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Making vaccines available & accessible to women & other marginalized livestock farmers

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Women in livestock farming in Uganda have been empowered and trained on vaccines access and proper administration for both animals and poultry.  This was during a project dubbed the Livestock Vaccine Innovation Fund (LVIF) undertaken to address the barriers faced by women in livestock vaccine systems in Uganda and generating new evidence on how women can better benefit and participate in the vaccination systems.

The Livestock Vaccine Innovation Fund (LVIF) was funded by Canada International Development Research Centre (IDRC), Global Affairs Canada (GAC) and Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF) to support the development of affordable livestock vaccines, targeting diseases that affect women and men who are livestock keepers. The project has been implemented through a set of research action based accomplishments including;

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of AFROHUN Prof. William Bazeyo (2nd Right), Agnes Yawe (Front Left) and other participants listen to proceedings.
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of AFROHUN Prof. William Bazeyo (2nd Right), Agnes Yawe (Front Left) and other participants listen to proceedings.

The SHeVax+ research (hearing Their Voices, Action Research to Support Women’s Agency and Empowerment in Livestock Vaccine Distribution, delivery and Use is a partnership between the Cumming School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University and the Africa One Health University Network (AFROHUN) together with their implementing partners including Makerere University, University of Nairobi and University of Rwanda. Prof. William Bazeyo is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of AFROHUN. The project assessed the state of women’s empowerment and gender parity on the vaccine value chain, identified key entry points among women smallholder farmers and entrepreneurs to contribute to and benefit from livestock vaccines thereby improving livestock production   and livelihoods. The project was implemented in Sembabule district in Uganda, Machakos County in Kenya, and Nayagatare district in Rwanda.

Advancing Women’s Participation in Livestock Vaccine Value Chain Nepal, Senegal and Uganda research. Implemented by the University of Florida (UF) in collaboration with Makerere University, the project aimed at increasing women’s use of pest des petits ruminants (PPR) vaccines for their small ruminants in Nepal, Senegal, and Uganda as well as Newcastle Disease vaccines for their poultry in Senegal.  Recognizing  the fact that there are multiple  factors  that prevent  women  from vaccinating  their animals, most often related to gender  and intersectional issues  such as class, ethnicity, disability  and geographic location, the project introduced the Gender Intersectional Transformative Approach (GITA) with the aim of working with women livestock owners, all levels of animal health workers and trainers with a transformative mind of opening up spaces to allow full participation in the livestock vaccination value chain. In Uganda, the project was implemented in Karamoja Sub region targeting selected sub counties in four districts of Abim, Amudat, Kotido and Moroto.

Evelyn Baraké, Project Officer, IDRC
Evelyn Baraké, Project Officer, IDRC

According to Dr. Evelyn Baraké, the Project Officer- IDRC, the Livestock Innovation Fund was initiated to accelerate the development of new vaccines against neglected livestock diseases, increase the efficacy, marketability and use of existing livestock vaccines and fostering effective partnerships between vaccine researchers and public and private sector actors. The project also focused on animal diseases posing the greatest risk to poor livestock keepers in Sub-Saharan Africa, South and Southeast Asia.

“Our program on Women empowerment and Livestock Vaccines has enhanced the mapping exercise on livestock vaccine value chains. Through this program, we have been able to identify barriers preventing women from accessing vaccines and sought out the effective interventions to increase the demand for vaccines and their use,” she noted.

Dr. Evelyn Baraké also mentioned that IDRC has utilized the programme approach to define and measure changes in gender norms and empowerment hence fostering gender transformative impact.

Nargiza Ludgate, Co-PI, Advancing Women’s participation in livestock vaccine value chain project
Nargiza Ludgate, Co-PI, Advancing Women’s participation in livestock vaccine value chain project

Majority of rural households in low developing countries are engaged in livestock rearing.  This activity is undertaken by both women and men in most cases who are predominantly agro-pastoral smallholders within mixed farming systems.  According to Dr. Nargiza Ludgate- the Co-Principal Investigator of the project; Advancing Women’s participation in livestock vaccine value chain, gender and attitudes of animal health service providers can affect their veterinary practice and quality of care. Therefore, developing an understanding of how gender and perceptions can influence veterinary practice is essential to improve the reach and quality of service delivery.

