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An Interdisciplinary approach addressing Ticks and Tick-borne Diseases of cattle in Uganda

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By Joseph Odoi

Globally, Ticks are the most important vectors of disease-causing pathogens in domestic and wild animals and tick-borne diseases (TBDs) are a major threat to both cattle and human health. Understanding the complex interactions within the microbiome is of great importance for understanding how tick-borne pathogens spread and cause disease.

Inspired by the need to generate evidence to inform policy around Tick borne Diseases, a team of researchers from Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Biomedical Sciences and Veterinary Public Health, Sweden, Makerere University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity, conducted a study to assess diversity of ticks and their Tick Borne Diseases (TBDs) in Uganda from 2017 to 2021.  

The researchers organised a dissemination of the project results workshop to stakeholders from various sectors on 27th February, 2023 held at the Centre for Biosecurity and Global Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity, Makerere University.

Associate Professor Lawrence Mugisha, Co-principal investigator explained that the purpose of the workshop was to share the results of the different research outputs and discuss various ways to re-package the results  for different target audiences and to influence policies for tick control strategies in Uganda.

Associate Professor Lawrence Mugisha highlighting purpose of the Workshop.
Associate Professor Lawrence Mugisha highlighting purpose of the Workshop.

Having set the scene for the workshop, Associate Professor Maja Malmberg, Principal investigator from Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Biomedical Sciences and Veterinary Public Health, Sweden provided a virtual overview of the Project tilted; Ticks and Tick Borne Diseases (TBDs) in Africa. She noted that the overall purpose of the project was to improve cattle health through increased understanding of the microbial community in cattle and ticks, by investigation of the microbial composition (microbiota) of ticks and how this affects transmission and disease development in cattle in Uganda. As part of the study, she noted that the research team were able to generate new knowledge on diversity of tick species, new viruses and highlighted public health implications of the findings.  The project had a capacity building component through supporting masters and PhD students and several technical workshop during the project period.

Some of the interdisciplinary participants listening to Associate Professor Maja Malmberg’s Virtual Presentation.
Some of the interdisciplinary participants listening to Associate Professor Maja Malmberg’s Virtual Presentation.

Various presentations of the results from different studies under the project were made by the project investigators and the PhD student Dr. Steven Balinadi who successfully graduated in 2022. 

Below are brief project results from the presentations made at the Workshop;

  • A total of 15 different tick species were identified in the five study districts of Kasese, Hoima, Soroti, Gulu and Moroto representing different ecological zones. They also reported high tick burden on cattle from all the study districts. They found out the tick species R. appendiculatus (the brown ear tick), the vector for the causative agent for East Coast Fever (“Amashuwo”, “Amakebe”) was most common tick on cattle in all districts (51.79%) followed by A. variegatum (14.33%) and R. evertsi  (8.23%) and continue to dominate tick distribution in Uganda. The team also found ticks that were not known to be in Uganda including Rhipicephalus afranicus that was recently described in South Africa and Rhipicephalus microplus, expanding its geographical zones found ion cattle in Gulu and Soroti districts.
  • The team further identified 8 viruses from the blood of cattle suspected to be transmitted by ticks and mosquitoes belonging to 4 viral families (Flaviviridae, Peribunyaviridae, Reoviridae and Rhabdoviridae) and 6 genera (Hepacivirus, Pestivirus, Orthobunyavirus, Coltivirus, Dinovernavirus and Ephemerovirus) among 175 studied cattle. Four of the viruses were new and were tentatively named Zikole virus (Family: Flaviviridae), Zeboroti virus (Family: Reoviridae), Zebtine virus (Family: Rhabdoviridae) and Kokolu virus (Family:Rhabdoviridae). This contributes to the body of the new knowledge in the field of virology. However, they were quick to mention the public implications of all viruses and new viruses remains to be understood through more studies.
  • Part of the research assessed cattle exposure to Crimean Congo Haemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) Virus a zoonotic disease of public health importance transmitted by ticks. The study found that 74% (500) of the studied cattle from five districts were exposed to the virus. This raises a big concern a potential source of infections to humans.  This concern is verified by the results of investigating 32 CCHF confirmed human cases of the recorded outbreaks between 2013 and 2019. Of the 32 hospitalised human CCHF cases, 32% of them died. Most cases presented with fever (93.8%), followed by hemorrhage (81.3%), headache (78.1%), fatigue (68.8%), vomiting (68.8%) and myalgia (65.6%) and other symptoms.  The researchers were able to characterise the CCHF viruses circulating in Uganda, a break through that can inform vaccine and diagnostic tool development.
  • Further, looking at the ticks themselves using advanced technologies, ticks were found to carry several viruses most of the unknown and new. The team has at least found 20 new viruses in the ticks and the team will be conducting further studies to understand the implications of the so many viruses in relation to animal and human health.

