Agriculture & Environment
Makerere Launches Solar-powered Cooker
Makerere University has launched a Solar-powered Cooker developed by researchers from the Department of Agricultural and Bio-systems Engineering at the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) in collaboration with Intellsys (U) Ltd. The MakSol Cooker was officially unveiled and launched on 14th June 2023 by the Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation, Hon. Dr. Monica Musenero Masanza, represented by Dr. Cosmas Mwikirize, Superintendent-Industry Value Chains Development at the Science, Technology and Innovation Secretariat (STI)-Office of the President.
Development of the MakSol Cooker
The cooker is an output of a research project titled, “Development, Production Scale-up and Commercialization of an Electric Solar Cooker (MakSol Cooker) to reduce the Cooking Carbon Foot-Print in Households”. The project was supported by the Government of Uganda through the Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund (Mak-RIF) and the Science, Technology and Innovation Secretariat-Office of the President. The project was led by Dr. Peter Tumutegyereize, a Lecturer in the Department of Agricultural and Bio-systems Engineering at Makerere University. Other project members included, Mrs. Ayaa Filadh Wondomal, Mr. Paul Soddo, Mr. Kenneth Junko, Ms. Zebia Catherine Nankya, and Ms. Cholet Nyangoma.
What the innovation seeks to address
According to the World Health Organization (WHO) report on the use of clean and polluting fuels for cooking published in 2022, one third of the global population or 2.4 billion people worldwide still remain without access to clean cooking fuel. The use of inefficient, polluting fuels and technologies is a health risk and a major contributor to diseases and deaths, particularly for women and children in low-and-middle-income countries. It makes cooking with polluting fuels one of the largest environmental contributors to ill health. Breathing the smoke produced from cooking with polluting fuels can lead to heart diseases, stroke, cancers, chronic lung diseases and pneumonia. Millions of people continue to die prematurely every year from household air pollution, which is produced by cooking with inefficient stoves and devices paired with wood, coal, charcoal, dung, crop waste and kerosene. Without rapid action to scale up clean cooking, the world will fall short of its goal to achieve universal access to clean cooking by 2030. In Uganda, 95% of households rely on charcoal, wood, or other forms of biomass for their household cooking needs while 5% rely on alternatives like electricity or gas (UBOS, 2017).
A survey conducted by the research team indicates that health and financial implications of cooking on charcoal and/or firewood have pushed citizens to work harder to shift towards presumably less toxic and presumably less costly cooking fuels like liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). This indeed saves the daily purchases often associated with charcoal, but is however an expensive system to upgrade to and presents its own very lethal hazards in cases of accidents. Cooking with electricity exerts the least pollution to both mankind and the environment especially when the electricity is generated from clean renewable energy resources. However, since almost, 80% of Uganda’s households lack access to electricity, conventional electric cooking technologies have not had and will not have a countrywide adoption by 2040.
The newly developed MakSol Cooker will greatly increase access to modern zero-emission cooking for off-grid communities. With a battery life of 5 years and 20 years for the solar panels, the cooker comes with seven unique benefits; zero emissions, zero recurring cooking costs, clean cooking, minimal fire outbreak, easy to clean, minimal heat loss to the surrounding and a cool kitchen. MakSol Cooker is powered by direct current from a battery charged by solar modules and currently costs UGX4,300,000.
Remarks by the Minister
In her speech delivered by Dr. Cosmas Mwikirize, Superintendent-Industry Value Chains Development, Science, Technology and Innovation Secretariat – Office of the President, the Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation, Hon. Dr Monica Musenero Masanza congratulated the research team upon the milestone. “The solar cooker represents a breakthrough in clean cooking technology, harnessing the abundant sunlight in our region to provide a sustainable, efficient, and cost-effective alternative to traditional cooking methods. It eliminates the need for wood charcoal, thereby drastically reducing the harmful emissions of particulate matter and promoting a cleaner environment for all,” she noted. She said the cooker was not merely a technological innovation, but a symbol of progress, resilience, and sustainability, embodying the power of science, technology, and innovation in transforming society for the better. “It is a product of tireless research, collaboration, and the unwavering commitment of the talented minds and experts who have worked relentlessly to bring this innovation to life.”
