the founding Chairman Dr. Makumbi, now a retired Doctor in Kasese. Turning to the fundamental role played by the Sultanate of Zanzibar in donating the first University Mosque, Prof. Kiyimba said “we cherish very much our relationship with the Muslims and people of Zanzibar.”
The Chairperson MUMSTAF Dr. Aisha Nakiwala in her welcome remarks thanked the University Management for various infrastructure projects that have benefited the Muslim community, and support extended to Students’ activities. She thanked the Chief Guest for gracing the event and requested him communicate to H.E. Suluhu Hassan that her invitation to visit Makerere University and address the community still stands and remains highly anticipated particularly by the female Muslim Staff and Students.
The celebrations notwithstanding, when the call for prayer was made, the Chief Guest, visiting delegation and Muslim faithful put the day’s proceedings on hold and made their way to the University Mosque. The proceedings, ably moderated by Dr. Muhammad Kiggundu Musoke were graced by the past leadership of MUMSA, most notably Hon. Al Hajji Latif Ssebagala – Chairman MUMSA (1992-1994), whose energetic salaams to the faithful led smiles to break across their faces.
The current Chairman MUMSA Mr. Noordin Mutebi appealed to the gathering to support the association’s outreaches to less privileged communities in Uganda, by procuring a bus to help transport participants and eliminate one of the biggest recurring expenses. Responding to all the requests put forth, Rt. Hon. Majaliwa offered to update H.E. Suluhu Hassan on the invitation to visit Makerere. He equally pledged to contribute Six (6) Million Tanzanian Shillings to help various causes of the Muslim community and work together with the leadership to address the bus issue raised by the MUMSA Chairman.
General
Unlocking Global Opportunities: Makerere University Career Fair – Day Two Connects Students to Scholarships and Fellowships
By Christopher Kaahwa
After an engaging opening day that explored the growing role of artificial intelligence in shaping the future of work, the second day of Makerere University Careers Fair – 2026 focused on scholarship and fellowship opportunities for students and graduates.
Day one of the Careers Fair highlighted how emerging technologies, particularly AI, are transforming industries and the skills that young professionals need to remain competitive in the evolving global job market. Building on these conversations, Day Two of the Careers Fair, held on Thursday, 12th March 2026, provided participants with practical guidance on accessing funding opportunities for further study, research, and professional development, both locally and internationally.
The day featured a series of presentations, information sessions, and interactive engagements delivered through a panel discussion. This approach was designed to help participants better understand the wide range of scholarship and fellowship opportunities available to support their academic and professional journeys. Participants interacted directly with program representatives and alumni who have previously benefited from international scholarships and fellowships.
Throughout the discussions, speakers encouraged students to prioritize early preparations for such opportunities by identifying programs that align with their academic interests, leadership aspirations, and long-term career goals. They emphasized that while academic excellence is important, most of the scholarship and fellowship programs also look out for individuals who demonstrate leadership potential, community engagement, and a clear commitment to addressing societal challenges.
Mastercard Foundation Scholarships at Makerere University
Speaking during the session, Prof. Justine Namaalwa Jjumba, Program Director, Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University, highlighted the scholarship opportunities available for both undergraduate and graduate students. Prof. Namaalwa stated that the Mastercard Foundation extends scholarships across the entire University, and this year, the Program would soon advertise 260 scholarships, with 70 per cent reserved for female students and 30 per cent for male students.
Prof. Namaalwa highlighted the Program’s dedication to inclusion, referencing the Mastercard Foundation initiatives that aim to serve all categories of prospective applicants in the quest to promote gender equity in higher education. “Beyond the gender percentages, we are very keen on inclusion,” she stated, noting that 25 per cent of the scholarships are allocated to refugees and internally displaced persons, while 10 per cent are reserved for young people with disabilities.
She explained that the Mastercard Foundation initiatives prioritize students from economically dis-advantaged and hard-to-reach regions such as Karamoja, Teso, Busoga, and West Nile, with 20 per cent of the scholarships designated for applicants from such areas. An additional 20 per cent are for students from refugee-hosting communities, 10 per cent allocated to international students, and the remaining opportunities remain open to other Ugandan applicants.
In addition, Prof. Namaalwa announced graduate scholarships under the Africa Climate Collaborative, which will provide 50 scholarships for master’s students and 12 scholarships for PhD students across the university. She revealed that the scholarships offer comprehensive support, including full tuition and functional fees, and urged prospective applicants to demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to community service.
