Veterinary & Biosecurity
Stakeholders to take on Electronic Rabies Surveillance using a One Health Approach in the control of Rabies
Stakeholders in the Rabies Elimination project in Uganda (eRabies) have intensified efforts aimed at the use of electronic Rabies Surveillance using a One Health approach in the efforts towards elimination of rabies in Uganda.
A two-day workshop was convened at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), Makerere University from 28th-29th August 2023, during which the stakeholders deliberated on a number of proposals for the best applicable surveillance tools to address One Health concerns in the effort towards the elimination of Rabies.
‘The purpose of the meeting is to hear from various actors and see what works for us, to enable us collect information and have it shared in a sustained way with One Health as a key component’ said Prof. Clovice Kankya, the Head, Department of Biosecurity, Ecosystems and Veterinary Public Health at CoVAB, at the start of the meeting held in the Centre for Biosecurity and Global Health.
Kankya noted that with one year of implementation to date, the eRabies project was progressing well drawing a lot of support from the implementing local Governments of Kyegegwa, Soroti and Kampala Capital City Authority that spearhead the community engagements and other related activities. He said the graduate fellows from the Ministry of Health and Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries supported by the project were also on schedule.
He said Rabies is a global challenge being a zoonotic disease affecting the entire world more so here in Africa where there is close interaction between the wild animals and the human population. The Uganda Wildlife Authority, he said, was brought on board specifically Queen Elizabeth National Park to address some of the challenges affecting people drawing from the wild animals.
The Deputy Principal CoVAB, Prof. James Acai Okwee, in his opening remarks noted through the eRabies project, Makerere University and the host CoVAB were consolidating efforts towards the control of rabies in Uganda. ‘In as much as Rabies is a killer 100%, it is also preventable 100%’ observed Prof. Acai, adding that Makerere University and CoVAB specifically have been involved in such efforts through filed activities, vaccinations and animal welfare programs aimed at the control of rabies. He said through research, such efforts were to be intensified from a scientifically informed point of view.
Prof. Sonja Hartnack, from the Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, one of the partners gave an overview of the project. She said the four-year project has seven different work packages while emphasizing that presently, the stakeholders were addressing work package one, that entails Surveillance systems and integrated bite case management. She noted that the communities were crucial in the rabies control efforts and specifically in identifying the barriers for rabies control through research interventions and the development of educational materials for awareness creation.
She made reference to the World organization for Animal Health (WOAH) recommended practices that points out that dog owners are clearly identified as one way through which the barriers to dog vaccination can be addressed in the communities and emphasized responsible dog ownership.
She said it was important to assess which vaccinations approaches are most successful in terms of vaccination coverage, whether there were static points vaccinations, or linked to institutions like Schools or other Veterinary activities or even human health related activities. She said through quantitative and qualitative research, the eRabies project was set to establish what works. She also pointed out the need to increase the laboratory capacity at regional levels as well as taking on rapid tests in the field.
Prof. Sonja Hartnack said the deliberations in the meeting were to inform the efforts towards having an integrated bite case management (IBCM) system by looking at different systems, picking out key data elements, reviewing the challenges of the existing processes for a proper One Health approach.
Dr. Andrew Kambugu, Director, Infectious Disease Institute (IDI) one of the key partners in the eRabies project extended appreciation to the Swiss Government and the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF) for the grant that is supporting the implementation of the activities. He referred to COVID-19, a Zoonotic disease that affected many people as having come from the contact between animals and humans. He said the model that would come out of the meeting was to be relevant to many. He emphasized the need for increased collaboration between different agencies in Africa, where he noted that many were working in silos. He affirmed that IDI was to give all relevant support needed in the eRabies project.
The deliberations in the workshop shared experiences from varied stakeholders that included the Infectious Diseases Institute experiences of Rabies Surveillance in West Nile region, the respective implementing Local Governments, Ministry of Health and Ministry of Agriculture Animal Industry and Fisheries.
Participants identified some of the challenges experienced in timely dog bites reporting that need to be addressed in the surveillance. They included late reporting by the victims, failure to capture data from the private Veterinary Medicine practitioners that handle a number of cases in the communities, omission of the wildlife Veterinarians in the reporting system and the little interaction between the Human Health practitioners and the Veterinarians, coupled with the limited data sharing avenues.
The eRabies project is implemented by Makerere University College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), Infectious Diseases Institute (IDI) in collaboration with the Vetsuisse Faculties, Universities of Bern and Zurich from Switzerland. It is contributing to efforts towards elimination of Rabies by 2030.
