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Tanzanian PM Rt. Hon. Majaliwa Graces Islam@75 & MUMSA@50 Celebrations

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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.”

Part of the Welcoming Party (Right to Left): Hon. Hajjat Minsa Kabanda, Prof. Abasi Kiyimba (rear), Prof. Umar Kakumba, Sheikh Abdallah Semambo, Sheikh Muhammad Shaban Galabuzi, Deputy Turkish Ambassador, Muslim Official, Dr. Sowed Juma Mayanja, MUMSA Official, Prof. Juma Kasozi and Dr. Muhammad Kiggundu Musoke.
Part of the Welcoming Party (Right to Left): Hon. Hajjat Minsa Kabanda, Prof. Abasi Kiyimba (rear), Prof. Umar Kakumba, Sheikh Abdallah Semambo, Sheikh Muhammad Shaban Galabuzi, Deputy Turkish Ambassador, Muslim Official, Dr. Sowed Juma Mayanja, MUMSA Official, Prof. Juma Kasozi and Dr. Muhammad Kiggundu Musoke.

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.

Left to Right: Prof. Abasi Kiyimba, Dr. Muhammad Kiggundu Musoke and Dr. Sowed Juma Mayanja address the gathering.
Left to Right: Prof. Abasi Kiyimba, Dr. Muhammad Kiggundu Musoke and Dr. Sowed Juma Mayanja address the gathering.

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.

The Deputy Turkish Ambassador represented H.E. Fikret Kerem Alp.
The Deputy Turkish Ambassador represented H.E. Fikret Kerem Alp.

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.

The Head Department of Journalism and Communication and Chairperson Makerere University Muslim Staff Association (MUMSTAF), Dr. Aisha Sembatya Nakiwala delivers her welcome remarks.
The Head Department of Journalism and Communication and Chairperson Makerere University Muslim Staff Association (MUMSTAF), Dr. Aisha Sembatya Nakiwala delivers her welcome remarks.

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 Patron MUMSA Dr. Muhammad Kiggundu Musoke (2nd Right) introduces Former and Current Chairmen of MUMSA who included Hon. Al Hajji Latif Ssebagala (Right) and former Imaam Sheik Ahmed Ssentongo (6th Left).
The Patron MUMSA Dr. Muhammad Kiggundu Musoke (2nd Right) introduces Former and Current Chairmen of MUMSA who included Hon. Al Hajji Latif Ssebagala (Right) and former Imaam Sheik Ahmed Ssentongo (6th Left).

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.

Mark Wamai

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Mak Endowment Fund 3rd Board of Trustees Inaugurated

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Seated: Mrs. Lorna Magara (Centre) with Prof. Sarah Ssali (Left) and Dr. Margaret J. Kigozi (Right) with other officials (Standing) after inauguration of the 3rd MakEF Board on 23rd October 2025. The 3rd Board of Trustees of the Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF) officially inaugurated by Mrs. Lorna Magara, Chairperson of the University Council, 23rd October 2025, Council Room, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

The 3rd Board of Trustees of the Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF) has been officially inaugurated in a ceremony presided over by Mrs. Lorna Magara, Chairperson of the University Council on 23rd October 2025, and moderated by the Secretary to the Board, Mr. Emmanuel Kitamirike

In her address, Mrs. Magara commended the outgoing board, led by Dr. Margaret J. Kigozi, for their remarkable stewardship that saw the Fund grow from UGX 8.66 billion in 2021 to UGX 14.54 billion in 2025. She underscored the Endowment Fund’s vital role in ensuring the University’s financial sustainability amidst fluctuating public funding, reaffirming the Council’s commitment to providing policy and institutional support. Mrs. Magara further urged the incoming Board to uphold transparency, strengthen alumni engagement, and pursue innovative investment strategies to expand the Fund’s impact as Makerere continues to build for the future.

Mrs. Lorna Magara addresses the meeting. The 3rd Board of Trustees of the Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF) officially inaugurated by Mrs. Lorna Magara, Chairperson of the University Council, 23rd October 2025, Council Room, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mrs. Lorna Magara addresses the meeting.

