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In Memory and Honor of Professor John Tuhe Kakitahi’s illustrious legacy | 16-02-1940 to 15-05-2024

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Professor John Tuhe Kakitahi, a luminary in the field of public health nutrition has left an indelible mark on the landscape of healthcare in Uganda and beyond. At the age of 84, Professor Kakitahi was called to heaven this morning at Mulago Hospital. 

Today, we celebrate a man who from his early career years, demonstrated exceptional intellect, clinical acumen, passion and complete dedication to combating hunger, malnutrition and human suffering. Throughout his tenure at Institute of Public Health (IPH), Dr. Kakitahi’s contributions were manifold. He in addition to teaching and mentorship conducted field investigations and community outreaches to improve human nutrition and maternal-child health. Kakitahi’s contribution and influence in nutrition transcended borders, as he represented Uganda with distinction at various international forums. 

As a lecturer and public health nutritionist, Prof. Kakitahi established and headed Mwana mugimu nutrition center in Mulago hospital in the 1990s. Mwanamujimu became pivotal in treating kwashiorkor aided by support from Rotary International. He later established additional nutritional units and sites throughout Uganda.

In 2008, he served as Deputy Principal of the Makerere University College of Health Sciences.

Celebrating the life of Professor John Tuhe Kakitahi 16th February 1940 - 15th May 2024. Director, Institute of Public Health, Makerere University (1988-1991). Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Celebrating the life of Professor John Tuhe Kakitahi 16th February 1940 – 15th May 2024. Director, Institute of Public Health, Makerere University (1988-1991).


But Who was Kakitahi? 

Prof. John Tuhe Kakitahi was born on February 16, 1940. His university appointment came in March 1973. Now, picture Dr. Kakitahi as a hardworking, intellectual house surgeon with clinical acumen who was a good clinician, pediatrician, researcher, and nutritionist. In the early years of his career at the Department of Preventive Medicine, he collaborated with individuals such as the late Prof. Suleiman Jabir Farsey and Professor Joseph Sekyala Winter Lutwama (RIP), who was the first African to hold the title of Head of the Department of Preventive Medicine. The individuals he collaborated with provided an accurate portrayal of his character.

From 1948 until 1958, Dr. Kakitahi studied primary education at Kigezi High School. He studied Secondary O’Level at Busoga College Mwiri from 1957 to 1961 and ‘A’ level at Kings College Budo from 1962 to 1963. In 1964, he attended Makerere University and earned an MBChB in 1970.

Kakitahi was Senior Casualty Officer in New Mulago Hospital’s Casualty Department for 1.5 years before enrolling in IPH’s Diploma Course in Public Health. He managed department operations and provided emergency patient treatment. The Senior House Officer position at Mulago Hospital was Dr. Kakitahi’s first job after his internship. For 1.5 years, he oversaw casualty department patient care and administration. He also managed the Nurses Health Unit for a similar time, exhibiting his healthcare administration versatility and dedication.

Kakitahi also ran a Nutritional Rehabilitation Clinic at Kasangati Health Centre, providing critical services to the community. He also helped the Pediatrics Department in managing the Old Mulago Hospital’s Nutrition Ward. He intensively treated acutely malnourished children, contributing significantly to their care and recovery.

In 1968-1969, he worked in the Lymphoma treatment center and Solid Tumor Centre during school breaks. He took part in research on chemotherapy treatment for cancer patients as well.

Using his medical background, he joined the Institute of Public Health (IPH) in 1972 and earned a Diploma in Public Health in 1973. 

In 1973, he joined Makerere University Service as an IPH Lecturer. He passionately taught human nutrition to undergraduate and postgraduate students, particularly Diploma in Public Health students, as part of the Maternal Child Health and Nutrition teaching programme. His focus was on MCH field investigations, particularly the Ankole PPP.

On July 1, 1977, Dr. Kakitahi became a senior lecturer. Later, for 45 days, Dr. Kakitahi replaced Dr. Kakande as IPH director on June 22, 1987. He was sitting in for the then director, Professor Namboze, who was on a special assignment for the Health Policy Review Commission. On August 1, 1984, he was appointed as an Associate Professor at the Institute of Public Health. On September 18, 1989, Dr. Kakitahi assumed the position of Head of the Institute of Public Health for a two-year term.

