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Banana’s Large Plant Body Size an Advantage to Disease Control – Mak Scientists

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Unlike for plants, in animals especially humans, body mass index (BMI, which is a person’s weight divided by the square of height) is a measure of physical health and pre-disposure to conditions like obesity. BMI does not make sense in plant health because of differences between plant and animal physiological systems.

However, large body size in plants may have some advantages. Apart from controlling a larger proportion of available resources and space within crowded vegetation, what other advantage does a large plant body size offer to an individual plant?

Banana plant vegetative assembly.
Banana plant vegetative assembly.

The banana’s plant body architecture

From the botanical point-of-view, the banana plant is a gigantic herb. A plant that is a herb or “herbaceous” is unable to undergo “secondary growth” and cannot form wood during its vegetative development.

The banana plant springs from an underground “true stem”, also called the “corm” or “rhizome”, to form a false stem, also called a “pseudostem” of 2-7 m height. The pseudostem is composed of the basal portions of leaf sheaths and is crowned with a rosette of 10 to 20 oblong to elliptic leaves that sometimes attain a length of 2-4 m and a breadth of 70 cm.

Parts of the banana plant.
Parts of the banana plant.

In mature banana plants, true stem emerges at the top of the pseudostem and bends downward to become a bunch of 10 to 300 individual fruits, or fingers, grouped in clusters, or hands, of 3 to 22. The edible part of the bunch is the female. In contrast, the inedible distal part, including the purple-colored cone-shaped end (locally known in some Ugandan dialects as “omukanaana” or “empumumpu”) constitutes the male part of the bunch.

Longitudinal section of a banana corm (rhizome).
Longitudinal section of a banana corm (rhizome).

How is the giant banana size an advantage in disease control?

A new study, titled “Xanthomonas campestris pv. musacearum Bacterial Infection Induces Organ-Specific Callose and Hydrogen Peroxide Production in Banana” and led by a team of scientists at the Department of Plant Sciences, Microbiology and Biotechnology at Makerere University in collaboration with the University of California, Davis, USA, shows how the giant banana body size can be used to control banana Xanthomonas wilt (BXW) disease.

According to Prof. Arthur Tugume, the lead scientist of this study and expert in plant pathology, when plants get infected, they respond instantly by implementing different strategies that limit the multiplication and/or mobility of the disease agents (pathogens). “For example, plants rapidly produce reactive oxygen species (ROS) such as hydrogen peroxide, superoxide ions, and hydroxyl ions. These ROS act as rapid messengers in the plant tissues to activate additional responses spreading over the entire plant body. This helps the plant’s distant tissues or organs to be aware and prepare advance defenses against the intruding pathogens”.

An example of banana plantation in Uganda.
An example of banana plantation in Uganda.

Prof. Dinesh-Kumar the project’s research collaborator based at the University of California-Davis, USA and expert in plant biology explains that “disease is a form of stress in plants and plants cannot perform well their biological functions when they are sick since they have to spend a lot of energy fighting against the disease. This is why disease control is important to enable plants grow well and yield high.”

The research indicates that ROS set in motion additional processes to ensure limited impact of disease and pathogens on the plant. For example, Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), which is a ROS, has direct bactericidal, fungicidal or other anti-effects on the pathogens. Also, following H2O2 production, a unique plant carbohydrate, named “callose” starts to accumulate in large quantities within plant cells as a means of fortifying plant tissues. Callose differs from the other usual plant carbohydrates such as starch or cellulose because of the way its structures are formed.

Some of the plantlets used in the experiments.
Some of the plantlets used in the experiments.

Increased production of callose acts as a roadblock to any pathogen e.g., bacteria by limiting bacterial movement that would otherwise allow ease of attack on other tissues or cells at distant locations in the plant. “Although these plant defense responses are rapid, plant organs that are distant from the site of pathogen attack can be instrumental and block progression of bacteria or other pathogens by depositing callose in advance at strategic points” Prof. Tugume explains.

However, Prof. Tugume notes that callose participates also in many other normal developmental processes of plants, and for that reason, there is always some “housekeeping” callose in the plant tissues even without pathogenic infection. “This means that one must be able to accurately and quantitatively distinguish between ‘stress-induced’ and normal ‘housekeeping’ callose”, he adds.

How was the study done?

In this study, the researchers used young (2.5-months old) banana plantlets that had been generated from tissue culture at Kawanda Agricultural Research Institute. They then infected the plantlets with a bacterium called Xanthomonas campestris pv. musacearum (Xcm). This bacterium is the causative agent of banana Xanthomonas Wilt (BXW), the most destructive disease of bananas in East and Central Africa (ECA).

The banana leaves, pseudostems, corms and roots were analyzed for callose and compared with the control plants that had been inoculated with water instead of bacteria. H2O2 production was monitored by “DAB staining”, and by “spectrophotometry” while the analysis of callose was done by two methods: staining and visualization of callose using florescence microscopy, and using “Sandwich Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay” methods.

A banana farmer removing a BXW infected plant from the mat. Only the infected plant is removed as a new method of BXW control.
A banana farmer removing a BXW infected plant from the mat. Only the infected plant is removed as a new method of BXW control.

What did the researchers discover and how can it be used in BXW disease control?