In Uganda, women are often left out of agricultural extension services and technical support. This is because household power imbalances play a key role in animal health services.  In the livestock vaccine value chain, women and other marginalized groups such as minority ethnic groups, the elderly and persons living with dis-abilities have less access than men to key inputs such vaccines as well as limited ability to influence decision-making on vaccination and animal health within the households. In addition, women tend to miss out on veterinary services due to the deep- rooted social- cultural biases at household and community levels.  

Agnes Yawe, Head Grants and Resource Mobilisation/ Partnerships, AFROHUN
Agnes Yawe, Head Grants and Resource Mobilisation/ Partnerships, AFROHUN

“The unvaccinated animals of women and other marginalized groups are at a higher risk of infection and can spread diseases easily to other livestock. This, consequently undermines community level and global diseases control interventions, such as eradication of peste des petis ruminants by 2030,” noted Agnes Yawe, Head of Grants and Resource Mobilization/ Partnerships, AFROHUN.

Yawe also highlighted the bigger gender gap that has for long existed in the current veterinary curriculum in Uganda when she said, “this curriculum is set by the National Council of Higher Education (NCHE) and must meet the World Health Organization (WHO) for Animal Health standards for veterinarians or para- veterinarians.  However, the primary focus of the current curriculum is directed to scientific and technical knowledge or the “hard skills” with little or no space for soft “soft skills” such as gender responsive communication, empathic listening, effective communication and community engagement.”

She further noted the need to integrate gender concepts in refresher courses and workshops for veterinarians   and other animal health service providers to enrich their understanding on how best to reach out to women and other marginalized groups.

Prof. Anthony Mugisha, Uganda SheVax Country Lead and Co-PI
Prof. Anthony Mugisha, Uganda SheVax Country Lead and Co-PI

Prof. Anthony Mugisha, SheVax Country Lead and Co-Principal Investigator in Uganda highlighted the need to increase women’s access to communication tools as a way of enhancing their access to information.

“Women’s limited access to mobile phones and community networks that pass on information also means that they often miss out on the messages related to animal health campaigns. Additionally, those livestock   keepers (women and men) who are poor, elderly   or living with disabilities or belong to an ethnic group such as the Tepeth who live far away from the community centres on the slopes of Mount Moroto are always left out by veterinary extension agents,” he said.

On Monday 5th March 2023, a multi-stakeholders meeting was convened at Golden Tulip in Kampala, Uganda to; –

  1. Engage key stakeholders in the livestock vaccine value chain
  2. Showcase promising approaches for gender responsive and inclusive livestock vaccine value chain
  3. Disseminate research findings and policy recommendations with key stakeholders
Hon. Janet Akech Okori-moe, Woman MP Abim district and Chairperson Agriculture committee of Parliament of Uganda
Hon. Janet Akech Okori-moe, Woman MP Abim district and Chairperson Agriculture committee of Parliament of Uganda

The meeting was officially graced by Hon. Janet Akech Okori-moe, Woman Member of Parliament of Abim district and the Chairperson Agriculture committee of Parliament of Uganda and attended by livestock farmers, policy Makers, research and scientists and media.

Speaking at the meeting, Hon. Janet Akech Okori-Moe said that small ruminants such as goats, sheep and poultry form a bigger part of livelihood enterprise and provide key benefits to most smallholder farmers especially women in the developing countries including Uganda. She also noted that whereas this is so, the animal   value chain right from production up to the end point of selling the product quite often leaves out women and other vulnerable groups.

“It is estimated globally that approximately 262 million people at the worst poor keep livestock for food security and income generation and women represent two thirds of this total population. Women being smallholder farmers, face serious challenges and therefore the need to support them, build their confidence in a patriarchal society and allow their participation in matters that affect them through equipping them with information and mindset change training sessions,” she noted.

“Available record also shows that women have poor access to vaccines for the few livestock they manage. They are believed to be good animal care takers compared to their male counter parts hence strategies are needed to ensure that women’s ability to participate and benefit from the vaccine value chains is realized,” she added.

Some of the stakeholders follow the proceedings.
Some of the stakeholders follow the proceedings.

With reference to the existing village health teams, Hon. Janet Akech Okori-Moe called for the consideration for formation of the village animal health teams to attend to challenges affecting livestock farmers in Uganda.  She as well urged policymakers to enhance their actions and discussions that support the need to address animal health challenges in Uganda.

Highlighting government support towards livestock farming in Uganda, Hon. Akech Okori-Moe informed participants of the recently launched government Scientific Vaccine Trials that are currently being tested in five centres in Uganda including two prison farms. She acknowledged the tremendous work done by experts from Makerere University, School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, the University of Florida (UF), and the Africa One Health University Network (AFROHUN) through research to empower more women in livestock farming.