Dr. Kakitahi’s remarkable journey is interwoven with stories of dedication, expertise, and significant impact. As a young medical practitioner, he worked as a Medical Officer at Makerere Students Health Centre for several months in 1973, shortly after being hired as a Lecturer at IPH, where he laid the groundwork for the transformation of the then-Sickbay into the current University Hospital. Dr. Kakitahi pursued excellence by finishing his MSc in Nutrition at Cambridge on a WHO scholarship from 1974 to 1976. His abilities and commitment made him a well-known member of the Uganda Medical Association and the British Nutrition Society, both of which promote health locally and globally.

In 1977, he successfully represented Uganda at the 27th WHO Regional Committee for Africa in Brazzaville, Congo. This was the first of several significant appointments, including leading the Mwanamugimu Nutrition Unit in 1980 and representing Uganda at international gatherings such as the Inter-Country Nutrition Workshop in Gaborone, Botswana, and the WHO Regional Committee for Africa in Accra, Ghana, and Libreville, Gabon.

In May 1985, he accompanied the Minister of Health to the 38th World Health Assembly, where Uganda demonstrated its commitment to global health and nutrition programmes. In 1991, he organised Kampala’s first public discussion on Urban Health, Environment, and Health, solidifying his reputation as a community and occupational health visionary.

Throughout his career, Dr. Kakitahi provided expert consultancy services to the Food and Agriculture Organization and participated in numerous nutrition review missions aimed at combating hunger and malnutrition. These missions, organized by WHO, UNICEF, and other organizations, took place in countries such as Ethiopia, Malawi, Zambia, Kenya, Seychelles, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Tanzania, and Lesotho as part of the Nutrition and Human Resources for Health Mission.

Dr. Kakitahi and his Role in Establishing the Mwana mugimu nutrition center

Mwana mugimu nutrition center was set up with support from Rotary International. Rotary International recognized it as the best nutritional unit in the East African region, and was related to the Save the Children Fund, which provided administrative and financial support. This support in the 1990s led to the establishment of similar nutritional units and sites throughout the country. Later, Princess Royal Anne Elizabeth Alice Louise visited the programme and recognised it as a successful Save the Children programme.

Mwanamugimu has its roots in a Luganda proverb (Mwanamugimu ava ku ngozi) that means “A healthy child comes from a healthy mother.”

In Uganda in the 1970s and 1980s, Dr. John Kakitahi led nutritional work. After treating children for severe acute malnutrition without success, Dr. Kakitahi, like many Ugandan doctors, became passionate about prevention. Kakitahi, like Prof. Namboze, left pediatrics early to study public health at the Makerere University Institute of Public Health, now known as the School of Public Health. When Amin’s repression and violence against Ugandans escalated in 1973, they recruited Kakitahi as a lecturer, and he took over the MRC Unit after Roger Whitehead and Paget Stanfield left.

Whitehead, the MRC’s senior scientist under Dean Stanfield, was instrumental in Mwanamugimu and its extension to the Luteete Health Center. Whitehead and other MRC Unit researchers were first skeptical of the Mwanamugimu program, but its public health ethic shaped their thinking and approach.

Whitehead and Stanfield, codirectors of the unit, initiated a research program to reframe nutrition as a science and practice of health promotion, influenced by Mwanamugimu’s hybrid public health model.

They renamed the MRC facility the Child Nutrition Unit, omitting “infantile” and “malnutrition,” and announced a longitudinal nutritional health study for rural village children during the unit’s extension opening on July 17, 1969, by the then-Deputy Minister of Health, Mr. S. W. Uringi.

Kakitahi struggled to run the unit without knowing the study program or how to get basic biochemical test reagents. Few medical supplies and the difficulties of fixing equipment and getting replacement parts prevented the MRC from continuing to operate as a research institution. Whitehead and the Dunn Nutrition Unit at Cambridge (which Whitehead then directed) helped Kakitahi travel abroad for nutrition training, escape the rising violence temporarily. After finishing his training in 1976, Kakitahi “plucked some courage and came back” to Uganda and took over the Mwanamugimu Unit.

Kakitahi kept the unit running with his personal vehicle and what he could spare from his increasingly meager salary, and he and Latimer Musoke, who had taken over as Chair of Pediatrics after Stanfield’s departure, launched a program to train public health workers and extend the Mwanamugimu program’s preventive promise to rural areas.