The team presented potential Public Health Implications of their study results as:

•  High diversity and burden of ticks infesting cattle in Uganda has potential for a high pathogen load

• Evidence for range expansion of some tick species; risk for disease emergence in naïve animal and human populations around the country

• Cattle in Uganda are harbouring numerous viruses including novel ones

• CCHF is widespread in Uganda, including where human cases have not been detected. And its endemicity does not overlap with the spatial distribution of Hyalomma ticks

 Participants of the stakeholder’s dissemination workshop discussed the results and provided feedback. Out of the discussion, it was generally agreed and proposed that deliberate actions need to be undertaken if we are to address the current challenges posed by ticks and their tick-borne diseases. Participants emphasised the following areas that require immediate attention;

  • The need for improved surveillance and diagnostic tools for emerging viruses in animals to prevent their transmission to humans.
  • The need for the Government  investment in advanced technologies and equipment for improved surveillance, detection, and rapid response to any emerging virus outbreak from ticks and their pathogens.
  • There is need to understand the cultural and social context: Therefore, any policy or intervention aimed at preventing disease transmission should take into account the cultural and social practices of the communities involved.
  • The government should engage with local communities, listen to their concerns, and incorporate their knowledge and perspectives in developing disease control policies.
  • The government should prioritize research and development of strategies to control ticks and prevent tick-borne diseases in both humans and animals. This includes conducting awareness campaigns, developing policies, and providing resources to prevent tick infestation and tick-borne diseases.
  • Employ One Health approach: that  considers the interactions between human, animal, and environmental health.
  • More funding and support for tick-borne disease research and control programs in Uganda and other high-risk areas.
  • Integration of livestock and human health surveillance and control measures to prevent the transmission of tick-borne diseases.
  • Development of community-based tick control strategies that incorporate local knowledge and practices to increase their relevance and effectiveness.
  • Collaboration between government agencies, researchers, and communities to implement effective tick-borne disease control strategies.

In his remarks at the engagement, Dr. Kenneth Mugabi, a Senior Veterinary Officer at Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries congratulated the team of researchers for undertaking the value based research adding that it will help inform policy to address ticks and tick borne diseases in the country. He equally noted the urgent need for more innovation to discover and develop vaccines, therapeutics and diagnostics options to respond to the increasing challenges of ticks and tick-borne diseases. Additionally he equally thanked the study funders for partnering with Makerere University to undertake the study.

 Dr. Ekwaro Obuku from Makerere University College of Health Sciences in his emphasized the importance of researchers tailoring research in a way that it speaks to policy makers adding that researchers should use all avenue to influence policy initiatives for public good. He equally proposed for the need for researchers to have a data bank around Ticks and Tick-Borne Diseases.

Dr. Ekwaro Obuku speaking at the stakeholders' workshop.
Dr. Ekwaro Obuku speaking at the stakeholders’ workshop.

The stakeholders’ workshop attracted over 70 participants ranging from government officials, academia, media, farmers and one- health officials among others.