This study revealed that the underground corm tissues assemble the stiffest resistance against BXW by depositing the highest concentrations of callose, while the pseudostem produced the highest quantities of H2O2. This is interesting for three (3) main reasons:

  1. Firstly, Xcm bacteria often enter through the leaves in regular plantation husbandry; hence, the corm being distant from leaves gives it an anatomical advantage in promoting the ability of lateral plants to escape Xcm infection.
  2. Secondly, the corm is an organ of perennation supporting vegetative and perennial continuity of the crop across seasons; hence it is charged in ensuring a disease-free next generation by severely constraining “mother-child transmission” of Xcm bacteria.
  3. Thirdly, the control of BXW now becomes easy when farmers are observant to the first aerial disease symptoms because Xcm is strongly constrained by bottlenecks in the pseudostem and corm.

Therefore, at the onset of aerial symptoms, diseased peudostems should immediately be removed by aseptically cutting them off at the corm without interfering with symptomless lateral shoots, which allows continuous food production and disease control to go on simultaneously. This is facilitated by the large size of the banana plant because at the onset of leaf symptoms (2.5 to 5 meters away from the corm), the bacteria have not yet arrived at the base of the pseudostem where the diseased plant can be cut off from the corm. This gives chance to a farmer to eliminate the infected pseudostems early (in 1 to 7 days) since the appearance of leaf symptoms.

This research was part of the PhD studies for Mr. Abubakar S. Mustafa at Makerere University and University of California, Davis. According to Mr. Mustafa, these discoveries make the management of BXW in banana plantations easy as long as the farmers are observant and act fast by removing diseased plants aseptically.

This study has been published by the American Phytopathological Society (APS) in an open access journal, “PhytoFrontiers”, and is freely accessible on https://apsjournals.apsnet.org/doi/full/10.1094/PHYTOFR-11-21-0073-R.

This study was funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation through the National Agricultural Research Organization (NARO), Uganda. The project had partners including the International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), the Alliance for Bioversity International and International Centre for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT) and Centre for Agriculture and Bioscience International (CABI).

For more details, contact;

Prof. Arthur Tugume
Lead Scientist
College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS)
Makerere University
Email: arthur.tugume@mak.ac.ug
Tel: +256772514841

Mr. Abubakar S. Mustafa
Co-Author and PhD student on the study
Email: mustafa.abubakar.sadik@gmail.com
Tel: +256702813233

Hasifa Kabejja
Principal Communication Officer
College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS)
Makerere University
Email: pr.cns@mak.ac.ug
Tel: +256774904211

Hasifa Kabejja

Natural Sciences

Jinja Fish Festival: Mak Recognized for its outstanding contribution to the Development of the Fisheries Sector

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Ms. Eve Akongo Ampa, NutriFishPlus Project Administrator briefing participants about the products developed. Makerere University, through the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), recognized for its outstanding contribution to the development of the fisheries sector in Uganda, award was presented during the Sustainable Fisheries, Aquaculture, and Environmental Awards Ceremony at the 7th edition of the Jinja Fish Festival, 6th–7th December 2025, Across the Nile Resort, along the banks of the River Nile, Njeru Municipality, Buikwe District, Uganda, East Africa.

Makerere University, through the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), has been recognized for its outstanding contribution to the development of the fisheries sector in Uganda. The award was presented during the Sustainable Fisheries, Aquaculture, and Environmental Awards Ceremony at the 7th edition of the Jinja Fish Festival, held on 6th–7th December 2025 at Across the Nile Resort, along the banks of the River Nile in Njeru Municipality.

Renowned for showcasing diverse fish cuisines and cultural exhibitions, this year’s festival aimed to promote knowledge exchange, raise awareness, and highlight recent developments around Lake Victoria.

The Department of Zoology, Entomology, and Fisheries Sciences at CoNAS, Makerere University was recognized for its outstanding contribution to the development of the fisheries sector. Makerere University, through the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), recognized for its outstanding contribution to the development of the fisheries sector in Uganda, award was presented during the Sustainable Fisheries, Aquaculture, and Environmental Awards Ceremony at the 7th edition of the Jinja Fish Festival, 6th–7th December 2025, Across the Nile Resort, along the banks of the River Nile, Njeru Municipality, Buikwe District, Uganda, East Africa.
The Department of Zoology, Entomology, and Fisheries Sciences at CoNAS, Makerere University was recognized for its outstanding contribution to the development of the fisheries sector.

Launched in 2018, the Jinja Fish Festival has become a key platform for the public and stakeholders to learn about sustainable fisheries and the vital role of fish in livelihoods and nutrition. It also provides an avenue for fisheries stakeholders to deliberate on strategies to improve and sustain the sector.

The event includes the Lake Victoria Marathon, Nalubaale boat rowing competitions, a high-level fisheries forum, workshops, and exhibitions. It is organized by the Lake Victoria Fisheries Organization (LVFO) in partnership with the Directorate of Fisheries Resources, Sustainable Fisheries Initiative (SFI), Uganda Fish Processors and Exporters Association (UFPEA), and the International Fish and National Organizing Committee. It is funded by GIZ–SAF Project, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), and Enabel.

Some of the products developed under the NutriFish Project. Makerere University, through the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), recognized for its outstanding contribution to the development of the fisheries sector in Uganda, award was presented during the Sustainable Fisheries, Aquaculture, and Environmental Awards Ceremony at the 7th edition of the Jinja Fish Festival, 6th–7th December 2025, Across the Nile Resort, along the banks of the River Nile, Njeru Municipality, Buikwe District, Uganda, East Africa.
Some of the products developed under the NutriFish Project.