Kakitahi’s return from Cambridge coincided with the huge increase in violence when Israel attacked Uganda’s main airport at Entebbe. A Tel Aviv-Paris flight was hijacked in June 1976 and diverted to Entebbe with Amin’s consent. In a predawn raid a week later, Israeli forces rescued the hostages and killed the hijackers and twenty of Amin’s men.

Mwanamugimu promoted health and welfare in Amin’s Uganda during a medical shortage. The amazing endurance of the Mwanamugimu initiative illustrates what is often lost in simplistic stereotypes depicting Africa as a continent in crisis. Mwanamugimu’s growth throughout Uganda’s darkest hour demonstrates the need of long-term public health programming and biomedical knowledge. Musoke and Kakitahi were graduates of East Africa’s top medical and educational schools and were able to use their skills to do well in their periods of uncertainty. Kakitahi was one of a generation of medical students trained to increase Ugandan physician population. Mwanamugimu’s modest infrastructure, technology, and a flexible framework made it a local program that could survive resource constraints.

Kakitahi and his colleagues, in collaboration with village health workers, also known as “Ssalango,” conducted door-to-door visits in a specific area to provide community members with information, support, and essential medical care. Ssalango, who commenced working at the Luteete Health Centre in 1978, stated that one of their primary responsibilities was to identify children exhibiting stunted growth. Ssalango and other community health experts educated mothers and guardians on malnutrition and how to assess nutritional status using arm circumference. Similar to the significant women who received training at Mwanamugimu, they instructed individuals on how to prepare kitobero in their own homes using ingredients that were readily available and commonly used in their daily meals. In addition to this early intervention, community health workers were in a favourable position to do follow-up visits to prevent slightly malnourished children from progressing towards “kwashiorkor.”

Kakitahi and Latimer Musoke showed what long-term infrastructure and knowledge can do by expanding on prior public health programming and medical services. Kakitahi revitalized Mwanamugimu and expanded the nutrition scout program after Amin. Funding was needed to rebuild facilities, restore the Nutrition Rehabilitation Program, and boost outreach. In 1983, Rotary International awarded Kakitahi a $245,000 “Health, Hunger and Humanity” grant to reinstate all parts of the central Mwanamugimu Unit in Mulago, including medical training, and begin the “second phase.” The second phase revived nutritional initiatives at Kayunga, Luteete, and Kasangati satellites. It was projected they served 650,000 people by 1984.

Kakitahi then established outreach initiatives at health centers in Mbale, Jinja, Bugembe, Kitovu, Ibanda, Kabale, Kisoro, and Gulu, which required an intermediate owing to Northern insecurity. Mwanamugimu Nutrition Services, a national program founded by Kakitahi, was based on these eleven satellites.

Kakitahi envisioned a public health programme to boost the health of a new national population. A Rotary International delegation visited Uganda in 1985 and was so impressed with the program and its local reception that the organization made a rare exception to their one-time financing policy. Kakitahi assumed this was Rotary International’s last grant and stretched this second disbursement over three years. After Rotary International returned in 1987, another exception and grant were provided, bringing the total support to $980,000 from 1983 to 1992.50 Despite political turmoil, Kakitahi restored and expanded Mwanamugimu Nutrition Services.

Kakitahi, who had been trying to expand Mwanamugimu nutrition programs to remote regions, became “frustrated” when he could no longer secure funds in the early 1990s due to the IMF and World Bank’s Structural Adjustment Policies (SAPs). After realizing he “didn’t have any money to continue,” WHO colleagues urged Kakitahi to create a health worker training program for newly independent Namibia. Uganda’s nutritional programming changed when Kakitahi left in dissatisfaction over structural adjustment’s lack of resources.

According to several observers, Ugandans regarded their national health system as “the demoralization of health workers” since many left when structural transformation proved difficult. Through Amin and the Bush War, Kakitahi stayed in Uganda.

Jennifer Tappan, a historian of Global Health in Africa and author of The Riddle of Malnutrition: The Long Arc of Biomedical and Public Health, calls John Kakitahi and his colleagues, Latimer Musoke, Ssalango, and Gladys Stokes, “awe-inspiring.”

Because of biomedical knowledge, competence, and infrastructure—the underpinnings of a national health system—Mwanamugimu survived. Thus, Mwanamugimu could become a fully local project, which, along with its clear worth, explains its amazing resilience.