 Key issues discussed by participants include; Policy brief  to address  Tick and Tick-Borne diseases, Development of community-based tick control strategies that incorporate local knowledge and practices,one-health approach in addressing ticks and Tick-Borne diseases ,Importance of engagement with local communities affected by ticks and Tick-Borne ,the need for effective communication by researchers to influence policy, need to develop diagnostic tools and model based surveillance for early detection and early warning about Vector borne diseases among others

PROJECT TEAM

Principal investigator: Dr. Maja Malmberg – Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Biomedical Sciences and Veterinary Public Health, Sweden

Co-PI in Uganda: Assoc. Professor Lawrence Mugisha – Makerere University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity, Uganda and Ecohealth Research Group, Conservation & Ecosystem Health Alliance, Uganda

PhD student: Mr. Stephen Balinandi – Uganda Virus Research Institute, Uganda and Makerere University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity, Uganda

Professor Erik Bongcam Rudloff – Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Animal Breeding and Genetics, Sweden

Dr. Erika Chenais – National Veterinary Institute, Sweden

Assoc. Professor Klara Fischer – Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Rural and Urban Development, Sweden

Dr. Lidia Chitimia-Dobler – Bundeswehr Institute of Microbiology and University of Hohenheim, Department of Parasitology, Germany

Dr. John Pettersson – Uppsala University, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Sweden

Dr. Juliette Hayer – Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Animal Breeding and Genetics, Sweden

Professor Mikael Berg – Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Biomedical Sciences and Veterinary Public Health, Sweden

Dr. Giulio Grandi – Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Biomedical Sciences and Veterinary Public Health, Sweden

Assoc. Professor Ingrid Hansson – Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Biomedical Sciences and Veterinary Public Health, Sweden

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Mak and MSU Host Landmark Symposium on Insects for Food, Feed, and Food Security in Africa

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(L_R) Dr. Dorothy Nampanzira, HOD LIR, Dr. Claire M. Mugasa, DEAN SBLS, Prof. Frank Norbert Mwiine, Principal CoVAB, Assoc. Prof. James Acai Okwee, Deputy Principal CoVAB, and the host, Dr. Amulen Deborah Ruth, at the opening of the symposium on 5th June 2025, at Onomo Hotel in Kampala. Symposium exploring the role of insects in African farming systems convened by Makerere University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) in collaboration with Michigan State University (MSU) 5th-6th June, 2025, Onomo Hotel, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

A groundbreaking symposium exploring the role of insects in African farming systems concluded on June 6th, 2025, at Onomo Hotel in Kampala. Convened by Makerere University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) in collaboration with Michigan State University (MSU), the event drew participants from over ten countries, including researchers, development experts, regulators, and practitioners.

Under the theme “Advancing the Role of Insects in African Farming Systems for Feed, Food, and Food Security,” the two-day gathering aimed to share knowledge and experiences on integrating insects into food and feed systems to address food security challenges across the continent. The discussions revolved around four key sub-themes namely; Insects as animal feed to promote sustainable livestock production and livelihoods; Insects for human food and food security, including indigenous insect-based diets; Insects for improved soil health and crop production and Commercialization of insect farming, with a focus on regulation and standardization.

The symposium commenced with opening remarks delivered on behalf of Makerere University’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, by his representative, Prof. Frank Norbert Mwiine, Principal of CoVAB. He welcomed participants and commended Dr. Deborah Amulen, Lecturer at CoVAB and chief convener, for organizing a well thought out event. He emphasized that the symposium would not only raise awareness of the role of insects in Uganda’s and Africa’s socio-economic development but also help place insects on the agenda for broader discussions and integration into food security strategies.  He said the event served as a platform for knowledge exchange, highlighting the untapped potential of insect farming in transforming food security, sustainable agriculture, and economic growth.

Some of the facilitators (L_R) Prof. Jeffrey K. Tomberlin from Texas A&M University, Dr. Dorothy Nampanzira, HoD LIR at CoVAB, Prof. Eric M. Benbow from Michigan, Dr. Amulen Deborah Ruth, enjoy a photo moment with some of the conference participants. Symposium exploring the role of insects in African farming systems convened by Makerere University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) in collaboration with Michigan State University (MSU) 5th-6th June, 2025, Onomo Hotel, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Some of the facilitators (L_R) Prof. Jeffrey K. Tomberlin from Texas A&M University, Dr. Dorothy Nampanzira, HoD LIR at CoVAB, Prof. Eric M. Benbow from Michigan, Dr. Amulen Deborah Ruth, enjoy a photo moment with some of the conference participants.

