Business & Management
Cancer Patients Spend an Average of Shs 300,000 on a Single Visit at UCI
To access treatment and care services at the Uganda Cancer Institute (UCI), patients spend on average 300,000 Uganda shillings on a single visit although some spend to as high as 800,000 (Figure 1). This was revealed by a study done by Makerere University in collaboration with the Strengthening Institutional Capacity for Research Administration (SICRA) and Uganda Cancer Institute (UCI) with funding from the Government of the Republic of Uganda through Makerere University Research and Innovation fund (Mak-RiF).
Conducted in 2021 during the Covid-19 pandemic lockdown, this study titled “Impoverishing and Catastrophic Health Expenditure on Cancer Care among Persons affected by Cancer in Uganda” is among the first few in the country to estimate the catastrophic health expenditure among cancer patients receiving care in Uganda.
The study revealed that patients suffering from Prostate and Colorectal Cancers were the most affected, with their out-of-pocket expenditure greater than 600,000 per visit. Out of pocket expenditure refers to all direct payments for healthcare or services from household income or savings that patients incur at the point they receive health services.
The study also highlighted that a considerable proportion of cancer patients experience catastrophic health expenditure. “Overall, at least half of all cancer patients experienced catastrophic health expenditure on Cancer Care and treatment. 5 out of 10 patients spent at least 40% of their household income on Cancer health care,” the study findings reveal in part. Further, “Cancer patients or households with patients are unable to solely meet costs associated with cancer care. Often they depend on family, relatives, and friends’ support. However, the continuity of support coming through is not guaranteed throughout the patient’s time of sickness.” Speaking during the Dissemination and Stakeholders Engagement at UCI, Dr. Allen Kabagenyi, the Principal Investigator, noted that unemployed patients, who constituted 86% in the study, were among those who spend at least 300,000 Uganda shillings whenever they visit UCI. “This money is spent on buying missing drugs, imaging services, and tests among others,” she added.
Besides digging deep into their pockets to meet the cancer treatment costs, the findings reveal that families often sell their household property like land, animals, homes among others, in order to raise money for treatment and any related care. “The Shs300,000 is for only one visit but remember a cancer patient who is on stage one and two has to visit regularly, translating to almost Shs. 3.6 million in a year,” Dr. Francis Kiweewa, the Director Strengthening Institutional Capacity for Research Administration (SICRA) said.
The Assistant Commissioner – Non communicable diseases (NCDs) prevention and control Department at Ministry of Health, Uganda, Dr. Gerald Mutungi said; “At the ministry, we have adopted the approach of evidence-based policy decision making. Therefore, the policy recommendations of this study are well received.” He further said that as the Ministry waits for the passing and implementation of the National Health Insurance Scheme, researchers need to investigate and come up with measures aimed at cancer prevention and control.”
Dr. Jackson Orem, the Executive Director of Uganda Cancer Institute, while responding to the study findings admitted to the growing cancer burden, which he said could only be managed through establishing regional Cancer management centers. He said “currently when you look at the statistics of the number of cancer patients we receive at UCI, 15% are from central region while 85% come from up country. What I can say is that we need to decentralize our services so that these people are able to access them with ease in their respective areas.”
Dr. Nixon Niyonzima, the Head of Research at UCI, said government should have focused interventions of increasing household income so that the patients are able meet the cancer care and treatment related expenses.
Speaking to journalists, Prof. Bruno Yawe, the Ag. Principal College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) noted that the study speaks to the objectives of Makerere University’s strategic planning framework for the 2020–2030 period, which seeks to enhance a research-led university. He commended the multidisciplinary study team led by Dr. Allen Kabagenyi, saying that the findings were timely especially when Uganda is registering rising cancer related morbidity and mortality. He thanked the Mak-RIF Grants Management Committee representative Dr. Mercy Amiyo, for insights and continued support to researchers at Makerere University.