National Fisheries and Aquaculture Forum

A key highlight of the festival was the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Forum, themed “Promoting Sustainable Fisheries and Aquaculture through Ethical and Inclusive Blue Economy Practices.” The forum featured panel discussions on:

  1. Aligning Uganda’s Blue Economy with global and regional fisheries management frameworks.
  1. Adoption of climate-smart technologies in fisheries and aquaculture.
  2. Integration of business strategies and human rights principles into the fisheries and aquaculture value chain.
  3. Sustainable development of the fisheries and aquaculture sector.
Participants attending the National Fisheries and Aquaculture dialogue. Makerere University, through the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), recognized for its outstanding contribution to the development of the fisheries sector in Uganda, award was presented during the Sustainable Fisheries, Aquaculture, and Environmental Awards Ceremony at the 7th edition of the Jinja Fish Festival, 6th–7th December 2025, Across the Nile Resort, along the banks of the River Nile, Njeru Municipality, Buikwe District, Uganda, East Africa.
Participants attending the National Fisheries and Aquaculture dialogue.

Participants emphasized the importance of strengthening value chain governance, scaling up innovations, and aligning initiatives with youth employment opportunities.

Delivering the keynote address, Mr. Richard Ogutu-Ohwayo, Coordinator at African Lakes Network and Independent Researcher, highlighted the urgent need to address “dirty fish” corruption, improve fisheries resource management through effective policies, and increase human resource capacity within the sector. Dr. Odongokara Konstantine, a Research and Policy Expert, emphasized domesticating international policies into Uganda’s aquaculture practices and building stakeholders’ capacity to access regional and global opportunities.

Ms. Nelly Badaru, Gender Expert on the NutriFishPlus Project during the National Fisheries and Aquaculture dialogue. Makerere University, through the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), recognized for its outstanding contribution to the development of the fisheries sector in Uganda, award was presented during the Sustainable Fisheries, Aquaculture, and Environmental Awards Ceremony at the 7th edition of the Jinja Fish Festival, 6th–7th December 2025, Across the Nile Resort, along the banks of the River Nile, Njeru Municipality, Buikwe District, Uganda, East Africa.
Ms. Nelly Badaru, Gender Expert on the NutriFishPlus Project during the National Fisheries and Aquaculture dialogue.

NutriFishPlus Project Participation in the Festival

The NutriFishPlus Project team, along with students from CoNAS participated in the 7th edition of the Jinja Fish Festival on 6th and 7th December 2025. Led by Ms. Nelly Badaru, Gender Expert on the Project and Ms. Juliet Ogubi Nafula, PhD student in the Department of Zoology, Entomology, and Fisheries Sciences at CoNAS, the team showcased products developed under the project and educated participants on the nutritional benefits of small pelagic fishes. 

In its first phase, titled NutriFish, Makerere University researchers, led by Dr. Jackson Efitre, in collaboration with the National Fisheries Resources Research Institute (NaFIRRI – NARO), NUTREAL Limited, and McGill University, Canada, developed five high-value nutritious products, including baby food, sauce, maize meal, snacks, and seasoning, using Mukene (silverfish). The team also published a Mukene recipe book, containing 16 recipes rich in protein, calcium, zinc, and iron.

Ms. Nelly Badaru briefing journalists about the NutriFishPlus Project. Makerere University, through the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), recognized for its outstanding contribution to the development of the fisheries sector in Uganda, award was presented during the Sustainable Fisheries, Aquaculture, and Environmental Awards Ceremony at the 7th edition of the Jinja Fish Festival, 6th–7th December 2025, Across the Nile Resort, along the banks of the River Nile, Njeru Municipality, Buikwe District, Uganda, East Africa.
Ms. Nelly Badaru briefing journalists about the NutriFishPlus Project.

Through the project, fishers gained access to loans for purchasing boats and fish containers that improve hygiene and product quality. Two enterprise fishing groups, with over 70 boats, were established to ensure consistent supply and standards. Researchers also developed the eCAS system, an application for tracking fish catches. By September 2022, 8,960 catch records had been transmitted through the system, which is now used by over 200 stakeholders, including the Directorate of Fisheries Resources and the Fisheries Protection Unit, helping prevent overfishing.

A senior official from FAO at the NutriFishPlus Project stall. Makerere University, through the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), recognized for its outstanding contribution to the development of the fisheries sector in Uganda, award was presented during the Sustainable Fisheries, Aquaculture, and Environmental Awards Ceremony at the 7th edition of the Jinja Fish Festival, 6th–7th December 2025, Across the Nile Resort, along the banks of the River Nile, Njeru Municipality, Buikwe District, Uganda, East Africa.
A senior official from FAO at the NutriFishPlus Project stall.

Other achievements registered under the project included the development of solar tent driers – greenhouse-like structures that reduce the risk of contamination and provide clean and efficient storage and drying, especially during the wet season subsequently reducing post-harvest losses. The project conducted awareness training for 326 people (200 women) to reduce gender inequalities. As a result, domestic violence dropped by 30%, and the number of women in the fish value chain increased. The project also trained eight Graduate students, who have gained valuable skills and knowledge thus boosting critical human resource needs in the fisheries sector.

On behalf of the Kyabazinga of Busoga, Mr. Edward Munaaba appreciated the organizers of the festival and emphasized the need for stakeholders to collaborate in protecting fisheries resources. Makerere University, through the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), recognized for its outstanding contribution to the development of the fisheries sector in Uganda, award was presented during the Sustainable Fisheries, Aquaculture, and Environmental Awards Ceremony at the 7th edition of the Jinja Fish Festival, 6th–7th December 2025, Across the Nile Resort, along the banks of the River Nile, Njeru Municipality, Buikwe District, Uganda, East Africa.
On behalf of the Kyabazinga of Busoga, Mr. Edward Munaaba appreciated the organizers of the festival and emphasized the need for stakeholders to collaborate in protecting fisheries resources.

