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The Third NARO-Mak Joint Scientific Conference: Participants Call for More Investment in Scientific Research

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The Minister of State for Animal Industry, Hon. Bright Rwamirama (C-back row); the Vice Chancellor, Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (3rd R - back row); the Director DRGT, Prof. Edward Bbaale (2nd R back row); the Principal of CAES, Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga (2nd L back row); the Chair NARO Council, Dr William Olaho Mukani (3rd L back row); and the Chair of the Conference Organizing Committee, Dr Imelda N. Kashaija (4th L back row) with some of the presenters at the closing ceremony of the conference held at Speke Resort Munyonyo on 16th March 2023.
The Minister of State for Animal Industry, Hon. Bright Rwamirama (C-back row); the Vice Chancellor, Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (3rd R - back row); the Director DRGT, Prof. Edward Bbaale (2nd R back row); the Principal of CAES, Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga (2nd L back row); the Chair NARO Council, Dr William Olaho Mukani (3rd L back row); and the Chair of the Conference Organizing Committee, Dr Imelda N. Kashaija (4th L back row) with some of the presenters at the closing ceremony of the conference held at Speke Resort Munyonyo on 16th March 2023.

Conference theme: Innovations for enhancing productivity and agro-industrialization

Overview

Uganda’s Vision 2040, the National Agricultural Extension Policy (NAEP), the National Agricultural Policy (NAP) and the National Agricultural Extension Strategy (NAES) strategically place agriculture as a key driver to achieve socio-economic transformation in the country. The third National Development Plan (NDPIII, 2020/21-2024/25) prioritizes Agro-industrialization as a great opportunity for Uganda to embark on its long-term aspiration of increasing household incomes and improving the quality of life.  Despite the fact that the economies of many African countries are still driven by agriculture, the sector remains crippled due to several challenges including climate change; inappropriate seed systems, production practices, and post-harvest management; as well as pests and diseases. The need to feed the world’s increasing population with minimal pressure on the ecosystem brings to the forefront the critical role of innovation across the entire value chain. Increased productivity is insufficient without an efficient value chain to move produce from the farm to the fork. Efficient value chains need to be supported by innovations along the pipeline.

The Chair of the Organizing Committee, Dr. Imelda N. Kashaija welcomes participants to the conference.
The Chair of the Organizing Committee, Dr. Imelda N. Kashaija welcomes participants to the conference.

The NARO-Mak Joint Scientific Conference

As key players in the agricultural sector, the National Agricultural Research Organization (NARO) in collaboration with Makerere University in 2018 introduced the NARO-Makerere Joint Scientific Conference to serve as a platform for evidence-based dialogue on measures to transform the sector, with special focus on innovations for agro-industrialization. The conference therefore seeks to engage stakeholders including government, research and innovation systems as well as development partners to find options for accelerated agro-industrialization on the African continent. The Conference also provides opportunity for stakeholders to show-case advances in research and innovation that can contribute to the development and transformation of the agricultural sector. According to Dr Imelda N. Kashaija, Chair of the Organizing Committee of the Third NARO-Mak Joint Scientific Conference, a key gap in the development of the agricultural sector is the aspect of incomplete value chains. “Africa needs to embrace and nurture agricultural value chains that are competitive locally and at the global level. At the same time, the value chains should support the budding agro-industry. The agricultural sector must continuously innovate to compete in the changing ecosystem. Appropriate and evolving seed systems, production practices, post-harvest management and value addition to improve marketability are necessary for continuous innovation.”

The Prime Minister of the Republic of Uganda, the Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja officially opened the conference. She pledged more government support towards scientific research.
The Prime Minister of the Republic of Uganda, the Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja officially opened the conference. She pledged more government support towards scientific research.

The Third Joint Scientific Conference held at Speke Resort Munyonyo

The NARO-Makerere Third Joint Scientific Conference held on 14th-16th March 2023 at Speke Resort Munyonyo sought to establish appropriate and viable strategies towards accelerated agro-industrialization, with focus on the African continent. It was officially opened by the Prime Minister of the Republic of Uganda, the Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja and graced by the Minister of State for Animal Industry, Hon. Bright Rwamirama; the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe; the Chair NARO Council, Dr William Olaho Mukani; the Director General NARO, Dr Ambrose Agona; the Chief of Party, USAID Feed the Future, Mr. Anthony Nyungu; the Principal, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga; and the Director, Directorate of Research and Graduate Training, Makerere University, Prof. Edward Bbaale.