Board composition

The newly inaugurated 3rd Board of Trustees (2025–2029) brings together a team of distinguished professionals whose expertise spans business, academia, finance, governance, and social advocacy. Notably, some members have been reappointed in recognition of their exceptional service and contribution to the Fund’s growth during the previous term. The Board is chaired by Dr. Margaret J. Kigozi, a seasoned business leader and former Executive Director of the Uganda Investment Authority (UIA). She is joined by accomplished members including Ms. Jennifer Mwijukye, CEO and founder of Unifreight Cargo Handling Limited; Mr. Ninsiima John Chris, Director of Programmes at NUDIPU and member of the Makerere University Council; Mr. Kenneth Mugambe, former Director of Budget at the Ministry of Finance; Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, Makerere University’s Academic Registrar and Professor of Forestry Resource Economics; and Mr. Sam Ayesiga, a governance and investment expert with vast experience across Africa. Their diverse backgrounds and renewed commitment are expected to steer the Fund toward even greater stability, innovation, and impact in the years ahead.

Representing the Vice Chancellor, Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Prof. Sarah Ssali, commended the outgoing Board of Trustees of the Makerere University Endowment Fund for their exceptional service marked by growth, innovation, and accountability. She noted that the growth of the fund to UGX 14 billion is a clear testament to strategic vision, prudent management, and confidence in Makerere University’s long-term sustainability. Prof. Ssali praised the Board for initiatives that have united thousands of alumni, staff, and partners, notably through the Makerere Run, which has supported disability inclusion and empowerment.

The Acting Vice Chancellor Prof. Sarah Ssali. The 3rd Board of Trustees of the Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF) officially inaugurated by Mrs. Lorna Magara, Chairperson of the University Council, 23rd October 2025, Council Room, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The Acting Vice Chancellor Prof. Sarah Ssali.

She also recognized the introduction of the MakAdvance digital platform as a milestone in promoting efficiency and transparency. She welcomed the incoming Board, and challenged the new team to grow the Fund beyond UGX 25 billion through deeper engagement, innovative fundraising, and stronger partnerships. She reaffirmed Management’s commitment to supporting the Fund within robust governance frameworks that inspire stakeholder confidence, emphasizing the shared vision of building a financially resilient Makerere University.

During the handover ceremony, Dr. Margaret J. Kigozi, the Chairperson, reflected on the remarkable progress achieved under the 2021–2025 term, noting the Fund’s growth from UGX 8.66 billion to UGX 14.54 billion — a 68% increase despite global economic challenges. She highlighted key milestones including the institutionalization of the Makerere Run, establishment of the Makerere Gift and Souvenir Shop, launch of The Legacy e-newsletter, and the creation of the Jawaher Fund for the Advancement of Women’s Education, supported by NAMA Establishment in the UAE. Dr. Kigozi expressed gratitude to the outgoing Trustees and reaffirmed her commitment, alongside the new Board, to advance transformative projects such as the construction of the Makerere University Students’ Centre and development of the Makindye land. She emphasized that the Fund’s goal remains to build a financially sustainable Makerere University capable of supporting innovation, research, and academic excellence for generations to come.

Mrs. Lorna Magara (Right) with Dr. Margaret J. Kigozi and her award for her previous tenure as Chairperson. The 3rd Board of Trustees of the Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF) officially inaugurated by Mrs. Lorna Magara, Chairperson of the University Council, 23rd October 2025, Council Room, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mrs. Lorna Magara (Right) with Dr. Margaret J. Kigozi and her award for her previous tenure as Chairperson.

At the inauguration, the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Finance and Administration, Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta underscored the Fund’s central role in ensuring Makerere’s financial sustainability and institutional legacy. He described the Endowment Fund as a cornerstone of the University’s vision—an instrument through which Makerere secures its future, strengthens its independence, and sustains strategic investments in teaching, research, and innovation. He extended heartfelt appreciation to the outgoing Board, chaired by Dr. Margaret J. Kigozi, for their dedicated service and strong leadership that fortified the Fund’s governance, fundraising, and asset management.

Welcoming the new Board, he congratulated the members on their appointment and urged them to continue expanding and mobilizing resources with integrity and innovation. He reaffirmed his office’s commitment to providing administrative and financial support to ensure that the Fund thrives beyond annual budgetary constraints, contributing meaningfully to Makerere’s vision of becoming a research-led, financially resilient, and globally respected institution.

The Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF) was established to secure the University’s financial sustainability by mobilizing, investing, and managing resources to support its core functions of teaching, research, and innovation. Originating from donations made as early as the 1930s, the Fund has evolved into a strategic vehicle that aims to reduce dependence on public funding. It is governed by a Board of Trustees appointed by the University Council, responsible for overseeing investments and resource mobilization. Through initiatives like alumni engagement, digital giving, and events such as the Makerere Run, the Fund continues to grow and strengthen Makerere’s vision of being a research-led and financially resilient institution.

Eve Nakyanzi

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MURBS Declares 13.56% Interest for FY 2024/2025

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The Chairperson, Dr. Michael Kizito (3rd Right) and Board Secretary, CPA Francesca Angida Mugyema (Centre) with MURBS Trustees from Left to Right: Mr. George Bamugemereire, CPA Edna Rugumayo, Dr. Deus Kamunyu Muhwezi, Mr. Joseph Ikarokok and Dr. Elizabeth Nansubuga at the 15th AGM on 23rd October 2025. Makerere University Retirement Benefits Scheme (MURBS) Board of Trustees on 23rd October 2025 during the 15th Annual General Meeting declared an interest on 13.56% on Members balances for the Financial Year 2024/2025. Main Hall, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

The Makerere University Retirement Benefits Scheme (MURBS) Board of Trustees on 23rd October 2025 during the 15th Annual General Meeting declared an interest on 13.56% on Members balances for the Financial Year 2024/2025. Held in the Main Hall for the first time since the Main Building’s reconstruction, the AGM was a chance for the Board of Trustees led by Dr. Michael Kizito to showcase the dedication, strategic initiatives and resilience that had enabled the fund to grow by 16.2% from UGX 409.2 billion as at 30th June 2024 to UGX 475.5 billion as at 30th June 2025.

MURBS asset classes and contributions

Some of these strategic initiatives included investing 86.4% of MURBS’ portfolio in long-term Ugandan Government Bonds. This decision was in line with the Uganda Retirement Benefits Regulatory Authority (URBRA)’s approved waiver, allowing investment of up to 90% in this asset class. Investments in other asset classes included Unit Trusts (10.3%), Real Estate (3.19%), as well as Equities and Fixed Deposits at 0.08% each.

Additional contributors to the fund growth included the remittances from the Sponsor, Makerere University, which grew by 6.4% from UGX 34.4 billion to UGX 36.6 billion. Of particular significance were remittances from staff on projects amounting to UGX 4.59 billion, attracting the Chairperson’s commendation.

“MURBS Trustees appreciate the Sponsor’s compliance and are grateful for the engagements so far to settle historical debts” enthused Dr. Kizito, before adding “We equally recognize Principal Investigators, Accountants and College Principals who remitted to MURBS retirement contributions for their staff on contract and under different projects.” Thirteen new projects were registered by MURBS during the last quarter of FY 2024/2025, bringing the total number of projects remitting staff benefits to the Scheme to 174.

The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (Centre) with MURBS Trustees and Secretariat during their courtesy visit on 30th April 2025. Makerere University Retirement Benefits Scheme (MURBS) Board of Trustees on 23rd October 2025 during the 15th Annual General Meeting declared an interest on 13.56% on Members balances for the Financial Year 2024/2025. Main Hall, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (Centre) with MURBS Trustees and Secretariat during their courtesy visit on 30th April 2025.

Membership and savings

As such, the number of MURBS Members actively contributing to the scheme grew from 3,137 last year to 3,368 as at 30th June 2025. Of these, the majority i.e. 1,648 (48.93%) had savings below UGX 50 million, followed by 524 (15.56%) with savings between UGX 500 and 550 million. The minority i.e. 1 (0.03%) member has the highest savings between UGX 650 and 700 million, followed by 2 (0.06%) with savings between UGX 600 and 650 million.

Retirement of staff is a normal practice and as such, MURBS paid benefits worth UGX 21.7 billion last financial year. As alarming as this figure was, the Chairperson reassured members that the rise in benefits paid is a normal trend “because it corresponds to rise in the value of individual holdings for members.