In the same spirit, the Honourable Member of Parliament thanked Canada International Development Research Centre (IDRC), Global Affairs Canada (GAC) and Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF) for supporting programmmes tailored at addressing dilemmas surrounding animal health in Uganda.

“Thank you for building confidence in women. With your support, their voices are being heard, their actions are being felt, their participation is being noticed in animal health promotion and I pray that this research is replicated with resources and time allowing to other equally deserving areas,” she said.

The project success stories

According to Dr. Hellen Amuguni, the Principal Investigator of Shevax project, Dr. Hellen Amuguni, the project was able to;-

  • Train 24 Animal Health Service Providers and well quipped to serve 140,000 households.
  • Over 1500 people have received animal health training.
  • 1,200 Vaxxer calendars have been disseminated.
Dr. Hellen Amuguni, PI SHeVax+ project
Dr. Hellen Amuguni, PI SHeVax+ project

She acknowledged the projects efforts to equip farmers with solar powered fridges, vaccine kits and trainings on how and when to access and administer the vaccines to animals and poultry.  

Three policy briefs on making vaccines available and accessible to women and marginalized livestock farmers; Gender-responsive and inclusive veterinary extension for health animals, reduced poverty and empowered women; and Gender and social inclusion training for veterinary animal health services providers were developed and shared to key stakeholders.

The project also facilitated the development of IEC materials in form of posters and comic books written and translated in the local languages of the communities that were engaged during the project implementation process.

Lilian Tukahirwa. PhD Student, SHeVax+ and lead photovoice
Lilian Tukahirwa. PhD Student, SHeVax+ and lead photovoice

Women were also trained in basic skills in photography as a way of expressing themselves, tell their stories and enhancing their voices on livestock farming. In seeking to transform the veterinary extension services to become more gender aware, responsive and inclusive, the team recommended the following:

  • Putting gender-inclusive livestock policies into practice through actual procedures or processes to improve vaccination programs
  • Fostering collaborations between animal health technical providers and community development service providers to reach stakeholders who are left behind
  • Gender responsiveness of service provision should be an integral part of animal health technical trainings
  • Including women along the animal and poultry Vaccine Value Chain (VVC) improves the efficacy and efficiency of vaccination programs by reaching underserved smallholders
  • Government and private Animal Health Service Providers (AHSPs) need to recognize that socio-cultural issues at household and community level prevent women and other marginalized small holders from using and engaging as providers of livestock vaccine services
  • Public- private collaboration within the livestock vaccine value chain needs committed leadership from government agencies and relevant departments
  • Investing in integrating gender knowledge and communication skills into training and curriculum for veterinarians and animal service providers
  • Encouraging women and marginalized groups to become animal health service providers
  • Ensuring that Community Animal Health Workers (CAHWs) trainings follow a competence- based learning framework, enriched with gender and soft skills modules and offered as refresher courses
  • Strengthening women, the poor, elderly and persons living with disabilities livestock keepers’ access to critical animal health welfare services, such as veterinary care, drugs and information and technology
  • Investing in gender transformative approaches in veterinary extension training
  • Sensitizing community leaders, CAHWs and other key community stakeholders

Mak Editor

Veterinary & Biosecurity

Global Scholar Prof. John B. Kaneene Pushes for Structural Change in Ugandan Universities to Elevate Research and Innovation

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Guest lecture by Prof. John B. Kaneene. Theme “Industrial Biomedical Research and Innovation: Lessons from Michigan State University for Uganda’s New Industrial STI Dispensation” 26th August 2025, CEBIGH, College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Renowned academic Prof. John B. Kaneene has called for sweeping structural reforms across Ugandan universities, including Makerere University, to enhance their global competitiveness and research output. Speaking at a forum on science and innovation, held on August 26th at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), Makerere University, Prof. Kaneene emphasized the urgent need for improved facilities to support active research participation.

He urged institutions to revamp their reward systems, noting that scholars who achieve significant milestones should be recognized in line with their contributions. “Success must be incentivized,” he said, adding that such recognition would motivate researchers and elevate academic standards.

