Agriculture & Environment
Mak hosts Climate Science Policy Dialogue
Theme: Climate Change Knowledge Brokering
Overview
Human activities, principally through emissions of greenhouse gases, have unequivocally caused global warming, with global surface temperature reaching 1.1°C in 2011-2020. Between the years 2031-2060, temperatures are projected to rise by 1.5°C to 3 °C in contrast to the average temperature between 1981-2010. Global greenhouse gas emissions have continued to increase, with unequal historical and ongoing contributions arising from unsustainable energy use, land use and land-use change, lifestyles and patterns of consumption and production across regions, between and within countries, and among individuals. Widespread and rapid changes in the atmosphere, ocean, cryosphere and biosphere have occurred. Human-caused climate change has led to widespread adverse impacts and related losses and damages to nature and people. Vulnerable communities who have historically contributed the least to current climate change are disproportionately affected. Increasing weather and climate extreme events have exposed millions of people to acute food insecurity and reduced water security, with the largest adverse impacts observed in many locations and/or communities in Africa, Asia, Central and South America, LDCs, Small Islands and the Arctic, and globally for Indigenous Peoples, small-scale food producers and low-income households. Between 2010 and 2020, human mortality from floods, droughts and storms was 15 times higher in highly vulnerable regions, compared to regions with very low vulnerability. In all regions increases in extreme heat events have resulted in human mortality and morbidity. Hundreds of local losses of species have been driven by increases in the magnitude of heat extremes Economic damages from climate change have been detected in climate-exposed sectors, such as agriculture, forestry, fishery, energy, and tourism (IPCC Synthesis Report, 2023).
According to the Report, adverse impacts from human-caused climate change will continue to intensify, a factor that calls for adaptation planning and implementation across the globe.
Adaptation gaps in Uganda
In Uganda, a significant adaptation gap exists and is expected to widen despite the rising public knowledge of climate change, and progressive implementation of adaptation interventions. Some of the key barriers to adaptation include low climate literacy and public engagement, low uptake of adaptation science, and insufficient financial mobilization.
Plans to narrow adaptation gap
In a bid to contribute to narrowing the adaptation gap, Makerere University Climate Change Research Institute (MUCCRI) and Environmental Management for Livelihood Improvement Bwaise Facility (EMLI) intend to collaborate with partners to facilitate mutual learning and open deliberation amongst all the relevant stakeholders, particularly researchers, Civil Society Organizations, policy makers, the private sector.
Policy Dialogue on Climate Science
On 20th June 2023, Makerere University School of Forestry, Environmental and Geographical Sciences in collaboration with MUCCRI, EMLI and World Wide Fund for Nature Conservation-Uganda Country Office (WWF-UCO) held a policy dialogue on climate science. The dialogue held at Makerere University under the theme; Climate Change Knowledge Brokering was attended by researchers, policy makers, representatives from civil society organizations, representatives from the government, and the private sector.
Delivering a presentation titled, University-Based Researchers as Knowledge Brokers for Climate Policies and Actions, Dr. Revocatus Twinomuhangi, Dean, School of Forestry, Environmental, and Geographical Sciences, Makerere University, also Coordinator of MUCCRI called for increased engagement between policy makers and researchers. “Universities are knowledge brokers. To make a good policy, you need evidence and evidence can only be got from research. In most cases, policies do not work because they are not backed up by evidence. There is lack of quality information to address the challenges. Universities therefore have a critical role to play in informing policy and mitigating the impact of climate change,” he explained, noting that most times important research that would inform policy remains on the shelves due to lack of coordination and engagement.
According to Dr Twinomuhangi, a study conducted to understand the experiences of researchers who attempt to engage around climate issues revealed that people in the world of policy regard University researchers as too rigid and theoretical with limited knowledge about policy issues. The study also revealed that most times policy makers preferred and depended on media reports in making decisions because scientific research is too technical and difficult to interpret. Other factors undermining engagement included; heavy workload, lack of incentives, limited funding for outreach within the government and universities, limitations to information sharing, and the continued erosion of academic freedom.