“Our retirement benefits packages now include partial withdrawals after retirement, annuity arrangement with reputable industry partners, and Mid-Term Access,” explained Dr. Kizito.

Milestones registered

MURBS registered a number of achievements during the last financial year in its bid to ensure transformative growth. These included completion of a benchmarking process that will see the procurement and introduction of a modern Management Information System (MIS) to strengthen operational efficiency. The Chairperson equally announced that the MURBS Mobile App had been developed and is ready for deployment. The App, he added, will “dramatically enhance the member experience by offering instant access to benefit calculators, account information, and real-time statements.”

Dr. Michael Kizito. Makerere University Retirement Benefits Scheme (MURBS) Board of Trustees on 23rd October 2025 during the 15th Annual General Meeting declared an interest on 13.56% on Members balances for the Financial Year 2024/2025. Main Hall, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Michael Kizito.

Other milestones highlighted by Dr. Kizito included the implementation of Document Management System (DMS) for efficient records management, and the acquisition of new office premises to accommodate the scheme’s growth and offer more member-focused services. On this note, the Chairperson appreciated the Makerere University Council and Management for their support in ensuring that MURBS continues to deliver “an enabling environment that promotes productivity, accessibility, and efficiency for both members and staff.”

Sector Regulator applauds MURBS Trustees

Speaking on behalf of URBRA, Mr. Mark Lotukei commended MURBS Trustees on leveraging sector rules to ensure that members receive the best return on investment for their benefits. “From this year’s presentation, your funds were invested more than 80% in government securities, which shows that your trustees were proactive enough to take advantage of shifts in the marketplace” he commended.

Mr. Lotukei urged MURBS members to use the platform provided by the AGM to not only question the Trustees decisions but also improve their own awareness of how scheme business is conducted. He equally encouraged members to make the most of the regular free online trainings provided by URBRA. “Those two hours could change a lot in terms of enabling you to plan better for your retirement”.

A pledge to continue delivering value

True to Mr. Lotukei’s encouragement, the AGM was concluded with a lively question and answer session, where members thoroughly probed the Trustees on various issues presented in the annual report. In addition to the Chairperson, other Trustees namely; the Board Secretary – CPA Francesca Angida Mugyema and Members – Mr. Joseph Ikarokok, Dr. Elizabeth Nansubuga, Mr. George Bamugemereire, and CPA Edna Rugumayo were on hand to provide responses, while Trustee Dr. Deus Kamunyu Muhwezi moderated the session.

The Principal Pension Officer (3rd Left) with Members of the Secretariat Left to Right: Ms. Rebecca Nairuba, Ms. Juliet Nabukeera, Ms. Rhona Asingwiire, Ms. Doreen Namono, Ms. Julian Marembo, and Mr. Marvin Kakumba. Makerere University Retirement Benefits Scheme (MURBS) Board of Trustees on 23rd October 2025 during the 15th Annual General Meeting declared an interest on 13.56% on Members balances for the Financial Year 2024/2025. Main Hall, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The Principal Pension Officer (3rd Left) with Members of the Secretariat from Left to Right: Ms. Rebecca Nairuba, Ms. Juliet Nabukeera, Ms. Rhona Asingwiire, Ms. Doreen Namono, Ms. Julian Marembo, and Mr. Marvin Kakumba.

In addition to Trustees, the Board’s co-opted experts include; CPA David Ssenoga, Dr. Saul Nsubuga, Mr. Alan Lwetabe, and Mr. Paul Kuteesa. The Board of Trustees is supported in the daily running of Scheme business by the Secretariat that is made up of; Ms. Susan Khaitsa, Ms. Juliet Nabukeera, Ms. Julian Marembo, Mr. Marvin Kakumba, Ms. Rhonah Asingwiire, Ms. Rebecca Nairuba, and Ms. Doreen Namono.

In closing, the Chairperson reassured Members of the MURBS’ Trustees unwavering commitment to continue focusing on optimizing operations, enhancing revenue streams through alternative investments, and delivering value to stakeholders.