Prof. Edward Bbaale, Director DRGT, Makerere University moderated the closing ceremony.
Prof. Edward Bbaale, Director DRGT, Makerere University moderated the closing ceremony.

Organized under the theme; Innovations for enhancing productivity and agro-industrialization, the conference aimed to bring to the forefront, cutting edge innovations and opportunities supportive to Africa’s agro-industrialization drive, provide a platform for the establishment of viable networks and collaborations that will catalyze agro-industrialization, and to stimulate generation of new knowledge to address emerging challenges. During the three-day conference, participants including researchers from Makerere University and NARO as well as representatives from the public and private sector deliberated on a number of issues in line with  challenges and opportunities in Mechanization and Agro-Industrialization; modernization of post-harvest management and food safety systems; intensification of crop productivity and seed systems; acceleration of the development of the Animal Resources-based Industry; management of interactions amongst agriculture, fragile ecosystems and the changing environment; and embracing ICT-based innovations for agricultural transformation. The conference featured keynote presentations by eminent researchers and policymakers. Mr. Ollen Wanda from Uganda Development Cooperation addressed participants on the challenges and opportunities in mechanization and agro-industrialization, whereas Prof. Robinson Mdegela from Sokoine University in Tanzania discussed the impact of COVID-19 on food systems.

Participants follow the proceedings of the conference.
Participants follow the proceedings of the conference.

Other keynote presentations included, the implications of the Russia-Ukraine War on Uganda’s Agriculture by Ms. Florence Nakazzi from the Economic Policy Research Centre; opportunities for modernizing post-harvest management for food and nutritional security by Prof. Archileo N. Kaaya from CAES, Makerere University; accelerating the development of the Livestock-based industry by Dr Sylvia B. Angubua; enhancing ICT-based innovations for agricultural transformation by Mr. Collin Babirukamu, Director E-government Services, NITA-U; intensification of crop productivity in the context of changing food systems by Prof. Patrick Okori from RUFORUM; sustainable management of agricultural production systems in a changing climate by Dr John Wasige from Busitema University; and the progress made in soybean research in Uganda by Prof. Phinehas Tukamuhabwa from CAES.

The Minister of State for Animal Industry, Hon. Bright Rwamirama addressing participants.
The Minister of State for Animal Industry, Hon. Bright Rwamirama addressing participants.

The conference also featured a panel discussion on the oil palm industry in Uganda. Panelists included Dr Gaberial Damulira, Principal Research Officer and Programme Leader, Horticulture and Oil Palm Programme at NARO; Dr Abubaker Muhammad Moki, Commissioner Policy Development and Capacity Building at Cabinet Secretariat, Office of the President, Government of Uganda; Mr. David Balironda, General Manager, KOPGT; and Mr. Chin Pit Te from AGM Oil Palm Bavuma Ltd.

The Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe called for more funding towards research.
The Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe called for more funding towards research.