She encouraged participants to carry on the mantle of sharing the information widely within their communities, particularly with bright learners who may lack the financial means to pursue university education. “So, I call upon every one of you present today to extend a hand of charity by sharing this information,” she urged.
U.S. Exchange and Fellowship Opportunities
Representatives from the United States Exchange Program shared a wide range of scholarship, fellowship, and leadership opportunities available to students and young professionals who aspire to study or undertake any programme in the United States.
Ms. Blessing Owomugisha Immaculate, President of the U.S. Exchange Program Alumni Network in Uganda, explained that Uganda currently has a vibrant Alumni Network of more than 6,000 members comprising individuals who have previously participated in Exchange Programs in the United States and returned to contribute to community development and mentorship.
She stated that there are several United States-sponsored exchange programs available for students, graduates, and professionals, primarily focusing on leadership, academic research, and professional development. The key programs include the Fulbright Foreign Student Program (master’s/research), Mandela Washington Fellowship (young leaders), Study of the U.S. Institutes (SUSI), Pan-Africa Youth Leadership Program, Academy for Women Entrepreneur Program, Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI), Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship,EducationUSA Scholars Program, and many more tailored to meet the diverse needs and aspirations of Ugandan youth.
EducationUSA Scholars Program
In the same session, participants received valuable guidance on pursuing higher education in the United States during a presentation by Mr. Ezra On’rel Nuwenyine, an EducationUSA Adviser in Kampala. Mr. Nuwenyine mentioned that EducationUSA is a global network of over 430 advising centres in more than 175 countries, including Uganda, providing accurate and comprehensive information for international students aspiring to study in the U.S.
He presented the benefits of studying in the United States and guided the participants through the five key steps to consider for their studies abroad. The steps included researching suitable academic institutions that match one’s interests, financial support for their studies, completing application forms with the necessary supporting documents, applying for a student visa, and preparing for their departure to the U.S for their academic journey. He highlighted important resources such as educationusa.state.gov, collegeboard.org, and finaid.org, which can be visited for accurate and credible information.
“Make sure to always check the eligibility criteria before applying to any university and focus on finding institutions that match your academic, financial and personal goals,” he advised, while encouraging participants to carefully plan their academic journey.
Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI)
Sharing his personal experience, Mr. Joseph Luswabi, a veterinary medicine student at Makerere University, shared about his remarkable participation in the Young Africa Leaders Initiative (YALI). He explained that the program provides leadership and professional development opportunities to young people across Africa.
Mr. Luswabi informed students that his selection to participate in the YALI program required persistence, revealing that he applied four times before being selected in 2024. He shared that his experience, which included intensive training on leadership and networking with fellows across the continent, has broadened his perspective beyond his academic discipline.
“Before you leave the University, make sure you apply and gain an opportunity to participate in any fellowship program,” he said. He encouraged students to take advantage of fellowship opportunities while still at the university, emphasizing that such experiences provide exposure, leadership training, and access to influential professional networks that can significantly shape their career path.
Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship
Another speaker, Mr. James Katumba, President – Hubert Humphrey Fellowship alumni association in Uganda, shared insights about the prestigious fellowship designed for mid-career professionals. The program, named after former U.S. Vice President Hubert Humphrey, focuses on leadership, public service, and professional development.
Mr. Katumba elaborated that the fellowship takes professionals to the United States for a 10-month non-degree academic study, during which fellows are placed at different universities where they can attend courses, engage with faculty members, and undertake professional placements aligned with their career goals.
Reflecting on his journey, Mr. Katumba encouraged students not to be discouraged by rejection during competitive applications, and emphasized that persistence often pays off, sharing that many successful fellows apply multiple times before being selected.
The second day of the Fair also featured presentations from several partner universities – Ashesi University, Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), and industry players – Tamani Solutions and AniScholar, who presented study and employment opportunities available to students and graduates. These equipped participants with the knowledge and resources needed to take the next step in their academic and professional journeys. Ms. Ritah Namisango, a Public Relations and Communication Specialist at Makerere University moderated the proceedings of the Career Fair.
Writer: Christopher Kaahwa is an alumnus of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars’ Program at Makerere University
In a landmark event symbolizing Uganda’s stride towards sustainable transportation, Hon. Dr. Monica Musenero Masanza, Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation, commissioned the first Electric Fast-Charging Station at Makerere University on Friday 13th March 2026. The ceremony, held at the Senate Building Parking Lot, marks a pivotal moment in the nation’s e-mobility journey, blending academic innovation with industrial application and governmental support.