The Minister called on the public to embrace the technology in a bid to create positive impact on public health, and mitigate the environmental consequences of traditional cooking practices. “The solar cooker will not only improve air quality but also alleviate the burden of deforestation and reduce the reliance on unsustainable energy sources. I would like to express my deepest gratitude to all the researchers, scientists, and innovators who have made this remarkable achievement possible. Their dedication, passion, and ingenuity have paved the way for a brighter and more sustainable future for our nation.”
Remarks by the Vice Chancellor
The Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe equally commended the research team, noting that the innovation would largely tame environmental degradation arising from the increasing population and the search for cheaper sources of energy. Uganda’s population currently stands at 48 million and is expected to increase to 60 million by 2030, and 104 million by 2060. The Vice Chancellor tasked the innovators to come up with different models of the MakSol Cooker to make it affordable for an average Ugandan.
Prof. Nawangwe was specifically impressed by the multidisciplinary nature of the research team and involvement of students in the project. “It is important that we continuously engage students in these projects because they are the future of this country and will remain innovative for a long time.” Emphasizing the role of Makerere in Uganda’s development, the Vice Chancellor appealed to the Government to reverse the decision to reduce funding towards research and innovation in the next financial year. “The future of our country lies in research and innovation. Many development ideas will be crippled if funding is reduced. It should instead be doubled to increase the number of innovations.” The Vice Chancellor urged the research team to patent their product. He pledged more support towards the project, saying the University had put in place a Fund under the Research and Innovations Hub to scale up such innovations. He expressed gratitude to the Government of Uganda for the unwavering support towards research and innovation at Makerere. Through MakRIF, the Government of Uganda has so far extended support to 750 research projects at Makerere University worth UGX90 billion. Similarly, the Vice Chancellor appreciated the Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation, Hon. Dr. Monica Musenero Masanza for her commitment and support towards research and innovation at the University.
In his remarks, the Commissioner for Renewable Energy at the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, Dr. Brian Isabirye applauded Makerere for always being at the top in research and innovation, and pledged to solicit for funding to scale up innovations at the University.
On behalf of the Principal of CAES, Dr. John Baptist Tumuhairwe, Dean, School of Agricultural Sciences appreciated Makerere University Management for creating a conducive environment for research and innovation. He applauded the research team for the innovation, and thanked the Government of Uganda for its commitment towards improving research and innovation at the University. The representative of MakRIF, Dr. Michael Owor, Dean, School of Physical Sciences at the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), Makerere University congratulated the research team and pledged more support towards the initiative.
Agriculture & Environment
Makerere Hosts Inaugural Falling Walls Lab Competition as Innovators Pitch Solutions to National Challenges
Students and researchers from Makerere University and other institutions pitched 12 innovations addressing challenges in healthcare, clean energy, agriculture, waste management and community resilience during the inaugural Falling Walls Lab Kampala, held at the School of Public Health Auditorium, Makerere University.
The competition brought together emerging innovators to present solutions to practical challenges through a three minute pitch, followed by questions from a panel of judges.
Modelled on the Falling Walls format that originated in Berlin, the event required each participant to identify a “wall” a problem or barrier, and demonstrate how their innovation seeks to break it down.
Mudhasi wins with newborn jaundice screening device
Andrew Mudhasi of Makerere University emerged as the overall winner with a score of 90 per cent for a low cost medical device designed to improve newborn jaundice screening across different skin tones.
Mudhasi explained that the device uses optical sensor technology and a skin tone targeting algorithm to provide a rapid reading, with the aim of helping nurses and clinicians identify jaundice more efficiently.
During questions from the jury, Mudhasi said the device had not yet been tested on actual babies but had undergone laboratory testing using simulated skin tones.