Professor Tappan notes that “Kakitahi, his colleagues, and the influencers who kept Mwanamugimu alive illustrate the return on long-term investments in national systems of medical provision, which can then serve as the foundation for flexible and resilient public health programming, programming that can promote health and wellbeing in ways that increase rather than undermine sovereignty and the right to health that all people deserve.”

​Compiled by Communications Office -MakSPH

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Custodians and Wardens trained on Fire prevention in Halls of Residence

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A male participant puts out a fire during a practical demonstrations on the use of fire extinguishers on 26th March 2026. Office of the Dean of Students hands-on training focused on equipping custodians and wardens with essential skills and knowledge on fire prevention, evacuation procedures and response strategies in case of emergencies in halls of residence, March 26, 2026, at University Hall, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Staff members from the Office of the Dean of Students have undergone a hands-on training on fire safety and prevention in halls of residence.

The training, held on Thursday, March 26, 2026, at University Hall, focused on equipping custodians and wardens with essential skills and knowledge on fire prevention, evacuation procedures and response strategies in case of emergencies.

“In our safeguarding initiatives, we want to create an environment that is safe and secure for our students and staff. Given that we have experienced fires at the University, we decided to train custodians and wardens because they are the first responders and decision-makers in case a fire breaks out in any Hall of Residence,” said Dr. Winifred Kabumbuli, the Dean of Students.

Dr. WInifred Kabumbuli addresses participants. Office of the Dean of Students hands-on training focused on equipping custodians and wardens with essential skills and knowledge on fire prevention, evacuation procedures and response strategies in case of emergencies in halls of residence, March 26, 2026, at University Hall, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. WInifred Kabumbuli addresses participants.

In 2020, Makerere University’s Main Building, commonly known as the Ivory Tower, caught fire, destroying valuable property. Earlier in 2018, a fire gutted Mary Stuart Hall, a female residence. The fire, which started in the ground-floor canteen, spread to other floors but was successfully contained by the Uganda Police.

Speaking in February 2025 during the release of the 2024 Annual Crime Report at the Police Headquarters in Naguru, the Director of Fires and Rescue Services, AIGP Stephen Tanui, revealed that Kampala Metropolitan recorded the highest number of fire incidents in the Country with 933 cases in 2024.

Participants pose for a group photo at the University Hall Staircase. Office of the Dean of Students hands-on training focused on equipping custodians and wardens with essential skills and knowledge on fire prevention, evacuation procedures and response strategies in case of emergencies in halls of residence, March 26, 2026, at University Hall, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Participants pose for a group photo at the University Hall Staircase.

He warned that Uganda’s rapid urbanisation would increase fire incidents unless deliberate prevention measures are adopted.

“We have had fire incidents at Africa Hall, Nsibirwa and Livingstone. Some students also prepare their own meals, which increases the risk of fire outbreaks. It is therefore timely for our staff to acquire basic knowledge on fire prevention and how to respond effectively when a fire occurs,” Dr. Kabumbuli noted.

Speaking to the participants, Mr. Levi Mwesigye, a certified fire safety trainer with NCOSAH Consults (Occupational Safety and Health Administration), emphasized the importance of proactive fire prevention. He explained that three elements, heat, fuel and oxygen are necessary for a fire to exist.

Participants follow proceedings during the theoretical part of training. Office of the Dean of Students hands-on training focused on equipping custodians and wardens with essential skills and knowledge on fire prevention, evacuation procedures and response strategies in case of emergencies in halls of residence, March 26, 2026, at University Hall, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Participants follow proceedings during the theoretical part of training.

“Always ensure that fire detection systems are in place to identify fires at an early stage. Additionally, ensure fire protection systems such as portable extinguishers are functional and regularly serviced so that fires can be contained promptly,” advised.

In his presentation, Mr. Mwesigye also urged Wardens to install clear directional signage in Halls of Residence to enhance safety and facilitate quick evacuation during emergencies.

“Fires spread much faster than you might think. Always have a backup escape plan in case your main escape route becomes blocked. If you can’t put out the fire in 5 secondsor less, the fire is too large. Get out and always prioritize persons with disabilities, women, the sick, and other vulnerable individuals to ensure they are evacuated safely,” Mr. Mwesigye, said.

