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.
On Tuesday, 17th June 2025, a distinguished delegation from the Mastercard Foundation Board visited Makerere University for the first time since the establishment of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the university. The visit underscored the progress achieved through the partnership and its positive impact on the university community, Uganda and the African continent over the past decade. The delegation was welcomed to Makerere by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, accompanied by Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, and Prof. Justine Namaalwa, the Program Director for Mastercard Foundation at Makerere University.
The high-profile delegation was led by Her Excellency President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, the former President of Liberia and the first woman to hold the presidential office on the African continent. She serves on the Board alongside other members such as Mr. Zein M. Abdalla, the Board Chairperson; Ms. Jennifer Fonsted; Mr. Jim Leech; Mr. Stephen Toope; Ms. Sewit Ahderom; Ms. Baroness Valerie; Hon. Louise Arbour; Ms. Tsega Gebreyes; Mr. Jay Ireland; Mr. Michael Sabia; Ms. Carole Wamayu; Ms. Robin Washington; and Ms. Reeta Roy, the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Mastercard Foundation. Additionally, the Board members were accompanied by the leadership team of the Mastercard Foundation, including Mr. Doug Kasambala, Chief Financial Officer; Ms. Ivy Mwai, Education and Skills Lead; Mr. Adrian Bukenya, Country Director for Mastercard Foundation-Uganda Programs; and Ms. Rachel Nandelenga, Head of Country Program Communications.
The Mastercard Foundation Board conducted a series of meetings with various stakeholders at Makerere University. The meetings begun with the University Leadership, which featured key figures such as Rt. Hon. Daniel Kidega, the Deputy Chairperson of the University Council and Chairperson of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Advisory Board at Makerere; Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, the Vice Chancellor; Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, the Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Chairperson of the Steering Committee for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program; and Mr. Yusuf Kiranda, the University Secretary.
While addressing the delegation, Vice Chancellor Prof. Nawangwe expressed gratitude for the partnership between the Mastercard Foundation and Makerere University. He highlighted the Foundation’s impact on Africa’s higher education sector and the livelihoods of young people across the continent.
“We are privileged to host Her Excellency Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, along with other Members of the Board of Mastercard Foundation and the Foundation’s President and CEO, Ms. Reeta Roy, for the first time at Makerere University. The Mastercard Foundation has significantly impacted Uganda and Africa’s higher education sector and the livelihoods of young people, for which we are very grateful,” Prof. Nawangwe remarked.
Prof. Nawangwe also expressed appreciation to the Mastercard Foundation for its partnerships with Makerere University, which began with the Scholars Program and now encompasses additional initiatives such as the E-learning Initiative and, most recently, the Climate Resilience and Sustainability Collaborative project.
During the meeting with the Scholars Program staff, the Program Director, Prof. Justine Namaalwa, had the opportunity to outline the achievements of the first 10 years (First phase) of the Scholars Program at Makerere University and shed light on the future of the second phase of the Program at Makerere University.
Among the achievements highlighted by Prof. Namaalwa during the first phase were the following:
- The Program supported 1,032 young people, of whom 76% were females and 24% were males.
- As of January 2025, 965 Scholars had graduated, achieving an exceptional completion rate of 94%.
- Scholar Alumni have moved on to various pursuits, including formal employment (34%), entrepreneurship (11%), and further education (3%).
- Strengthening the Student Mentorship Engagements through capacity-building sessions for 97 university staff across the colleges, which benefits both the Scholars and other students.
- Drafting the Makerere University Career Guidance and Mentorship Policy to streamline mentorship engagements across the university. The Policy is currently under review by the University Council.
- As of 2024, the Scholars Entrepreneurship Fund has created 86 jobs across various communities.
- The Scholars made a positive impact on communities through their Annual Day of Service, supporting twelve communities by constructing boreholes for clean water access in two communities and building and equipping classrooms in three communities.
Prof. Namaalwa also elaborated on the accomplishments thus far in the second phase of the Scholars Program by highlighting the following;
- 101 Scholars recruited into the Program across different categories.
- Prioritizing the safety of students and staff, emphasized by the well-articulated Makerere University Safeguarding Policy and its implementation activities.
- A fully operational Disability Inclusion Support Centre.
On the other day’s activities, the Board also had the chance to view a mini-exhibition showcasing projects implemented by the alumni scholars. Furthermore, they engaged in a focus group discussion with both the Scholars and alumni.