Key facilitators at the symposium were esteemed experts from leading institutions worldwide, who shared their insights on insect-based food systems and sustainable agriculture. Among the distinguished speakers were Prof. Jeffrey K. Tomberlin from Texas A&M University, Prof. Eric M. Benbow from Michigan State University, Prof. Florence Dunkel from Montana State University, Dr. Denise Beesigamukama, a Postdoctoral Fellow, ICIPE Kenya and Dr. Deborah Amulen the host from Makerere University. These are exemplified in their contribution towards academic research and leadership, policy and industry impact and more importantly their expertise in insect science.

During the deliberations, the experts emphasized that insects offer a viable, sustainable, and nutrient-rich solution to Africa’s growing food demands. The event underscored ongoing research and commercialization efforts aimed at mainstreaming insect farming into the agricultural sector. As global interest in alternative protein sources continues to rise, the symposium marked a significant step toward harnessing the potential of insects to enhance food security in Africa.

MAAIF was present at the symposium to give policy guidance. Symposium exploring the role of insects in African farming systems convened by Makerere University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) in collaboration with Michigan State University (MSU) 5th-6th June, 2025, Onomo Hotel, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
MAAIF was present at the symposium to give policy guidance.

Experts underscored that Africa is home to over 470 recognized edible insect species, providing a rich source of proteins, fats, and essential micronutrients. Insects have historically been a staple in diets across Uganda, Southern Africa, and other regions, serving as a vital food source in times of drought, conflict, and food scarcity. One of the most discussed innovations at the event was the large-scale farming of Black Soldier Fly, which is being utilized to produce not only the larvae but also frass, a high-protein animal feed and organic fertilizer to enhance soil health and boost agricultural yields.

Several scholars presented their research in the area of Insects, where together with the farmers, industry representatives, policy makers and practitioners contributed valuable perspectives on advancing the role of insects in food security, animal feed, and ecological sustainability in Africa. Their discussions underscored the importance of research, policy, and commercialization in expanding insect farming across the continent.

It was a moment of learning, growth and connection during the symposium. Symposium exploring the role of insects in African farming systems convened by Makerere University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) in collaboration with Michigan State University (MSU) 5th-6th June, 2025, Onomo Hotel, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
It was a moment of learning, growth and connection during the symposium.

One of the keynote discussions highlighted Uganda’s rich tradition of consuming insects as part of its food culture, reinforcing their significance in nutrition and sustainability.  Participants shared insights on local insect consumption practices and their role in livelihoods, drawing from countries like Cameroon, Malawi and many others represented at the event. The forum also featured representatives from key institutions, including the National Council for Science and Technology and The National Agricultural Research Organization (NARO) which contributed perspectives on research, policy development, and commercialization of insects as sustainable food sources, the Ministry for Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries (MAAIF), emphasizing the Ugandan government’s support for insect farming initiatives.

The Kenya based scientific research institute, the International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (ICIPE) played a key role in the discourse and exhibited several innovations arising from research and their work in insects. Experts explored how insects can revolutionize animal feed production, providing an affordable, high-protein alternative to conventional sources.

With global attention shifting toward alternative and sustainable food sources, experts stressed the need for policy standardization and enhanced investment in insect-based food systems across Africa. During the event, MAAIF announced a $325 million investment through a six-year Smart Agriculture Transformation Project, aimed at expanding sustainable farming practices, reducing environmental impact, and increasing food security through alternative protein sources.

Participants were united in purpose, bringing insects to the fore of the debate on food security in Africa. Symposium exploring the role of insects in African farming systems convened by Makerere University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) in collaboration with Michigan State University (MSU) 5th-6th June, 2025, Onomo Hotel, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Participants were united in purpose, bringing insects to the fore of the debate on food security in Africa.

The symposium reaffirmed Africa’s position at the forefront of insect farming research, with discussions centered on scaling production, improving regulation, and leveraging indigenous knowledge for food security solutions. Moving forward, participants emphasized the importance of quality control, standardization, and policy frameworks to ensure safety, scale production, and boost market competitiveness. With Uganda leading discussions on alternative protein sources, the symposium laid the foundation for future innovations in agriculture.