Issues arising from the conference and recommendations

  • The country invests only 0.3% of its GDP in research contrary to 1% recommended by the African Union. Many good ideas cannot be implemented due to lack of funding. Governments urged to invest more in research.
  • Shifts in policy focus across political periods hindered agro-industrialization. To unlock the vast opportunities in agro-industry, Mr. Ollen Wanda from Uganda Development Cooperation advised that the functional/institutional based planning and budgeting approach where limited resources are allocated to broad functional areas such as extension, mechanization, irrigation, marketing without specifically targeting a particular commodity must be changed.
  • Agricultural research must be broadened beyond focus on staple food commodities to other commodities of great commercial and export potential.
  • Agricultural research must also be re-aligned to meet the needs of agro-industrialization.
  • There is need to develop agro-industry specific integrated infrastructure and facilities such as agro-industrial parks to facilitate tertiary processing.
  • Promote affordable and competitive financial products for mechanization and agro-industry for example agro-industry infrastructure and investment contingency fund.
  • There is need to scale up investments in high potential commodity value chains such as cotton that have big domestic and global market value.
  • In its pursuit to move the country towards middle income status, government should consider up-scaling agriculture. According to Dr John Wasige from Busitema University, subsistence farming does not create wealth. Government should therefore support farmers to engage in commercial agriculture. In his presentation on sustainable management of agricultural production systems in a changing climate, Dr Wasige noted that 90% of soil in Africa is depleted and cannot support quality agricultural production calling for interventions to improve the quality of soil. “There is need to invest in soil fertility management and irrigation. Rain-fed agriculture is not sustainable”.
  • The National Fertilizer Policy (2016) should be implemented as a measure to improve the quality of soil.
  • In a bid to embrace ICT-based innovations for agricultural transformation, government should consider lowering the cost of smart phones and expanding access to internet.
  • Researchers called for the establishment of an E-Agriculture working group that includes Agricultural Policy and technical resources, Academia, NITA/MoICT, and development partners. They also called for the creation of a cloud-based system for Agriculture.
  • There is need for vibrant seed systems focusing on crops, livestock, fisheries and forestry.
  • Strengthen regional integration with a focus on context specific solutions to minimize the impact of pandemics
  • Build a resilient system to serve during and after emergence of pandemic such as COVID-19.
  • Put in place appropriate financing products and services.
  • In a bid to modernize post-harvest management for food and nutrition security, strengthen cooperatives and credit systems for producers. It is also important to construct regional modern storage structures for grains and perishable commodities.
  • Development of the Oil Palm Industry – Uganda only produces 80,000 metric tonnes of oil palm, way below the required 410,000 tonnes. There is need for research to generate appropriate technologies to support the sector.
  • Government should empower young people to embrace agriculture as a viable means of employment.
  • Researchers called for the elimination of fake agro-chemicals on the market
  • Discussing the implications of the Russia-Ukraine war on Uganda’s Agriculture, Ms. Florence Nakazi from EPRC said Uganda should strive to have self-sufficiency to reduce its import dependency, and leverage on NDP III’s agro-industrialization strategies to develop wheat substitutes.

The Principal of CAES, Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga at the conference.
The Principal of CAES, Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga at the conference.

Remarks by the Prime Minister

In her remarks, the Prime Miniter of the Republic of Uganda, the Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja appreciated NARO and Makerere University for the joint research efforts that have significantly contributed to the development of the agricultural sector, and supported government efforts aimed at moving the country to middle income status. “This conference comes slightly over one year since the President of the Republic of Uganda, H.E. Gen. Yoweri Kaguta Tibuhaburwa Museveni launched the Parish Development Model in Kibuku District. The Parish Development Model is our blueprint for organizing and delivering public and private sector interventions for wealth creation and employment generation at the parish level as the lowest economic planning unit. It therefore gives me great joy to see that the Conference theme speaks directly to some of the current efforts by Government to transition our farmers from subsistence to commercial agriculture.” Commenting on the poor state of soils, a factor greatly undermining production, the Prime Minister pledged to push for the review and implementation of the National Fertilizer Policy (2016). The Prime Minister pledged more government funding towards research and innovation. “The Government is committed to funding research aligned to the national development priorities.”  

Participants follow the proceedings of the conference.
Participants follow the proceedings of the conference.

Remarks from MAAIF

On behalf of the Minister of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF), Hon. Bright Rwamirama, Minister of State for Animal Industry commended Makerere University and NARO for the significant research output. “Government appreciates the role of science in transforming economies and is committed to supporting scientific research and innovations,” he noted. Commenting on the poor state of soils, as one of the challenges undermining agricultural production, Hon. Rwamirama said the use of fertilizers and irrigation was no longer an option and that government was scaling up interventions towards modernization of agriculture. The Minister reiterated the need for homegrown solutions for challenges affecting the sector.

The Director General, NARO Dr. Ambrose Agona addressing participants.
The Director General, NARO Dr. Ambrose Agona addressing participants.

Remarks by the Vice Chancellor

The Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe acknowledged the research efforts by CAES and NARO, noting that CAES contributes 30% of research and publications at Makerere. He called for more funding towards research noting that the country spends only 0.3% of its GDP on agricultural production contrary to 1% recommended by the AU. The Vice Chancellor emphasized the importance of collaboration in research. “In modern times, research is about collaboration, the more you collaborate, the better the quality of research and output.” Highlighting the challenges crippling the agricultural sector, the Vice Chancellor explained that achieving the desired transformation calls for innovativeness. “I am happy to note that as Makerere aspires to become a research-led university as per the 2020/2030 Strategic Plan, innovativeness is one of our strategic areas of focus. It is gratifying to note that our agricultural College – CAES has adopted an ‘Innovation Intentional’ agenda enshrined in the College Transformational Pact with the aim of increasing innovativeness amongst staff and students. With this, we expect to see more innovations at the College that will greatly boost Agricultural production and agro-industrialization.” The Vice Chancellor appreciated the Government of Uganda and development partners for the support extended towards research and innovation at Makerere University.

