Business & Management
Makerere University to set up an agro-processing skilling hub in 2024
Makerere University in partnership with Promote Uganda Company Limited (PROUL) is set to establish an agro-processing skilling hub next year to expose students to agricultural machinery.
The hub that will be based at Makerere University main campus in Kampala will house agricultural machines that add value to agricultural products.
While unveiling the initiative on Thursday, November 23 during the opening day of the three-day 2nd Innovation and Agro-processing machine exhibition at Makerere University’s Freedom Square, Mr David Nsubuga, the Director for PROUL said many youths remain unemployed despite their academic qualifications and it is high time they embraced new technology to create more job opportunities for the graduates. He revealed that the university will be signing a memorandum of understanding with PROUL next week.
“On top of the courses students are studying, we are going to establish a skilling center where they can be exposed to the machines that add value to agricultural products. We believe that when they start buying and selling finished agricultural products, this, will start them on the journey of industrialists.” he noted
The Vice Chancellor, represented by his deputy Prof. Umar Kakumba, revealed that the university has student innovators who just need backup funds to transform the agricultural sector.
“They have innovated machinery that can do irrigation. We are partnering with Promote Uganda Limited to showcase some of the innovations and to be able to connect them to banks which can give them credit and be able to promote their machinery that they are producing including those that do a lot with production of finished goods.” He said in a message delivered by Prof Umar Kakumba, the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of academics.
Student innovators of agricultural machinery are those pursuing degree programmes related to bioprocessing engineering, water resources engineering, dealing with mechanical engineering and students of business management sciences among others.
The 2nd innovation and Agro-processing machine expo is a three day exhibition that will run from Thursday, November 23 to Saturday, November 25.
Prof Kakumba understands 80 percent of Makerere graduates fail to get formal employment and revealed the need to inject money in such innovations to harness surging number of unemployed youth flooding the streets of Kampala looking for what to do saying, “Every year, higher institutions of learning and tertiary institutions produce about 150,000 students and yet government job slots are around 30,000 only which is a great blow to students who want white collar jobs,” he added
Mr Steven Byantwale Tibeijuka, the Director Crop Protection in the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Fisheries and Industries who represented the minister for Agriculture, Mr Frank Tumwebaze pledged on behalf of the government to support the skilling hub that will be established at Makerere University next year.
“I ask the University to put it into writing and address the letter to the minister, the government cannot fail to give you funds once everything is ready,” he pledged
Dr Cathy Mbidde, the manager of the Makerere University Innovation hub said the hub was established in August 2022 under the office of the Vice Chancellor to commercialise the innovations from basically research that the university does and their main goal is to create awareness of the agro-processing machinery.
She added: “When you look at the current Uganda National Development Plan III government’s agenda goal one is agri-industrialisation. As the University, yes we do research and teach but how do we work with the private sector to achieve that goal. We have students who have done research and discovered nutritional values but they don’t have the machinery and access.”
She believes this expo will act as an eye opener to young innovators to team up and purchase the agricultural machinery they need to start up small companies and food processing enterprises while still at the university.
According to her, every year Makerere University graduates around 13,000 students and they can’t find jobs anywhere so there is a need to come up with financing models through financing companies, Non-governmental organisations, and the government to help them to get machinery on credit.
Promote Uganda limited is a company that produces agricultural machinery and their partnership with the university is to introduce the idea of using machines to add value to agricultural products.
When many students graduate, they fail to get formal employment, and end up going to Arab countries where many have lost their lives.
Mr Nsubuga wants the skilling training on operation of agricultural machinery to be added to the students’ courses.
The skilling center will help students to become entrepreneurs and know how to utilise raw materials that are readily available from agriculture to make value added products. The expo is a cross-cutting student exhibition.
Mr Anthony Akandwanaho, a student from Busitema University, said had come to exhibit a day and night dryer invented by his lecturer.