Other exhibitors at the festival included (NaFIRRI – NARO), FAO, INNOECOFOOD Project at Makerere University, the International University of East Africa, Busitema University, SEETA University (Science, Environment, Engineering, Technology, and Agriculture), Yalelo Uganda, and Preventive Care International, all showcasing emerging technologies and innovations in fisheries.

Students showcasing some of the products developed under the INNOECOFOOD Project at CoNAS. Makerere University, through the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), recognized for its outstanding contribution to the development of the fisheries sector in Uganda, award was presented during the Sustainable Fisheries, Aquaculture, and Environmental Awards Ceremony at the 7th edition of the Jinja Fish Festival, 6th–7th December 2025, Across the Nile Resort, along the banks of the River Nile, Njeru Municipality, Buikwe District, Uganda, East Africa.
Students showcasing some of the products developed under the INNOECOFOOD Project at CoNAS.

NutriFishPlus Phase II

Funded by the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) and the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) under CultiAF2, the NutriFishPlus Project aims to scale up Phase I activities to further enhance incomes and livelihoods of Uganda’s fishing communities.

Launched on 28th October 2025, the 32-month project will run until March 2028. Its objectives include:

  1. Scaling up sustainable fishing technologies, including solar tent driers and raised racks, to reach new communities.
  2. Strengthening market access and supply chain linkages for high-quality fish and fish-based products.
  3. Empowering women and vulnerable groups through diversified income-generating activities.
A student briefing a participant about the products developed under the INNOECOFOOD Project. Makerere University, through the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), recognized for its outstanding contribution to the development of the fisheries sector in Uganda, award was presented during the Sustainable Fisheries, Aquaculture, and Environmental Awards Ceremony at the 7th edition of the Jinja Fish Festival, 6th–7th December 2025, Across the Nile Resort, along the banks of the River Nile, Njeru Municipality, Buikwe District, Uganda, East Africa.
A student briefing a participant about the products developed under the INNOECOFOOD Project.

Implemented by the Department of Zoology, Entomology, and Fisheries Sciences at Makerere University, in collaboration with Nutreal Ltd and Kati Farms Ltd, the project is led by Dr. Jackson Efitre (Principal Investigator).

Expected outcomes include:

  1. Improved livelihoods and incomes for marginalized fishing groups, especially women and youth.
  1. Better health and nutrition through diversified, market-driven fish products.
  2. Sustainable fish processing and marketing models replicable across Uganda and the East African region.
  3. Enhanced participation of women and youth in decision-making and benefit-sharing within the Small Pelagic Fishes (SPFs) value chain.
  4. Strengthened community resilience and ecosystem health through participatory approaches.
Children visit the NutriFishPlus Project stall. Makerere University, through the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), recognized for its outstanding contribution to the development of the fisheries sector in Uganda, award was presented during the Sustainable Fisheries, Aquaculture, and Environmental Awards Ceremony at the 7th edition of the Jinja Fish Festival, 6th–7th December 2025, Across the Nile Resort, along the banks of the River Nile, Njeru Municipality, Buikwe District, Uganda, East Africa.
Children visit the NutriFishPlus Project stall.

Project activities will be conducted at five landing sites around Lakes Victoria, Kyoga, and Albert: Katosi and Kikondo (Mukono and Buikwe districts), Bangaladesh and Kayago (Amolatar District), and Dei (Pakwach District).

Partcipants during the Save Lake Victoria Marathon organized by the Lake Victoria Fisheries Organization. Makerere University, through the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), recognized for its outstanding contribution to the development of the fisheries sector in Uganda, award was presented during the Sustainable Fisheries, Aquaculture, and Environmental Awards Ceremony at the 7th edition of the Jinja Fish Festival, 6th–7th December 2025, Across the Nile Resort, along the banks of the River Nile, Njeru Municipality, Buikwe District, Uganda, East Africa.
Partcipants during the Save Lake Victoria Marathon organized by the Lake Victoria Fisheries Organization.

The NutriFishPlus Project team participated in the marathon. Makerere University, through the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), recognized for its outstanding contribution to the development of the fisheries sector in Uganda, award was presented during the Sustainable Fisheries, Aquaculture, and Environmental Awards Ceremony at the 7th edition of the Jinja Fish Festival, 6th–7th December 2025, Across the Nile Resort, along the banks of the River Nile, Njeru Municipality, Buikwe District, Uganda, East Africa.
The NutriFishPlus Project team participated in the marathon.

Some of the organizers and sponsors of the festival at the fish festival. Makerere University, through the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), recognized for its outstanding contribution to the development of the fisheries sector in Uganda, award was presented during the Sustainable Fisheries, Aquaculture, and Environmental Awards Ceremony at the 7th edition of the Jinja Fish Festival, 6th–7th December 2025, Across the Nile Resort, along the banks of the River Nile, Njeru Municipality, Buikwe District, Uganda, East Africa.
Some of the organizers and sponsors of the festival at the fish festival.

The Event Poster. Makerere University, through the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), recognized for its outstanding contribution to the development of the fisheries sector in Uganda, award was presented during the Sustainable Fisheries, Aquaculture, and Environmental Awards Ceremony at the 7th edition of the Jinja Fish Festival, 6th–7th December 2025, Across the Nile Resort, along the banks of the River Nile, Njeru Municipality, Buikwe District, Uganda, East Africa.
The Event Poster.