Prof. Bernard Bashaasha chairing one of the sessions at the conference.
Prof. Bernard Bashaasha chairing one of the sessions at the conference.

Chair NARO Council

The Chairperson, NARO Council, Dr William Olaho Mukani reiterated the importance of innovation in the development of sustainable agriculture. “Our products do not meet international standards because of aflatoxins. “There is need for interventions to enhance the quality of our products. We appeal to the Government to set up an Agricultural Research and Innovations Fund.” Similarly, the Director General of NARO, Dr Ambrose Agona emphasized the importance of science and innovation in transforming the sector calling for more funding towards scientific research.

The Minister of State for Animal Industry, Hon. Bright Rwamirama (Front Row 5th R) with some of the keynote speakers on Day One of the conference.
The Minister of State for Animal Industry, Hon. Bright Rwamirama (Front Row 5th R) with some of the keynote speakers on Day One of the conference.

Remarks by the Principal CAES

The Principal of CAES, Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga briefed participants of the College’s Innovation Intentional Agenda aimed at transforming the mode of operations to increase innovations. “In line with Strategic Goal 1 that seeks to transform Makerere into research-led institution, the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) is transforming its mode of operation in order to stimulate innovativeness and entrepreneurship within learners and faculty. In 2022, a “Pact” for Transformation Change at CAES was developed through which we shall be innovative and intentional on transforming into a College, with effective and efficient management systems, adequate supportive infrastructure and highly motivated staff to drive our Innovation Intentional agenda. Through our three schools namely; the School of Agricultural Sciences, School of Food Technology Nutrition and Bio-engineering and the School of Forestry, Environmental and Geographical Sciences and 14 research institutes, our staff shall productively engage with stakeholders and produce skilled, entrepreneurial, innovative and work-oriented graduates, able to innovatively respond to challenges, needs and aspirations in the Agricultural and Environmental sectors.”

Prof. Arthur Tugume (C), Dean School of Biosciences at the College of Natural Sciences with Prof. Bernard Bashaasha (R), and Mr. Collin Babirukamu, Director E-government Services, NITA-U (L) at the conference.

She expressed gratitude to the Government of Uganda and all development partners for supporting research at CAES and the University in general. She acknowledged the long-time partnership between CAES and NARO that has yielded several results hence transforming the agricultural sector. She appreciated the University Council and Management for supporting CAES initiatives. She also appreciated the Conference organizing committee led by Dr Imelda N. Kashaija.

Soybean varieties developed by staff at CAES were some of the products showcased at the Conference.
Soybean varieties developed by staff at CAES were some of the products showcased at the Conference.

The conference was supported by FAO Uganda, the World Bank, aBi Development Ltd, USAID Feed the Future, CABI-Africa, Agriculture Search Activity, Nile Breweries Ltd, and Dr Nicholas Kiggundu from CAES.

Some of the exhibitors at the conference.
Some of the exhibitors at the conference.

View on CAES

Keynote Presentations:

Additional Resources:

Book of abstracts: https://naromakconference.org/schedule/

Conference pictorial: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1ZM3HMlS_sPBZPepZrt_jbT5zV6WYtQGC?usp=share_link

Conference pictorial: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1-_sp5Tki2xtSDBG0Pluia5gzUde5QJdB?usp=share_link

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Agriculture & Environment

Re-Advertised Call for Applications: QCF Postdoctoral Research Fellowships

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1 day ago

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April 27, 2026

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Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga, Principal of CAES plants a tree to signify the launch of the 30-acre Botanical Gardens at the Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK). Makerere University College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) Wakiso Uganda, East Africa.

