Natural Sciences
NutriFish Project Registers Significant Achievements
The project has made great strides in reducing malnutrition amongst vulnerable communities in Uganda by improving the acceptability and consumption of small pelagic fishes (SPFs). SPFs are rich in bioavailable micronutrients including iron, zinc, calcium, vitamin A and essential fatty acids (Omega 3, 6).
Overview
Malnutrition remains a serious challenge to human health and economic development in Uganda. Due to limited access to micronutrient-rich foods and animal protein, especially fish, 32% of women between 15-49 years are anemic whereas 30% are zinc deficient. 53% of children below five years of age are anemic and 70 % zinc deficient.
The nutritive value of the Small Pelagic Fishes (SPFs) cannot be underlooked in efforts to address the challenge. The SPFs are rich in bioavailable micronutrients including iron, zinc, calcium, vitamin A and essential fatty acids (Omega 3, 6). Besides, they are consumed whole, which enhances their nutritional benefits compared to the large fishes. Most consumers, including vulnerable groups in rural and peri-urban communities can purchase SPFs in small quantities at relatively affordable prices. The SPFs are therefore crucial in improving human nutrition, particularly during the first 1000 days of life (from conception to the second birth day) as they contribute to maternal health and better child development. SPFs are however not being consumed in sufficient quantities due to high levels of adulteration with grit, soil and sand; off-flavors (smelly fish); bitter taste and lack knowledge of the different methods of preparation. Traditionally, the SPFs are regarded as fish for the poor and livestock. Currently per capita fish consumption in Uganda is between 10-12 Kilograms per person per year which is below the internationally recommended amount of 26 kilograms per person per year according to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).
The NutriFish Project and achievements registered
Through a project titled NutriFish, researchers from Makerere University together with their partners from the National Fisheries Resources Research Institute (NaFIRRI) – National Agricultural Research Organization (NARO), NUTREAL Limited and McGill University, Canada in 2019 set out to increase the availability, accessibility and consumption of SPFs for sustainable food and nutrition security and better livelihoods of vulnerable groups in Uganda. Led by Dr Jackson Efitre from the Department of Zoology, Entomology and Fisheries Sciences, Makerere University, and supported by the International Research Development Centre (IDRC) and the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR) through their joint programme, Cultivate Africa’s Future Fund (CultiAF), the researchers developed five high-value nutritious products (baby food, sauce, maize meal, snacks, and seasoning) using Mukene. A 50g portion of the baby food flour provides more than one-third of a child’s daily protein, iron, zinc, and folic acid requirements. The researchers also developed a Mukene recipe book, containing 16 recipes rich in protein, calcium, zinc, and iron. The cookbook was endorsed by the Minister of State for Fisheries, Hon. Hellen Adoa. Through the NutriFish Project, fishers have been helped to access loans to purchase boats and fish containers which improve hygiene and quality by improving drainage and reducing compaction of fish. Two enterprise fishing groups with over 70 boats have been established and are working together – an approach which ensures more consistent supply and standards, and results in over 3.7 tons of fish caught each month. The research team also developed an application (eCAS system) for tracking fish catches. By September 2022, 8,960 records of catch data had been collected and transmitted through the eCAS system by trained local enumerators. Over 200 stakeholders are using the application, including the Directorate of Fisheries Resources and the Fisheries Protection Unit, which uses the data to help prevent overfishing.
Other achievements registered under the project include the development of solar tent driers – greenhouse-like structures that reduce the risk of contamination – provide clean and efficient storage and drying, especially during the wet season subsequently reducing post-harvest losses. The increased fish quality has doubled fishers’ incomes, from US$1 to US$2/kg, and tripled the shelf-life of dried small fish to almost five months. The driers have also attracted the attention of policymakers, with the Sectoral Committee of Parliament on Agriculture, Animal Industry, and Fisheries specifically recommending their use in April 2022 for improving fish processing. To encourage consumption of Mukene products, NutriFish developed a radio-based awareness campaign. More than 12 million listeners were reached by 29 different ‘spot’ messages in local languages and four 15-minute in-studio conversations – a significant step in tackling long-standing social beliefs that Mukene is food only eaten by poor families or animals. The project conducted awareness training with 326 people (200 women) to reduce gender inequalities. As a result, domestic violence dropped by 30%, the number of women in the fish value chain increased, more couples began to make joint household decisions, and more men carried out household tasks, increasing from 15% to 20%. The project also trained eight Graduate students, who have gained valuable skills and knowledge thus boosting critical human resource needs in the fisheries sector.