In Uganda, over 56,238 are living with cancer and more than 21,000 deaths were registered in 2020, according to the Globocan Cancer Statistics report. Further the report shows the top seven cancers in Uganda including; cervical cancer, Kaposis Sarcoma, breast, prostate, Non-Hodgikin Lymphoma, cancer of the liver and esophageal – account for 70% of new cancer cases. Knowing the catastrophic health expenditure on cancer care is crucially important to design strategies of providing financial protection against the rising medical expenditure by households with cancer patients.
Meet the study team
Acknowledgements
This study was funded by the Government of the Republic of Uganda through Makerere University Research and Innovation Fund (MAK-RiF). Special thanks to all the patients, Care Givers and Key informants who participated in this study. Graduate Assistants Mr. Ronald Wasswa and Mr. Kayemba, Makerere University.
Business & Management
School of Economics Hosts Team Building Event, Celebrates Excellence with Awards
On Wednesday, January 15, 2025, the School of Economics at Makerere University organized a vibrant team-building activity in the scenic surroundings of Buwatte. This initiative aimed to foster stronger bonds among staff members, celebrate outstanding achievements, and set a collaborative tone for the year ahead.
The day was filled with a variety of activities designed to promote teamwork and camaraderie. Staff members enthusiastically participated in interactive games, lively discussions, and fun challenges that brought out their competitive yet collaborative spirit. The games were followed by a hearty lunch, where everyone gathered to share stories, laughter, and a sense of community. The event culminated in a joyous moment of merry-making, which showcased the School’s vibrant culture of inclusivity and togetherness.
The occasion also served as a platform to honor outstanding individuals who had excelled in their roles over the past year. The award for the best journal paper was presented to the Dean, Prof. Ibrahim Mike Okumu, in recognition of his exemplary contribution to academic research and publication. Meanwhile, the coveted Teacher of the Year Award, as voted by students, was bestowed upon Mr. Fred Kasalirwe for the second consecutive year. This recognition underscored his dedication to delivering engaging and impactful learning experiences.
In his address, Prof. Okumu expressed heartfelt appreciation for his colleagues’ hard work and commitment, which he credited for the School’s numerous achievements in 2024. He extended special congratulations to the winners of the Vice Chancellor’s Excellence Awards, acknowledging their contribution to enhancing the university’s reputation for academic excellence.
Prof. Okumu emphasized the importance of sustaining the spirit of teamwork, which he described as a cornerstone for the School’s continued success. He encouraged his staff to embrace collaboration as they embark on new academic and administrative pursuits in 2025.
The team-building event was not only a celebration of the past year’s accomplishments but also a rallying call for a productive and united future. Staff members left the event reinvigorated and motivated to uphold the School’s vision of academic excellence and impactful scholarship. As the School of Economics enters the new year, this memorable day in Buwatte stands as a testament to the power of unity, shared purpose, and the collective commitment to shaping a brighter future for the institution.
Nine members of staff from the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) at Makerere University were honored with the Vice Chancellor’s Excellence Awards during the institution’s 75th graduation ceremony. The awards were presented at a special graduation luncheon, where the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, recognized exceptional lecturers and researchers across various categories—early, mid, and senior career—as well as outstanding educators based on student evaluations.
Namugenyi Christabellah and Richard Ssempala were awarded in the category of early career scholars. The two were recognized for their exemplary research contributions, each achieving five publications in 2024. In the mid-career category, Dr. Peter Kisakye emerged as the standout performer with 11 publications, followed by Dr. Anthony Tibaingana, Mushomi John Atwebembeire, and Dr. Ssendawula Kasimu, who each published seven papers during the year.
Dr. Patricia Ndugga, Mr. Fred Kasalirwe, and Dr. Faisal Buyinza were celebrated as the best teachers, following outstanding evaluations from students, showcasing their commitment to delivering high-quality education.
Speaking at the award ceremony, Prof. Nawangwe congratulated the winners and commended their dedication to excellence in teaching and research. “These awards reflect our university’s unwavering commitment to fostering academic and professional excellence. As Makerere University, we take pride in nurturing talent and rewarding those who inspire innovation, dedication, and knowledge creation. Congratulations to all the awardees for setting a remarkable example for others to follow,” he said.