Makerere University’s Department of Geography, Geo-informatics and Climatic Sciences in partnership with Quadrature Climate Foundation and Red Cross Red Crescent Climate Centre are seeking two fellows for Quadrature Climate Foundation (QCF) Fellowship Programme. This is a two-year post-doctoral programme fully funded by QCF, which is an independent charitable foundation working for a greener and fairer future. Applications for the two-year post-doctoral fellowship are invited from individuals with demonstrated interest and expertise in locally led adaptation to climate change research. This initiative is a unique and excellent opportunity to expand the network of interested individuals with researchers and decision-makers, as well as deliver action-oriented research to inform policy and practice. Depending on their interest, each applicant should choose one of the two thematic areas offered under the fellowship program:

  1. Knowledge co-creation for locally led adaptation to climate change
  2. Decentralised decision making for effective climate change adaptation and resilience

The Fellow working on the Thematic Area 1: knowledge co-creation for locally adaptation will explore collaborative learning processes (including informal learning) for climate change adaptation among smallholder farmers with focus on Uganda, with linkages to related work in Bangladesh, Mozambique and Napal. The overall intention is to generate understanding of how decision making processes, across scales, can be linked to local and context specific knowledge systems and process for epistemic just adaptation. The key research questions are:

  • What does the process of co-creating knowledge for locally led climate change adaptation look like in a rural smallholder farming setting of a Least Developed Country (LDC)?
  • What are the possibilities, promises and pitfalls of knowledge co-creation for locally led adaptation planning?

The research will intentionally contribute to methodological and practice advances in co-creation of knowledge for locally led climate change adaptation.

The research on Thematic Area 2: decentralized decision making for effective adaptation and resilience will undertake scientific interrogation of a climate finance mechanism that has been designed for locally led adaptation and resilience in Uganda. The Fellow will largely focus on testing selected assumptions behind the design of the mechanism. The key questions are:

  • How does effective locally led climate change adaptation and resilience building investment decision making look like in practice?
  • What works and how does it work? What does not work and why?

Key considerations in the research will include local leadership, inclusion, context specificity, cross-scale, and capability strengthening. The targeted contributions of the fellowship include improved knowledge management for climate resilience planning and decision-making, strengthened evidence-based research-policy-practice dialogues, framework(s) for integrating local and experiential knowledges in resilience building investment decision making processes, among others.

The Fellows will be based, full-time, at Makerere University, Kampala as a core member of the team working on locally led adaptation and resilience. Their work will be conducted under the auspices of the Least Developed Countries Universities Consortium on Climate Change (LUCCC) through which Makerere University is engaged in research and knowledge management collaborations. The Fellowships will focus on Uganda, but with deliberate linkages across LDCs, which might necessitate travels for in-person working meetings.

Roles and responsibilities of the Postdoctoral Research Fellow

The Fellow will be highly motivated to work with a transdisciplinary research team, grow their research expertise, engage with climate change researchers, decision-makers, practitioners and generate different categories of publications. Makerere University will mentor to the Fellow to provide professional development support. Where needed, the Fellow will participate in teaching and community outreach activities including knowledge sharing in ways that foster collaborative research for adaptation policy and practice.

Requirements:

  • A PhD, awarded within the previous five years, in a related discipline (e.g., geography, climate and society, sustainability, adaptation governance, epistemic justice, climate finance).
  • Knowledge and experience of locally led adaptation
  • Experience in synthesizing and managing datasets and literature.
  • Experience in, and knowledgeable of, participatory and collaborative action-oriented research methodologies and tools.
  • Demonstrated ability to produce research information products for different audiences.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English
  • Demonstrated interest and experience in transdisciplinary collaborations across-scales including with local communities, decision-makers and practitioners
  • Experience in giving international oral presentations and interest in public communication for wide-ranging categories of audiences
  • Data and information visualisation skills will be an added advantage

Application requirements:

Applicants should submit a single PDF with: (i) an application letter not longer than 2 pages that includes indication of theme of interest, a description of demonstrated research interests, research expertise, and an explanation of how they can work as part of the transdisciplinary research team in line with the fellowship objectives described above; (ii) a CV including a publication list; (iii) copies of academic transcripts and/or certificates; (iv) an example of written work; (v) email addresses of two references who have been directly involved in their PhD research.

Applicants must submit the PDF application document to colocal.caes@mak.ac.ug. Please type “LUCCC PDR Application: COLOCAL-Makerere” as the subject line of the email.

Closing date

Midnight (GMT+3) on 15th May, 2026 or until the position is filled.

Selection process

Eligible and complete applications will be considered followed by communication with short-listed applicants. Makerere University, in consultation with Quadrature Climate Foundation and the Red Cross Red Crescent Climate Centre, will conduct interviews of the short-listed applicants.

If you have not heard from Makerere University within two months of the deadline, please assume your application has been unsuccessful.

