General
Citation for Hon. Betty Oyella Bigombe’s Award of Doctor of Laws, Honoris Causa of Makerere University
I. Overview
Hon. Betty Oyella Bigombe is a lady of outstanding achievements. She has made great contribution to Uganda, the Eastern Africa region and the international community with respect to conflict prevention, peacemaking, peacekeeping, peace building and post-conflict reconstruction. Her contribution facilitated reduction of state fragility, political violence, and also contributed to social-economic growth and development.
II. Biography
Hon. Betty Oyella Bigombe was born on 21st October 1954 in Acholi land, Northern Uganda (Amuru District today). She is one of eleven children in her family. Her education is as follows: Gayaza High School; O-level which she completed in 1968; Trinity College Nabbingo, A-level, 1970. Makerere University, Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences 1974.; the Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts (U.S.A) Master of Public Administration. Her rise to prominence is largely attributed to her upbringing, educational background and performance.
III. Career
Earlier in her career, Hon. Betty Bigombe served as a Company Secretary to the Uganda Mining Corporation (1981-1984) and later as Project Manager with the African Development Bank (1984-1986). She became a Member of the Parliament of Uganda representing Kilak County, Gulu district from 1986 to 1996. In 1988 she was appointed State Minister for Northern Uganda in the Office of the Prime Minster, and spearheaded efforts aimed at the pacification of north and northeastern Uganda. From 1997 to 2006, Hon. Bigombe worked as a Senior Social Development Specialist and Social Scientist with the World Bank Group, and was a Senior Fellow at the Institute of Peace in Washington D.C (2006-2008). Hon. Bigombe later returned to Uganda, serving as the Woman Member of Parliament for Amuru District and State Minister for Water Resources (2011-2014). In 2021, she was appointed Uganda’s Ambassador to Malaysia. She is a member of the Women Mediators across the Commonwealth, a network of women with interest and expertise in mediation.
IV. Contribution to Peace and Post-Conflict Settlement in Uganda
As Member of Parliament, Hon. Bigombe established relationships which facilitated delivery of humanitarian assistance in the camps.
She initiated programs for educating youths on the dangers of war, supported former child soldiers’ reintegration after combat, and formed social support groups in northern Uganda. As the Minister of State for Pacification in Northern Uganda, Hon. Bigombe initiated contact with Joseph Kony in 1993. Her efforts led to face-to-face negotiations between the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) leaders, and Ugandan government officials, known as the “Bigombe talks,”. which garnered global interest. Her diplomatic skills and commitment to peace resulted in the ratification of an amnesty law which encouraged ten thousand rebels to participate in the negotiations between government and the LRA. Hon. Bigombe was honored as Uganda’s Woman of the Year in 1994.
The initial peace talks between the LRA leader and the government collapsed. However, in 2004 in the wake of the brutal Barlonyo massacre, Hon. Bigombe felt compelled to leave the World Bank, to return to Uganda to, initiate a second wave of LRA peace negotiations, where she was the chief mediator. Her efforts laid a foundation upon which the Juba Peace Talks mediated by the Government of Southern Sudan were successfully conducted, except for the final moment of signing the Peace Agreement which the LRA leader refused to honor.
Despite hiccups, Hon. Bigombe’s efforts contributed to silencing of the guns, return of Internally Displaced peoples home to rebuild their lives and communities. Considering the intensity of the armed conflict in northern Uganda, Hon. Betty Bigombe courageously faced serious risks to her life. Her efforts were recognized by the community in northern Uganda who endearingly call her “Atuku” in Acholi (for beautiful/precious woman).
V. Contribution to Peace and Post-conflict reconstruction in the Great Lakes Region
Hon. Betty Bigombe has spear headed conflict resolution within the region and emphasized the significant role of women and community members in peacebuilding. She contributed to fostering peace between the government of Uganda and Sudan through the work of the Carter Center in the years 1999 and 2000.
Following the signing of the Revitalised Peace Agreement, Hon. Bigombe mediated the unification of the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement/Army as well as conducting back door negotiations with some stake holders in order to ensure that the Revitalised Peace Agreement of 2018 is implemented in an inclusive manner.
Currently, Hon. Bigombe serves as Special Envoy for the President of Uganda to the Parties to the Revitalized Agreement of Resolution of the Conflict on South Sudan. She played a crucial role in bringing President Salva Kiir and First Vice President Riek Machar together, to resolve pending issues necessary for moving forward and firming the peace process in South Sudan.
VI. Contribution to Peace and Post-conflict reconstruction at the Global level
Hon. Betty Bigombe served as a Commissioner for the Women’s Refugee Commission (2008-2014), led election observer missions in Zimbabwe and Rwanda, and continues to serve as a member of the Commission’s Leadership Program Advisory Board.
She also worked on peace-building efforts in Sri Lanka, as part of a team of mediators involved in negotiations between the Sri Lankan government and the Tamil Tigers rebel group in the early 2000s. Even though the peace talks ultimately did not succeed, Hon. Bigombe’s efforts were recognized as instrumental in bringing the two sides together. She was a visiting scholar at John Hopkins, School of Advanced International Studies, Washington DC (2008-2009), where she shared her vast experience on mediation. As the Senior Director for Fragility, Conflict, and Violence at the World Bank (2014-2017), she steered the World Bank Group’s agenda in ensuring country strategies, projects, and programs are consistent with and complementary to organizational goals of reducing poverty and promoting shared prosperity.