The guest lecture was held under the theme “Industrial Biomedical Research and Innovation: Lessons from Michigan State University for Uganda’s New Industrial STI Dispensation.” The session explored the transformative role of universities in enhancing human wellbeing, societal development, and economic growth. It offered critical insights into institutional frameworks such as tenure and promotion, innovation and research ecosystems, and mentoring and incentive structures—drawing valuable lessons from Michigan State University to inform Uganda’s evolving science, technology, and innovation landscape.

Guest lecture by Prof. John B. Kaneene. Theme “Industrial Biomedical Research and Innovation: Lessons from Michigan State University for Uganda’s New Industrial STI Dispensation” 26th August 2025, CEBIGH, College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. John B. Kaneene from Michigan State University was the Guest Speaker at the Science and Innovation forum at CoVAB, Tuesday, 26th August 2025.

At the discourse attended by scientists, prodigy Scientists, administrators, and regulators of Scientists, Prof. Kaneene also criticized the current promotion framework, calling for stricter, merit-based criteria free from political interference. He proposed a more rigorous system for academic progression, from Assistant Lecturer to Lecturer, Senior Lecturer, and ultimately Professor. “The title of Professor should be earned through demonstrable excellence in both research and teaching,” he stated, arguing that current standards fall short.

In addition to structural reforms, Prof. Kaneene highlighted the need to improve the quality and quantity of academic publications. He advocated for a shift from basic science to industrial and translational research, where universities produce innovations that directly benefit public health and economic development. “We must bridge the gap between research and real-world solutions,” he said.

Prof. Kaneene concluded by urging the Ugandan government to recognize universities as engines of national progress. He called for increased funding, better infrastructure, and targeted support for top scientists. “With the right investment, our universities can drive economic growth and improve the health of our communities,” he affirmed.

Speaking at the opening of the event, Ms. Brenda Nakazibwe, Bureau Chief, Pathogen Economy at the Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Secretariat under the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation, reiterated the government’s commitment to advancing Uganda’s pathogen economy and strengthening its scientific research ecosystem. She highlighted the Secretariat’s role in supporting research development and fostering ecosystem establishment as Uganda moves toward sustainable growth. She emphasized that the bureau is actively working to position science and innovation as key drivers of economic transformation.

Ms. Nakazibwe commended the presentation by Prof. John B. Kaneene, a distinguished U.S.-based academic, describing his insights as highly relevant to both scientists and the general public. She acknowledged his longstanding contributions to Uganda’s scientific landscape, particularly his involvement in the foundation of the STI Open Platform (STI OP), formerly known as the Presidential Scientific Initiative on Epidemics (PRESIDE). The PRESIDE initiative was instrumental in fast-tracking research and innovation in vaccines, drugs, and therapeutics in response to emerging diseases and public health threats.

She further emphasized the importance of the issues raised during the discussion, including innovation, research incentives, academic tenure, and promotion systems. Ms. Nakazibwe described these as “tangible and actionable areas” that must be addressed across all levels of Uganda’s scientific and academic institutions.

“These are not abstract ideas and practical reforms that can strengthen our research culture and ensure our scientists are empowered to deliver solutions for national development,” she stated.

(L) Prof. Enock Matovu, Director CEBIGH, where the discourse was hosted. Guest lecture by Prof. John B. Kaneene. Theme “Industrial Biomedical Research and Innovation: Lessons from Michigan State University for Uganda’s New Industrial STI Dispensation” 26th August 2025, CEBIGH, College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
(L) Prof. Enock Matovu, Director CEBIGH, where the discourse was hosted.

While introducing Prof. John B. Kaneene, Prof. John David Kabasa emphasized that the discourse stemmed from a longstanding consortium between universities in the United States and Africa. This partnership has been instrumental in driving major advancements in Uganda’s veterinary and biosecurity sectors. Speaking at the strategic engagement on science and innovation, Prof. Kabasa highlighted the consortium’s focus on capacity building in the integrated management of transboundary diseases and zoonoses, noting that it laid the foundation for transformative change in the country’s scientific and academic landscape.

He noted that the partnership’s strength and future-oriented vision led Makerere University to approve a development strategy and investment plan that upgraded its Faculty of Veterinary Medicine into the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity. “Biosecurity became central to our mission because we are focused on global biosecurity,” Prof. Kabasa said.

Prof. John David Kabasa explained that the discourse stemmed from a longstanding consortium between universities in the United States and Africa. Guest lecture by Prof. John B. Kaneene. Theme “Industrial Biomedical Research and Innovation: Lessons from Michigan State University for Uganda’s New Industrial STI Dispensation” 26th August 2025, CEBIGH, College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. John David Kabasa explained that the discourse stemmed from a longstanding consortium between universities in the United States and Africa.