On their part, the Board members expressed gratitude to Makerere University Management, led by Prof. Nawangwe, for the tremendous achievements the university had attained through the implementation of the Scholars Program and other initiatives aimed at uplifting underprivileged young people in Uganda and Africa. The Board members also expressed their appreciation to Prof. Namaalwa and the Scholars Program for the excellent job done in implementing the Scholars Program and for the continuous support provided to the Scholars and Scholar-alumni.
The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Nawangwe, concluded the day by presenting each visitor with an unforgettable souvenir of Makerere, which included exquisite Makerere University coffee mugs and executive pens.
Mr. Bernard Buteera is the Principal Communication and Public Relations Officer of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University
More photos from the visit
General
Meet Safali Libia, a Mastercard Foundation Scholar-alumnus who rebuilt his life as a refugee in Uganda
In recognition of International World Refugee Day this year, themed “solidarity with refugees,” the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University proudly highlights the remarkable achievements of our Scholars and alumni with refugee backgrounds. These individuals have shown incredible resilience and determination, making a profound impact in their communities. Today, we are excited to share the inspiring story of Safali Libia, a Scholar-alumnus who, despite facing numerous challenges, successfully joined Makerere University through the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship, graduated, and actively contributes to his community at Kyangwali Refugee Settlement. He launched a transformative social venture project, A Hand for a Refugee, aimed at advancing the agriculture sector and enhancing livelihoods.
I was born in 1997 in Bunagana, Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. In 2013, I fled to Uganda due to the armed conflict in my home country. My life was rebuilt in Kyangwali Refugee Settlement, where I found a new beginning.
Despite the challenges, I worked hard through school and was eventually admitted to Makerere University. There, I graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Economics as a proud Mastercard Foundation Scholar. Accessing education in a peaceful environment changed the trajectory of my life. While at university, I decided to change the narrative about refugees. Too often, we are viewed through a lens of pity rather than potential. In my second year at Makerere, I allocated part of my scholarship stipends to support my family and also fund youth activities in the settlement. I mentored younger students, encouraged girls to stay in school, and advocated for inclusive development policies that recognise refugees as contributors, not burdens.
I also noticed how refugees have limited access to resources and opportunities. Many can only engage in small-scale agriculture or petty trade, yet they have dreams and abilities far beyond that. This realisation led me to co-found ‘A Hand for a Refugee’, a youth-led social enterprise driven by a profound understanding of the urgent need to strengthen the socio-economic well-being of refugee communities. We envision a future where refugees are not solely reliant on aid but are empowered towards self-reliance and can sustainably meet their diverse household needs, including ensuring access to education for their children, providing sufficient and nutritious food, securing safe drinking water, and fostering improved living conditions.
We focus on practical and sustainable solutions, providing comprehensive skilling and training in the two thematic areas of climate-smart agriculture livelihood for refugees and youth/women economic empowerment. Recognising the diverse experiences of refugee farmers, we provide support through comprehensive extension services and market linkage initiatives. These efforts are designed to enhance agricultural productivity, foster economic self-reliance, and promote sustainable livelihoods.
So far, we have trained fellow refugees in modern, climate-smart farming techniques and supported them in growing high-value crops like passion fruits, tomatoes, onions, and cabbages, which could thrive on small plots of land. Through these efforts, we strengthened food security and restored dignity. Our initiative has trained over 50 farmers, empowered women and youth, and demonstrated that refugee-led solutions are practical and sustainable. The Anzisha Prize and the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program have recognised my work as a shining example of refugee-led innovation and a testament to whatrefugees can achieve when given the opportunity.
Today, I serve as the General Secretary of the Kyangwali Refugee-Led Organisations Umbrella. I encourage fellow refugee youth to take up leadership roles. We are not helpless; we are resourceful, determined, and resilient. All we need is trust, tools, and opportunity.
On this World Refugee Day, I call upon refugee youth not to wait for change but to be the change. We carry the solutions to our own problems. With education, courage, and unity, we can build more than survival; we can build thriving futures.
Let my journey remind the young people in different settlements that leadership, resilience, and hope can grow even in difficult conditions. I represent a new generation of refugees who do not see themselves as victims of circumstance but as architects of change, ready to rebuild their communities from the ground up. As we commemorate this day, let us celebrate young visionaries for surviving, thriving, and illuminating the way forward for millions of others displaced by conflict and crisis. In this struggle, I have planted seeds of hope, demonstrating that from within the refugee settlements of Africa can emerge the leaders of tomorrow. If I can do it, you can too.
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