In a bid to bridge the gap between academia and policy makers, participants emphasized the importance of engagement in policy formulation, and made recommendations to retool researchers to effectively communicate with the world of policy. Suggestions were also made to increase funding for research, set terms of reference for policy engagement, hire academics as advisors in government, and increasingly use media and communication specialists to disseminate research to the policy world.
Commenting on the role of academia in policy formulation, Dr Patrick Byakagaba, a Lecturer from the Department of Environment, Makerere University explained that the public was increasingly appreciating the knowledge generated by Universities. “There is increased uptake of the knowledge generated at the University because it is perceived to be credible,” he noted, pointing to the growing interest for collaboration between the academia and policy actors.
To increase uptake, Ms. Jalia Namubiru from EMLI urged academics to always align their research to policy needs.
In his presentation, the Representative of the Parliamentary Committee on Climate Change, Hon. Biyika Lawrence Songa highlighted several barriers to climate change management including lack of coordination amongst stakeholders, inadequate laws, restrictions on the type of research that can be conducted, and corruption. He highlighted the need to address governance issues and to review climate laws. The representative of civil society organizations, Mr. Paul Mulindwa decried the low implementation of adaptation actions and called for policy that relates to actions of the people who suffer the consequences of climate change.
Mr. Yona Turinayo Karibwije, Energy and Climate Programme Coordinator at WWF Uganda Country Office called for inclusiveness within the agenda of climate change. “Involve communities, simplify research for the local population, and embrace interdisciplinarity in research.”
Dr Edward Nector Mwavu, Head, Department of Forestry, Biodiversity and Tourism, Makerere University rallied the academia and researchers at Makerere and other universities to continue providing expert opinions on climate change and other issues of national importance. In a bid to reverse the harsh effects of climate change, Dr Mwavu called for more research and innovation, sensitization of the local populace, as well as strengthening of adaptation mechanisms.
As takeaways from the dialogue, participants emphasized the importance of indigenous knowledge, and good governance in climate change actions. They also emphasized the need for Universities to put in place appropriate frameworks to foster engagement in policy formulation.
Agriculture & Environment
Inaugural Schools Environmental Conference Rallies Young Learners to Champion Environmental Sustainability
Kampala, March 20, 2026 : More than 250 primary school pupils have been rallied to take an active role in environmental protection during the Inaugural Schools Environmental Conference hosted at Makerere University.
Organised by the Environment for Development (EfD) Uganda in partnership with the Green Vests Initiative, the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), and the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), the conference aimed to promote environmental awareness and responsible stewardship among learners.
The half-day event brought together Primary Five to Primary Seven pupils and their teachers for a series of educational sessions and interactive activities under the theme “Strengthening Environmental Stewardship in Schools.”
The initiative reflects a broader commitment to nurturing environmental responsibility from an early age, complementing EfD’s traditional focus on policy engagement and research. The programme included keynote remarks, environmental education sessions, and interactive activities designed to inspire pupils to take practical steps in protecting their environment.
Schools Key in the Fight Against Environmental Crisis
Schools must take a leading role in shaping environmentally responsible citizens if Uganda is to effectively address climate change and environmental degradation, a policy engagement specialist said.
Representing the College Principal and Director of the Environment for Development (EfD) Mak Centre, Dr. Peter Babyenda described schools as critical platforms for promoting environmental stewardship and influencing long-term behavioural change.
He welcomed participants and encouraged young learners to envision themselves as future students and leaders at Makerere University. “In a few years, you will be here, and this will be your college,” he said.
Dr. Babyenda warned that Uganda remains highly vulnerable to climate change, with more than 40 percent of its land degraded and an estimated 100,000 to 122,000 hectares of forest lost annually. He noted that environmental degradation is already affecting key sectors including health, food security and education.
In Eastern Uganda, over 90 percent of children reportedly experience climate-related disruptions to learning, while urban centres such as Kampala face increasing flooding, disease outbreaks and extreme heat, which affect school attendance and concentration.
He attributed the crisis largely to human activities such as deforestation, industrialisation, wetland encroachment and poor waste management. Citing recent floods in the capital, he said blocked drainage systems and irresponsible garbage disposal are worsening the situation.
