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Mak Gender Directorate to Start Women’s Forum Amidst Calls for More Female Representation in Leadership

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By  Marion Alina and Rachel Kanyi

The Gender Mainstreaming Directorate (GMD) at Makerere University has embarked on an aggressive agenda to train female staff on leadership skills. This agenda is informed by the absence of women in several top leadership positions at Makerere University and other institutions of higher learning.

Makerere University, for instance, has no record of a female Chancellor or Vice Chancellor in its 100+ years of existence. As of 2024, the Vice Chancellor and his two deputies are all male. The female voices are partially comforted by the fact that the current Chairperson of Council is female. Through GMD, a wave is burgeoning to change this trend.  To kick start this agenda, the Directorate held a two-day workshop (28th-29th May 2024) that attracted over 70 female staff at Makerere and other universities. The meet-up was part of activities under a Research and Innovations Fund (RIF) project titled; Enhancing Women’s Participation and Visibility in Leadership and decision-making organs of Public Universities in Uganda through Action Research. It ran under the theme: ‘Building and Sustaining a critical mass of potential women leaders at Makerere University’.

Ms. Susan Mbabazi, a Principal Gender Officer at GMD. Gender Mainstreaming Directorate (GMD) training of female staff on leadership skills under Mak-RIF project titled; Enhancing Women’s Participation and Visibility in Leadership and decision-making organs of Public Universities in Uganda through Action Research. Workshop 28th-29th May 2024, theme: ‘Building and Sustaining a critical mass of potential women leaders at Makerere University’, Senate Conference Hall, Senate Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Ms. Susan Mbabazi, a Principal Gender Officer at GMD.

According to Ms Susan Mbabazi, a Principal Gender Officer at GMD, the workshop aimed at among other things to generate strategies on how women can position themselves for future leadership.

The project Principal Investigator who also doubles as the Director GMD, Dr. Euzobia Mugisha Baine, called upon women to gain confidence and stand out whenever leadership opportunities arise. “There is need for women to be on the discussion table, making decisions as opposed to keeping at the back. It is high time women gained confidence and took on these leadership opportunities. It all starts right from where you are,” she guided. She tipped women on how to balance work life with other responsibilities. A firm-talking Euzobia rebuked the scenario where women get successful in one aspect of life and fail to handle other aspects.  “A woman can be successful both in her career and home. You need to adopt life skills such as excellent time management, multi-tasking and also learn to prioritize what is important. As women, you can be a mother and also a career lady, find a formula to balance life as career worker, mother and wife,” she emphasized.

The project Principal Investigator and Director GMD, Dr. Euzobia Mugisha Baine. Gender Mainstreaming Directorate (GMD) training of female staff on leadership skills under Mak-RIF project titled; Enhancing Women’s Participation and Visibility in Leadership and decision-making organs of Public Universities in Uganda through Action Research. Workshop 28th-29th May 2024, theme: ‘Building and Sustaining a critical mass of potential women leaders at Makerere University’, Senate Conference Hall, Senate Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The project Principal Investigator and Director GMD, Dr. Euzobia Mugisha Baine.

“Despite all the various efforts at national and international level, the number of women is not growing as fast as needed. Across the board in public and private institutions, women are persistently few in numbers as staff, but more so in leadership and decision making organs,” explained Assoc. Prof. Consolata Kabonesa, the project Co-Principal Investigator. “Females still face a lot of challenges some of which are institutional, personal, social/family related and economic. Under this project, we will conduct a situation analysis of the gender terrain across six public universities. These include Makerere, Kabale, Gulu, Busitema, Muni & Mbarara University of Science & Technology. We intend to obtain baseline information encompassing the composition of governance & leadership organs by gender; the composition of senior staff by gender; needs assessment and profiles of potential mentors and mentees; capacity to conduct gender-responsive research; and exploration of the male staff engagement in gender equality/equity interventions,” she added.

Prof. Rhoda Wanyenze the Dean, Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH). Gender Mainstreaming Directorate (GMD) training of female staff on leadership skills under Mak-RIF project titled; Enhancing Women’s Participation and Visibility in Leadership and decision-making organs of Public Universities in Uganda through Action Research. Workshop 28th-29th May 2024, theme: ‘Building and Sustaining a critical mass of potential women leaders at Makerere University’, Senate Conference Hall, Senate Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Rhoda Wanyenze the Dean, Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH).