Over the past 15 years, he said, the consortium has yielded significant milestones, including the establishment of a Master’s program in Biosecurity, ongoing development of a PhD in Biosecurity, and the creation of a Centre for Biosecurity and Global Health. These efforts are now being aligned with the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation to promote Industrial Biomedical Research and Innovation, key pillars of Uganda’s emerging industrial bioeconomy under the pathogen economy framework championed by His Excellency, the President of Uganda.

Prof. Kabasa, alongside Prof. John B. Kaneene and other founding scientists, announced plans to elevate the consortium’s work to a new level, with a renewed focus on global biosecurity and industrial bioeconomy. He revealed that partners mentored through the original initiative, including directors from the National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO), senior scientists at the ministry level, and academics from other universities, are injecting fresh energy into the collaboration.

“We are now engaging to define how universities can lead national transformation, and what strategic steps they must take to reposition themselves,” Prof. Kabasa stated. He confirmed that a series of follow-up meetings will be held to chart the path forward.

Dr. Monica Namayanja, Centre Manager CEBIGH. Guest lecture by Prof. John B. Kaneene. Theme “Industrial Biomedical Research and Innovation: Lessons from Michigan State University for Uganda’s New Industrial STI Dispensation” 26th August 2025, CEBIGH, College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Monica Namayanja, Centre Manager CEBIGH.

The Centre for Biosecurity and Global Health (CEBIGH) is one of the specialized units established at Makerere University, whose creation is part of a broader vision to develop a regional veterinary college through the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB). As a key research and development entity, CEBIGH is instrumental in repositioning CoVAB as a leading driver of scientific innovation, strategic research, and public service nationally and globally. Through its work, CEBIGH is emerging as a major contributor to Uganda’s growing pathogen economy.

Harriet Musinguzi

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Makerere Scientists Document Climate-Smart Innovation in Sentema, Applaud Farmer’s Odor-Control Breakthrough

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Some of the Cattle on the farm located in a residential area in Sentema. Regional research initiative “Building Capacity for Innovation and Advancement of Climate Smart Agriculture in East and Southern Africa” (CICSA-E&SA) visited to Mr. Mugisha Jonan, urban farmer and environmentalist in Sentema Wakiso District, adoption of innovative practices redefining the feasibility of farming in densely populated urban settings through the Nutrient Recycling Innovation, CoVAB, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda.

A team of scientists under the regional research initiative “Building Capacity for Innovation and Advancement of Climate Smart Agriculture in East and Southern Africa” (CICSA-E&SA) visited Mr. Mugisha Jonan, an urban farmer and environmentalist in Sentema Wakiso District, whose adoption of innovative practices is redefining the feasibility of farming in densely populated urban settings.

Mr. Mugisa, a farmer and environmentalist explains how he started his farm and took on the use of the innovation. Regional research initiative “Building Capacity for Innovation and Advancement of Climate Smart Agriculture in East and Southern Africa” (CICSA-E&SA) visited to Mr. Mugisha Jonan, urban farmer and environmentalist in Sentema Wakiso District, adoption of innovative practices redefining the feasibility of farming in densely populated urban settings through the Nutrient Recycling Innovation, CoVAB, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda.
Mr. Mugisa, a farmer and environmentalist explains how he started his farm and took on the use of the innovation.

Through the Nutrient Recycling Innovation, Mr. Mugisha has not only resolved the persistent issue of odor from his dairy farm, but is also unlocking more profitable outcomes by embracing climate-smart agricultural techniques. Central to his approach is the use of VTC Technology, a system designed to recover nutrients from diverse waste streams, including farm and market waste, and return them to their original sources. This transformative method was introduced to him by Dr. Herbert Mukiibi, a renowned scientist from the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity at Makerere University.

The Scientists inspect the innovation where wastes are dumped and will eventually turn into manure. Regional research initiative “Building Capacity for Innovation and Advancement of Climate Smart Agriculture in East and Southern Africa” (CICSA-E&SA) visited to Mr. Mugisha Jonan, urban farmer and environmentalist in Sentema Wakiso District, adoption of innovative practices redefining the feasibility of farming in densely populated urban settings through the Nutrient Recycling Innovation, CoVAB, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda.
The Scientists inspect the innovation where wastes are dumped and will eventually turn into manure.