Hasifa Kabejja

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Natural Sciences

Mak-CoNAS Launches NutriFishPlus Project

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The NutriFishPlus Project PI, Dr Jackson Efitre briefing participants about the grant and planned activities for the new phase during the inception meeting held at Ridah Hotel in Mukono District. Following successful implementation of the NutriFish Project 2019-2023, Makerere University has been awarded a new grant worth about UGX2 Billion to expand activities and deepen community impact through the NutriFishPlus Project Funded by the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) under Cultivate Africa’s Future Fund Phase II (CultiAF2), the NutriFishPlus Project seeks to enhance the incomes and livelihoods of fishing communities in Uganda. Launch and Planning Meetings 28th-30th October 2025, Ridah Hotel, Mukono District, East Africa.

*****The project was officially launched on 28th October 2025, followed by planning meetings on 29th and 30th. It will be implemented at landing sites around Lakes Victoria, Kyoga and Albert.

Following the successful implementation of the NutriFish Project ( 2019-2023), Makerere University has been awarded a new grant worth about UGX2 Billion to expand activities and deepen community impact through the NutriFishPlus Project.

Funded by the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) and the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) under the Cultivate Africa’s Future Fund Phase II (CultiAF2), the NutriFishPlus Project seeks to enhance the incomes and livelihoods of fishing communities in Uganda.

The NutriFishPlus Project PI, Dr Jackson Efitre briefing participants about the grant and planned activities for the new phase during the inception meeting held at Ridah Hotel in Mukono District. Following successful implementation of the NutriFish Project 2019-2023, Makerere University has been awarded a new grant worth about UGX2 Billion to expand activities and deepen community impact through the NutriFishPlus Project Funded by the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) under Cultivate Africa’s Future Fund Phase II (CultiAF2), the NutriFishPlus Project seeks to enhance the incomes and livelihoods of fishing communities in Uganda. Launch and Planning Meetings 28th-30th October 2025, Ridah Hotel, Mukono District, East Africa.
The NutriFishPlus Project PI, Dr Jackson Efitre briefing participants about the grant and planned activities for the new phase during the inception meeting held at Ridah Hotel in Mukono District.

The project was officially launched on 28th October 2025 by the Ag. Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration) at Makerere University, Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta. Building on the achievements of phase one, NutriFishPlus will focus on:

  1. Scaling up the use of improved and sustainable fishing technologies, including solar tent driers and raised racks, to reach new communities across Uganda.
  2. Enhancing market access and strengthening supply chain linkages for high-quality fish and fish-based products.
  3. Empowering women and other vulnerable groups and strengthening community resilience through diversified income-generating activities.
Makerere University Ag. Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration), Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta officially launched the project on 28th October 2025. Following successful implementation of the NutriFish Project 2019-2023, Makerere University has been awarded a new grant worth about UGX2 Billion to expand activities and deepen community impact through the NutriFishPlus Project Funded by the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) under Cultivate Africa’s Future Fund Phase II (CultiAF2), the NutriFishPlus Project seeks to enhance the incomes and livelihoods of fishing communities in Uganda. Launch and Planning Meetings 28th-30th October 2025, Ridah Hotel, Mukono District, East Africa.
Makerere University Ag. Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration), Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta officially launched the project on 28th October 2025.

The project is expected to deliver the following outcomes:

  1. Improved incomes and livelihoods for the marginalized fishing groups, particularly women and youth.
  2. Better health and nutrition outcomes through the development of diversified, market-embedded fish products.
  3. Establishment of sustainable fish processing and marketing models that can be replicated across Uganda and the East African region.
  4. Improved participation of women and youth in decision-making and benefit-sharing within the Small Pelagic Fishes (SPFs) value chain.
  5. Enhanced socioeconomic conditions and ecosystem health through participatory and scalable approaches.
Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta launching the project. Following successful implementation of the NutriFish Project 2019-2023, Makerere University has been awarded a new grant worth about UGX2 Billion to expand activities and deepen community impact through the NutriFishPlus Project Funded by the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) under Cultivate Africa’s Future Fund Phase II (CultiAF2), the NutriFishPlus Project seeks to enhance the incomes and livelihoods of fishing communities in Uganda. Launch and Planning Meetings 28th-30th October 2025, Ridah Hotel, Mukono District, East Africa.
Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta launching the project.

The project will run from September 2025 to March 2028 and will be implemented by the Department of Zoology, Entomology, and Fisheries Sciences at Makerere University, in collaboration with two private companies (Nutreal Ltd and Kati Farms Ltd) under a public-private partnership. Project activities will be carried out at five landing sites around Lakes Victoria, Kyoga and Albert. These include Katosi and Kikondo landing sites in Mukono and Buikwe districts respectively, Bangaladesh and Kayago landing sites in Amolatar District, and Dei landing site in Pakwach District. The project  will be coordinated by Dr Jackson Efitre, Senior Lecturer at the Department of Zoology, Entomology, and Fisheries Sciences at Makerere.

Dr. Edidah Lubega Ampaire, Senior Programme Specialist at the IDRC briefing participants about the grant. Following successful implementation of the NutriFish Project 2019-2023, Makerere University has been awarded a new grant worth about UGX2 Billion to expand activities and deepen community impact through the NutriFishPlus Project Funded by the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) under Cultivate Africa’s Future Fund Phase II (CultiAF2), the NutriFishPlus Project seeks to enhance the incomes and livelihoods of fishing communities in Uganda. Launch and Planning Meetings 28th-30th October 2025, Ridah Hotel, Mukono District, East Africa.
Dr. Edidah Lubega Ampaire, Senior Programme Specialist at the IDRC briefing participants about the grant.