NutriFish Product Launch and Dissemination Event
On 27th February 2023, the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), Makerere University in collaboration with the National Fisheries Resources Research Institute (NaFIRRI) and partners – International Development Research Centre (IDRC) held the NutriFish project product launch and dissemination event. The event was presided over by the Minister of State for Fisheries, Hon. Hellen Adoa represented by the Ag. Director, Directorate of Fisheries Resources, Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF), Mr. Tom Mukasa Bukenya. It was graced by Ms. Mercy Rurii, Programme Officer at the IDRC of Canada and a number of dignitaries from the agricultural and fisheries sector including the Director General of NARO represented by Ms. Winnie Nkalubo from NaFIRRI.
Remarks by the PI
Presenting an overview of the project and achievements registered, the NutriFish Principal Investigator, Dr Jackson Efitre emphasized the importance of SPFs in addressing nutritional deficiencies and improving livelihoods of vulnerable communities.
He appealed for the inclusion of small fishes and fish products into the national nutrition/health interventions including school feeding programs and supplemental feeding in malnutrition units at health facilities. He expressed gratitude to the funders of the project noting that it had greatly transformed livelihoods of vulnerable communities in the country. “Sincere appreciation to our implementing partners NaFIRRI, McGill University and Nutreal Ltd., who worked closely with us to effectively implement the NutriFish project. We also thank the different Government Ministries, Departments, Agencies, the donors, the private sector, and community members – who supported us throughout the project implementation.”
Testimonies by the beneficiaries
Sharing experiences, the beneficiaries appreciated the project team and funders noting that the interventions had improved the quality of their operations subsequently increasing their profits and transforming their livelihoods. “I was born at the lake and I have grown up there but I had never eaten Mukene for several reasons, but mainly due to poor preservation methods. Following the interventions by the NutriFish Project, my attitude towards Mukene changed and I now own a Mukene business which has greatly transformed my life. With the skills acquired from the trainings conducted by NutriFish, we are now able to produce and sell quality Mukene and our profits have increased. Out of the 14 members in my group, 5 of us bought boats and this has increased our income from UGX500,000 to UGX3,000,000 per month per individual,” Mercy Betty, Mukene trader at Ntoroko Fish Landing Site. According to Patrick Chakcon, a fish trader from Dei Landing Site in Pakwach, the solar tent drier has helped improve the quality of their products. “Initially, we relied mainly on open drying which is time wasting and not secure. With the introduction of the solar tent drier, many fish dealers now have time for other activities. We thank the project team and the funders for this intervention. We however appeal for more units because what we have at the moment can only dry 500kgs out of the 5000kgs harvested per day.”
Before the project, Ms. Tereza from Kikondo in Buikwe district was experiencing a lot of challenges and at some point got thoughts of suicide. She is so grateful for the intervention because she now works and can support her family.
Remarks by the Minister of State for Fisheries
In her address presented by the Ag. Director, Directorate of Fisheries Resources, Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, Mr. Tom Mukasa Bukenya, the Minister of State for Fisheries, Hon. Hellen Adoa commended the project team for the initiative. She also appreciated the funders for supporting the project. Highlighting the value of fish in terms of exports which now stands at approximately USD177 million, the Minister said Government had prioritized fish in the agricultural sector strategic plan as a flagship commodity for investment and development in line with National Development Plan (NDPIII). “Through the Agricultural Sector Strategic Plan, promoting Small Pelagic Fishes is one of the priorities of the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries to address issues of hunger, malnutrition and food security and improve livelihoods of the fishing communities. I’m happy that the project has come up with tangible solutions to deal with some of these challenges including unsustainable harvest and post-harvest losses.” The Ministry implored the project team share the findings widely through various regional bodies.