Harriet Musinguzi

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Veterinary & Biosecurity

Makerere Receives Scientific Equipment worth over UGX 1.4 Billion

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Prof. Robert Wamala (5th from Left) and a section of CoVAB staff and students that witnessed the receipt of the equipment. Donation of scientific laboratory equipment worth USD 400,000 (Shs. 1.4 billion) through the Seeding Labs’ Instrumental Access Program to enhance teaching, research, and diagnostic services at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), 4th June 2025, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Makerere University has secured a valuable donation of scientific laboratory equipment worth USD 400,000 (Shs. 1.4 billion) through the Seeding Labs’ Instrumental Access Program. This equipment will significantly enhance teaching, research, and diagnostic services at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB).

Following the announcement of a successful application in May 2024, Makerere joins a global network of 137 institutions across 39 countries, gaining access to advanced tools that will elevate STEM education and innovation. This development strengthens the university’s commitment to scientific excellence and fosters collaboration in veterinary medicine and related fields.

Dr. Patrick Vudrico (L) led the team on a guided tour of the equipment in the RTC Lab. Donation of scientific laboratory equipment worth USD 400,000 (Shs. 1.4 billion) through the Seeding Labs’ Instrumental Access Program to enhance teaching, research, and diagnostic services at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), 4th June 2025, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Patrick Vudrico (L) led the team on a guided tour of the equipment in the RTC Lab.

The consignment was received at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity and witnessed by Prof. Edward Wamala, who represented the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe. In his remarks, Prof. Wamala described the newly acquired scientific equipment as a significant milestone in Makerere University‘s pursuit of academic excellence, innovation, and impactful research. He emphasized its transformative role in strengthening research infrastructure, advancing ongoing scientific inquiry, and empowering both students and faculty to engage in high-impact studies.

Expressing appreciation to Seeding Labs’ Instrumental Access Program for their partnership, he underscored that this contribution was more than a donation, rather an investment in the future of Uganda and Africa at large. He highlighted that the support reflects confidence in Makerere’s students and scientists, recognizing their responsibility to address pressing global challenges in animal health, biosecurity, and public health.

Prof. Wamala further noted that the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources, and Biosecurity plays a vital role in addressing issues at the intersection of human, animal, and environmental health which is the core of the One Health approach that is emphasized today. With the newly acquired equipment, the college’s capacity will be greatly enhanced, improving diagnostic capabilities, supporting the livestock industry, and contributing to disease surveillance efforts at both local and national levels, he noted.

The Deputy Principal CoVAB, Assoc. Prof. James Okwee-Acai said the equipment received is a significant milestone in the college in its efforts to strengthen science and research capacity. He commended the management of Makerere University for the contribution and support that enabled the shipment and clearance of the consignment. While commenting about the equipment contained in the donation, Prof. Acai said many of items were state-of-the-art and would definitely boost the work of teaching and learning at the college across the two schools.

The Deans of SVAR and SBSLS and other college staff checked the equipment. Donation of scientific laboratory equipment worth USD 400,000 (Shs. 1.4 billion) through the Seeding Labs’ Instrumental Access Program to enhance teaching, research, and diagnostic services at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), 4th June 2025, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The Deans of SVAR and SBSLS and other college staff checked the equipment.

The equipment is expected to greatly enhance the University’s ability to conduct cutting-edge research and provide high quality education in the veterinary sciences. This donation showcases the growing partnerships and collaborations that Makerere University is building to drive innovation and academic excellence. With this valuable addition to its research infrastructure, Makerere University is poised to make even greater strides in advancing scientific knowledge and addressing critical challenges in the veterinary field and looks forward to the transformative impact it will have from training students on the latest analytical techniques to enabling faculty led studies that advance veterinary medicine.

The donors, the Instrumental Access is the flagship program of Seeding Labs, which is a US-based NGO with a mission to increase access to resources for science in developing countries. CoVAB’s participation in Instrumental Access makes Makerere University a member of the community of 137 Instrumental Access awardees in 39 countries worldwide.