He reported an accuracy rate of 94 per cent when the device was compared with laboratory spectrophotometers.
The innovation is intended initially for use in clinics and hospitals, with Mudhasi saying the team is also considering a version that could eventually allow mothers to screen babies at home.
Mudhasi’s innovation has previously received recognition at the African Business Concept Challenge and the iF Design Student Award, according to his presentation.
Rhonda’s innovation tackles diaper waste
Rhoda John of the University of Nairobi emerged in second place with 89.6 per cent for an innovation addressing the problem of used diaper waste.
Under the theme “Breaking the wall of diaper waste and drug soils,” Rhonda explained that her team extracts sodium polyacrylate, the absorbent polymer found in diapers, and replaces the sodium with potassium.
The resulting potassium based superabsorbent material is designed to act as a “water battery” in soil by absorbing and retaining water for plants during dry periods.
John said testing showed a 99 per cent increase in germination and a 23 per cent increase in drought resistance.
The innovation also seeks to reduce the amount of used diapers ending up in landfills and the environmental effects associated with their decomposition.
During the question and answer session, John explained that her team was working with government environmental officials in Nairobi on a pilot collection system to address the challenge of gathering used diapers at scale.
Mahera takes third place with herbal peptic ulcer treatment
Stuart Mahera of Makerere University finished third with 86.2 per cent for a herbal formulation targeting peptic ulcers.
Presenting under the theme “Breaking the wall of Nature and Modern Medicine,” Mahera argued that conventional treatment for peptic ulcers can involve multiple medicines and may be associated with side effects and antimicrobial resistance.
His proposed formulation, MARAC capsules, is intended as a monotherapy, combining properties required for peptic-ulcer treatment in a single capsule.
Mahera said his team had carried out quality control work, including characterisation and dose quantification, and had conducted preclinical trials on laboratory mice.
He also told the jury that an application had been submitted to the National Drug Authority as the team awaits the next stage of the regulatory process.
According to Mahera, the proposed seven day treatment would cost about Shs21,000, compared with the existing 14 day treatment approach.
Innovators present solutions to practical challenges
The remaining presentations covered a wide range of challenges.
Esther Nakungu of Utamu University presented Agri-Track, a digital record keeping solution intended to improve visibility, accountability and management of farm operations and financial information.
Dr. Jimmy Chachiga, a Makerere University participant, presented a solar photovoltaic cooker with a heat storage system designed to provide a cleaner and more reliable cooking option during both sunny and non sunny periods.
His presentation focused on reducing dependence on biomass fuels and addressing the challenges associated with intermittent solar energy.
Abdul Noor Luttamaguzi, a PhD student and senior government fisheries officer, presented a mobile application aimed at helping fish farmers and extension officers report, track and manage disease outbreaks.
Henry Duke Tamale presented a herbal cream targeting antibiotic resistant biofilm infections associated with diabetic foot ulcers.
Marvin Seruwu proposed adapting existing near infrared brain monitoring technology to help detect extra-axial brain bleeds in health facilities where access to CT and MRI equipment is limited.
His proposal seeks to repurpose existing technology towards a diagnostic need that could be particularly important in settings where advanced imaging facilities are not readily available.
Kennedy Kisame presented a poultry alert and diagnosis system combining satellite weather information with computer vision disease detection. The proposed system could be accessed through a smartphone application, SMS or USSD, making it potentially usable by farmers with limited internet access.
Frank Atwiine proposed a solar powered mobile diagnostic van designed to bring ultrasound and other diagnostic services closer to rural communities.
Johnson Makmot, a software and blockchain developer, presented a platform that combines GPS tracking and blockchain-based tokens to incentivise and verify plastic-waste collection in Kampala.
Dr. Nelson Ndugu, from a partner university, presented an artificial intelligence tool designed to translate agricultural research publications into local Ugandan languages and generate voice notes for radio-based extension delivery.
The final presentation came from Dr. Juliet Akola, a Ugandan post doctoral researcher at Mangosuthu University of Technology in South Africa.