Mark Wamai

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First Deputy Vice Chancellor Prof. Sarah Ssali courtesy visit to MakPress

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Prof. Sarah Ssali and Dr. William Tayeebwa together with staff show off some of MakPress' publications during the visit on 21st October 2025. First Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs, Prof. Sarah Ssali visits Makerere University Press (MakPress), which she visited today on 21st of October 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

As part of her efforts to familiarize herself with the offices under her docket, the newly appointed First Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs, Prof. Sarah Ssali, has embarked on a series of visits to different units that report to her office. One of these is the Makerere University Press (MakPress), which she visited today on 21st of October 2025, on a courtesy call. She was received by the Managing Editor for MakPress, Dr. William Tayeebwa, a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Journalism and Communication at the College of Humanities and Social Sciences. Previously, MakPress operated jointly with the Directorate of Graduate Training (DGT) and the Directorate of Research, Innovations and Partnerships (DRIP) before becoming a standalone entity. Accompanying Prof. Ssali on this visit were Prof. Julius Kikooma, the Director of DGT, and Mr. Mathias Ssemanda, the Acting Manager of the International Relations Office.

Prof. Sarah Ssali (2nd Right) flanked by Left-Right: Mr. Matthias Ssemanda, Prof. Julius Kikooma, Dr. William Tayeebwa and Ms. Eunice Rukundo signs the MakPress Visitors' Book. First Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs, Prof. Sarah Ssali visits Makerere University Press (MakPress), which she visited today on 21st of October 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Sarah Ssali (2nd Right) flanked by Left-Right: Mr. Matthias Ssemanda, Prof. Julius Kikooma, Dr. William Tayeebwa and Ms. Eunice Rukundo signs the MakPress Visitors’ Book.

During her visit to MakPress, Prof. Sarah Ssali commended the Unit for its progress and partnerships while emphasizing the need to strengthen collaboration with key institutions such as the National Curriculum Development Centre (NCDC), the Ministry of Education and Sports, and other universities. She encouraged the Press to explore practical working models, including leveraging external expertise and streamlining its printing processes to enhance efficiency. Prof. Ssali also highlighted the importance of safeguarding intellectual property, ensuring fair contractual terms with partners, and maintaining transparency in publishing agreements. She advised that Makerere University Press should position itself strategically by producing high-quality academic materials that serve both national and international audiences. Additionally, she urged the team to adopt a more consistent publication schedule—launching books quarterly or biannually—and to organize events where authors can engage directly with readers, scholars, and policymakers. Prof. Ssali reaffirmed the administration’s support toward building a stronger, more vibrant university press that effectively contributes to research dissemination, academic dialogue, and national development.

Dr. William Tayeebwa (R) autographs a copy of the Centennial Publication "Makerere's Century of Service to East Africa and Beyond" for Prof. Sarah Ssali (Right). First Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs, Prof. Sarah Ssali visits Makerere University Press (MakPress), which she visited today on 21st of October 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. William Tayeebwa (R) autographs a copy of the Centennial Publication “Makerere’s Century of Service to East Africa and Beyond” for Prof. Sarah Ssali (Right).

During the courtesy visit, Dr. William Tayeebwa highlighted the milestones and ongoing projects at the Press. He spoke about the growing partnerships with institutions such as the University of Chicago Press, the University of California Press, and the African Books Collective, which have enhanced both local and international visibility of Makerere’s publications. “Why make a university press when you have Makerere University Press”, Dr. Tayeebwa said urging public universities to utilize MakPress. Dr. Tayeebwa also shared that the Press has republished several titles, launched new book projects, and developed a digital platform that enables readers to access and purchase books online. However, he pointed out a number of challenges affecting the Press’s operations, including inadequate funding, limited printing capacity at the university printery, and delays that often affect the timely release of publications. He further noted the difficulty of accessing generated funds due to bureaucratic procedures, space and infrastructure limitations, and the continued confusion between the roles of the Press and the printery. Despite these challenges, Dr. Tayeebwa reaffirmed the commitment of his team to strengthen Makerere University Press as a central pillar in advancing research dissemination and academic publishing.

Dr. William Tayeebwa (3rd R) gestures during MakPress Staff interaction with the DVCAA. First Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs, Prof. Sarah Ssali visits Makerere University Press (MakPress), which she visited today on 21st of October 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. William Tayeebwa (3rd R) gestures during MakPress Staff interaction with the DVCAA.

Eve Nakyanzi

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