The Department of Veterinary Pharmacy, Clinical and Comparative Medicine, Makerere University was chosen for the Instrumental Access award after a rigorous and competitive selection process that receives and evaluates applications from institutions around the world. To be considered, applicants outlined the ways that an infusion of scientific equipment would remove barriers to STEM education and research at their institution, paving the way for new avenues of scientific inquiry and expanding hands-on opportunities for students.

Some of the cartons containing equipment and lab supplies. Donation of scientific laboratory equipment worth USD 400,000 (Shs. 1.4 billion) through the Seeding Labs’ Instrumental Access Program to enhance teaching, research, and diagnostic services at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), 4th June 2025, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Some of the cartons containing equipment and lab supplies.

The equipment will provide a foundation for other critical resources that allow scientists to generate new knowledge, leverage sustainable funding, and better prepare university students for the scientific workforce and innovation economy.

More photos from the unveiling

Some of the PhD students who witnessed the display of the equipment received. Donation of scientific laboratory equipment worth USD 400,000 (Shs. 1.4 billion) through the Seeding Labs’ Instrumental Access Program to enhance teaching, research, and diagnostic services at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), 4th June 2025, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Some of the PhD students who witnessed the display of the equipment received.

Dr. Patrick Vudrico opening some of the cartons to check out equipment. Donation of scientific laboratory equipment worth USD 400,000 (Shs. 1.4 billion) through the Seeding Labs’ Instrumental Access Program to enhance teaching, research, and diagnostic services at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), 4th June 2025, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Patrick Vudrico opening some of the cartons to check out equipment.

Prof. Robert Wamala inspects one of the items. Donation of scientific laboratory equipment worth USD 400,000 (Shs. 1.4 billion) through the Seeding Labs’ Instrumental Access Program to enhance teaching, research, and diagnostic services at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), 4th June 2025, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Robert Wamala inspects one of the items.

An item unveiled. Donation of scientific laboratory equipment worth USD 400,000 (Shs. 1.4 billion) through the Seeding Labs’ Instrumental Access Program to enhance teaching, research, and diagnostic services at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), 4th June 2025, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
An item unveiled.

Harriet Musinguzi

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Experts Discuss Climate-Smart Agriculture and Livestock Feed Innovations in Uganda

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Participants at the roundtable discussion on climate-smart initiatives and livestock feed innovations in Uganda in the E-Boardroom at CoVAB. Leading agricultural experts and stakeholders high-level roundtable discussion on climate-smart initiatives and livestock feed innovations in Uganda hosted May 2025 at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda, East Africa.

Leading agricultural experts and stakeholders convened for a high-level roundtable discussion on climate-smart initiatives and livestock feed innovations in Uganda. Hosted at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), Makerere University, the event brought together scientists, policymakers, and entrepreneurs to exchange ideas on sustainable agriculture and the future of livestock feeding.

In the opening remarks, Dr. Dorothy Nampanzira, the head of the Department of Livestock and Industrial Resources Department at CoVAB welcomed participants and expressed deep appreciation for their engagement, emphasizing the significance of such discussions in driving meaningful change. She acknowledged the progress made in climate-smart agriculture while stressing the need for thorough documentation and continued evaluation to ensure that all achievements are fully leveraged for future impact.

The Livestock Climate Smart Technologies Round Table Discussion is one of the activities organized under the four-year collaborative research project namely; Building Capacity for Innovation and Advancement of Climate Smart Agriculture in East and Southern Africa (CICSA-E&SA).  One of its objectives is to develop a Climate Smart Agriculture platform that includes key stakeholders engaged and interested in key activities and initiatives that promote Climate Smart Agriculture practices and technologies to share experiences and lessons to further the resilience of farmers among others.  The project is run by a project implementation committee comprised of Prof. John Tabuti, Prof. Josephine Esaete, Prof. Vincent Muwanika, and Dr. Dorothy Nampanzira.