Remarks by the Vice Chancellor
In his speech delivered by the Deputy Principal of CoNAS, Prof. Juma Kasozi, the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe congratulated the NutriFish Project team upon achieving the set objectives. “On the 27th June 2019, I had the honour of officiating at the launch of the innovative Harnessing dietary nutrients of under-utilized fish and fish processing by-products to reduce micronutrient deficiencies among vulnerable groups in Uganda – NutriFish Project. Today, I am happy to witness the launch of the project innovations and products. NutriFish brought together pillars of knowledge (research and academia) and the Private sector and addressed issues of maternal and child health, nutrition, and poverty reduction through a Public-Private-Partnership approach.” The Vice Chancellor noted that the project activities were in line with Makerere’s current Strategic Plan (2020 -2030) which aims at transforming the University into a research-led institution with a multi-faceted research agenda; and enhanced engagement with industry and the business sector. “As University management, we are happy that we provided conducive working conditions and facilities that enabled NutriFish and her partners to successfully implement project activities. On behalf of Makerere University Management, I extend our appreciation to the funders of the project and the implementing partners.”
Remarks by the IDRC representative
In her remarks, Ms. Mercy Rurii, Programme Officer at the International Development Research Centre of Canada commended NutriFish project as timely intervention that would largely address the challenge of malnutrition in the region. “Malnutrition has negative impact on the cognitive development of children and poses unnecessary burden on the healthcare system. Money that would be spent on other productive sectors goes into healthcare as a result of the many diseases arising from malnutrition, and this becomes a very crippling development challenge. The project team has come up with practical solutions to address this challenge. On behalf of IDRC, we commend the project team for these interventions.”
On behalf of the Principal, CoNAS, Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, the Deputy Principal, Prof. Juma Kasozi expressed gratitude to the funders and project partners. He appreciated the project team for the timely initiative that emphasized community engagement in line with Makerere University Strategic Goal 4.
The event featured a panel discussion on National and regional initiatives for addressing fisheries management challenges, moderated by renowned TV talk-show host, Mr. Patrick Kamara. Panelists included Mr. Tom Bukenya, Ag. Director, Directorate of Fisheries Resources, MAAIF; Ms. Joyce Ikwaput Nyeko, Deputy Executive Secretary, Lake Edward and Albert Fisheries and Aquaculture Organization Entebbe; Ms. Nelly Badaru, Gender Expert and Independent Consultant; and Mr. Boaz Musementa from the Office of the Prime Minister. They called for development of quality assurance standards for Mukene products to penetrate the international market. They also called for inclusion of women in decision making processes, strengthening of regional cooperation to minimize trans-boundary conflicts and harmonization of the legal and policy frameworks.
The event also featured an exhibition of several products developed under the NutriFish project.
View proceedings of the event here:
Natural Sciences
Makerere Researchers Call for Urgent Conservation of Medicinal Plants in Eastern Uganda
Researchers from the Department of Plant Sciences, Microbiology, and Biotechnology at the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), Makerere University have highlighted the urgent need to conserve medicinal plants in the face of increasing threats from climate change, over-harvesting, and habitat destruction.
Despite Namutumba District’s rich diversity of medicinal plants, conservation efforts are limited, and several species are already classified as globally and nationally threatened. This highlights the urgent need for focused conservation strategies to safeguard these vulnerable medicinal plants.
Under a project titled “Knowledge, Attitudes, and Conservation of Commonly Traded Medicinal Plants in a Climate-Changing Environment in Eastern Uganda,” a team of researchers led by Dr Patience Tugume documented 174 medicinal plant species. The goal was to assess the existential threats facing these plants due to unsustainable harvesting practices and the lack of effective conservation measures. These species are widely used to treat various health conditions, including malaria, syphilis, diabetes, hypertension, and certain cancers. The findings of the study are intended to guide the development of species-specific, evidence-based interventions to curb possible extinction and loss of medicinal plant resources. The research revealed troubling trends in the availability of key medicinal plants, including:
- The herbalists mostly collected their medicinal plants from bushlands (92.0%), markets (82.3%) and wetlands (74.7%) and were rarely cultivated. This is of great concern regarding the conservation and future availability of these resources.
