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Agriculture & Environment

RUFORUM Newsletter 19th AGM Yaounde, Cameroon

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This year, RUFORUM marks 19 years as an apex network for advancing agricultural higher and tertiary education in Africa. It is a milestone in the history of the organization as it progresses in its new journey as an adult organization. Incidentally, this 19th Annual General Meeting (AGM) having in its side-lines scientific conference and side meetings is also the first time a meeting of this magnitude and scope has been held in Central Africa. The AGM, has been hosted by the Government and People of Cameroon. The RUFORUM network and partners are grateful for the patronage of His Excellency Paul Biya, the President and Head of State and the entire Government machinery who have made the 19th AGM successful. Thank you, Merci beaucoup.

During the AGM, a number of African Governments and key African and global institutions together with the RUFORUM network were involved. The African Governments included Benin, Cameroon, Chad, Ghana, Lesotho, Liberia, Malawi, Uganda, Zambia and Zimbabwe. The meeting also involved apex continental and global organizations, such as African Union Commission, the African Development Bank, The European Union, and The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. Education and research agencies, such as, The Inter-University Council for East Africa, Forum for Agricultural Research in Africa, African Forum for Agricultural Advisory Services, Sub-regional Research Organizations – ASARECA, CORAF-WECARD, CCARDESA, AgriNATURA, and One CGIAR, and key R&D programs (WACREN, AICCRA, IOFS, AWARD), also participated in various sessions.

The theme of the conference was “Transforming Higher Education to Sustainably Feed and Create Prosperity for Africa.” This theme was informed by:

First: Africa must become food secure. It must be an equal opportunity employer especially for its young population, being the youngest continent on the globe. It must also create wealth for its peoples, and unlock opportunity for the present and future posterity. These aspirations are summarized in Agenda 2063, and it is our collective duty to turn such key strategies and visions into actions and investments.

Second: Annually our continent generates 10-12 million new job entrants, but the African’s economy can only generate currently about 3 million jobs. We must therefore escalate and or rethink how we conduct training and skilling of our young people. Of importance is the need to address the issue of inclusion. Africa may not reap a demographic dividend, unless it delays the exit of young girls from education to motherhood, a process called demographic transition. Asia achieved its demographic transitions relatively earlier than Africa and has been able to make progress. Accordingly, we are working to increase our gender programming as a network, with an increase in gender inclusion and targeting to benefit more young women and girls. It is important to note that the women of Africa feed the continent and therefore need all our support to benefit themselves, their families and our continent. I invite you all to join us in this journey.

Third: Africa’s higher degree needs, especially doctoral degrees are dire. It is estimated that Africa must graduate 100,000 PhDs over a decade. Yet India with a similar population as Africa, 1.4 billion, graduates 24,000 PhDs annually compared to the projected 10,000 PhDs a year for Africa. We must therefore intensify postgraduate education to improve our scientists per million ratio, which is one of the lowest in the world. Africa’s low science human capital capability therefore affects its science agenda, discovery-to-delivery ecosystem functions, and must be remedied in earnest.

Fourth: Partnerships – Early this year, an Action Plan for engaging Apex Organizations for Education- RUFORUM, Research- FARA and the SROs- CORAF, ASARECA, CCADESSA, International research-One CGIAR and the Extension and advisory services – AFAAS was launched. It is a collective duty of all these apex organizations to leverage each other’s niches and comparative advantage to make agriculture work for Africa.

The RUFORUM network is grateful for the invaluable sacrifices, investments and hard work by its Cameroon member Universities, who through the stellar leadership of the RUFORUM Board Chair, Prof. Theresia Nkuo- Akenji, Vice Chancellor, University of Bamenda, who closely working with the other Rectors and Vice Chancellors in Cameroon, Prof. Horace Manga Ngomo, Rector, University of Buea, Prof. Idrissou Alioum, Rector, University of Maroua, Prof. Roger Tsafack Nanfosso, Rector, University of Dschang, and Prof Mamoudou Abdul Moumini Rector, University of Ngaoundere have made this 19th AGM happen. Thank you. We deeply thank the immediate past Vice Chancellor, University of Ngaoundere Prof. Florence Uphie Chinje who played a major role in hosting this AGM.

To the entire local organizing committee, RUFORUM Staff, partners and Governments who all tirelessly work to deliver a great meeting. Merci beaucoup.

The guidance and leadership provided by RUFORUM Member Universities Vice Chancellors and Rectors, Board Members, Principals and Deans, Academics and Students is highly commendable and speaks of a network that remains laser focused in making agriculture work for Africa.

Thank you everyone for making the 19th AGM and conference a success. God bless you all, and God bless Africa!