Participants listen to instructions from one of the trainers. Office of the Dean of Students hands-on training focused on equipping custodians and wardens with essential skills and knowledge on fire prevention, evacuation procedures and response strategies in case of emergencies in halls of residence, March 26, 2026, at University Hall, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Participants listen to instructions from one of the trainers.

Apart from training the staff about fire safety at the University, the staff also received fire prevention tips applicable to their homes such as;  never to sleep in a house without water, to always have a centralized place where they keep the house key so that it is easy to find during evacuation.

“For those who have gas cylinders at home, in case of a leakage, open doors and windows to reduce the concentration of gas. If the cylinder catches fire, soak a towel or blanket in water and use it to cover the cylinder. This can help to put out the fire,” Mr. Mwesigye explained.

When using a fire extinguisher

Participants received practical demonstrations on the use of fire extinguishers and learned how to identify and manage small-scale fires before they escalate into life-threatening emergencies. Tips included:

  • Stand several feet away from the fire, only moving closer once the fire starts to diminish.
  • Use a slow, sweeping motion and aim the fire extinguisher nozzle at the base of the fire.
  •  If possible, use a “buddy system” to have someone back you up or to call for help if something goes wrong.
  • Be sure to watch the area for a while to ensure the fire does not re-ignite.

Deciding to Use a Fire Extinguisher

Before attempting to put out a fire with a portable fire extinguisher, one must quickly answer the following questions:

  • Have the building’s occupants been notified?
  • Has someone called the Fire Brigade?
  • Are the exit routes clear and safely accessible?
  • Do I have the right type of extinguisher for the type of fire?
  • Is the extinguisher large enough for the fire?
  • Is the fire small and containable?

If the Answer to the above is NO, Then;

  • Leave the building immediately.
  • Shut all doors as you leave to slow the spread of the fire.
  • As soon as you get out of the building, call the Police.

Carol Kasujja
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Makerere University Charts New Future with the unveiling of the Open, Distance and E‑Learning Building and Strategic Plan

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DVCAA-Prof. Sarah Ssali (3rd L) and KOICA Uganda Country Director-Ms. Jihee Ahn (3rd R) flanked by officials unveil the foundation stone for the ODeL Facility on 24th March 2026. Official launch of Open, Distance and E‑Learning (ODeL) Strategic Plan and the laying of the foundation stone for a new ODeL facility at the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT), 24th March 2026, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

By Harriet Musinguzi, CEDAT

Makerere University has embarked on a transformative journey in higher education with the official launch of its Open, Distance and E‑Learning (ODeL) Strategic Plan and the laying of the foundation stone for a new ODeL facility at the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT). The event, attended by dignitaries, university leaders, and international partners, marked a milestone in Uganda’s quest to harness digital technology for accessible, innovative, and inclusive education.

Presiding over the ceremony, Ms. Jihee Ahn, Country Director of the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), underscored the spirit of collaboration that has defined the project. She praised the collective efforts of Korean partners, Makerere’s project management team, and the construction and consulting teams.

Quoting an African proverb, she reminded the audience that “a single stick cannot make fire”, emphasizing that the success of the initiative lies in shared purpose and unity. Drawing from Korean wisdom, she added, “a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step,” noting that this launch is the first step toward positioning Makerere as a leader in open and distance education across Africa.

“This new building will not be just a physical structure but a driving force that advances our shared vision,” Ms. Ahn said. “KOICA looks forward to continued cooperation with Makerere University and all partners as we move forward together.” she added.

Representing the University Council Chairperson Dr. Lorna Magara, Dr. Silas Ngabirano highlighted the broader significance of the ODeL project. He described it as a turning point in bridging the gap between traditional teaching methods and modern learning needs. “This project is more than just providing technology,” he said. “It’s about enhancing capacity for our students, faculty, and staff. It’s about making education more accessible and affordable, fostering innovation, creativity, and lifelong learning.” He urged staff and students to embrace the opportunities offered by online distance learning, reaffirming the Council’s commitment to supporting initiatives that expand access to higher education.

Prof. Sarah Ssali, (DVC F&A) representing Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, highlights e-learning as a central pillar in Makerere University’s Strategic Plan (2026–2030).