“The machine uses solar thermal during the day to dry the products which it collects directly from the sun and transpires the heat to the products for drying and solar energy during the night,” he said
He noted that this machine dries products from both animal and plant types including meat, chicken, fruits and vegetables. And the maximum drying time for products is 24 hours, for those with higher moisture content like pineapples. However, for products like meat, it dries them within eight hours.
“The unique beauty with it is that you collect the water from the product and can be used for domestic purposes.” Mr Akandwanaho explained
The student also exhibited a chicken de-feathering machine which is able to rip all feathers from the chicken. The mode of operation is that you slaughter the chicken and soak it in warm water for about one minute and transfer the chicken to the machines and in 15 seconds, the feathers are all removed. Its production rate is three chicken per minute.
Some of the exhibited machinery include a garden sprayer, a maize mill, grain grinder stainless, potato slicer, electric chips cutter, vacuum sealer, food dryer, bone Shaw, meat cutter among others.
Business & Management
EfD Researchers and Transport Sector Players Strategize on Promoting E-Mobility in Uganda
Kampala, December 4, 2024
Over 30 Stakeholders from Uganda’s transport and energy sectors convened at the Kolping Hotel, Kampala, for a workshop aimed at accelerating the adoption of electric mobility (e-mobility) as a strategy for reducing emissions and improving energy efficiency. Organized by the Environment for Development (EfD)-Mak Centre, the workshop brought together researchers, policymakers, transport operators and users, as well as  private sector players to address challenges and opportunities in Uganda’s e-mobility transition.
Promoting Energy Efficiency and Reduced Emissions
The workshop, led by Dr. Peter Babyenda, Policy Engagement Specialist  at EfD-Mak, centered on the theme “Energy Efficiency and Reduced Emissions in Uganda’s Transport Sector.” Dr. Babyenda highlighted the environmental and economic importance of transitioning to e-mobility, stating, “Transforming Uganda into a modern society as envisioned under Vision 2040 demands that we address the environmental challenges in the transport sector, a major carbon emitter.”
The agenda included discussions on the status of energy efficiency, the role of women in e-mobility, and strategies to promote the adoption of electric motorcycles and buses.
Rising Numbers and the E-Mobility Transition
According to survey findings by the EfD researchers, Uganda’s transport sector has seen an unprecedented rise in vehicle and motorcycle usage. The number of vehicles in the country has more than doubled, increasing from 739,036 in 2012 to 1,355,090 in 2018. Motorcycles have seen an even sharper increase, growing from 354,000 in 2010 to over one million by 2018. This growth has intensified emissions and air pollution, particularly in urban areas like Kampala, which was ranked the world’s fifth most polluted city in 2020.
Electric mobility is emerging as a viable solution. Over 400 electric motorcycles, introduced by private sector players such as Zembo, GOGO, and Spiro, are already on Uganda’s roads. These e-motorbikes offer cost savings on fuel and maintenance, zero emissions, and enhanced security. Dr. Babyenda described them as a step forward in reducing the sector’s environmental footprint, though he acknowledged the challenges of limited charging stations, counterfeit batteries, and insufficient awareness.
Government Policy and Infrastructure Development
Eng. David Birimumaso, Principal Energy Officer at the Ministry of Energy, detailed the government’s efforts to support e-mobility. These include developing charging infrastructure, establishing policies for electric vehicle adoption, and training technicians and operators.
“Transport contributes 16% of energy-related emissions,” said Eng. Birimumaso. “Through partnerships with private players like Zembo and Kiira Motors, we are promoting e-mobility by building charging stations and offering capacity-building programs for stakeholders. By 2030, we aim to ensure 100% electricity access, making e-mobility viable for all Ugandans.”
So far, the Ministry has piloted electric vehicle charging at Amber House in Kampala and supported the establishment of four charging stations along the Masaka Road corridor. These efforts are part of the broader energy policy, which emphasizes the transition to cleaner, more efficient energy sources.
Economic and Gender Inclusion in E-Mobility
The workshop also highlighted the importance of economic and gender inclusion in e-mobility. Dr. Babyenda noted that while women are increasingly involved, barriers such as cultural stigmas, inappropriate vehicle designs, and limited training opportunities persist.