Inception and planning meetings

The NutriFishPlus Project team convened a three-day stakeholder engagement from 28th to 30th October 2025 to officially launch the project and collaboratively develop an implementation plan.

The workshop brought together a wide range of participants, including government representatives, researchers, private sector actors, and development partners. The primary objective was to foster a shared understanding of the project’s overarching goals, and design strategic pathways for achieving sustainable scaling and impact.

Discussions focused on deepening understanding of the scaling journey, and the interconnections among the different work packages and their respective pathways to scale. Participants explored how adaptive and transformative approaches can be integrated into the project’s dynamic monitoring, evaluation and learning (MEL) framework.

Some of the participants during Day One of the inception workshop and planning meetings. Following successful implementation of the NutriFish Project 2019-2023, Makerere University has been awarded a new grant worth about UGX2 Billion to expand activities and deepen community impact through the NutriFishPlus Project Funded by the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) under Cultivate Africa’s Future Fund Phase II (CultiAF2), the NutriFishPlus Project seeks to enhance the incomes and livelihoods of fishing communities in Uganda. Launch and Planning Meetings 28th-30th October 2025, Ridah Hotel, Mukono District, East Africa.
Some of the participants during Day One of the inception workshop and planning meetings.

The team also reviewed the existing outputs and outcomes to identify key evidence that can inform adaptive monitoring. Through collaborative dialogue, stakeholders worked to identify appropriate indicators and progress markers that reflect the project’s adaptive learning and scaling dimensions, ensuring alignment with both the project objectives and national development priorities.

Dr. Godfrey Kawooya Kubiriza, Head of the Department of Zoology, Entomology, and Fisheries Sciences at Makerere University, equally appreciated the project team and the funders, noting the such initiatives provide a valuable platform for translating research into practical solutions that reach communities. Following successful implementation of the NutriFish Project 2019-2023, Makerere University has been awarded a new grant worth about UGX2 Billion to expand activities and deepen community impact through the NutriFishPlus Project Funded by the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) under Cultivate Africa’s Future Fund Phase II (CultiAF2), the NutriFishPlus Project seeks to enhance the incomes and livelihoods of fishing communities in Uganda. Launch and Planning Meetings 28th-30th October 2025, Ridah Hotel, Mukono District, East Africa.
Dr. Godfrey Kawooya Kubiriza, Head of the Department of Zoology, Entomology, and Fisheries Sciences at Makerere University, equally appreciated the project team and the funders, noting the such initiatives provide a valuable platform for translating research into practical solutions that reach communities.

A major outcome of the workshop was the joint development of a detailed implementation plan for the project’s four interlinked work packages, which aim to:

  1. Enhance nutrition and health outcomes among vulnerable groups through the diversification of fish products and market innovations;
  2. Promote alternative and resilient livelihoods within small-scale fisheries and related value chains;
  3. Advance inclusivity and participation of marginalized groups, particularly women and youth in the Small Pelagic Fishes value chain through policy reform, advocacy, and enforcement; and
  4. Strengthen fish processing technologies and post-harvest management practices to improve food safety, quality, and value addition.
Ms. Julliet Ogubi Nafula, PhD candidate in the Department of Zoology, Entomology, and Fisheries Sciences trained participants on the MEL framework. Following successful implementation of the NutriFish Project 2019-2023, Makerere University has been awarded a new grant worth about UGX2 Billion to expand activities and deepen community impact through the NutriFishPlus Project Funded by the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) under Cultivate Africa’s Future Fund Phase II (CultiAF2), the NutriFishPlus Project seeks to enhance the incomes and livelihoods of fishing communities in Uganda. Launch and Planning Meetings 28th-30th October 2025, Ridah Hotel, Mukono District, East Africa.
Ms. Julliet Ogubi Nafula, PhD candidate in the Department of Zoology, Entomology, and Fisheries Sciences trained participants on the MEL framework.

Overall, the inception workshop provided a strong foundation for coordinated implementation of the project, and established a clear roadmap for achieving the NutriFishPlus vision of improving nutrition, livelihoods, and sustainability through fisheries-based innovations.

Remarks by the University officials and development partners

Addressing the participants, the Guest of Honour, Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Finance and Administration at Makerere University, commended the project team for the achievement. He also expressed gratitude to the project funders – the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) and the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) – for their steadfast support and dedication to improving the livelihoods of fishing communities in Uganda. “The NutriFishPlus project highlights Makerere University’s commitment to being a research-driven institution,” he said. “It also strengthens the University’s leadership in translating research into tangible, real-world outcomes that drive sustainable development and enhance public health.” On behalf of Makerere University Management, Prof. Ireeta assured continued support for the successful implementation of the project.

Dr. Dorothy Nakimbugwe from Nutreal Ltd, a private company collaborating with the NutriFishPlus Project, underscored the crucial role of private sector involvement in research initiatives. Following successful implementation of the NutriFish Project 2019-2023, Makerere University has been awarded a new grant worth about UGX2 Billion to expand activities and deepen community impact through the NutriFishPlus Project Funded by the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) under Cultivate Africa’s Future Fund Phase II (CultiAF2), the NutriFishPlus Project seeks to enhance the incomes and livelihoods of fishing communities in Uganda. Launch and Planning Meetings 28th-30th October 2025, Ridah Hotel, Mukono District, East Africa.
Dr. Dorothy Nakimbugwe from Nutreal Ltd, a private company collaborating with the NutriFishPlus Project, underscored the crucial role of private sector involvement in research initiatives.