The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, represented by Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs Prof. Sarah Ssali, emphasized that e‑learning is a central pillar in Makerere’s Strategic Plan (2026–2030). She noted that the initiative aligns with Uganda’s National Development Plan IV, which prioritizes digital transformation by 2030.

“ODeL provides opportunities for students inside and outside Uganda to engage in learning, access cutting-edge research, and participate in innovation and entrepreneurship,” he said. “Now that ODeL is getting a home, there is no excuse for not delivering.”

Dignitaries and stakeholders at Makerere University witness the unveiling of the ODeL Strategic Plan, marking a new chapter in institutional growth and innovation.

Prof. Nawangwe expressed gratitude to KOICA and the people of Korea for the US$12.2 milliongrant, describing it as a testament to Makerere’s reputation as a center of academic excellence and innovation. He also acknowledged the support of Uganda’s Ministry of Education and Sports and the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development.

Principal Investigator Prof. Henry Alinaitwe makes his remarks alongside members of the project steering committee;  Dr. Venny Nakazibwe (Co-PI), Prof. Paul Muyinda, Dr. Godfrey Mayende, Mr. Samuel Mugabi, Mr. Alex Mwebaze, Dr. Kenneth Ssemwogerere, and Dr. Lydia Mazzi Ndandiko

The Principal Investigator, Prof. Henry Alinaitwe, outlined three core components of the project: the development of the ODeL Masterplan, the enhancement of e‑learning infrastructure through a state‑of‑the‑art facility and modern equipment, and capacity building to equip staff with the skills needed to create high‑quality digital content. He explained that the construction, valued at USD 3.7 million, is being undertaken by SMS Construction Ltd, with designs developed by ArchForum Consultants Ltd, and is scheduled for completion by September 29, 2027.

Prof. Henry Alinaitwe explained that the ODeL Masterplan was developed through a highly consultative process, engaging numerous Makerere University staff and working closely with project consultants to ensure inclusivity and relevance. He expressed deep appreciation to the implementing partners, the Korea National Open University (KNOU) and the Korea Institute ofDevelopment Strategy (KDS) for their invaluable support in making the initiative a success.

Guests and stakeholders who witnessed the launch of Makerere University’s ODeL Strategic Plan and the commissioning of the ODeL building pose for a commemorative photo, March 24th, 2025 at CEDAT.

Prof. Alinaitwe also commended the Makerere University Council for approving the allocation of space and committing to maintain the building and systems once operational. He recognized the dedication of the project implementation team, which includes Dr. Venny Nakazibwe(Co‑PI), Prof. Paul Muyinda, Dr. Godfrey Mayende, Mr. Samuel Mugabi, Mr. Alex Mwebaze, Dr. Kenneth Ssemwogerere, and Dr. Lydia Mazzi Ndandiko, for their tireless efforts in managing the project. He further acknowledged KOICA Country Director Ms. Jihee Ahn for expanding the scope of the project beyond the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT) to encompass

Written by Musinguzi Harriet, Principal Communication Officer, College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology.

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CHUSS students shine at the Annual safeguarding contest

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Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta with Dr. Winifred Kabumbuli, Prof. Justine Namaalwa, other officials, contest winners and students at the Grand Finale on 17th March 2026. Annual Safeguarding Message Contest Grand Finale, 17th March 2026, Main Hall, Main Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Students from the College of Humanities and Social Sciences on Tuesday 17th March 2026 walked away with Shs 3million after emerging winners of the 2026 Annual Safeguarding Message Contest grand finale.

During the grand finale held in the Main Hall, five finalists from the College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS), College of Education and External Studies (CEES) and the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Bio-security (CoVAB), captivated the audience with their powerful safety and inclusion messages. The show was filled with joy.

A section of the audience at the Grand Finale. Annual Safeguarding Message Contest Grand Finale, 17th March 2026, Main Hall, Main Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
A section of the audience at the Grand Finale.

The finalists took part in a series of activities such as a collaborative video, written poems and arts works, among others.

Speaking on behalf of the winning team, Allan Mugisha, a third-year Bachelor of Arts in Social Sciences student, explained that their video aimed to highlight everyday safeguarding issues that are often overlooked.

“Creating this video was both a collaborative effort and a challenge, especially since we used our phones to record. But our goal was to show the public that safeguarding is not just a policy or a University requirement, it is about protecting our dignity, safety, and wellbeing here at Makerere University. We depicted some of the risks and incidents students may face, and importantly, highlighted who to approach when encountering such challenges,” Mugisha, who also serves as a student safeguarding champion, said.