Speaking at the same workshop, Prof. Rhoda Wanyenze shared her experience as Dean, School of Public Health. “All the Heads of Department at the School of Public Health are women. The Deputy Dean is a man. When I was a student at this school, I never saw a female Head of Department or Dean. In my first week as Dean, I heard somebody say; will this woman manage? It is then that I felt that this space had to change. People had to get used to accepting that women can deliver,” she said. “Do not limit your abilities and qualifications to where you are. Do not look at Makerere for your growth, the world is big with many other opportunities. Lay your nets everywhere, it is another way of adding value to Makerere University. Work with people who are better than you. How can you become better if you dislike better? How will money come to you if you talk ill of people with money? I love working with smart people. You are as good as the company you keep,” she added.

The outgoing Principal of CHUSS, Prof. Josephine Ahikire. Gender Mainstreaming Directorate (GMD) training of female staff on leadership skills under Mak-RIF project titled; Enhancing Women’s Participation and Visibility in Leadership and decision-making organs of Public Universities in Uganda through Action Research. Workshop 28th-29th May 2024, theme: ‘Building and Sustaining a critical mass of potential women leaders at Makerere University’, Senate Conference Hall, Senate Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The outgoing Principal of CHUSS, Prof. Josephine Ahikire.

The outgoing Principal, College of Humanities and Social Sciences (CHUSS) Prof. Josephine Ahikire called upon women to be more intentional in taking up leadership positions at all levels in the university. “At CHUSS, we have a critical mass of qualifying females. But you need to aspire too. There are new ways through which patriarchy recreates itself and brings women down even when they qualify. You therefore ought to be determined and stand strong in order to take on these leadership spaces,’ she argued. Prof. Ahikire advised women to understand their work environment and policies, since this will help propel them higher. “It is quite helpful to understand the institution, policies, and have them on your fingertips so that you are not looking for favouritism. We need a critical mass in these mid-level and upper positions. We need to be more intentional and have unity among us, fighting against ourselves will not put us anywhere,” she emphasized. As she leaves office, Prof. Ahikire was proud of leaving behind a vibrant CHUSS. “I’ have enjoyed being a leader. CHUSS has five schools and one institute. Four of these schools are led by women. We have three Deans and MISR is headed by a woman too,” she said to a thunderous applause.

The Deputy Vice Chancellor Academic Affairs Bunyoro University, Prof.  Grace Bantebya Kyomuhendo. Gender Mainstreaming Directorate (GMD) training of female staff on leadership skills under Mak-RIF project titled; Enhancing Women’s Participation and Visibility in Leadership and decision-making organs of Public Universities in Uganda through Action Research. Workshop 28th-29th May 2024, theme: ‘Building and Sustaining a critical mass of potential women leaders at Makerere University’, Senate Conference Hall, Senate Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The Deputy Vice Chancellor Academic Affairs Bunyoro University, Prof.  Grace Bantebya Kyomuhendo.

Basing on her leadership experience, the Deputy Vice Chancellor Academic Affairs Bunyoro University, Prof.  Grace Bantebya Kyomuhendo advised   women to strategise and use every opportunity available in leadership by showing up, even when they know they will not win the race. She noted that the act of showing interest is a visibility gate for them to be known and adopt good networks in the world. She tipped women on ways of navigating the maze synonymous with work environments. “Learn the insider system in order to know how things are done. Do not fear failure since it is part of the leadership game,” she counselled.

The Manager GAMSU, Prof. Sylvia Nannyonga-Tamusuza. Gender Mainstreaming Directorate (GMD) training of female staff on leadership skills under Mak-RIF project titled; Enhancing Women’s Participation and Visibility in Leadership and decision-making organs of Public Universities in Uganda through Action Research. Workshop 28th-29th May 2024, theme: ‘Building and Sustaining a critical mass of potential women leaders at Makerere University’, Senate Conference Hall, Senate Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The Manager GAMSU, Prof. Sylvia Nannyonga-Tamusuza.

In her advice to participants about the challenges that manifest with showing interest in leadership, the Manager of the Grants Administration and Management Support Unit (GAMSU) at Makerere University, Prof. Sylvia Nannyonga-Tamusuza cautioned that, “it is when you have shown interest in leadership that people start uttering all sorts of insults just to discourage and intimidate you because they think women break down so fast. Do not allow yourself to be pulled down. Know when to talk, when to engage and when to act. Sometimes give them silence and move on, it is better than fighting or responding back at insults.” Prof. Nannyonga-Tamusuza, who is a professor at the Department of Performing Arts and Film, CHUSS emphasized the value of mentorship. She recommended that women ought to have a mentor for these leadership positions. She praised Prof. Bantebya for having been a good mentor to her.

