Natural Sciences
Mak Researchers in Drive to Improve Waste Management in Uganda
****Through a project titled, “Adding value to agro/bio-waste through integrating technologies to enhance sustainable agro-process waste management in Uganda”, the researcher led by Dr Joseph Kyambadde from the Department of Biochemistry and Sports Science, have proposed a number of technologies that can be used to avert the challenge of poor waste management in the country.
Background
Majority of industries in the country such as dairies, abattoirs, breweries, distilleries, and tanneries are engaged in agro-processing. Such industrial processing often leads to the discharge of large quantities of organic-rich wastewater, disease-causing micro-organisms, and greenhouse gas emissions, if poorly treated or managed. While the regulatory body, the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) requires that all industries should efficiently treat their effluent to meet discharge standards, waste treatment technology market surveys that were carried out in the major industrial cities of Kampala, Jinja, Masaka and Mbarara in 2018 showed that most agro-process industries do not treat their wastewater. Furthermore, very few have in there effluent treatment management, resource recovery processes such as bio-digesters for recovering biogas and nutrient-rich bio-slurry. The industries that attempt to treat their effluent mainly use conventional systems, such as settling tanks and lagoons that do not efficiently remove all waste components. Additionally, industries require energy for their operations, but many use non-renewable sources, such as wood fuel, contributing to deforestation and greenhouse gas emissions. Consequently, the agro-process industries pollute the environment, contaminate drinking water sources, and pathogens from their wastes contribute to cases of diarrheal diseases. The agro-processing sector urgently needs technology solutions that would meet national environment regulatory requirements at affordable costs, but also incorporate resource recovery and reuse to protect the environment and also enhance their profit margins. However, many industries lack cost-effective technologies to convert their wastes into biogas or other useful by-products such as slurry for use as manure/bio-fertilizers. The industries also lack expertise to design and operate appropriate waste treatment technologies.
Addressing the challenge of poor waste management
Agro/bio wastes are organic-rich, hence can be biodegraded using appropriately designed integrated technologies. These methods offer the options for meeting national discharge standards, reuse of treated effluent, and recovery of useful by-products. A study conducted by researchers from the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), Makerere University in collaboration with partners in the waste management sector proposes a number of technologies that can be deployed to effectively address the challenge of waste in the country. These include; anaerobic-aerobic digesters, sludge drying beds, constructed wetlands, and duckweed growing units.
Through their project titled “Adding value to agro/bio-waste through integrating technologies to enhance sustainable agro-process waste management in Uganda”, the researchers led by Dr Joseph Kyambadde from the Department of Biochemistry and Sports Science at Makerere made several recommendations towards waste management in the country. The researchers called for integration of aspects of the technology, encompassing wastes-to-energy courses/topics in the curricula of programmes like biochemistry, industrial chemistry, and environmental sciences at universities. This would enable training of scientists who would in turn foster adoption and promotion of the developed technologies in different industries. They also emphasized the need to promote investment in technologies that can be used to convert waste into useful by-products like biogas, bio-fertilizers and protein-additives, and to raise awareness about the importance of waste treatment technologies amongst private-public actors, managers/business owners of agro-processing industries, as well as government line ministries/agencies, and development partners.
Supported by the Government of Uganda through the Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund (Mak-RIF), the overall objective of the project was to contribute to climate change mitigation, environmental sustainability, and agricultural development through integrated waste management systems. Under the project, the research team developed nutrient-rich fertilizer and animal feeds, and supported the production of biogas and electricity. Other members on the project included; Dr. Robinson Odong (Co-Principal Investigator), Dr. Gertrude Muwanga (Economist), Eng. Charles Ddungu (Civil Works), Eng. Edward Kalule (Electricals), Mr. Bright Twesigye (Research Assistant), Mr. Sendi (Field Assistant), Mr. Kuman (Field Assistant), and CATDA (Project Host).
Research dissemination seminar
On 23rd January 2024, the project team held a seminar at Ridar Hotel, Mukono District to present their research findings/outputs to key stakeholders in the waste management sector such as industry, academia, and policy makers, and also receive feedback. At the meeting, the project PI, Dr. Joseph Kyambadde decried the high level of poor waste disposal in the country. Highlighting the support extended to City Abattoir Traders Development Association (CATDA), Dr Kyambadde said many industries were directly disposing effluent into water sources, posing a number health, environmental and economic risks. “Investing in waste treatment technologies would avert the risks, but also support the recovery of useful byproducts such as nutrient-rich slurry or biogas.” As one of the achievements registered, the project supported the construction of a wastewater treatment plant at Kampala City Abattoir. According Mr. David Mutebi, the PRO of Kampala City Abattoirs Hides and Skin Traders’ SACCO, before Makerere supported the construction of the plant, effluent used to be discharged in Nakivubo Channel, posing several health and environmental risks. Dr Kyambadde appreciated the Government for supporting the project which is envisaged to minimize poor waste disposal throughout the country.
As part of the strategies for sustainable agro-process waste management in the country, participants advocated for a comprehensive policy, a waste management fund, and incentives for investment in waste management technologies. They also called for a comprehensive curriculum for waste management, and a market development plan for waste products.
In his remarks, the Deputy Principal of CoNAS, Prof. Juma Kasozi appreciated the Government of Uganda for the support extended to the project. “Poor waste disposal is one of Uganda’s biggest challenges. I commend the research team for venturing into research that directly addresses the country’s development problems.” He called for increased investment to support initiatives aimed at managing waste from industries and other places.