Akola presented a community digital resilience initiative focused on mapping risks in Kampala’s informal settlements, including flooding, fire, poor sanitation, waste management and inadequate infrastructure.
Her proposal seeks to combine local community knowledge with geographical information systems and link identified risks to action plans involving municipalities and other stakeholders.
Nawangwe calls for more investment in innovation
Closing the event, Prof. Nawangwe congratulated all the participants and described their presentations as an important beginning for Makerere University, Uganda and the wider region.
Drawing on his experience attending the Falling Walls conference in Berlin, the Vice Chancellor said initiatives of this nature are important because innovation will play a major role in determining the future of countries.
He encouraged participants to make their pitches more precise by clearly identifying the problem they are addressing, explaining their proposed solution and demonstrating what they have already achieved.
Prof. Nawangwe also welcomed the participation of innovators from other universities and countries, noting that the Kampala event had attracted participants beyond Makerere.
He thanked the Africa Office of the Falling Walls Foundation for its role in bringing the initiative to Makerere and encouraged continued support for innovation.
The Vice Chancellor further linked innovation to Uganda’s growing youth population and the need to develop home-grown solutions to address challenges such as youth unemployment.
The inaugural Falling Walls Lab Kampala ultimately provided a platform for innovators to move ideas beyond the classroom and laboratory and demonstrate how research, technology and creativity can be applied to challenges affecting communities.
| Position | Winner | Institution | Score |
| 1st | Andrew Mudhasi | Makerere University | 90% |
| 2nd | Rhoda John | University of Nairobi | 89.6% |
| 3rd | Stuart Mahera | Makerere University | 86.2% |
Agriculture & Environment
CAES Freshers Urged to Embrace Academic Excellence to Become Agents of National Transformation
Orientation is an important first step in helping newly admitted students transition into a new academic and social environment. Beyond introducing students to institutional structures and services, orientation provides an opportunity to set expectations, clarify responsibilities and inspire students to approach their university journey with purpose. For the 2026/2027 intake at Makerere University’s College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), the orientation emphasized the importance of making the most of the university experience, pursuing academic excellence, and developing the knowledge, skills, and values needed to become responsible citizens, innovative professionals, and agents of national transformation.
The CAES Freshers’ Orientation, held on Thursday, 6th August 2026, at the School of Agricultural Sciences (SAS) Quadrangle, provided newly admitted students with an opportunity to familiarize themselves with the College’s academic programmes, administrative structures, technological resources, library services, counselling and other student support services. Beyond introducing the freshers to the University environment and the resources available to support their academic journey, the orientation emphasized the broader purpose of university education. Students were encouraged to view their time at Makerere not merely as a pathway to academic qualifications, but as an opportunity to develop relevant competencies, build character, discover their potential and acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to address real-world challenges and make meaningful contributions to society.
CAES: A College of Opportunities
Welcoming the freshers to CAES, the Principal, Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga, urged them to recognize the significance of the opportunity they had received to study at Makerere University and to use their time at the institution wisely.
Prof. Nabanoga reminded the students that university represents a critical stage in their journey towards becoming responsible and productive citizens. She cautioned them against letting the excitement, newfound freedom and social opportunities distract them from their academic responsibilities.
“You are at the tail end of your journey to becoming important citizens, and therefore you need to use your time at the University effectively,” she said, urging the students to begin thinking about what they wish to become from the very beginning of their university education.
She emphasized that success at university requires discipline, commitment and a clear sense of purpose. The freshers were encouraged to take ownership of their education and make deliberate decisions that would contribute to their personal and professional growth.
According to Prof. Nabanoga, CAES is strategically positioned to prepare graduates who can respond to some of the most pressing challenges facing Uganda and the wider world, particularly in food production, agriculture, environmental sustainability and entrepreneurship.
“CAES is at the centre of national development. No life exists without food and a conducive environment,” she noted, describing CAES as a “college of opportunities” where students are equipped with the knowledge and skills to become change agents.