- It was noted that 36% of the herbal products were made from roots, which presents a conservation threat since the heavy utilization of roots affects the regeneration of the medicinal plants.
- Common plants used were: Kigelia africana (Naibere), Erythrina abyssinica (Ekiyirikiti) and Geranium sauveolens (Lokowe). Kigelia africana was the most cited species by the herbalists, indicating heavy utilization and a high conservation threat if deliberate measures are not taken to ensure its future availability.
- Almost all respondents (289, 96.3%) acknowledged a considerable decline in the availability of 13 medicinal plants species including Aloe wollastonii (Ekigagi), Commiphora africana (Nkulidho), Myrica kandtiana (Mukikimbo) and Acacia sieberiana (Mufundawuzi).
- Four plant species i.e. Tamarindus indica (Enkoge), Warburgia ugandensis (Balwegira), Mitragyna rubrastipulata (Mutamatama) and Mondia whitei (Mulondo) appear on the Red List of Globally and Nationally Threatened Species and were mentioned among the plants whose population has greatly declined.
- The causes of decline in availability of medicinal plants included climate change, overharvesting, agricultural expansion, habitat destruction, land use change and inadequate regulations.
- There were no medicinal plant conservation efforts by herbalists.
The study recommended the following practices to ensure conservation of the medicinal plants:
- Promote the use of sustainable harvesting techniques to ensure conservation of medicinal plants.
- Conduct capacity building for stakeholders in the medicinal plants sector on conservation, value addition and standardization.
- Establish community botanical gardens raw plant collection and sensitization programmes.
- Advocate for agroforestry among herbalists to reduce the dependence on natural habitats.
- Develop and enforce regulations on accessing natural areas for medicinal plants.
- Promote conservation awareness campaigns.
Research Dissemination in Namutumba District
At the research dissemination workshop held in Namutumba District on 23rd July 2025, and attended by district leaders, researchers, and local herbalists, the project team led by Dr Patience Tugume expressed hope that the insights gained from the project, particularly in medicinal plants conservation approaches, will be invaluable for minimising the decline in medicinal plants.
In her remarks, Dr Tugume, thanked the Government of Uganda through the Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund (MakRIF) for funding the project. She expressed gratitude to the research team composed of Dr Abubakar Sadik Mustafa, Dr Jamilu E. Ssenku, Dr Savina Asiimwe, and Dr Abdul Walusansa who have worked with her closely from project inception in February 2024. She further thanked the research assistants and all respondents, mainly the herbalists that participated in the study.
In a special way, she appreciated Mr. Fred Aggrey Bangu (Resident District Commissioner), Mr. Ofwono Emmanuel (Chief Administrative Officer), Mr. Kiire Noah (Communication Officer), Mr. Mugunywa Enock (District Community Development Officer), Mr. Kirya Moses (District Environmental Officer), Mr. Bamusubire William (District Forest Officer) and the leaders of herbalist associations for providing support throughout the study and sparing time to attend the dissemination workshop.
Addressing the participants, the Resident District Commissioner, Mr. Fred Aggrey Bangu urged all stakeholders to engage in a collaborative discussion on how the study findings can be translated into practical solutions to promote sustainable use and conservation of commonly used medicinal plants in Namutumba District amidst adverse effects of climate change.
Mr. Ofwono Emmanuel, the Chief Administrative Officer, praised the Makerere research team for selecting Namutumba as the study area. He said the research served as an eye-opener to the district officials and community, especially regarding the pressure exerted on natural medicinal resources.
Report compiled by Dr Patience Tugume and Dr Abubakar Sadik Mustafa – Department of Plant Sciences, Microbiology and Biotechnology, CoNAS, Makerere University
Natural Sciences
Beyond Being a Dean of Science & Vice Chancellor Emeritus, Prof. Luboobi was a Friend. Just That!