Participants were drawn from key units including the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO), the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Resources and Fisheries (MAAIF), the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, (CAES), College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) among others and they included scientists and PhD students.  Throughout the session, experts explored various innovative farming strategies, including improved manure management, the use of repurposed agricultural byproducts, and alternative feeding approaches such as insect-based feed and probiotics. The discussions highlighted the necessity of research-driven solutions to maximize efficiency and ensure safe adoption of these techniques.

Dr. Dorothy Nampanzira, Head of the Livestock and Industrial Resourses Department, CoVAB (Right), flanked by Dr. Maholo Mulongo Denis, Ass. Commissioner Animal Nutrition, MAAIF. Leading agricultural experts and stakeholders high-level roundtable discussion on climate-smart initiatives and livestock feed innovations in Uganda hosted May 2025 at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Dorothy Nampanzira, Head of the Livestock and Industrial Resourses Department, CoVAB (Right), flanked by Dr. Maholo Mulongo Denis, Ass. Commissioner Animal Nutrition, MAAIF.

With Uganda’s livestock industry expanding rapidly, concerns were raised about gaps in technical knowledge among farmers, particularly as modern farming practices evolve. Participants emphasized the importance of bridging this gap through better documentation, sensitization programs, and closer collaboration between researchers and farmers.

The discussions made some future projections based on available research and experiences drawn from elsewhere which projections indicate that Uganda will need to significantly increase its milk and meat production by 2050 to meet the growing demand. Experts underscored the importance of predictive models and data-driven research to assess feed availability, considering factors such as rising carbon dioxide levels that could affect grass protein content, which is a major component of livestock diets.

The discussions concluded with recommendations to strengthen stakeholder cooperation, enhance information-sharing efforts, and revive research dissemination initiatives. Dr. Nampanzira encouraged continued engagement, urging participants to contribute to future projects and explore funding opportunities to support similar discussions.  This roundtable serves as a critical step toward sustainable agriculture, ensuring Uganda remains prepared to meet evolving climate and food security challenges.

Prof. Vincent Muwanika moderated the sessions during the discourse. Leading agricultural experts and stakeholders high-level roundtable discussion on climate-smart initiatives and livestock feed innovations in Uganda hosted May 2025 at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Vincent Muwanika moderated the sessions during the discourse.

During the discussions, participants reflected on various strategies farmers are adopting to cope with climate change, including innovative manure management and repurposing agricultural byproducts. While some methods have traditional roots, enhancing efficiency through research and technology was emphasized as crucial for long-term sustainability.

A key topic was the adoption of alternative feeding strategies such as insect-based feed, blood meal, and probiotics. Scientists highlighted the need for further research to validate these methods, ensuring they meet safety standards and are viable for widespread use. In addition, participants explored high-protein forage options, such as elephant grass from China, which boasts a 19% protein content. Experts warned, however, of the risks associated with introducing non-native plant species, stressing the importance of scientific guidance in agricultural innovations.

Another challenge addressed was the knowledge gap between farmers and researchers. With an increasing number of elite farmers investing in modern practices, the lack of technical oversight could lead to long-term negative effects. Stakeholders called for better documentation of successful farming methods and increased efforts in farmer education.

Discussions also touched on Uganda’s future food security, with projections indicating a 200% increase in milk demand and a 300% rise in meat production by 2050. Experts stressed the importance of data-driven research to assess feed availability and predict future needs, noting that rising carbon dioxide levels could diminish grass protein content, which was a major concern for livestock-dependent industries.

A section of the participants in the dialogue. Leading agricultural experts and stakeholders high-level roundtable discussion on climate-smart initiatives and livestock feed innovations in Uganda hosted May 2025 at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda, East Africa.
A section of the participants in the dialogue.

The event concluded with recommendations to strengthen multi-stakeholder engagement and revive research dissemination initiatives. The Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF) was urged to develop regulatory frameworks, particularly on animal feed policy, to support sustainable livestock farming.

In her closing remarks, Dr. Nampanzira praised the participants for their dedication and called for continued collaboration in securing funding for future discussions. She encouraged experts to contribute to extension grants and policy formulation, recognizing the significance of collective action in addressing Uganda’s agricultural challenges.

Harriet Musinguzi

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