“Encouraging women to take up roles as drivers and technicians in the e-mobility sector is essential for a holistic transition,” Dr. Babyenda remarked. Participants recommended vehicle redesigns to accommodate women and initiatives to encourage female participation in the sector.
Key Challenges and Recommendations
Despite the promise of e-mobility, several barriers hinder its widespread adoption in Uganda. One major challenge is the limited availability of charging stations and battery-swapping points, which restricts the operational range and convenience of electric vehicles. The prevalence of counterfeit batteries further undermines reliability, discouraging potential users. Additionally, the high upfront costs of electric vehicles and motorcycles present a significant financial barrier for many Ugandans. Insufficient public awareness and persistent misconceptions about e-mobility also contribute to slow adoption, highlighting the need for targeted education and sensitization campaigns.
To address these challenges, participants recommended expanding charging networks, introducing subsidies for electric vehicles, enforcing quality standards for batteries, and conducting nationwide sensitization campaigns. Hybrid vehicles were also suggested as a transitional solution to address range anxiety.
Workshop’s Relevance to National Goals
This workshop was part of the Inclusive Green Economy (IGE) program, a regional initiative funded by Sida through the University of Gothenburg, Sweden. Since its inception in 2020, the program has trained over 25 fellows across East Africa, focusing on green transitions and evidence-based policymaking.
The 2024 workshop theme aligns with Uganda’s Vision 2040 and the National Development Plan IV, which prioritize energy efficiency and emission reductions in the transport sector.
As the workshop concluded, stakeholders expressed optimism about Uganda’s e-mobility potential. Dr. Babyenda emphasized the importance of inclusivity, stating, “Achieving energy efficiency requires collective effort. We must involve everyone, from boda boda riders to policymakers, to ensure a successful transition to clean, efficient transport.”
With over 400 electric motorcycles on Uganda’s roads and a growing network of charging stations, the country is making strides in its journey toward sustainable mobility. However, much work remains to achieve widespread adoption and integration of e-mobility solutions. The workshop served as a vital platform for collaboration and innovation in this critical sector.
Jane Anyango is the Communication Officer at EfD Uganda
Business & Management
Public Investment Management Centre Concludes 4th Cohort Training on Financial Implications Guidelines
The Public Investment Management Centre of Excellence (PIMCoE), hosted by the College of Business and Management Sciences at Makerere University, successfully concluded the training of its 4th cohort of public officers on November 15, 2024. This capacity-building program focused on the User Acceptance Training on Guidelines for Clearance of Financial Implications, a critical process mandated by Section 76 of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA), 2015.
Under the PFMA, every bill presented to Parliament must include a Certificate of Financial Implications (CFI) issued by the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development (MoFPED). The preparation of the Statement of Financial Implications (SFI), which forms the basis for the CFI, is the responsibility of Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs). This statement provides detailed revenue and expenditure estimates and projected savings over a minimum of two years’ post-enactment.
Empowering MDAs with Essential Skills
The training sessions, which began last week and will continue into the following week, aim to equip MDAs with the skills required to prepare robust SFIs. These competencies are essential for MoFPED Budget Analysts to review and draft CFIs or Letters of Financial Clearance effectively.
The 4th cohort comprised officers from key institutions, including the Ministry of Lands, Ministry of Agriculture, National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA), Uganda Land Commission, Ministry of Local Government, National Agricultural Research Organization (NARO), and the Ministry of Kampala, among others.
A Step Toward Transparent and Accountable Governance
Speaking at the closing ceremony, Mr. Moses Sonko, Principal Economist at MoFPED, commended the initiative and acknowledged the value it brings to Uganda’s public policy and legislative processes. Representing the Permanent Secretary of MoFPED, Mr. Sonko highlighted the importance of the training in strengthening governance frameworks.