“At CAES, we focus on skilling you to become change agents to feed nations and to protect the environment, and to become job creators,” she said.
Prof. Nabanoga further encouraged the freshers to take advantage of the expertise available within the College, particularly by actively engaging with their lecturers and seeking guidance whenever they encounter academic or other challenges.
She also underscored the importance of investing in young people as future leaders and contributors to national development, noting that sustainable transformation requires a generation equipped with the skills, values and capacity to take on leadership and other critical responsibilities.
CAES Human Capital Critical to National Development
Speaking on the relevance of CAES to Uganda’s development agenda, the Deputy Principal, Prof. Bamutaze, highlighted the College’s responsibility to produce the human capital required to drive the country’s socio-economic transformation.
He noted that Uganda’s development priorities, including agro-industrialization, tourism and mineral-based development, require innovative, skilled and dynamic human resources capable of turning opportunities into tangible solutions.
“The country desires innovative and dynamic people who can contribute to its socio-economic development,” he said.
Prof. Bamutaze encouraged the freshers to take their education seriously and use their time at Makerere to develop the competencies, creativity and innovative mindset needed to respond to emerging national and global challenges.
Students Urged to Become Problem Solvers
The Dean of the School of Agricultural Sciences, Dr. John Baptist Tumuhairwe, explained that the School is committed to producing graduates capable of identifying challenges and developing practical solutions.
He urged the students to make academic excellence a guiding principle throughout their university journey, emphasizing that consistent effort, discipline and commitment would be critical to their success.
Dr. Tumuhairwe also stressed the importance of respect, encouraging students to respect themselves, their colleagues, lecturers, administrators and the wider University community.
He cautioned the freshers against behaviours and activities that could undermine their academic progress and future prospects, particularly betting, drug abuse and irresponsible sexual behaviour.
The Dean further encouraged the students not to underestimate the programmes they had been admitted to. He noted that every programme presents opportunities for success when students remain committed, focused and willing to work hard.
He urged the freshers to take ownership of their academic journeys rather than judging their programmes solely on the basis of perceived popularity or immediate career prospects.
Freshers Encouraged to Settle Down and Focus on Excellence
Representing the Dean of the School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bioengineering, Prof. Ivan Muzira Mukisa encouraged the freshers to settle into university life quickly and begin working towards academic excellence from the outset.
He cautioned them against wasting time and urged them to develop productive habits early, noting that the routines and discipline established during the first year can significantly influence their academic performance throughout their university journey.
Prof. Mukisa emphasized the importance of effective time management and encouraged students to strike a healthy balance between academic responsibilities and social activities.
He also highlighted the value of teamwork, noting that the ability to work collaboratively is an important skill both within the University and in the professional world.
The students were further encouraged to seek guidance whenever they encounter difficulties instead of struggling with challenges on their own. They were reminded to make use of the academic and student support structures available within the College and University.
Similarly, the Dean, School of Forestry, Environmental and Geographical Sciences, Prof. Revocatus Twinomuhangi urged the students to focus on academic and professional success.
Freshers Introduced to University Services and Policies
In addition to the guidance from College leadership, the orientation familiarized the freshers with important administrative, technological and student support services that will shape their experience at Makerere University.
The College Registrar, Ms. Jofrina Kyohairwe, briefed the students on registration procedures and key academic policies. The session aimed to familiarize the freshers with the administrative requirements they are expected to fulfil and help them avoid challenges arising from failure to comply with University regulations and procedures.
The students were also introduced to ICT support services by Mr. Albert Muhumuza, who highlighted the importance of effectively using the University’s digital platforms and technological resources to support their learning.
They were further introduced to library services, which provide access to essential academic resources for coursework, research and independent learning.
The orientation also highlighted counselling and guidance services available to students to support them as they navigate academic, personal and social challenges during their university experience.
Pictorial of the orientation:
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1DmjNj1pdounFv9juFTDG98p2XQO3tq6b?usp=sharing
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