“Most of the floods you are seeing are likely caused by us,” he said. “If we don’t protect our environment, the effects will find us—even in our classrooms.”
Babyenda emphasized that teachers, particularly at primary level, play a critical role in shaping environmentally responsible behaviour early in life. “You can play a great role in safeguarding the environment if you teach these young ones from the start. It is very easy to change behaviour from the beginning,” he said.
He noted that Uganda’s youthful population-about 44 percent below the age of 15, presents a unique opportunity to drive sustainable change. With more than 18,000 primary schools and about 3,000 secondary schools, he said the education system remains the largest structured platform for influencing behaviour nationwide.
Babyenda called for practical interventions within schools, including tree planting, establishment of school gardens, waste recycling and composting, clean-up campaigns, energy conservation and the creation of “talking compounds” that reinforce environmental responsibility.
He also urged schools to strengthen environmental education through clubs and peer learning initiatives, and to revive greening policies such as school woodlots under the Green School Programme.
Highlighting the importance of forests, Babyenda pointed to the degradation of major reserves such as Mabira Forest, Bugoma Forest and Budongo Forest, warning that continued loss of tree cover threatens biodiversity, livelihoods and climate stability.
“We are saying trees, trees, trees because their benefits are immediate,” he said, noting their role in absorbing carbon dioxide, regulating temperatures and maintaining ecological balance.
Encouraging personal and community responsibility, he challenged learners to influence change beyond the classroom. “You can even correct your parents—tell them that throwing rubbish out of a car window is not right,” he said.
He also proposed simple but symbolic actions to embed environmental values in everyday life. “Let us make it a habit—even on your birthday, plant a tree. That is how you celebrate life while protecting the future,” he added.
Babyenda stressed that environmental stewardship is a shared responsibility requiring coordinated efforts from individuals, schools, communities and government institutions.
“Start small but think big. Let each school be a beacon, one tree, one club, one lesson at a time,” he said.
He pledged the centre’s readiness to partner with schools and stakeholders to advance environmental sustainability efforts across the country.
“The future lies in you, the young ones,” he said. “If we guide you well, you will become the leaders who protect our environment.”
Green Vest Initiative Champions Student-Led Environmental Action”
Green Vest Initiative Team Lead John Robert Tenywa said the gathering aimed to inspire a new generation of environmentally conscious citizens who act beyond their personal interests to protect shared resources.
The event, held under the theme “Strengthening Environmental Stewardship in Schools,” emphasized the critical role of young people in driving environmental change. Tenywa noted that schools provide a strategic platform for shaping attitudes and behaviors that can influence communities and the country at large.
“We are focusing on raising a generation that lives beyond itself—one that is mindful of the environment and committed to making a difference,” he said.
Tenywa outlined the Initiative’s key activities, including cleaning public spaces, educating communities about environmental conservation, and promoting waste management practices that turn waste into valuable resources. He added that the organisation conducts monthly community outreach activities, combining clean-up campaigns with public sensitisation efforts.
For the current cycle, the Initiative has shifted its focus toward education, targeting students with information and discussions on environmental protection. Tenywa said this approach complements ongoing clean-up efforts by addressing the root causes of environmental degradation through awareness.
He also highlighted the Initiative’s faith-based foundation, noting that it integrates moral and spiritual values into its work while engaging communities.
The engagement marks a growing effort by civil society and public institutions to involve young people in addressing environmental challenges, particularly in urban areas where waste management and pollution remain pressing concerns.
Everyone Has a Legal Role in Safeguarding the Environment
Wilber Ikalai, NEMA Manager of Environment Education and Advocacy, urged students to understand that every individual has a legal and moral duty to maintain a clean and healthy environment. “The greatest threat to our planet is the belief that someone else will save it,” he said, quoting environmentalist Robert Swan. He reinforced that the National Environment Act mandates all Ugandans to prevent pollution and enhance environmental quality.