The Director for Africa 4W Women and Wellbeing Initiative at the School of Human Ecology University of Wisconsin-Madison, USA, Dr. Deborah Kaddu-Serwadda  noted that Uganda can leverage  the success of Makerere University’s gender mainstreaming policy to build a critical mass of university students, faculty, and staff; able to work together. She mentioned some of the proposed objectives of a 4W Initiative Pilot at Makerere University, Uganda as: piloting an interdisciplinary multigenerational higher education collaboration for the promotion of gender equality and women’s wellbeing. The pilot project would further initiate an academic women leaders’ South to North research-to-action network for gender equality and social transformation. She emphasized the need for self-priority and love and advised women to also think about their lives first before prioritizing other people. “You offer what you have, first build yourself, then extend it to others. This does not mean that you become selfish. I refer you to 1 Corinthians 13: 4-8,” she preached.

The Senior Gender Mainstreaming Officer at GMD, Mr Eric Tumwesigye. Gender Mainstreaming Directorate (GMD) training of female staff on leadership skills under Mak-RIF project titled; Enhancing Women’s Participation and Visibility in Leadership and decision-making organs of Public Universities in Uganda through Action Research. Workshop 28th-29th May 2024, theme: ‘Building and Sustaining a critical mass of potential women leaders at Makerere University’, Senate Conference Hall, Senate Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The Senior Gender Mainstreaming Officer at GMD, Mr Eric Tumwesigye.

The Senior Gender Mainstreaming Officer, Mr Eric Tumwesigye reminded participants that gender constructs are made and maintained by society. “Society has already written a script for every gender and that is how it tends to judge you.  Society expects a man to provide for his family and failure to do so could be interpreted as grave on the man’s part. He will be identified with all sorts of names. This can be challenged,” he said.

Ms Caroline Abilat Asio, a Gender Officer at GMD used the Gender River of life concept to inspire women to rise to leadership. Using this analogy, she explained that every river widens and narrows at some point. And that likewise everyone experiences moment of challenges and triumph interchangeably.

Some of the participants and speakers enjoy a light moment. Gender Mainstreaming Directorate (GMD) training of female staff on leadership skills under Mak-RIF project titled; Enhancing Women’s Participation and Visibility in Leadership and decision-making organs of Public Universities in Uganda through Action Research. Workshop 28th-29th May 2024, theme: ‘Building and Sustaining a critical mass of potential women leaders at Makerere University’, Senate Conference Hall, Senate Building, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Some of the participants and speakers enjoy a light moment.

With the workshop now ignited, Dr. Euzobia Mugisha Baine took to the stage to propose a women’s forum; a platform she hopes will help to unify the voice of women. “Where is the women’s voice in several of the issues around us? Who articulates our issues? What can we do differently so as to create that space for women? To help answer this question, we intend to launch a Makerere University Women’s Forum. This forum should be our space. We shall have regular meetings,” she said.

In her closing remarks, Ms Phoebe Kamya Lutaaya, the Deputy Coordinator at Mak-RIF encouraged the participants to broaden their network. “Experience has shown me that the higher you go in the ranks, the lonelier you become. To prevent this, learn to survive in the changing political environment at the workplace,” she said.

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Unlocking Global Opportunities: Makerere University Career Fair – Day Two Connects Students to Scholarships and Fellowships

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Some of the Panelists on Day 2 from Left to Right: Prof. Anthony Gidudu, Ms. Blessing Owomugisha Immaculate, Mr. Ezra On’rel Nuwenyine and Prof. Justine Namaalwa Jjumba. Three-day Careers Fair 2026, bringing together students, industry leaders, and policymakers to discuss the future of work in the era of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Day 2 held under the theme “Scholarship and fellowship opportunities for students and graduates in the United States (US)”, 12th March 2026, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

By Christopher Kaahwa

After an engaging opening day that explored the growing role of artificial intelligence in shaping the future of work, the second day of Makerere University Careers Fair – 2026 focused on scholarship and fellowship opportunities for students and graduates.

Day one of the Careers Fair highlighted how emerging technologies, particularly AI, are transforming industries and the skills that young professionals need to remain competitive in the evolving global job market. Building on these conversations, Day Two of the Careers Fair, held on Thursday, 12th March 2026, provided participants with practical guidance on accessing funding opportunities for further study, research, and professional development, both locally and internationally.

The day featured a series of presentations, information sessions, and interactive engagements delivered through a panel discussion. This approach was designed to help participants better understand the wide range of scholarship and fellowship opportunities available to support their academic and professional journeys. Participants interacted directly with program representatives and alumni who have previously benefited from international scholarships and fellowships.

Throughout the discussions, speakers encouraged students to prioritize early preparations for such opportunities by identifying programs that align with their academic interests, leadership aspirations, and long-term career goals. They emphasized that while academic excellence is important, most of the scholarship and fellowship programs also look out for individuals who demonstrate leadership potential, community engagement, and a clear commitment to addressing societal challenges.