Contact details for enquiries about this post-doc fellowship: colocal.caes@mak.ac.ug

Makerere University reserves the right to

  • Disqualify ineligible, incomplete and/or inappropriate applications;
  • Change the conditions of the award or to make no awards at all

-The QCF Fellowship Programme is a two-year, post-doctoral programme fully funded by Quadrature Climate Foundation (QCF).

-Quadrature Climate Foundation is an independent charitable foundation working for a greener and fairer future. For more information on QCF, please visit qc.foundation.

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Hasifa Kabejja

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Agriculture & Environment

Africa Climate Collaborative: Masters & PhD Scholarship Announcement Academic Year 2026/2027

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2 weeks ago

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April 15, 2026

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Africa Climate Collaborative, Makerere University. Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Makerere University, in partnership with Mastercard Foundation, is implementing Africa Climate Collaborative, an initiative that aims to shape a future where African knowledge, innovation, and leadership drive sustainable, climate-resilient development across the continent.

Makerere University is pleased to announce Fifty [50] Masters and Twelve [12] PhD Scholarship opportunities under the Africa Climate Collaborative for the Academic Year 2026/2027.

DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION OF APPLICATIONS: Friday, 5th June 2026. 

Makerere-University-Africa-Climate-Collaborative-Masters-PhD-Scholarship-Announcement-AY-2026-2027Download

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Agriculture & Environment

CPUg Project Equips Waste Management Personnel with Essential Skills

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4 weeks ago

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April 2, 2026

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Participants pose for a group photo on the opening day of the training, 30th March 2026. College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) in collaboration with the Uganda Red Cross Society, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, and Vienna University of Technology, Austria, comprehensive two-day training on Integrated Fecal Sludge and Solid Waste Management, 30th-31st March 2026, School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bioengineering Conference Hall, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

 *****The two-day training, hosted by the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) at Makerere University, was conducted under the auspices of the APPEAR Collaborative Research Project, ‘Clean and Prosperous Uganda – Fecal Sludge and Solid Waste Management for Improved Livelihoods (CPUg).

The challenge of waste management in Uganda

 Fecal Sludge Management (FSM) and Solid Waste Management (SWM) are essential for building healthy, resilient communities. However, in many parts of Uganda, these systems remain underdeveloped, leaving communities exposed to a wide range of complex challenges.

Improper handling and disposal of fecal sludge and solid waste pose both immediate and long-term public health risks, including the spread of waterborne diseases like cholera, typhoid, and dysentery. When human waste is not safely contained, treated, or disposed of, pathogens can contaminate water, food, and soil, disproportionately affecting vulnerable groups such as children and residents of informal settlements.

Prof. Jeninah Karungi Tumutegyereize, the PI of the project welcoming participants to the workshop. College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) in collaboration with the Uganda Red Cross Society, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, and Vienna University of Technology, Austria, comprehensive two-day training on Integrated Fecal Sludge and Solid Waste Management, 30th-31st March 2026, School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bioengineering Conference Hall, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Jeninah Karungi Tumutegyereize, the PI of the project welcoming participants to the workshop.

Environmentally, unmanaged waste degrades ecosystems, pollutes rivers and wetlands, and contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. Open dumping clogs drainage systems, heightening urban flood risks and facilitating disease transmission. Non-biodegradable materials, including plastics, can persist for decades, blocking waterways, harming wildlife, and weakening communities’ resilience to climate change.

 The economic consequences are equally profound. Inefficient waste management undermines productivity by driving up healthcare costs, lowering property values, and limiting tourism and investment opportunities. Informal waste collection systems, often the only coping mechanism for many urban residents, fail to provide adequate protection for workers.

Participants from various segments of the waste management value chain during the training session. College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) in collaboration with the Uganda Red Cross Society, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, and Vienna University of Technology, Austria, comprehensive two-day training on Integrated Fecal Sludge and Solid Waste Management, 30th-31st March 2026, School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bioengineering Conference Hall, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Participants from various segments of the waste management value chain during the training session.

Given these intertwined health, environmental, and economic impacts, the burden of fecal sludge and solid waste in Uganda is not merely a municipal concern but a pressing national development issue. Urgent attention is required to invest in modern FSM and SWM infrastructure, promote behavioral change, and implement regulatory frameworks that ensure safe, sustainable, and inclusive waste management solutions. Without such interventions, the compounded risks to human well-being, ecosystems, and economic growth will continue to escalate.