Ikalai highlighted that environmental stewardship goes beyond trees, water, and wildlife, noting that human behaviors are integral to the ecosystem. He gave examples of harmful practices in schools, including improper disposal of waste, overuse of water, overprinting of documents, and the unsafe handling of food packaging materials that release chemicals into the food chain. “If you don’t take care of yourself, you are part of the pollutants affecting your environment,” he said.
The NEMA official also outlined the agency’s role in coordinating national environmental management, working with lead institutions such as the Uganda Wildlife Authority, National Forestry Authority, local governments, and educational institutions. Through policy guidance, environmental impact assessments, and public education, NEMA seeks to promote sustainability and prevent environmental degradation.
Ikalai called on students to adopt green practices in schools, including proper waste management, water conservation, minimizing overprinting, and avoiding harmful materials in food handling. He encouraged learners to report unsustainable practices they observe and to actively contribute to a culture of environmental responsibility. “Students are the stewards of the environment for the coming generations,” he said, urging them to take personal responsibility for practices that impact both their immediate surroundings and the broader ecosystem.
Jane Anyango is the Communication Officer, EfD-Mak Centre
Agriculture & Environment
Launch of the MUJAES Online Submission System & Call for Manuscripts for Volume 15 (Issue 1)
Makerere University students have once again demonstrated academic excellence and commitment to environmental conservation after emerging as the overall winners in the Uganda Wildlife Authority Tertiary Institutions Conservation Competitions held during the national celebrations to mark the World Wildlife Day.
On 25th February, a team of eight students, including members of the Makerere University Tourism Association (MUTA), proudly represented the university at the competitions organized by the Uganda Wildlife Authority. The event took place at the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre in Entebbe and brought together students from various tertiary institutions across the country to showcase knowledge and innovation in wildlife conservation.
The competitions formed part of the activities marking World Wildlife Day and were held under the theme “Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: Conservation, Health, Heritage and Livelihoods.” The theme highlighted the importance of protecting plant biodiversity, particularly species that support traditional medicine, cultural heritage, and sustainable livelihoods.
After a highly competitive contest that tested participants’ knowledge of conservation, biodiversity, and environmental sustainability, Makerere University emerged as the overall winner. The Uganda Wildlife Research and Training College finished as the first runner-up, while Nkumba University secured the second runner-up position.
The team’s achievement was officially recognized during the national World Wildlife Day celebrations held on 3rd March at the Entebbe Works Grounds. During the ceremony, the students were awarded a trophy in recognition of their outstanding performance.
The award was presented by Uganda’s Prime Minister, the Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja, alongside the Minister of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Hon. Tom Butime, and the State Minister for Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Martin Mugarra. The leaders commended the students for their remarkable achievement and emphasized the critical role young people play in promoting conservation and protecting Uganda’s natural heritage.
The winning team comprised students from diverse academic disciplines as follows:
- Iradikunda Jemimah – Bachelor of Biomedical Laboratory Technology
- Nankabirwa Edith Mirembe – Bachelor of Science in Tourism and Hospitality Management
- Agenrwoth Brenda – Bachelor of Science in Tourism and Hospitality Management
- Joel Kibirango – Bachelor of Science in Tourism and Hospitality Management
- Elvis Mujuni Kamara – Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences (Botany/Zoology)
- Kamyuka Ben – Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences (Botany/Zoology)
- Karisa Geofrey – Bachelor of Science in Forestry
- Nyangoma Caroline – Bachelor of Science in Forestry
According to Prof. Jim Ayorekire, Head, Department of Tourism at Makerere University, the win not only highlights Makerere University’s continued leadership in conservation education but also underscores the importance of empowering young people to take an active role in protecting biodiversity and promoting sustainable use of natural resources.
-
Law3 days agoPre-Entry Examination for Admission to the Bachelor of Laws for 2026/2027 AY
-
Health2 weeks ago82% Stressed: Uncovering the Hidden Mental Health Burden Among Kampala’s Taxi Drivers
-
Agriculture & Environment2 weeks agoMakerere University Students Triumph in National Conservation Competition
-
General2 weeks agoMakerere University Unveils Pre-Award Grants Management System
-
General2 weeks agoMakerere University and International Partners Sign MoU for the 9th Kampala Geopolitics Conference