Prof. Livingstone Sserwadda Luboobi, Africa’s Icon of Mathematics is gone. The continent has lost a true giant in the field of mathematics, specifically biomathematics. This dynamic and evolving discipline, which applies mathematical principles to the study of biological systems and phenomena, has been deeply shaped by Prof. Luboobi’s legacy. At Makerere University and across Africa, his influence is etched into the fabric of research, mentorship, and innovation. Prof. Luboobi’s contributions have left lasting marks, on the hundreds, perhaps thousands, of lives he touched directly and indirectly. Each of us carries a unique memory, a lesson, or an inspiration drawn from his life and work. We will dearly miss Prof. Luboobi, a brilliant mind, a generous mentor, and a true icon of African science.
To me and my peers, he was our Dean, Faculty of Science in 1995, and he read-out our names at our graduation in January 1999. Later in 2004 as Vice Chancellor, he signed off my official 4-year PhD study leave in Scandinavia. When the 4 years elapsed before I could complete, we returned to the table and successfully negotiated for extra 2 years of grace which enabled me to complete in excellence in January 2010.
Lately, after his retirement, we found ourselves closely intimate, sharing deeper thoughts on a number of social, development, strategic leadership and governance, and academic matters. As a plant biologist, spending time with a retired Professor of Mathematics, one could wonder what we would possibly have to talk about. And yet, our discussions were rich and thought-provoking. One moment that left a lasting impression on me was his quiet humility. Despite the respect and priority I extended to him, he never assumed entitlement. If he sensed I was busy, he would simply wait outside my office, whether at the Botany Building or my current Dean’s office at CONAS, without interrupting. That gesture spoke volumes.
We often talked about science, and I had much to learn from him. I asked how he had managed to start and sustain the Uganda Mathematical Society (UMS), since we were in the process of setting up the Biology Society of Uganda (BioSU) at the time. I also wanted to hear about his journey – from his undergraduate days to becoming a retired professor. As he shared his story, pausing to catch his breath after long sentences, I sensed he was deeply concerned about something. His concern was that, as of 2017, nearly all senior academics at Makerere University had begun their careers humbly as teaching assistants and risen through the ranks in various disciplines, but that opportunity had since been lost.
He believed that trying to establish a sustainable staffing system without a pool of junior staff, selected directly from the best-performing undergraduate students, was a risky path for the university’s future. With a troubled tone, he said: “I wonder how you people will manage university staffing in the long term when you have removed the foundation…” There were many lessons in that conversation for me.
In October 2023, I started assembling a grant application together with my European and American colleagues (5 Universities) for submission to National Science Foundation (NSF, USA), addressing a certain plant disease conundrum in East Africa. I realized Prof. Luboobi’s expertise in Biomathematics could be relevant. I co-opted him along with another colleague from the Department of Mathematics. I was fascinated at the express knowledge he displayed in modelling biological systems, and in our case, plant disease modelling. Much as his physical strength was less, the intellect was razor-sharp. Even though we didn’t succeed on that attempt, I had numerous other lessons to learn from his seniority.
We shared personal stories. I re-learnt that living simple as much as possible helps a lot. Although this was not new, hearing it from one you respect takes on a whole new meaning. If I died today, I wonder what my peers or junior colleagues would say about me? I would not hear it, though. I am happy I had chance to tell Prof. Luboobi what he meant to me when he was still alive.
I regret his death. We usually say it is untimely, but will death of a loved one ever be timely? Holy Scripture says, “Seeing his days are determined, the number of his months is with You; You have appointed his bounds that he cannot pass.” – Job 14:5. This is an emphasis of God’s sovereignty over life and death, highlighting that He determines the length of a person’s life and sets unchangeable limits, just as He does in setting boundaries and limits for all His creation. Prof. Luboobi could not cross the boundary set by the creator.
I am grateful that the Principal, College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), Makerere University and his team did their best to mobilize support at the most critical moment of need. I am grateful to God for gifting Makerere University with Prof. Luboobi, and for allowing me in particular a chance to walk a little close with him in his evening days of his life between 2023-2025.
Good bye Prof. Livingstone S. Luboobi! Go and serve God with the angels. We will also join you, in the course of time! See you later when that time comes!