Contest Winners. Annual Safeguarding Message Contest Grand Finale, 17th March 2026, Main Hall, Main Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Contest Winners.

Mugisha thanked the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program for giving students like him and his colleagues an opportunity to actively engage, noting that it has made them feel empowered rather than dormant.

Khamala Elphas Makokha, a master’s student in Peace and Conflict Resolution, who produced a poster about safeguarding claimed the 1st runner-up position, earning Shs 2million and Mildred Aine Nicks, a first -year student pursuing Early Childhood Care and Education was 2nd runner-up with her spoken poem.

1st Runners Up. Annual Safeguarding Message Contest Grand Finale, 17th March 2026, Main Hall, Main Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
1st Runners Up.

In the popular award, Khamala clinched the top spot with a prize of sh500,000.

Makerere University has an obligation and has committed to continue providing a Safe and Supportive learning and working environment for all Students, Staff and other Stakeholders. Therefore, the Annual Safeguarding message is a celebration that brings together students to come up with a message that will be identified as the Institutional main message.

Popular Vote Winner. Annual Safeguarding Message Contest Grand Finale, 17th March 2026, Main Hall, Main Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Popular Vote Winner.

The potential safeguarding risks in Institutions of higher learning include emotional distress, Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Harassment (SEAH); material loss, financial exploitation, discrimination and neglect, unfair and illegitimate response to civic engagements, cyber security/threats, psychological and emotional harm, substance abuse, and physical assault.

The guest of honour and the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof Barnabas Nawangwe, congratulated the winners and noted that the University is very intentional about ensuring that students are safe at all times because people achieve their full potential in any endeavor when they feel safe.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe. Annual Safeguarding Message Contest Grand Finale, 17th March 2026, Main Hall, Main Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe.

“Over the years, we have put in place various policies to safeguard our students. In addition to the Safeguarding policy, we have the Anti sexual harassment policy and the policy to support Students with Disabilities. Every student should know these policies so as to know the steps to take in case they feel threatened,” Prof Nawangwe, said.

In her welcoming remarks, the Dean of Students thanked the students who took time to participate when they saw the Safeguarding Awareness message call in September 2025, noting that their enthusiasm and commitment reflect a shared responsibility to promote safety, dignity, and wellbeing across the university community.

Dr. Winifred Kabumbuli. Annual Safeguarding Message Contest Grand Finale, 17th March 2026, Main Hall, Main Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Winifred Kabumbuli.

“Your creativity, commitment and passion for promoting safety and wellbeing are truly commendable,” Dr Winnie Kabumbuli, the Dean of students, said.

Addressing guests, Prof Justine Namaalwa, the Co-ordinator of the Mastercard Foundation Initiatives at Makerere University, explained to the audience why the Mastercard Foundation has supported the University to Improve the learning and working environment to make it safe for everyone.

Prof. Justine Namaalwa. Annual Safeguarding Message Contest Grand Finale, 17th March 2026, Main Hall, Main Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Justine Namaalwa.

Prof Namaalwa described the Safeguarding Annual contest as an inclusive and interactive platform that brings together students, to amplify voices, showcase creative messages, and strengthen commitment to a safe and supportive environment for all.

“The safeguarding initiative although student-led has not only student but also staff champions. Through the Office of the Vice Chancellor, we commit to continue supporting the Annual Safeguarding contest every year till 2032,” Prof Namaalwa, said.

The Judges. Annual Safeguarding Message Contest Grand Finale, 17th March 2026, Main Hall, Main Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The Judges.

On behalf of the 6 panel of judges, Dr Viola Karungi, a senior lecturer at the department of Performing Arts and Film, explained that they received 22 entries compromising of seven written poems, three posters, two songs, eight short videos, one slogan, and one comic book.

“We assessed submissions based on five key criteria, including originality and creativity. During the review, we found that some entries contained or replicated existing work, which was verified using digital tools by one of our panelists.” Dr Karungi, said.

Part of the audience. Annual Safeguarding Message Contest Grand Finale, 17th March 2026, Main Hall, Main Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Part of the audience.

Other winners included Job Diryo, a 5th year student of Veterinary Medicine who performed a poem and Abraham Tumwine who presented a poster.

Carol Kasujja
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