Addressing the Challenge through the CPUg Project

The Clean and Prosperous Uganda – Fecal Sludge and Solid Waste Management for Improved Livelihoods (CPUg) Project, a collaborative initiative between the CAES, the Institute of Water Quality and Resource Management at Vienna University of Technology in Austria, the Department of Environmental and Livelihood Support Systems at Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST), and the Uganda Red Cross Society, seeks to tackle Uganda’s most pressing challenges in waste management.

Dr. Mildred Ochwo Ssemakula represented the Principal of the CAES. College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) in collaboration with the Uganda Red Cross Society, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, and Vienna University of Technology, Austria, comprehensive two-day training on Integrated Fecal Sludge and Solid Waste Management, 30th-31st March 2026, School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bioengineering Conference Hall, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Mildred Ochwo Ssemakula represented the Principal of the CAES.

The project set out to explore circularity concepts, test a variety of techniques for utilizing dried fecal sludge, analyze plastic recovery from existing composting plants, and evaluate the social and economic viability of improved FSM and SWM and their influencing factors on regional communities. Supported under the Austrian Partnership Programme in Higher Education and Research for Development (APPEAR), the project aims to examine how best to optimize and integrate FSM and SWM in rural settings in Wakiso District, refugee settlements in Arua District, and Uganda in general.

In addition to the technical aspects, the socio-economic viability of improved fecal sludge and solid waste management is being evaluated in terms of affordability, perceptions, and the willingness to accept and utilize these products. The project aims to contribute towards reshaping Uganda’s landscape through integrated solutions, scientific rigor, and inclusive community engagement. It stands as a model for integrated development.

Participants follow proceedings. College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) in collaboration with the Uganda Red Cross Society, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, and Vienna University of Technology, Austria, comprehensive two-day training on Integrated Fecal Sludge and Solid Waste Management, 30th-31st March 2026, School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bioengineering Conference Hall, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Participants follow proceedings.

It is coordinated by Prof. Jeninah Karungi Tumutegyereize from the Department of Crop Science and Horticulture at CAES, Makerere University.

Two-Day Training on Integrated Fecal Sludge and Solid Waste Management

The College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences at Makerere University, in collaboration with the Uganda Red Cross Society, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, and Vienna University of Technology, Austria, held a comprehensive two-day training on Integrated Fecal Sludge and Solid Waste Management.

Mr. Grace Kyagaba from the Uganda Red Cross Society shared insights on various aspects of Fecal Sludge Management. College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) in collaboration with the Uganda Red Cross Society, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, and Vienna University of Technology, Austria, comprehensive two-day training on Integrated Fecal Sludge and Solid Waste Management, 30th-31st March 2026, School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bioengineering Conference Hall, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mr. Grace Kyagaba from the Uganda Red Cross Society shared insights on various aspects of Fecal Sludge Management.

The training, conducted on 30th-31st March 2026, at Makerere University was officially opened by the Principal of CAES, represented by Dr. Mildred Ochwo Ssemakula, Head of the Department of Crop Science and Horticulture. Participants included representatives from academia, the private sector, municipal authorities, service providers, and farmers.

Mr. Medard Kakuru, a PhD student at the CAES presented his work on the Circular Economy Approach to Sanitation. College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) in collaboration with the Uganda Red Cross Society, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, and Vienna University of Technology, Austria, comprehensive two-day training on Integrated Fecal Sludge and Solid Waste Management, 30th-31st March 2026, School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bioengineering Conference Hall, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mr. Medard Kakuru, a PhD student at the CAES presented his work on the Circular Economy Approach to Sanitation.

The training programme aimed to equip personnel across the waste management value chain with the knowledge and skills to transform fecal sludge and solid waste into valuable, sustainable agricultural and economic resources. It covered topics such as occupational safety, waste management infrastructure, processing and post-treatment methods, composting, carbonization, material flow analysis, service gaps, and economic considerations in Greater Kampala. Participants were also trained in specialized software tools designed to enhance efficiency and manage waste-to-resource processes, promoting both environmental sustainability and economic viability.

Particular emphasis was placed on shifting perceptions of fecal sludge-based products among end users, mainly subsistence and commercial farmers.