Based on the demonstration on the farm, the innovative practice will help in reshaping urban agriculture by enhancing sustainable food production while simultaneously addressing critical environmental challenges such as waste management and odor control. Mr. Mugisha’s work stands as a compelling example of how local science-driven solutions can empower urban farmers and contribute to greener, more resilient cities.

Prof. Asaete, Dr. Nampanzira, Dr. Herbet Mukiibi were conducted around the vegetable garden where the manure is applied. Regional research initiative “Building Capacity for Innovation and Advancement of Climate Smart Agriculture in East and Southern Africa” (CICSA-E&SA) visited to Mr. Mugisha Jonan, urban farmer and environmentalist in Sentema Wakiso District, adoption of innovative practices redefining the feasibility of farming in densely populated urban settings through the Nutrient Recycling Innovation, CoVAB, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda.
Prof. Asaete, Dr. Nampanzira, Dr. Herbet Mukiibi were conducted around the vegetable garden where the manure is applied.

Dr. Dorothy Nampanzira Kalule led a team that included Dr. Herbert Mukiibi, the innovator who collaborated directly with Mr. Mugisha to implement the nutrient recycling innovation. Also part of the team was Prof. Josephine Esaete from the College of Education and External Studies, part of the members of the bigger project research team that includes Prof. Robert Stephen Tabuti and Prof. Vincent Muwanika, both from the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) at Makerere University.

 “Mr. Mugisha’s work exemplifies the kind of innovation we aim to capture, document and validate as solutions that are proven to work, locally driven, environmentally sound, and socially inclusive,” said Dr. Nampanzira, following a tour of the project site nestled within a densely populated urban residential area.

Dr. Nampanzira said the reason for the visit to the farmer was because through the project, scientists were looking out for farmers doing unique things that actually give them good results which are not known to the scientists. She said the purpose was to validate such practices and have them promoted.

A vegetable garden with a high yield. Regional research initiative “Building Capacity for Innovation and Advancement of Climate Smart Agriculture in East and Southern Africa” (CICSA-E&SA) visited to Mr. Mugisha Jonan, urban farmer and environmentalist in Sentema Wakiso District, adoption of innovative practices redefining the feasibility of farming in densely populated urban settings through the Nutrient Recycling Innovation, CoVAB, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda.
A vegetable garden with a high yield.

The project, Building Capacity for Innovation and Advancement of Climate-Smart Agriculture in East and Southern Africa (CICSA-E&SA), continues to engage with farmers who have adopted some climate-smart agricultural practices by identifying and supporting solutions that work for farmers on the ground. Through hands-on engagement and collaboration, the initiative focuses on practical innovations that address real challenges, ensuring that climate-smart agriculture is not only sustainable, but also accessible and effective for local communities.

While describing the innovation demonstrated by Mr. Mugisha, Dr. Herbert Mukiibi explained that the Nutrient Recycling Technology is designed to recover nutrients from various waste streams such as domestic, farm, hospital, schools or market waste and return them to their original source. If the nutrients came from the garden, the ultimate goal is to return them to the garden, Dr. Mukiibi noted. He said that most systems release nutrients through waste, which wastes are often mistreated because people don’t realize they are valuable resources. He said through such interventions, they were coming in to tap on these wastes and return them to the garden in a ready form that can be used by the crops for better yields without necessarily using inorganic forms of fertilizers.

Dr. Mukiibi emphasized that this technology not only promotes sustainable agriculture but also transforms public perception of waste, from a nuisance into a valuable resource thereby encouraging more responsible and productive environmental practices. He commended Mr. Mugisha, the farmer behind the initiative, for embracing the technology and personally financing its development. Thanks to Mr. Mugisha’s commitment, the project has advanced to the point where it is nearly ready to produce, package, and sell organic manure, marking a significant milestone in practical nutrient recycling.

“We want to document the various innovations that promote climate-smart agriculture while simultaneously addressing farmers’ real-world challenges,” said Prof. Asaete Josephine, who is part of the research team. “The innovation demonstrated by Mr. Mugisha not only solved his initial problem, the unpleasant smell of dung that was causing concern in the neighborhood, but also evolved into a broader solution. What began as an effort to manage odor has also addressed nutrient deficiencies. That’s where the climate-smart aspect comes in, she noted.  Instead of spending resources on inorganic fertilizers, the farmer is now benefiting from nutrient recycling, which promotes faster plant growth while tackling the original issue of odor.”, she noted.