Professor Patrick Okori
EXECUTIVE SECRETARY

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Agriculture & Environment

MUARIK Main Gate Gets a Facelift

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CAES staff at the refurbished main gate at MUARIK. The gate was officially commissioned by the Vice Chancellor, represented by the DVCAA, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi on 30th May 2025. College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) refurbishment of Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK) Main Gate by students from both CAES and the College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology (CEDAT), official opening, 30th May 2025, Wakiso Uganda, East Africa.

Refurbished gate to boost the institute’s aesthetics, security, accessibility, and sustainability

Makerere University College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) has completed the refurbishment of the main gate at the Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK). The renovation was carried out by students from both CAES and the College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology (CEDAT), under the supervision of their academic mentors.

According to the Principal of CAES, Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga, the revamped gate now truly reflects the spirit of Makerere University and will significantly enhance the institute’s visual appeal, security, accessibility, and sustainability. The refurbished gate was officially commissioned by the Vice Chancellor, represented by the First Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi. The ceremony was attended by the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Finance and Administration, Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, alongside CAES staff, students, and partners.

The DVCAA, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi commissioning the refurbished gate. College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) refurbishment of Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK) Main Gate by students from both CAES and the College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology (CEDAT), official opening, 30th May 2025, Wakiso Uganda, East Africa.
The DVCAA, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi commissioning the refurbished gate.

About MUARIK

Established in 1953, MUARIK serves as a hub for numerous research projects and facilities within CAES. It houses centres such as the Makerere University Regional Centre for Crop Improvement (MaRCCI), the Makerere University Centre for Soybean Improvement and Development (MakCSID), the Continuing Agricultural Education Centre (CAEC), the Centre of Excellence in Waste Management, and the Consortium for Enhancing University Responsiveness to Agribusiness Development (CURAD).

Additionally, MUARIK hosts KOICA-funded projects, including a modern layers production unit and a climate-controlled greenhouse for vegetable production. These units operate independently but collectively contribute to MUARIK’s dynamic research environment.

The team touring facilities at MUARIK. College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) refurbishment of Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK) Main Gate by students from both CAES and the College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology (CEDAT), official opening, 30th May 2025, Wakiso Uganda, East Africa.
The team touring facilities at MUARIK.

MUARIK also houses research units for the School of Agricultural Sciences (SAS) such as the Biotechnology and Tissue Culture Laboratories, experimental fields, Horticulture and Livestock Units, and the black soldier fly project. It accommodates training and research facilities for the Schools of Food Technology, Nutrition, Bioengineering, and the School of Forestry, Environmental, and Geographical Sciences. It also hosts hostels for both local and international students who stay at the Institute to gain practical experience in production and research under typical farming conditions.

Enterprises and Research at MUARIK

Enterprises at MUARIK include approximately 100 acres of pastures, a dairy farm, feed mill, silage production, poultry unit, piggery unit, banana and coffee plantations, maize and soybean crops, horticulture, goat farming, and the recently revived rabbit unit featuring four breeds: New Zealand White, Chinchilla, California White, and Flemish Giant.

Prof. Richard Edema explaining to the team how the Rover operates, highlighting its key components, functionality, and the technology behind its movement and data collection capabilities. College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) refurbishment of Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK) Main Gate by students from both CAES and the College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology (CEDAT), official opening, 30th May 2025, Wakiso Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Richard Edema explaining to the team how the Rover operates, highlighting its key components, functionality, and the technology behind its movement and data collection capabilities.

Current research initiatives focus on edible insects and worms as alternative livestock feeds, agroforestry, horticulture, and value addition in food processing. MUARIK maintains a strong partnership with the Uganda Flowers Exporters Association (UFEA), collaborating on the commercial testing of new flower species to diversify Uganda’s flower exports beyond traditional rose bouquets. Collaborative efforts also include identifying native natural enemies to control Chrysanthemum pests, working with UFEA, Wageningen University, breeders, and the National Agricultural Research Organization.

As part of Uganda’s National Agricultural Research System (NARS), MUARIK prioritizes research in biotechnology, tissue culture, plant breeding, improved farming methods, agro-processing, value addition, and marketing.

Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi delivering his remarks. College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) refurbishment of Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK) Main Gate by students from both CAES and the College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology (CEDAT), official opening, 30th May 2025, Wakiso Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi delivering his remarks.

Tour to Assess the Capacity and Condition of Facilities at MUARIK 

 As part of the commissioning ceremony, the Principal of CAES, Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga, led visitors on a comprehensive tour of the Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute, Kabanyolo (MUARIK). The purpose of the tour was to provide first-hand insight into the institute’s current infrastructure, operational capacity, and ongoing challenges.

During the visit, Prof. Nabanoga highlighted both the strengths and limitations of the institute. While the tour showcased MUARIK’s potential as a hub for agricultural research and innovation, it also brought to light a number of critical issues affecting its functionality. Chief among these is the persistent challenge of land encroachment, which continues to threaten the integrity and sustainability of the institute’s operations.

Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi appreciating some of the students who did the refurbishment. College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) refurbishment of Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK) Main Gate by students from both CAES and the College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology (CEDAT), official opening, 30th May 2025, Wakiso Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi appreciating some of the students who did the refurbishment.

In her remarks, Prof. Nabanoga commended Dr. Cyrus Ongom, the outgoing Director of MUARIK, for his unwavering dedication to safeguarding the institution’s land. She acknowledged his resolute efforts in the face of persistent threats and numerous challenges, emphasizing the vital role he played in preserving MUARIK’s integrity. “This year, we aim to further reposition MUARIK as a leading centre for agricultural innovation and production in the region,”said Prof. Nabanoga. “Our focus will be on strengthening research, fostering partnerships with stakeholders, and enhancing the capacity of our infrastructure to support sustainable and impactful agricultural practices.”

The Principal expressed gratitude to all who have supported the transformation journey of CAES. “As we celebrate our achievements today, we take this moment to recognize and honour everyone who has been part of our transformation journey,” the Principal said. “We are especially grateful to the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe for his unwavering support, which has been instrumental in driving the College forward.”

The Principal of CAES expressed gratitude to all who have supported the transformation journey of the College. College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) refurbishment of Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK) Main Gate by students from both CAES and the College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology (CEDAT), official opening, 30th May 2025, Wakiso Uganda, East Africa.
The Principal of CAES expressed gratitude to all who have supported the transformation journey of the College.

Delivering his remarks, the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs (DVCAA), Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi, commended the CAES for its remarkable achievements in training and research.

“From my assessment, CAES has consistently excelled across its core mandates – training, research, production, and community outreach. The College has played a crucial role in advancing the agricultural sector through innovative research, high-quality academic programmes, and meaningful community engagement. These efforts have made a significant contribution to Uganda’s national development goals and the transformation of its agricultural landscape. Given its demonstrated success and strategic relevance, CAES is highly deserving of enhanced investment and funding to further expand its impact,” he stated.

Some of the CAES staff at the Annual College Awards and Recognition ceremony held on the same day at MUARIK. College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) refurbishment of Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK) Main Gate by students from both CAES and the College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology (CEDAT), official opening, 30th May 2025, Wakiso Uganda, East Africa.
Some of the CAES staff at the Annual College Awards and Recognition ceremony held on the same day at MUARIK.

CAES Annual Awards and Staff Recognition Ceremony

The CAES Annual Awards and Staff Recognition Ceremony celebrated the outstanding achievements of dedicated teaching, administrative, and support staff. During this special event, several members of staff were acknowledged and honoured for their exceptional performance, commitment, and contributions to the College’s success.

Commenting on the significance of the awards, Prof. Buyinza praised the initiative, emphasizing that such recognition serves as a powerful motivator. He highlighted how acknowledging excellence not only boosts morale but also inspires continued dedication and fosters a culture of high performance.

Members of staff recognized for their exceptional performance. College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) refurbishment of Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK) Main Gate by students from both CAES and the College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology (CEDAT), official opening, 30th May 2025, Wakiso Uganda, East Africa.
Members of staff recognized for their exceptional performance.

Click on the link below to access the list of staff recognized for exceptional performance.

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1GyG0EMYTztaX1-6I5IS6dmJDxRYdHyeU/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=115148742368110346662&rtpof=true&sd=true

More pictures from the event

Members of staff recognized for their exceptional performance. College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) refurbishment of Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK) Main Gate by students from both CAES and the College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology (CEDAT), official opening, 30th May 2025, Wakiso Uganda, East Africa.

Members of staff recognized for their exceptional performance. College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) refurbishment of Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK) Main Gate by students from both CAES and the College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology (CEDAT), official opening, 30th May 2025, Wakiso Uganda, East Africa.

CAES staff led by the DVCAA and the Principal cutting cake in celebration of the achievements. College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) refurbishment of Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK) Main Gate by students from both CAES and the College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology (CEDAT), official opening, 30th May 2025, Wakiso Uganda, East Africa.
CAES staff led by the DVCAA and the Principal cutting cake in celebration of the achievements.

CAES staff led by the DVCAA and the Principal serve the meal. College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) refurbishment of Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK) Main Gate by students from both CAES and the College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology (CEDAT), official opening, 30th May 2025, Wakiso Uganda, East Africa.

CAES staff together with the Principal and the DVCAA and DVCFA after touring the facilities at MUARIK. College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) refurbishment of Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK) Main Gate by students from both CAES and the College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology (CEDAT), official opening, 30th May 2025, Wakiso Uganda, East Africa.
CAES staff together with the Principal and the DVCAA and DVCFA after touring the facilities at MUARIK.