Veterinary & Biosecurity
Parliamentary Committee on Science, Technology and Innovation Reviews Uganda’s Emerging Science Ventures
By Jacinta Nakaye
Uganda’s drive to strengthen science, technology and innovation took center stage as the Parliamentary Committee on Science, Technology and Innovation toured Makerere University’s Centre for Biosecurity and Biomolecular Technology (CeBIOTECH). The centre is hosted at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB). The visit aimed to assess the progress of ventures supported under the Science, Technology and Innovation–Office of the President (STI-OP).
The visit brought legislators, scientists, and innovators together around a shared question: How can Uganda turn investments in scientific research into practical technologies, enterprises, and solutions that respond to national development challenges?
At CeBIOTECH, the Committee was taken through a portfolio of emerging science ventures, including Central Laboratory Animal Research Facility, which focuses on providing lab animal services, pre-clinical trial support, and specialized training to accelerate biosecurity and health solutions; RePROVaD, which focuses on designing and manufacturing recombinant proteins and subunit vaccines for emerging infectious diseases such as COVID-19 and Mpox; the Anti-Tick Vaccine venture focused on addressing the challenge of ticks and tick-borne diseases; and BIOMARKER focused on developing Antibody-based diagnostics.
The delegation also toured laboratories within the Centre where research, product development and other activities supporting the ventures are undertaken.
The engagement offered the Committee a first-hand view of the scientific infrastructure, expertise and processes underpinning Uganda’s efforts to move research beyond academic discovery and towards innovation, enterprise development and eventual application.
Where science meets national priorities
For years, Uganda has invested in research and generated scientific knowledge across universities and research institutions. However, converting that knowledge into products and services that reach communities and markets remains one of the country’s most important innovation challenges. The ventures showcased at CeBIOTECH represent an attempt to bridge this gap.
Although they operate in different areas, the ventures share a common pathway using scientific research and technological expertise to develop solutions with potential to address challenges facing Ugandans while contributing to economic growth.
The Parliamentary Science Committee’s visit consequently provided more than an opportunity to observe ongoing research. It created a platform for legislators to interact with the scientists behind the innovations and gain insight into the journey from research concept to a potentially viable product or enterprise.
That journey can involve years of research, laboratory experimentation, testing, validation, regulatory requirements, intellectual property protection, investment, and commercialisation.
A diverse portfolio of innovation
The diversity of ventures at CeBIOTECH reflects the broad scope of Uganda’s science and innovation agenda.
The CLARF, REPROVaD, and BIOMARKER ventures demonstrate the range of scientific work being pursued. At the same time, the Anti-Tick Vaccine Venture highlights efforts to address one of the persistent challenges affecting livestock production.
Rather than viewing the ventures as isolated projects, the visit highlighted the importance of building an ecosystem in which scientific discoveries can be nurtured into sustainable enterprises.
Such an ecosystem requires more than laboratory facilities. It depends on skilled human resources, research financing, modern infrastructure, regulatory support, partnerships, intellectual property management, manufacturing capacity, and market access.
Taking the fight against ticks beyond conventional control
One of the ventures presented to the Committee was the Tick Control Innovations Initiative Ltd.’s Anti-Tick Vaccine Venture, which is developing a vaccine aimed at controlling ticks and reducing the burden of tick-borne diseases in cattle.
Ticks and tick-borne diseases continue to present significant challenges to livestock production, affecting animal health and productivity and placing additional costs on farmers.
The development of an anti-tick vaccine represents an innovative approach to complement conventional tick-control measures and potentially provide farmers with an additional tool for managing the problem.
The inclusion of the venture among the STI-OP innovations showcased to Parliament demonstrates how scientific research can be directed towards challenges with direct implications for agriculture, livestock production and rural livelihoods.
For Uganda, the significance of such innovations lies not only in the scientific breakthrough itself, but also in the possibility of developing locally generated technologies that can eventually reach farmers and contribute to a more productive livestock sector.
The laboratories behind the innovations
A significant part of the Committee’s programme was the tour of CeBIOTECH’s laboratories. The tour offered members an opportunity to see the facilities where scientific investigations and activities supporting the various ventures are undertaken.
Behind every innovation that eventually reaches the market is a substantial amount of work that is rarely visible to the public: laboratory experiments, sample analysis, quality control, testing, documentation, and validation.
The laboratory visits therefore helped demonstrate that successful innovation requires sustained investment in scientific infrastructure and the people who operate it. For Uganda’s science ventures to mature into viable enterprises, maintaining and strengthening such infrastructure will remain critical.