Mr. Mugisha explains the Innovation that has helped him resolve the challenge of waste and odor management on his farm. Regional research initiative “Building Capacity for Innovation and Advancement of Climate Smart Agriculture in East and Southern Africa” (CICSA-E&SA) visited to Mr. Mugisha Jonan, urban farmer and environmentalist in Sentema Wakiso District, adoption of innovative practices redefining the feasibility of farming in densely populated urban settings through the Nutrient Recycling Innovation, CoVAB, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda.
Mr. Mugisha explains the Innovation that has helped him resolve the challenge of waste and odor management on his farm.

Mr. Mugisha informed the visiting team that he initially started the farm to meet his family’s nutritional needs. However, as the farm grew, he encountered significant challenges related to waste management, which led him to connect with Dr. Herbert Mukiibi, whose expertise helped guide him toward innovative solutions. He said he first adopted biogas technology yet, odor problem persisted, leading him to explored more sustainable options and eventually embraced the nutrient recycling innovation. He said transforming waste into organic manure enabled him resolve the environmental concerns but also enhanced the productivity of his vegetable gardens, and is moving towards packaging and sale of organic manure.

The team interacts with Mrs. Mugisha (R). In the background is the slab where the manure will be dried before further processing and packaging. Regional research initiative “Building Capacity for Innovation and Advancement of Climate Smart Agriculture in East and Southern Africa” (CICSA-E&SA) visited to Mr. Mugisha Jonan, urban farmer and environmentalist in Sentema Wakiso District, adoption of innovative practices redefining the feasibility of farming in densely populated urban settings through the Nutrient Recycling Innovation, CoVAB, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda.
The team interacts with Mrs. Mugisha (R). In the background is the slab where the manure will be dried before further processing and packaging.

The CICSA-E&SA project is a multi-institutional collaboration led by Makerere University, in partnership with the Norwegian University of Life Sciences (Norway), Maseno University (Kenya), and LUANAR and DARS (Malawi). The project is funded by the Norwegian Agency for International Cooperation and Quality Enhancement in Higher Education (Diku) and aims to promote climate-resilient agricultural practices across East and Southern Africa.

Harriet Musinguzi

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CoVAB Unveils Taught PhD in Livestock Development and Planning

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Stakeholders pose for a group photo after unveiling CoVAB's pioneering taught PhD program in Livestock Development and Planning on 14th August 2025. College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) officially launches pioneering taught PhD program in Livestock Development and Planning, marking a significant leap forward in agricultural education and research in Uganda, 14th August 2025, Makerere University, Kampala, East Africa.

The College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) at Makerere University has officially launched its pioneering taught PhD program in Livestock Development and Planning an initiative marking a significant leap forward in agricultural education and research in Uganda. Designed to address pressing challenges in the livestock sector, the program will blend academic rigor with practical relevance, equipping scholars with the skills and knowledge needed to drive sustainable development, enhance food security, and shape policy across the region.

In alignment with Makerere University’s curriculum development framework, stakeholders from across the livestock industry were invited to contribute their insights to ensure the program is relevant, rigorous, and responsive to contemporary challenges.  The stakeholder engagement forum that brought together academics, civil society actors, farmer representatives, donor agencies, and policymakers was convened at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) on Thursday, 14th August 2015. The objective was to solicit broad-based input into the proposed taught PhD program in Livestock Development and Planning, fostering a collaborative approach to shaping its content and direction.

Dr. Dorothy Nampanzira, Head, LIR Department gave opening remarks. Right is Prof. Anthony Mugisha, Left, Dr. Rose Azuba, the facilitator of the stakeholder meeting. College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) officially launches pioneering taught PhD program in Livestock Development and Planning, marking a significant leap forward in agricultural education and research in Uganda, 14th August 2025, Makerere University, Kampala, East Africa.
Dr. Dorothy Nampanzira, Head, LIR Department gave opening remarks. Right is Prof. Anthony Mugisha, Left, Dr. Rose Azuba, the facilitator of the stakeholder meeting.

Dr. Dorothy Nampanzira Kalule, Head of the Department of Livestock and Industrial Resources, welcomed the participants and acknowledged the need for a collaborative effort that would help in the improvement of the proposed program. “This program is not just going to produce intellectually capable individuals, it will produce citizens equipped to solve the real-world challenges facing the livestock industry,” she emphasized.