VII. Conclusion
Hon. Betty Oyella Bigombe is outstanding and has demonstrated resilience with an unwavering commitment to peace and diplomacy in Uganda, the Great Lakes region and the world. Makerere University is proud and honored to award Hon. Betty Oyella Bigombe the Doctor of Laws, Honoris Causa of Makerere University, and all the rights, duties and privileges pertaining thereto.
Orator: Assoc. Prof. Rose Nakayi, School of Law
On Wednesday 16th July 2025, Makerere University lost one of its most cherished sons, Professor Livingstone Sserwadda Luboobi. Described as a mathematician, academic leader, and humble servant, Professor Luboobi devoted more than five decades to the university, rising through the ranks to become Vice Chancellor, and leaving a legacy defined by simplicity, service, and scholarship.
Born to Lameka Serwadda and Sanyu Serwadda on 25th December 1944 in Mitondo, Kalisizo, Kyotera District, Professor Luboobi’s academic career begun as a third-year student at Makerere and continued with unwavering loyalty until his passing. His life’s work reflected not only a commitment to mathematics but also nurturing generations of scholars and leaders across Uganda and beyond.
A funeral service was held in his honour at St. Francis Chapel, Makerere University on 18th July 2025. It was a moment of solemn remembrance and heartfelt tribute. Rev. Canon Dr. John Senyonyi delivered the sermon titled “Only God Knows,” reminding mourners of the mystery and grace of life’s journey. Rev. Canon Geoffrey Byarugaba represented the Kampala Diocese at the service, while former St. Francis Chaplain, Rev. Dr. Canon Johnson Ebong thanked Professor Luboobi for spearheading the Chapel’s expansion. Friends, colleagues, and family members filled the chapel, joined in mourning but also in gratitude for a life that had deeply touched theirs.
Mrs. Lorna Magara, Chairperson of the University Council, spoke movingly about Professor Luboobi’s faithfulness, likening his life to the biblical call in Mark 10:43, “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant.”
In his condolence message, the Vice Chancellor, Professor Barnabas Nawangwe, hailed Professor Luboobi as a visionary leader whose legacy is deeply woven into Makerere’s identity as a research-led institution. He credited Professor Luboobi with laying the groundwork for a culture of inquiry—championing graduate programmes, encouraging doctoral training, and fostering international collaborations that strengthened the university’s research profile. “He believed in building systems, not just structures,” noting that many of Makerere’s current research policies stem from his leadership. Even in retirement, Professor Luboobi remained a source of wisdom and guidance, quietly shaping the future of the university he so deeply loved.
Speaker after speaker painted a portrait of a man who led not by pomp, but by quiet strength and deep conviction. The Principal, Professor Winston Tumps Ireeta, speaking on behalf of the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), described Professor Luboobi as a foundational figure whose influence is deeply etched in the structures and spirit of the college. He spoke with emotion about Luboobi’s unwavering commitment to academic integrity and his belief in the power of mentorship.
“He was not just a mathematician,” Professor Ireeta said, “he was a visionary who understood the soul of the university. Even in retirement, he remained an advisor, a guide, and a quiet force of wisdom.” He concluded by saying that the college would continue to draw from his example as it navigates the future of science and innovation in Uganda.
Professor Luboobi’s illustrious career at Makerere University included serving as Head, Department of Mathematics from 1990 to 1991. The current Head of Department, Dr. Ismail Mirumbe remembered him as a pillar in the teaching and development of mathematics in Uganda
Professor John Mango, who served as Head, Department of Mathematics during Professor Luboobi’s term as Vice Chancellor from 2004 to 2009 described him as a towering figure of integrity and principle, someone who not only upheld the highest standards of academic conduct but insisted that others around him do the same. “He was a pillar in the department,” Prof. Mango remarked, “and his moral compass was unwavering.”
He recalled instances where Professor Luboobi made firm decisions, including terminating contracts when integrity was compromised, setting a tone that shaped the department’s reputation for honesty and excellence. Even as Vice Chancellor, he remained deeply involved in the department’s affairs, teaching, supervising students, all the while handling top administrative duties punctually. Prof. Mango spoke with great admiration of a man who led by example, mentored many, and whose contributions to mathematics education, research, and policy-making continue to shape the future of the discipline in Uganda and beyond.
According to an article from 1990 written by Dr. Vincent Ssembatya and Andrew Vince at the University of Florida, the Uganda Mathematical Society (UMS), which was formally established on 25th November, 1972 has since inception enjoyed major support from Makerere University and Kyambogo University in terms of infrastructure and leadership. Professor Paul Mugambi, who was also present at Professor Luboobi’s funeral service was elected first president of the UMS. Dr. Saul Nsubuga from the Department of Mathematics represented UMS at the service, honouring Professor Luboobi’s pioneering role in the discipline.