“This training was developed to equip us with tools and knowledge essential for our roles in ensuring that Uganda’s policy and legislative proposals are financially sound, transparent, and align with national priorities,” Mr. Sonko remarked. He encouraged participants to apply their newly acquired skills to enhance policy preparation and implementation.
He also emphasized the multi-dimensional nature of the training, which enables officers to identify the financial, social, environmental, and economic impacts of proposed bills and policies.
Participant Feedback
Participants expressed their enthusiasm and gratitude for the training. Mr. Davis Kwizera from the National Animal Genetic Resources Centre and Data Bank (NAGRC&DB) shared his positive experience, stating: “This training has offered a wealth of knowledge and an in-depth understanding of policy processes. It will significantly enhance our ability to prepare relevant policy documents. If you’ve taken the courses on Financial and Risk Analysis as well as Investment Appraisal and Risk Analysis, this program completes the package.”
The new guidelines for the clearance of financial implications will officially take effect in July 2025. PIMCoE remains committed to building the capacity of public officers to ensure that Uganda’s legislative and policy frameworks are underpinned by sound financial and risk analyses, fostering a culture of accountability and sustainable development.
For more updates on PIMCoE programs and upcoming training sessions, visit PIMCoE’s official website.
In a pivotal workshop held at Makerere University on November 12, stakeholders, researchers, and policymakers gathered to discuss the progress and emerging issues in the implementation of Uganda’s Parish Development Model (PDM). This transformative model, conceptualized by Prof. Ezra Suruma, aims to tackle some of Uganda’s most pressing socio-economic challenges: poverty, unemployment, and limited access to essential services, particularly in healthcare and agriculture.
Prof. Suruma, the architect of PDM, underscored the crucial role of researchers in creating wealth-empowering strategies for Ugandans. “The PDM is designed to eradicate poverty, promote economic inclusion, improve service delivery, and modernize agriculture,” Prof. Suruma stated. He highlighted that the model not only provides a pathway for Uganda’s rural households to participate in the economy but also aims to address the underlying issues that leave many citizens unable to afford basic needs.
The Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, commended Prof. Suruma’s visionary leadership and the significant impact PDM is expected to have on communities across Uganda. “The PDM stands as one of the largest government interventions aimed at eradicating poverty and uplifting communities,” he remarked. Prof. Nawangwe also emphasized Makerere University’s commitment to supporting PDM through the PDM Lab hosted by the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), which serves as a hub for real-time data analysis to guide the implementation of PDM activities across the country.
The PDM Lab at CoBAMS, led by Prof. Eria Hisali and funded by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), is instrumental in collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data that can shape PDM policies at the grassroots level. During the workshop, Dr. Suruma extended his appreciation to UNDP for their support and acknowledged the researchers for their efforts in generating valuable insights into the effectiveness of PDM.
Despite Uganda’s notable economic growth in recent years, poverty remains a persistent challenge, with a significant portion of the population struggling to meet basic needs. Unemployment rates, especially among youth, are high, limiting economic opportunities for the country’s largest demographic. Access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas, is another critical issue, with many Ugandans unable to afford or reach essential medical services. These challenges underscore the need for initiatives like the PDM that are designed to create sustainable economic opportunities, improve household incomes, and ensure equitable access to services.
“PDM seeks to empower households to create wealth, ultimately reducing dependence on subsistence farming and encouraging local economic development,” Prof. Suruma emphasized. He believes that the model’s holistic approach will foster greater self-sufficiency among Uganda’s communities by addressing poverty from multiple angles, including agricultural modernization, financial literacy, and service accessibility.
As the workshop concluded, participants expressed optimism about PDM’s potential to drive sustainable change. Prof. Nawangwe reiterated Makerere University’s dedication to supporting this national initiative, affirming that the PDM Lab will continue to play a key role in assessing and enhancing the model’s effectiveness.
The Parish Development Model offers a beacon of hope for millions of Ugandans striving for a better quality of life, aligning with Uganda’s broader aspirations for economic growth, social equity, and sustainable development.
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