*****15 students from different departments at CoNAS are showcasing their projects.
Over 300 Ugandan innovators, among them students from the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS) and other science-based colleges at Makerere University are participating in the 2025 National Science Week exhibition, currently underway at the Kololo Independence Grounds.
Launched in 2021, the National Science Week is an annual event organized by the Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) Secretariat under the Office of the President. The exhibition serves as a strategic platform for showcasing Uganda’s advancements in science, technology, and innovation, both at the national level and on the global stage.
Held under the theme “Made in Uganda: Innovation to Market”, the 2025 edition (running from 15th-20th June) aims to highlight the country’s growing capacity to transform home-grown scientific ideas and research into viable, market-ready products and technologies.
Key highlights from the official launch of the National Science Week
During the official launch held on 13th May 2025, the Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation, Hon. Dr. Monica Musenero Masanza, outlined several milestones Uganda has achieved over the past year, including:
- The commencement of clinical trials for locally developed therapeutics, marking a significant step in Uganda’s biopharmaceutical sector.
- Notable growth in the electric vehicle (EV) industry, including the deployment of over 5,000 electric motorcycles and 27 electric buses across the country.
- Establishment of critical green infrastructure, including 140 battery swapping stations and more than 30 direct current (DC) fast chargers nationwide.
According to the Minister, these developments demonstrate Uganda’s advancing capabilities in green technology and sustainable mobility solutions.
The Minister also highlighted additional achievements by the STI Secretariat, including the revitalization of Sukulu Phosphates, the launch of both the Deep Tech and Climate Tech summits, and the operationalization of vaccine production lines for both human and animal health. Dr. Musenero expressed gratitude to the Government of Uganda for its continued support, emphasizing its strategic vision of leveraging science, technology, and innovation as a transformative vehicle to position Uganda as a continental leader in deep tech innovation.
The 2025 National Science Week Activities
The National Science Week is designed to be an interactive experience for all attendees. According to Ms. Cathy Muhumuza from the STI, the exhibition will feature various activities including the official opening by the President of the Republic of Uganda, H.E. Yoweri Kaguta Tibuhaburwa Museveni, expected to take place on Thursday, 19th June 2025. Other activities will include policy dialogues, the Academia Day dedicated to young innovators, and the Investor Day providing a platform for innovators to connect with potential investors.
Additionally, the event will host a “Made in Uganda Supermarket,” allowing visitors to purchase products directly from exhibitors.
CoNAS Students’ projects
Among the many innovators featured at the exhibition are several talented student teams from CoNAS, presenting a diverse array of projects across scientific disciplines, including biotechnology and green energy. Guided by their lecturers and coordinated by Prof. Juma Kasozi, Deputy Principal of CoNAS, the students are showcasing the following projects:
- Anti-fungal and Anti-bacterial Gel Research Project
Team Leader: Mwebaze Bruce
Team Members: Atim Martha, Sebastian Jordan
This project explores the development of a topical gel with both anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties, aimed at improving public health outcomes in communities with limited access to conventional treatments. - Minoxidil Production for Hair Regrowth
Team Leader: Keinembabazi Melissa
Team Members: Hashima Nanyiri, Nkamusiima Andrew
Focused on producing affordable, locally made Minoxidil, this project aims to provide a cost-effective solution for treating hair loss. - Infrared Biosensor for Aflatoxin Detection
Team Leader: Rubeihayo Randolp
Team Members: Namuleme Martha, Wabitereza Teddy
This innovation utilizes spectrophotometry to develop an infrared biosensor capable of detecting harmful aflatoxins in food, contributing to food safety and public health. - Biofuel Production from Water Hyacinth
Team Leader: Bill Garvin
Team Members: Kalanguka Patience Pearl, Nuwagaba Victor
The project converts invasive water hyacinth into sustainable biofuels using hydrothermal liquefaction, offering an environmentally friendly alternative energy source. - Automobile Fuel Gauge Detector
Team Leader: Ayebare Sam
Team Members: Achieng Rosemary, Nakirinda Winnie
This project involves the development of a reliable fuel gauge detector to improve vehicle fuel management and efficiency.
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