Mr. Richard David Le, and Ms. Sara Neuburg, PhD students at Vienna University of Technology in Austria delivered presentations on integrated fecal sludge management and material flow analysis. College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) in collaboration with the Uganda Red Cross Society, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, and Vienna University of Technology, Austria, comprehensive two-day training on Integrated Fecal Sludge and Solid Waste Management, 30th-31st March 2026, School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bioengineering Conference Hall, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mr. Richard David Le, and Ms. Sara Neuburg, PhD students at Vienna University of Technology in Austria delivered presentations on integrated fecal sludge management and material flow analysis.

Emerging Issues from the Training

  1. Weak fecal sludge management systems: Existing systems, particularly in refugee settlements, are inadequate.
  2. Public health risks: Improper sludge handling continues to threaten health – only 44% of fecal sludge is safely managed.
  3. Limited technical capacity: Practitioners need more training in safe handling and reuse technologies.
  4. Low adoption of resource recovery: Sludge-to-product innovations are underutilized.
  5. Environmental pollution: Untreated sludge contaminates soil, water, and surrounding ecosystems.
  6. Poor integration with agriculture: Opportunities for nutrient recycling are not fully exploited.
  7. Inadequate equipment: PPE, emptying tools, and treatment facilities are scarce.
  8. Low composting standards in Uganda: Composting often follows non-scientific methods.
  9. Behavioral and hygiene gaps: Handwashing and proper waste disposal practices remain weak.
  10. Underdeveloped waste-based value chains: Compost, briquettes, and fertilizers are not economically leveraged.
  11. High reliance on on-site sanitation: Sewer network coverage is below 10% in Greater Kampala.
  12. Insufficient emptying and collection services: Services are limited and costly.
  13. Limited private sector engagement: Public investment and private participation are inadequate.
  14. Treatment capacity and cost recovery challenges: Facilities are strained and revenue mechanisms weak.
  15. Low willingness or ability to pay: Users are reluctant or unable to afford improved services.
  16. Negative perceptions of fecal sludge products: Public attitudes hinder adoption.
  17. Regulatory and equity barriers: Awareness is limited, regulations are burdensome, and access is unequal.
Mr. Richard David Le delivered a presentation on Integrated Fecal Sludge Management. College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) in collaboration with the Uganda Red Cross Society, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, and Vienna University of Technology, Austria, comprehensive two-day training on Integrated Fecal Sludge and Solid Waste Management, 30th-31st March 2026, School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bioengineering Conference Hall, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mr. Richard David Le delivered a presentation on Integrated Fecal Sludge Management.

Way Forward

Effective waste management is essential for public health, yet remains a significant challenge in Uganda, with few households able to empty their on-site sanitation facilities due to high costs. Experts emphasize the need for increased investment and prioritization of operator safety. Rigorous safety protocols and training are critical to safeguarding workers and ensuring sustainable operations.

Part of the audience at the training. College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) in collaboration with the Uganda Red Cross Society, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, and Vienna University of Technology, Austria, comprehensive two-day training on Integrated Fecal Sludge and Solid Waste Management, 30th-31st March 2026, School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bioengineering Conference Hall, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Part of the audience at the training.

Remarks by the CAES Leadership

On behalf of the Principal of CAES, Dr. Mildred Ochwo Ssemakula underscored Uganda’s immense potential to benefit from effective fecal sludge and solid waste management. “In an agriculture-dependent country, converting waste into organic fertilizer and other resources can significantly enhance productivity and generate substantial economic benefits. At the CAES, we are proud to collaborate and support initiatives like CPUg through innovative research and capacity-building programmes that directly address Uganda’s environmental challenges. I extend my sincere gratitude to the researchers and partners for their unwavering commitment to advancing research and environmental management. Makerere University highly values these collaborations, and together, we form a powerful coalition driving positive change in Uganda’s development.”

A waste management operator sharing valuable insights during the training session. College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) in collaboration with the Uganda Red Cross Society, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, and Vienna University of Technology, Austria, comprehensive two-day training on Integrated Fecal Sludge and Solid Waste Management, 30th-31st March 2026, School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bioengineering Conference Hall, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
A waste management operator sharing valuable insights during the training session.

The CPUg project has contributed to capacity-building by training five PhD students, three from Makerere University and two from Vienna University of Technology, as well as three MSc students from Makerere University. The results are expected to improve knowledge in waste management and strengthen stakeholder capacity across the waste management value chain.

Pictorial of the training:

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1B9nUVHhQEsFncLJR3rlHN0Dd2-f7BStR?usp=sharing

Hasifa Kabejja

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