Dr. Edidah Lubega Ampaire, Senior Programme Specialist at the International Development Research Centre (IDRC), congratulated the project team upon securing the second grant. She emphasized that the IDRC is committed to supporting applied research that delivers tangible benefits to communities, noting that the team had demonstrated this through their success with the NutriFish project. “The IDRC invests in research that has the potential to transform livelihoods,” Dr. Ampaire said. “We look forward to seeing how the NutriFishPlus Project will build upon the achievements of the previous phase to scale up impact beyond the pilot phase. It is equally important that the project contributes to fostering meaningful policy reforms and strengthening enforcement mechanisms to ensure long-term, sustainable outcomes.”

Participants in group discussions on the planned work packages. Following successful implementation of the NutriFish Project 2019-2023, Makerere University has been awarded a new grant worth about UGX2 Billion to expand activities and deepen community impact through the NutriFishPlus Project Funded by the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) under Cultivate Africa’s Future Fund Phase II (CultiAF2), the NutriFishPlus Project seeks to enhance the incomes and livelihoods of fishing communities in Uganda. Launch and Planning Meetings 28th-30th October 2025, Ridah Hotel, Mukono District, East Africa.
Participants in group discussions on the planned work packages.

During the session, Ms. Dena Lomofsky, an experienced researcher and MEL expert, guided participants through the key components of scaling science. Her presentation explored the theoretical foundations, guiding principles, and strategic approaches required to transform research findings into scalable and sustainable solutions.

Participants discussing the work packages. Following successful implementation of the NutriFish Project 2019-2023, Makerere University has been awarded a new grant worth about UGX2 Billion to expand activities and deepen community impact through the NutriFishPlus Project Funded by the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) under Cultivate Africa’s Future Fund Phase II (CultiAF2), the NutriFishPlus Project seeks to enhance the incomes and livelihoods of fishing communities in Uganda. Launch and Planning Meetings 28th-30th October 2025, Ridah Hotel, Mukono District, East Africa.
Participants discussing the work packages.

Briefing participants on their activities, Dr. Dorothy Nakimbugwe from Nutreal Ltd, a private company collaborating with the NutriFishPlus Project, underscored the crucial role of private sector involvement in research initiatives. She emphasized that engaging private enterprises not only enhances the practical application of research outcomes but also plays a pivotal role in scaling innovations and maximizing their impact.

Ms. Lovin Kobusingye of Kati Farms Ltd, one of the collaborating companies addressing participants. Following successful implementation of the NutriFish Project 2019-2023, Makerere University has been awarded a new grant worth about UGX2 Billion to expand activities and deepen community impact through the NutriFishPlus Project Funded by the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) under Cultivate Africa’s Future Fund Phase II (CultiAF2), the NutriFishPlus Project seeks to enhance the incomes and livelihoods of fishing communities in Uganda. Launch and Planning Meetings 28th-30th October 2025, Ridah Hotel, Mukono District, East Africa.
Ms. Lovin Kobusingye of Kati Farms Ltd, one of the collaborating companies addressing participants.

Ms. Lovin Kobusingye of Kati Farms Ltd expressed gratitude to the project team and funders for the initiative. “At Kati Farms, we are truly honored to be part of this journey. Our passion has always been to transform Uganda’s fisheries sector through value addition, innovation, and inclusive growth. The NutriFishPlus Project aligns perfectly with this mission, as it aims to improve the incomes and livelihoods of fishing communities through diverse interventions. As Kati Farms, our commitment is to ensure that the products developed under this project meet the highest quality standards and reach both local and international markets. Together, as partners, let us move forward with a shared vision, to make NutriFishPlus not just a research project, but a transformative movement that uplifts fishing communities, enhances nutrition, and promotes gender equality within and beyond our borders.”

Mr. Isaac Kirabira from the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries expressed the Ministry’s commitment to supporting the project. Following successful implementation of the NutriFish Project 2019-2023, Makerere University has been awarded a new grant worth about UGX2 Billion to expand activities and deepen community impact through the NutriFishPlus Project Funded by the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) under Cultivate Africa’s Future Fund Phase II (CultiAF2), the NutriFishPlus Project seeks to enhance the incomes and livelihoods of fishing communities in Uganda. Launch and Planning Meetings 28th-30th October 2025, Ridah Hotel, Mukono District, East Africa.
Mr. Isaac Kirabira from the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries expressed the Ministry’s commitment to supporting the project.

Mr. Isaac Kirabira from the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries expressed the Ministry’s commitment to supporting the project, emphasizing that empowering women, youth, and other vulnerable groups is essential not only for improving livelihoods but also for restoring dignity.

In his remarks, Dr. Godfrey Kawooya Kubiriza, Head of the Department of Zoology, Entomology, and Fisheries Sciences at Makerere University, equally appreciated the project team and the funders. “Our Department is proud to contribute to the NutriFishPlus Project. Initiatives of this nature provide a valuable platform for translating our research into practical solutions that reach communities, thereby creating meaningful and tangible impact.”

Dr Anthony Taabu Munyaho moderated the launch and some of the planning sessions. Following successful implementation of the NutriFish Project 2019-2023, Makerere University has been awarded a new grant worth about UGX2 Billion to expand activities and deepen community impact through the NutriFishPlus Project Funded by the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) under Cultivate Africa’s Future Fund Phase II (CultiAF2), the NutriFishPlus Project seeks to enhance the incomes and livelihoods of fishing communities in Uganda. Launch and Planning Meetings 28th-30th October 2025, Ridah Hotel, Mukono District, East Africa.
Dr Anthony Taabu Munyaho moderated the launch and some of the planning sessions.