Hasifa Kabejja

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Agriculture & Environment

CAES Annual Report 2024

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Cover page of the CAES Annual Report 2024. College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga

It is with profound pride, reflection, and vision that I present the 2024 Annual Report for the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) at Makerere University. This report is more than a summary of the milestones in 2024 – it is a powerful testament to what is possible when a dedicated academic community rallies behind a common purpose. It encapsulates the collective effort, ingenuity, and resilience of our faculty, researchers, administrators, technical teams, students, alumni, and partners – each of whom has contributed meaningfully to advancing our threefold mandate: Teaching and Learning, Research and Innovation, and Knowledge and Technology Transfer Partnerships.

Throughout 2024, we deepened our resolve to nurture not only competent graduates, but also purpose-driven leaders capable of shaping the future of agriculture, environmental stewardship, and food systems across Uganda, Africa, and beyond. Through transformative curricula, cutting-edge facilities, and a strong commitment to STEM-based experiential learning, CAES continues to empower a new generation of innovators – technically sound, ethically grounded, and globally aware.  

Our academic programs continued to evolve in both quality and relevance. We offered 48 academic programs—including 15 undergraduate, 19 masters, 11 PhD, and 3 postgraduate diploma programs. A total of 2,339 students were enrolled in 2024, with 60% of undergraduate learning delivered through hands-on, field-based instruction. At the 74th graduation ceremony, 638 students graduated, including 20 PhDs, 104 masters, and 511 bachelor’s degree recipients. Notably, we celebrated 25 first-class graduates who represent academic excellence across disciplines.

Through over 100 partnerships, we translated knowledge into impact. Initiatives like CURAD, FTBIC, and MaRCCI empowered communities in agribusiness, food safety, and climate resilience.

I thank our entire community for your commitment and collaboration. Together, we are not only advancing knowledge but shaping sustainable futures across Uganda and beyond.

Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga
Principal, CAES

Follow the link below to access the full report;

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1nNsX8Cohq7whbC9zkd3j4DpBRa7kygDP/view

Hasifa Kabejja

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Agriculture & Environment

Climate Resilience and Sustainability Collaborative: 30 Masters, 6 PhD Scholarships 2025/2026

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Some of the 19 PhD graduates from CAES at the 75th graduation ceremony. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 5, CAES, CEDAT and CHUSS. 17th January 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Makerere University is pleased to announce 30 Masters’ and 6 PhD Scholarships for students joining Makerere University (Main Campus) for Academic Year 2025/2026. An applicant must belong to one of the following categories: Persons with Disabilities, Internally Displaced young people, Refugees, other Ugandan National with financial constraints, and, youth from other African countries.

ELIGIBILITY

For Master’s Applicants

  1. The applicant must have applied for admission to Makerere University‘s main campus for the academic year 2025/2026.
  2. The Applicant must have completed their undergraduate education in an African country.
  3. The Applicant should be experiencing financial hardships to pursue higher Education.
  4. The Applicant should not be a holder of any other scholarship.
  5. The Applicant should not be pursuing or have completed any Master’s degree studies.
  6. The applicant should have engaged in leadership responsibilities and/ or community service.
  7. The Applicant should not be over 30 years at the application deadline.
  8. Applicants in the Refugee and Students with Disabilities categories should be under 40 years at the application deadline.
  9. A refugee applicant MUST hold a Refugee Identity card or Family Attestation.
  10. The applicant should have applied for any of these degree programs MSc. in Soil Science and Agrology, MSc. in Crop Science, MSc. in Environment and Natural Resources Management, M.A. in Economic Policy and Planning, MSc. in Agricultural Engineering.
  11. The Applicant should have an interest in research, innovation and entrepreneurship in climate resilience and sustainability, and committed to complete the degree in 2 years.

For PhD Applicants

  1. The applicant must have applied for admission to Makerere University‘s main campus for the academic year 2025/2026.
  2. The applicant must have completed their undergraduate education in an African country.
  3. The applicant should be experiencing financial hardships to pursue higher Education.
  4. The applicant should not be a holder of any other scholarship.
  5. The applicant should not be pursuing or have completed any PhD degree studies.
  6. The applicant should have engaged in leadership responsibilities and/ or community service.
  7. The applicant should not be over 35 years at the application deadline.
  8. The applicants in the Refugee and Students with Disabilities categories should be under 45 years at the application deadline.
  9. A refugee applicant MUST hold a Refugee Identity card or Family Attestation.
  10. The applicant should have an interest in research, innovation and entrepreneurship in climate resilience and sustainability, and committed to complete the degree in time.
  11. The prioritised research themes are indicated in the application form.

SUBMISSION DEADLINE: Friday, 6 June 2025 at 11:59 PM EAT.

Access and complete the Application Form at NO COST through the online application portal https://apply.caes.mak.ac.ug/

MORE INFORMATION:

Tel: +256-744-773-237
Email: climateresilience@mak.ac.ug

Mak Editor

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