The service also featured tributes from close friends and family. Loved ones shared stories of a man who remained grounded no matter how high he rose, a man who valued relationships and walked closely with his faith. His children and grandchildren remembered him as a father who was ever-present, a listener, and a source of steady guidance.
Professor Daniel Kibuule, son of the late Professor Luboobi and Dean, Faculty of Health Sciences at Busitema University, delivered a deeply personal tribute that painted a full portrait of his father’s life, values, and final days. He expressed gratitude to the University leadership, family, friends, and medical professionals who stood with them during a challenging period. He particularly thanked his siblings, Dr. David Kimera and Dr. Irene Nakiyimba for their unwavering role in caring for Professor Luboobi through illness.
He spoke of a man who, despite great academic accolades, remained deeply humble and committed to discipline, simplicity, and faith. From instilling punctuality and responsibility to ensuring his children charted their own paths, none bearing his surname “Luboobi”, Prof. Luboobi was intentional in every lesson he passed on. Kibuule recalled his father’s insistence on being at home even in his final moments, his strong connection to Christ, and his quiet strength despite his failing health.
Former students and mentees echoed the same sentiments, of a teacher who was generous with his time and invested deeply in others’ growth. The community that gathered was not only there to grieve but to celebrate the quiet legacy of a man whose example continues to live on.
Among the mourners were public figures and leaders, including Hon. Abed Bwanika, Member of Parliament for Kimanya-Kabonera, Hon. Nyombi Thembo, the Executive Director Uganda Communications Commission, and Hon. Dr. Ham-Mukasa Mulira, former Minister of ICT, among others.
In his passing, Makerere University has lost a pillar, but his life reminds us that greatness lies in consistency, in humility, and in service to others. Professor Luboobi’s memory will continue to live on in the minds he shaped, the systems he built, and the values he embodied. He ran his race with grace.
The Writer is a Volunteer in the Public Relations Office, Makerere University
Please click the embedded video below to view the service livestream
Legal and accounting officers from public universities across Uganda have convened, for a high-level training workshop organized by Makerere University. The three-day training, taking place from July 16th to 18th, 2025, is aimed at strengthening legal frameworks, improving institutional governance, and ensuring compliance with public finance and procurement laws within higher education institutions.
Ms. Lorna Magara, Chairperson of the Makerere University Council and Guest of Honour at the opening session, commended the initiative as timely and necessary. She addressed the growing backlog of court cases affecting Makerere and other public universities and outlined measures already taken to mitigate legal risks. These include the establishment of a Legal Rules and Privileges Committee and the Directorate of Legal Affairs, part of a broader strategy to improve legal compliance and foster good governance.
Representing the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Winston Tumps – Ag. Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration), described the training as both strategic and practical. “It is imperative that we learn from each other, especially in how we handle employee litigation and institutional legal risks,” he remarked. He added that the program is designed to promote experience-sharing across universities and enhance collective institutional growth.
In his address, Mr. Yusuf Kiranda, University Secretary at Makerere University, emphasized the urgent need for robust legal oversight and more effective case management mechanisms within public universities.
The training featured a keynote address by the Attorney General of Uganda, Hon. Kiryowa Kiwanuka, who provided critical insights into legal expectations for public institutions. He warned that failure to heed legal advice could result in personal liability for accounting officers, citing a precedent involving the Uganda Cancer Institute. “Universities must consult the Attorney General’s chambers before entering into major contractual obligations,” he advised, urging legal officers to document decisions meticulously as proper record-keeping forms the first line of defense in legal disputes.
Hon. Kiwanuka further discussed the government’s ongoing efforts to recentralize legal services to ensure alignment with the Attorney General’s office. He cautioned in-house counsel against becoming overly entangled in decision-making processes, stressing the need for objectivity. Other key issues he addressed included contract approvals, misuse of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), and lapses in procurement processes, particularly at the close of financial years.
Participants also benefited from insights by Hon. Justice Musa Ssekaana of the Court of Appeal, who offered an in-depth analysis of judicial review and its significance in promoting lawful, transparent university governance. He called on university legal officers to act with clarity, timeliness, and accountability.
Lady Justice Joyce Kavuma, Judge of the High Court, delivered a comprehensive presentation on dispute and claim management involving public universities. She addressed emerging trends in civil litigation, emphasizing the importance of due process, transparency, and clear communication in resolving employment, student, and contractual disputes. Drawing on real case examples, she urged institutions to strengthen internal systems, embrace participatory governance, and adopt regional best practices to minimize litigation and protect institutional reputation.
The training reflects a shared commitment among public universities to build a more accountable, legally sound, and strategically aligned higher education system in Uganda. Through peer learning and collaboration, participating institutions aim to reduce litigation, enhance institutional autonomy, and uphold the rule of law.
Participating universities include Makerere University, Kyambogo University, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Busitema University, Mountains of the Moon University, and Lira University.
The training concludes on July 18th 2025, with sessions focusing on employment dispute management in public universities and the implications of recent PPDA Appeals Tribunal decisions on procurement and disposal practices within public entities.
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