Achievements registered during Phase One

The achievements included:

  1. Establishing group savings schemes to improve access to capital by women and youth;
  2. Piloting solar tent dryers for processing silver fish (mukene), resulting in doubling of women’s incomes and tripling of the shelf-life to almost five months;
  3. Developing and test-marketing certified, nutrient-enriched fish products, including baby food, sauce and fortified maize meal;
  4. Conducting comprehensive social and behavioural change interventions, leading to increased women’s participation in profitable ventures and 30% reduction in domestic violence in intervention areas.  
Participants after the launch ceremony. Following successful implementation of the NutriFish Project 2019-2023, Makerere University has been awarded a new grant worth about UGX2 Billion to expand activities and deepen community impact through the NutriFishPlus Project Funded by the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) under Cultivate Africa’s Future Fund Phase II (CultiAF2), the NutriFishPlus Project seeks to enhance the incomes and livelihoods of fishing communities in Uganda. Launch and Planning Meetings 28th-30th October 2025, Ridah Hotel, Mukono District, East Africa.
Participants after the launch ceremony.

Link to the workshop pictorial: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1Wwd9kSsKpd6aZ6YrFL1uVveh2BSG36cV?usp=sharing

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Hasifa Kabejja

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Natural Sciences

Mak-CoNAS Wins CAD 0.8 Million Grant to Scale-up Fish Processing Technologies & Empower Women in Uganda

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Dr. Jackson Efitre, a Senior Lecturer at the Department of Zoology, Entomology, and Fisheries Sciences, College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

The College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS) at Makerere University has been awarded a highly competitive research grant worth CAD 0.8 million to implement the “NutriFishPLUS” project, which aims to scale up innovative fish processing technologies, improve market access, and empower women in Uganda’s fishing communities to boost incomes and livelihoods.

This project builds on the significant achievements of the previous ground-breaking NutriFish project (2019–2023), funded by the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) and the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) through the Cultivate Africa’s Future Fund Phase (CultiAF2). The achievements included: 1) establishing group savings schemes to improve access to capital by women and youth; 2) piloting solar tent dryers for processing silverfish (mukene), resulting in doubling of women’s incomes and tripling of the shelf-life to almost five months; 3) developing and test-marketing certified, nutrient enriched fish products, including baby food, sauce and fortified maize meal; 4) conducting comprehensive social and behavioural change interventions, leading to increased women’s participation in profitable ventures and 30% reduction in domestic violence in intervention areas. Despite these achievements, gaps still remain with regard to increasing production of high-quality Small Pelagic Fishes (SPFs) through adoption of solar tent dryers and raised drying racks; enhancing capacity of men, women and the youth in processing, packaging, branding and marketing; improving access to capital and lucrative markets for fish and fish products; and empowering women, youth and other marginalized groups in the small fish value chain; and strengthening resilience of fishing communities through diversified income streams.

The Minister touring the exhibition stall of NutriFish Uganda at the World Fisheries Day Celebrations in Gulu in 2021. NutriFish is a project under Makerere University Department of Zoology, Entomology and Fisheries, College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS).
The Minister touring the exhibition stall of NutriFish Uganda at the World Fisheries Day Celebrations in Gulu in 2021. NutriFish is a project under Makerere University Department of Zoology, Entomology and Fisheries, College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS).

NutriFishPLUS will be implemented by the Department of Zoology, Entomology and Fisheries Sciences, CoNAS, in collaboration with two private companies (Kati Farms and Nutreal) through a public-private partnership. The Principal Investigator is Dr. Jackson Efitre and his team will focus on scaling-up the use of improved, sustainable fish processing technologies such as the solar Tent dryers and raised racks to new communities across Uganda; enhancing market access and supply chain linkages for high-quality fish and fish products; as well as deepening women’s empowerment and strengthening the resilience of fishing communities through diversified income streams. The project is expected to run for September 2025- March 2028. The expected outcomes include: enhanced incomes and livelihoods for marginalized fishing groups, particularly women and youth; improved health and nutrition for vulnerable groups through diversification of fish products that are embedded in the market with strong supply chain linkages; sustainable fish processing and marketing models that can be scaled across Uganda and the East African region; improved women and youth participation in decision making and control of benefits in the SPF value chains; and improved socioeconomic conditions and ecosystem health through participatory, scalable approaches.

Dr. Jackson Efitre (2nd L) explaining to the Minister how the solar tent driers developed in the previous phase work.
Dr. Jackson Efitre (2nd L) explaining to the Minister how the solar tent driers developed in the previous phase work.

“Winning this competitive grant is an incredible opportunity for the team to solidify the achievements of the first phase as the funding enables us to move beyond research to embed these nutritional and technological solutions into the livelihoods of local communities,” said Dr. Efitre. “I am privileged to lead this impactful work on behalf of Makerere University. Scaling up these tested, climate-responsive technologies as well as empowering the women and youth will secure better nutrition and more sustainable livelihoods across fishing communities in Uganda.”

The project is set to be launched tomorrow, Tuesday, 28th October 2025 by the Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor, Finance and Administration and Principal, CoNAS, Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta.

Please see below for details on the project.

Details on the previous project: https://news.mak.ac.ug/2023/03/nutrifish-project-registers-significant-achievements/

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Hasifa Kabejja

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