Parliament and the science agenda
The engagement also highlighted the important role Parliament can play in creating an environment in which scientific innovations can thrive.
While researchers generate knowledge and innovators develop technologies, policy and public investment can determine whether promising innovations receive the support needed to progress.
The Parliamentary Science Committee’s interaction with the ventures therefore provided an opportunity to understand the realities of research and innovation. Such an engagement strengthened the connection between policymakers and scientists, ensuring that decisions concerning science, technology and innovation are informed by the practical experiences of those working within the sector.
A step towards an innovation-driven Uganda
The Parliamentary Committee on Science, Technology, and Innovation’s visit to CeBIOTECH comes at a time when Uganda continues to position science, technology, and innovation as central to national transformation. The ventures visited provide a glimpse into what this ambition can look like in practice; scientists working on locally relevant challenges, laboratories supporting research and development, and emerging enterprises seeking to convert scientific knowledge into usable solutions.
The visit also underscored the importance of sustained collaboration among government, Parliament, universities, research institutions, private-sector players and investors. For the innovators at CeBIOTECH, the engagement provided an opportunity to demonstrate progress, highlight the potential of their work and draw attention to the support required to move their innovations to the next level. For Parliament, it offered a closer look at the people, facilities, and scientific processes behind Uganda’s emerging innovation landscape.
Ultimately, the story unfolding at CeBIOTECH is not simply about laboratories or individual ventures. It is about Uganda’s capacity to generate its own solutions, build enterprises around scientific knowledge, and turn research investment into tangible national value.
As the country pursues a more knowledge-driven economy, the progress of ventures such as CLARF, SUBUNIT, the Anti-Vaccine Venture, RePROVaD, and BIOMARKER will be an important measure of how effectively Uganda can move from research to innovation, from innovation to enterprise, and from enterprise to impact.
Veterinary & Biosecurity
Makerere University’s School of Biosecurity, Biotechnical and Laboratory (SBLS) Welcomes New Students with a Strong Call to Excellence
Makerere University’s School of Biosecurity, Biotechnical and Laboratory (SBLS) at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) has ushered in a new academic year with a vibrant orientation for its undergraduate and postgraduate students. The school, which offers the Bachelor of Biomedical Laboratory Technology (BBLT) alongside several master’s and PhD programs, continues to position itself as a hub for training professionals in biosecurity, infectious disease management, and biotechnology.
In her address to the incoming class, Associate Prof. Claire Mack Mugasa, Dean of SBLS, congratulated students on making what she described as “one of the best decisions of your lives.” She emphasized that SBLS is a place where knowledge is transformed into solutions for society, and where laboratories serve as the cornerstone of discovery. Prof. Mugasa urged students to embrace active learning, discipline, and self-direction, reminding them that success at university is not accidental but the result of consistent effort and curiosity. She highlighted the importance of attendance, noting that students must participate in at least 70 percent of classes to qualify for examinations. “Your growth will depend on your determination to make the most of the opportunities before you,” she said, encouraging learners to see themselves as future leaders and agents of change.
The Dean’s message was echoed by other faculty and staff of the school, who stressed that SBLS offers both freedom and responsibility. Students were cautioned against passive learning and overreliance on social media, with lecturers emphasizing that the brain remembers what it works on, not what it hears. The orientation also underscored the employability of SBLS graduates, with alumni working across Uganda’s public and private sectors, including the army and police, as well as internationally.
With programs such as the Bachelor of Biomedical Laboratory Technology (BBLT) recognized as among the most employable in Uganda, the Dean concluded by urging students to seize the opportunity before them, add value to themselves and the country, and embrace the journey ahead with responsibility and determination.
The School Registrar, Dr. Zakumumpa reminded students to complete registration and clear pending requirements to avoid inconvenience. At the same time, Arthur Moses Opio from the Directorate of ICT advised on technical support for accessing university systems, many of which are now online.
Faculty leaders, including Dr. Philip Magambo, Dr. Kungu, and others emphasized that SBLS is not only a place of learning but also a platform for students to build competence, character, and connections that will serve them in their careers and beyond.
The orientation highlighted the laboratory as the cornerstone of investigation. William Kabasa Micross, Chief Lab Technologist at CoVAB, reminded students that while freedom exists in the learning environment, lack of concentration leads to weak grades and diminished opportunities. He stressed that organizations seek people of value, and success is within reach for those who commit themselves fully. Other faculty echoed this sentiment, urging students to embrace active learning, question concepts, and apply knowledge rather than relying on passive memorization. Dr. Luke Nkakarahuka underscored that the brain remembers what it works on, not what it hears, and encouraged students to cultivate small daily habits that build long-term success.