Overview
The Ugandan government has increasingly recognized the critical role of science education in driving the nation’s economic development. As such, it has put in place deliberate policies aimed at popularizing science education in schools. This initiative seeks to equip the youth with the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute effectively to the country’s development. Since 2004, science education has been made compulsory in lower secondary schools, and the Uganda Government has continuously emphasized the importance of science and technology through policies like the National Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) Policy, introduced in 2009. These policies aim to create a strong foundation for the country’s “Transformation for Prosperity,” focusing on technological innovation and development. The introduction of astronomy and space science as part of the curriculum supports this vision, offering students the tools to explore scientific concepts that will drive future innovation.
About the Project – Use of Astronomy and Space Science to Promote Science Education in Schools
In an initiative geared towards bolstering science education in Uganda, Makerere University Department of Physics is leveraging the wonders of astronomy and space science to ignite curiosity and enthusiasm among learners. The project, led by Prof. Florence Mutonyi D’ujanga from the Department of Physics has reached 10 schools in Kampala, Luwero, and Mukono districts, using the vast universe to inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, and mathematicians. The astronomy outreach activities have impacted numerous schools across different regions in Uganda. The initiative started during the COVID-19 lockdown, with initial outreach to nearby schools in Kampala. As the programme gained momentum, it expanded to various districts, benefiting students from both primary and secondary levels. The schools that have participated in the programme include, Kampala: Makerere College School and Makerere CoU Primary School, Luwero: Mulusa Academy (Wobulenzi), Wobulenzi Bright Parents, Janan Luwum S.S., and Janan Luwum Nursery & P/S, MUkono: Our Lady of Africa S.S., Kyesereka CoU P/S, Mpoma Royal College, and Mpoma Junior School.
Aims and Objectives of the Project
Funded by the Government of Uganda through the Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund (MakRIF), the central aim of this initiative was to use astronomy and space science to capture the imagination of students, encouraging them to embrace the study of science and mathematics. “By engaging students in hands-on, interactive learning activities, the project seeks to improve their performance in these critical subjects. The initiative focuses on making science enjoyable, accessible, and inspiring, fostering a positive attitude toward the subject from an early age,” explained Prof. D’ujanga.
Activities conducted
The project began with a questionnaire to assess the students’ initial understanding of astronomy, followed by tailored outreach activities that addressed gaps in knowledge and sparked excitement about the subject. The activities included;
- Telescope Assembly: Students learned to assemble telescopes using local materials, helping them gain a hands-on understanding of how astronomy tools function.
- Sky Viewing: Students had the opportunity to observe celestial bodies like stars, planets, and constellations, experiencing the universe up close.
- Cultural Astronomy Storytelling: This component introduced students to the rich cultural narratives surrounding astronomy, linking science with history and tradition.
- Astronomy Quiz Sessions: Fun, educational quizzes challenged students’ knowledge of astronomy, stimulating a deeper interest in the subject.
- Planetarium Shows: The project also featured immersive planetarium shows, which are a highlight for many students. These shows provided an exciting visual experience, where learners could see projections of stars, planets, and other celestial phenomena. The planetarium is at the heart of this outreach programme. Traditionally used for educational purposes in the field of astronomy, the planetarium has a hemispheric domed ceiling, which serves as a projection screen for images of celestial objects. The immersive environment fosters curiosity and excitement among learners, laying a solid foundation for further study in science. One of the main objectives of the planetarium shows is to break down the myth that sciences are difficult. By using visual and interactive methods, the project demonstrates that learning about space and the universe can be both fun and inspiring.
Project research dissemination event
On 21st March 2025, the project team hosted a dissemination event at Makerere University to present and share their research findings. The event was presided over by Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, the Principal of the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS) and Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Finance and Administration at Makerere University. The event was attended by students, school administrators, as well as representatives from MakRIF and the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation. In her address, the Project Principal Investigator (PI), Prof. Florence D’ujanga, emphasized the importance of sparking curiosity in students to encourage them to pursue scientific studies. “By making astronomy and space science more accessible and engaging, this project seeks to inspire greater interest in science education, ultimately benefiting Uganda’s long-term development in critical fields such as technology, engineering, and mathematics,” she explained.
On behalf of MakRIF, Dr. Mercy Rebekah Amiyo expressed appreciation to the research team for their invaluable initiative in promoting the study of science through astronomy. Dr. Amiyo praised the team’s dedication to making complex scientific concepts more engaging. She called upon the project team to secure property rights and take proactive steps toward the commercialization of the project.
In his remarks, the Guest of Honour, Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta emphasized the importance of nurturing scientists who understand principles rather than simply memorizing frameworks. He emphasized the importance of early exposure for children to develop an appreciation for science. He expressed gratitude to the Government of Uganda for its continued support towards research activities at Makerere University.
Testimonies by students
Sharing their testimonies about the project, Jonathan Mugabi and James Tanzinge, both S.4 students at Makerere College School, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity it provided. They noted that the project had ignited a newfound passion for research, significantly expanding their interest in exploring scientific topics. Through their participation, they were introduced to essential scientific vocabulary, which has helped to deepen their understanding of complex concepts. Additionally, the project exposed them to cutting-edge technology, fostering a sense of excitement and curiosity about the role of innovation in science. As a result, both students have developed a strong desire to continue their studies in the sciences at a higher level, inspired by the hands-on experiences and knowledge they gained from this initiative.
Click on the link below for the pictorial of the dissemination conference;
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1Wv5xLOwiNe8Tc9uOWBpt9xvOtwffLHdo?usp=sharing
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