Dr. Nampanzira paid special tribute to Professor Anthony Mugisha, whom she described as the “thought leader” behind the initiative. His visionary proposal for a taught PhD program ignited a college-wide collaboration, ultimately leading to the development of a curriculum tailored to the evolving needs of Uganda’s livestock sector, she said. She acknowledged the contribution by departmental staff for their unwavering commitment to the development of the program.  Quoting Nelson Mandela, she underscored the transformative power of education: “Education is the most powerful weapon which we can use to change the world.” She likened the new PhD program to a finely crafted weapon, calling on participants to help sharpen it through open dialogue and shared expertise. “We are here to sharpen this weapon,” she said. “The enemy is food insecurity and poverty. Let us be bold, open, and visionary in shaping this program.”

A section of the stakeholders that were at the meeting. College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) officially launches pioneering taught PhD program in Livestock Development and Planning, marking a significant leap forward in agricultural education and research in Uganda, 14th August 2025, Makerere University, Kampala, East Africa.
A section of the stakeholders that were at the meeting.
Dr. Henry Zakumumpa who represented the Ag. Director, DRGT at the stakeholder engagement. College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) officially launches pioneering taught PhD program in Livestock Development and Planning, marking a significant leap forward in agricultural education and research in Uganda, 14th August 2025, Makerere University, Kampala, East Africa.
Dr. Henry Zakumumpa who represented the Ag. Director, DRGT at the stakeholder engagement.

“We must strike the right balance,” said Dr. Henry Zakumumpa who represented the Ag. Director of the Directorate of Research and Graduate Training Professor Julius Kikooma. “Doctoral research requires depth, time, and intellectual maturity, he said while giving counsel on the program which he said should emphasize more on research output”. Zakumumpa said as part of the ongoing reforms, the university was reaffirming the importance of cross-cutting mandatory courses, including Philosophy of Methods, Research Methodology, Gender Research, and Research Writing. These core units are examinable and graded, forming a critical foundation for doctoral scholarship and ensuring that PhD candidates are equipped with essential research competencies and analytical skills.

While referring the college to existing guidelines  Zakumumpa advised the team to incorporate a benchmarking process that draws on successful external models, notably the taught PhD program at the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), which has been commended for its structured approach and academic rigor.

Staff of CoVAB that participated in the stakeholder engagement. College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) officially launches pioneering taught PhD program in Livestock Development and Planning, marking a significant leap forward in agricultural education and research in Uganda, 14th August 2025, Makerere University, Kampala, East Africa.
Staff of CoVAB that participated in the stakeholder engagement.

Prof. Robert Tweyongyere, Dean of the School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Resources (SVAR), who represented the Principal of the College, Prof. Frank Norbert Mwiine, expressed his delight at the milestone achieved. He described the engagement as a valuable opportunity to refine the program and urged the team to strictly adhere to the provided guidelines in order to successfully navigate the approval processes at both Makerere University and the National Council for Higher Education. He congratulated the Department of Livestock and Industrial Resources (LIR) on their progress and encouraged other departments to follow suit in designing academic programs that are responsive to societal needs.

Prof. Robert Tweyongyere, Dean SVAR congratulated the LIR Department for the milestone. College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) officially launches pioneering taught PhD program in Livestock Development and Planning, marking a significant leap forward in agricultural education and research in Uganda, 14th August 2025, Makerere University, Kampala, East Africa.
Prof. Robert Tweyongyere, Dean SVAR congratulated the LIR Department for the milestone.

Prof. Anthony Mugisha noted that the department initially conceptualized the program idea and, with support from agencies such as RUFORUM, received valuable guidance throughout the development process. He emphasized the importance of advancing beyond technical training to cultivate thought leaders and philosophers within the sector. “With the Master of Livestock Development program, we have begun building a critical mass,” he said, “but we now need to nurture philosophers—individuals who can think deeply and strategically for the future of the sector.”

This PhD focuses on advancing sustainable, ethical, and technologically driven livestock systems. It prepares experts in Livestock production and management, climate-resilient farming, Artificial Intelligence and Digital tools and big data in agriculture as well as Animal welfare and policy leadership.

The organizers of the Stakeholder engagement were recognized and commended for their relentless effort. College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) officially launches pioneering taught PhD program in Livestock Development and Planning, marking a significant leap forward in agricultural education and research in Uganda, 14th August 2025, Makerere University, Kampala, East Africa.
The organizers of the Stakeholder engagement were recognized and commended for their relentless effort.

Harriet Musinguzi

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