The event was graced by the State Minister for Primary Education, Hon. Joyce Kaducu, who lauded Makerere University for its continued commitment to academic excellence. In her remarks, she stated, “Makerere University’s role in shaping the future of our nation cannot be overstated. These awards are a testament to the caliber of educators and researchers the institution nurtures. I encourage all awardees to continue striving for greater achievements and to inspire the next generation of leaders and scholars.”
At the same luncheon, ACCA Uganda recognized three top-performing students of the Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting) program. Ndagire Sarah, Yiga James Mark, and Nabagereka Rebecca, each graduating with an impressive CGPA of 4.68, were awarded plaques in recognition of their outstanding academic performance.
Additionally, the best-performing student in the Master of Economics program, Nalweere Alice, received an award from the Economic Policy Research Centre (EPRC). The award included a two-year paid training opportunity with EPRC as a research fellow. Overwhelmed with gratitude, Nalweere expressed her appreciation, saying, “I am deeply honored to receive this award. It is not just a recognition of my hard work but also a motivation to contribute meaningfully to economic research and policy development in Uganda. I thank Makerere University for providing an environment that fosters academic excellence and EPRC for this incredible opportunity.”
The graduation luncheon served as a platform to celebrate the institution’s achievements and its unwavering commitment to promoting excellence among its staff and students. The event highlighted Makerere University’s vital role in shaping the academic, research, and professional landscape of Uganda and beyond.
The College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) proudly presented 1,523 graduands on the second day of Makerere University‘s 75th graduation ceremony. Among these, 7 were awarded PhDs, 195 earned master’s degrees, 3 completed postgraduate diplomas, and 1,318 graduated with undergraduate degrees. Female graduands made up 53% of the cohort, with 805 women and 718 men.
Speaking at the event, the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, lauded CoBAMS as Makerere’s youngest college but already a beacon of excellence in teaching and research. He noted the College’s pivotal role in linking the University with the government through collaborative projects. Key achievements highlighted include; the Public Investment Management Centre of Excellence (PIM CoE) which was praised for spearheading impactful training programs, building the capacity of officials across various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies. The Environment for Development Centre was recognized for attracting grants totaling approximately USD $400,000. These funds supported capacity-building programs in Inclusive Green Economy for senior public servants, five research projects, policy dialogues, and community outreach activities.
The vice chancellor also recognized CoBAMS students who excelled in the Joint Facility for Electives (JFE) competition in Nairobi. Ritah Ahumuza, a Master of Arts in Economics student, achieved an outstanding average of 87.5%, the highest in over five years. She was honored with an award by the African Economic Research Consortium for her stellar performance.
Prof. Nawangwe expressed pride in the College’s strides in fostering innovation, academic success, and strategic partnerships, reinforcing Makerere University’s position as a global academic leader.
The Guest of Honour, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni, represented by the State Minister for Primary Education, Hon. Joyce Kaducu, congratulated the graduands and acknowledged the parents for their sacrifices. She urged the students to be proactive contributors to Uganda’s development. “Go into the world and light a candle. Start humbly, face the future with courage, and create jobs rather than dispersing them,” she said.
During the week-long graduation ceremony, 13,658 graduands will receive their awards, including 143 PhDs, 1,813 master’s degrees, 11,454 bachelor’s degrees, and 243 postgraduate diplomas. Of these, 53% are female, and 44% of the PhD recipients are women. The Vice Chancellor noted these statistics as evidence of Makerere’s progress toward gender equity and research-led growth.
Prof. Nawangwe lauded the Government of Uganda’s support through initiatives like the Makerere University Research and Innovation Fund (Mak-RIF), which has enabled cutting-edge research.
Future Direction
The Chancellor, Hon. Dr. Kiyonga, outlined Makerere’s vision for expanding its community outreach and commercialization of research innovations. He proposed strengthening partnerships with private-sector investors to turn academic ideas into viable businesses. Dr. Kiyonga also encouraged the graduands to apply their skills to create opportunities in agriculture, education, and other sectors.
As Makerere celebrates its legacy as a beacon of higher education, CoBAMS exemplifies the transformative impact of education in transforming the economy. The achievements celebrated today reflect the university’s dedication to empowering individuals and fostering national development.
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