Speakers also addressed the importance of self-directed learning. Students were advised to read ahead, attend seminars, seek research opportunities, and take initiative in their academic journey. Online learning was presented as a powerful complement to traditional methods, with access to world-class professors and research databases enabling SBLS students to compete globally. The message was clear: success depends on personal responsibility, and no one can learn on a student’s behalf.
Beyond academics, the orientation emphasized holistic growth. Ibrahim Ntulume encouraged students to focus on the “three Cs”, namely competence, character, and connection, highlighting the role of social capital in university life. Joseph Kungu, representing Dr. Kankya Clovice, reminded students to embrace their chosen programs, even if they had initially hoped for human medicine, and urged them to become agents of change. Faculty members also shared success stories of alumni who excelled in BBLT and other programs, noting that graduates are employed across Uganda’s public and private sectors, including the army and police, and are making an impact globally.
The orientation concluded with a strong message of encouragement: SBLS offers the right environment, mentorship, and resources for students to excel, but success will depend on their effort, discipline, and commitment.
Veterinary & Biosecurity
Makerere University’s CoVAB Welcomes New BILB and BAP Students with Inspiring Orientation
Makerere University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) successfully conducted an orientation for incoming students of the Bachelor of Industrial Livestock Business (BILB) and Bachelor of Agribusiness and Production (BAP) programs. The event, held on August 6th, 2026, provided a comprehensive overview of the academic journey, career opportunities, and expectations awaiting the new cohort of the students under the Department of Livestock and Industrial Resources.
Warm Welcome from Leadership
Dr. Dorothy Nampanzira, Head of the Livestock Industrial Resources (LIR) Department, congratulated the incoming students and affirmed that they had made the right choice by joining CoVAB. “Whether this program was your first choice or not, you are in the right place,” she said. She reassured them that CoVAB provides a nurturing environment where every student can thrive academically and professionally. Dr. Nampanzira encouraged students to plan their lives well in order to maximize the opportunities available at Makerere University.
Program Insights
Dr. Sylivia Nalubwama, the BAP program coordinator described the program as “rich with opportunities,” noting that graduates can explore diverse employment avenues across agribusiness and livestock industries. She explained that classes run from Monday to Friday, with courses allocated to specific classrooms. Attendance is strictly monitored, and students must attend at least 70% of sessions to qualify for exams. “If you are already employed, make arrangements to balance work and study because attendance is key,” she cautioned.
For BILB, she highlighted that the program spans three years, each with two semesters. Students are expected to undertake four weeks of business attachment annually, ensuring they graduate with a tangible product or business idea. Knowledge areas include IT skills, research, innovation, livestock management, and processing.
Teaching and Learning Methods
Dr. Nalubwama emphasized that learning at Makerere goes beyond traditional classroom teaching. “Here, we don’t only teach in class. You will learn face-to-face, online, in labs, on farms, and in processing industries,” she explained. She added that group discussions, teamwork-based assignments, and continuous assessments through tests and quizzes will form a key part of the learning process.
Internships and Industry Exposure
Internships are mandatory, lasting eight weeks, and provide professional learning experiences in farms or firms. Students gain exposure to industry practices, value addition, and quality control. Supervision is conducted jointly by farm supervisors and academic staff, ensuring students apply classroom knowledge to real-world situations.
Career Opportunities and Guidance
Dr. Kizza, the BILB coordinator, highlighted the overlap between the two programs, offering students flexibility in career paths. He mentioned opportunities in dairy, poultry, and leather industries, with specialization choices available from the second year. “We need graduates who can create products, lead agribusiness enterprises, and support sustainable livestock value chains,” he said.
He outlined his role in academic advising, student support, quality assurance, and career development. He urged students to take responsibility for their academic progress, adhere to university policies, and build soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving qualities highly sought after by employers. “Employers today are looking for people with team skills, communication skills, and problem-solving skills. Build these over the three years,” he advised.
Dr. Kizza also reminded students to prioritize their health, utilize resources like the university library, and uphold the prestigious Makerere University brand.
Conclusion
The orientation set a strong foundation for BILB and BAP students, blending academic rigor with practical exposure. With clear guidance from coordinators and a focus on innovation, teamwork, and professionalism, students are poised to embark on a transformative journey that prepares them to thrive in Uganda’s agribusiness and livestock industries.
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