The station, a DC Fast Charger C6-180 installed in collaboration with Kiira Motors Corporation (KMC), is designed to power electric vehicles efficiently, supporting Uganda’s shift from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources. This setup ensures high-power DC charging ideal for fleet operations.
Hon. Dr. Musenero, in her keynote remarks, highlighted the profound significance of the occasion, tracing its roots back to 2011 when Makerere unveiled the Kiira EV – Uganda’s first electric vehicle prototype. “This infrastructure is the physical manifestation of a journey that began on this very hill nearly two decades ago,” she stated, emphasizing how the university’s initial proof-of-concept challenged skepticism about Africa’s role in automotive technology.
The event, she noted, completes a narrative full circle, with the birthplace of the Kiira EV now hosting the infrastructure to sustain a modern electric fleet. The commissioning aligns seamlessly with Uganda’s National E-Mobility Strategy, which aims to localize 65% of the e-mobility value chain by 2040 and create over 500,000 high-quality green jobs.
Hon. Dr. Musenero underscored the strategy’s focus on reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels while enhancing environmental well-being. “We are transforming Uganda into a net source of e-mobility solutions,” she declared, pointing to the potential for Ugandan intellect to produce vehicle parts and charging systems domestically.
In his remarks at the event, the Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe described the launch as a “multi-faceted achievement,” not only advancing the institution’s inclusive agenda but also setting an example for public institutions in adopting e-mobility. In so doing, Makerere University has positioned itself at the forefront of this transition.
On September 26, 2025, President Yoweri Museveni commissioned the Kiira Vehicle Plant in Jinja and handed over three Kiira Motors Corporation (KMC) buses to Makerere University to enhance staff and student mobility. The fleet included two diesel-powered Kayoola Coaches and one electric Kayoola EVS 8.5m bus donated by KMC specifically to aid the movement of differently-abled staff and students. This move demonstrates academia’s capacity to integrate home-grown solutions into daily operations, impacting the economy through practical science.
The commissioning of the fast-charging station is rooted in a long history of collaboration. The Kiira Electric Vehicle Project, hatched in the former Faculty of Technology, has evolved into a national movement for automotive manufacturing. Hon. Dr. Musenero praised this progression: “We have moved beyond proving that an electric vehicle can be built in Uganda. We are now ensuring our electric vehicles are deployed across the continent, solving Africa’s mobility problems.”
Academia’s role remains central, as Hon. Dr. Musenero elaborated. While government provides policy frameworks and the private sector offers capital, universities supply the essential knowledge. The E-Mobility Skilling Programme at Makerere University‘s Innovation Pod (Mak-UniPod) is training the next generation of electric vehicle engineers, who are tackling “moonshot projects” to redefine urban transport. Research into optimizing local resources, such as Uganda’s lithium and cobalt deposits for battery production, is also underway.
A key environmental highlight of this development is Uganda’s renewable energy advantage. With over 95% of the national grid powered by hydroelectric dams, every charge at this station utilizes clean energy. “We are using our own water to power our own vehicles, keeping our wealth within our economy rather than exporting it to purchase foreign oil,” Hon. Dr. Musenero remarked, framing the launch as Uganda plugging into the global renewable shift. She pledged the Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) Secretariat’s continued collaboration with Makerere University, KMC, and partners to proliferate such stations across Kampala and beyond.
Addressing Makerere students, Hon. Dr. Musenero issued a challenge: “See this charging station as a symbol of your own potential. The engineers who built the first Kiira EV were once sitting exactly where you are. They did not wait for permission to be great.” She urged them to leverage available resources to innovate, building on a legacy that has shifted national conversations.
The event drew distinguished guests, including Members of Management, Eng. Paul Isaac Musasizi, KMC’s CEO and his management team, private sector partners, development agencies, and university faculty.
Looking ahead, this launch propels Uganda towards a “Qualitative Leap” in its economy, as Hon. Dr. Musenero described. By fostering innovation and investing in young minds, the nation aims to lead in technological advancement. The station not only powers vehicles but ignites progress, ensuring Uganda remains at the forefront of Africa’s e-mobility revolution.
As the ceremony which was intermittently “blessed” by drizzles drew to a close, the feeling of hope for a cleaner, self-reliant future – one charged by Ugandan ingenuity, was unmistakable.
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