Mastercard Foundation Scholarships at Makerere University

Speaking during the session, Prof. Justine Namaalwa Jjumba, Program Director, Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University, highlighted the scholarship opportunities available for both undergraduate and graduate students. Prof. Namaalwa stated that the Mastercard Foundation extends scholarships across the entire University, and this year, the Program would soon advertise 260 scholarships, with 70 per cent reserved for female students and 30 per cent for male students.

Prof. Namaalwa highlighted the Program’s dedication to inclusion, referencing the Mastercard Foundation initiatives that aim to serve all categories of prospective applicants in the quest to promote gender equity in higher education. “Beyond the gender percentages, we are very keen on inclusion,” she stated, noting that 25 per cent of the scholarships are allocated to refugees and internally displaced persons, while 10 per cent are reserved for young people with disabilities.

Prof. Justine Namaalwa Jjumba (R). Three-day Careers Fair 2026, bringing together students, industry leaders, and policymakers to discuss the future of work in the era of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Day 2 held under the theme “Scholarship and fellowship opportunities for students and graduates in the United States (US)”, 12th March 2026, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Justine Namaalwa Jjumba (R).

She explained that the Mastercard Foundation initiatives prioritize students from economically dis-advantaged and hard-to-reach regions such as Karamoja, Teso, Busoga, and West Nile, with 20 per cent of the scholarships designated for applicants from such areas. An additional 20 per cent are for students from refugee-hosting communities, 10 per cent allocated to international students, and the remaining opportunities remain open to other Ugandan applicants.

In addition, Prof. Namaalwa announced graduate scholarships under the Africa Climate Collaborative, which will provide 50 scholarships for master’s students and 12 scholarships for PhD students across the university. She revealed that the scholarships offer comprehensive support, including full tuition and functional fees, and urged prospective applicants to demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to community service.

She encouraged participants to carry on the mantle of sharing the information widely within their communities, particularly with bright learners who may lack the financial means to pursue university education. “So, I call upon every one of you present today to extend a hand of charity by sharing this information,” she urged.

U.S. Exchange and Fellowship Opportunities

Ms. Blessing Owomugisha Immaculate addresses students.Three-day Careers Fair 2026, bringing together students, industry leaders, and policymakers to discuss the future of work in the era of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Day 2 held under the theme “Scholarship and fellowship opportunities for students and graduates in the United States (US)”, 12th March 2026, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Ms. Blessing Owomugisha Immaculate addresses students.

Representatives from the United States Exchange Program shared a wide range of scholarship, fellowship, and leadership opportunities available to students and young professionals who aspire to study or undertake any programme in the United States.

Ms. Blessing Owomugisha Immaculate, President of the U.S. Exchange Program Alumni Network in Uganda, explained that Uganda currently has a vibrant Alumni Network of more than 6,000 members comprising individuals who have previously participated in Exchange Programs in the United States and returned to contribute to community development and mentorship.

She stated that there are several United States-sponsored exchange programs available for students, graduates, and professionals, primarily focusing on leadership, academic research, and professional development. The key programs include the Fulbright Foreign Student Program (master’s/research), Mandela Washington Fellowship (young leaders), Study of the U.S. Institutes (SUSI), Pan-Africa Youth Leadership Program, Academy for Women Entrepreneur Program, Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI), Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship,EducationUSA Scholars Program, and many more tailored to meet the diverse needs and aspirations of Ugandan youth.

The Makerere Careers Fair was inclusive: Ms. Blessing Owomugisha Immaculate flanked by a sign language interpreter. Three-day Careers Fair 2026, bringing together students, industry leaders, and policymakers to discuss the future of work in the era of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Day 2 held under the theme “Scholarship and fellowship opportunities for students and graduates in the United States (US)”, 12th March 2026, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The Makerere Careers Fair was inclusive: Ms. Blessing Owomugisha Immaculate flanked by a sign language interpreter.

EducationUSA Scholars Program

In the same session, participants received valuable guidance on pursuing higher education in the United States during a presentation by Mr. Ezra On’rel Nuwenyine, an EducationUSA Adviser in Kampala. Mr. Nuwenyine mentioned that EducationUSA is a global network of over 430 advising centres in more than 175 countries, including Uganda, providing accurate and comprehensive information for international students aspiring to study in the U.S.

He presented the benefits of studying in the United States and guided the participants through the five key steps to consider for their studies abroad. The steps included researching suitable academic institutions that match one’s interests, financial support for their studies, completing application forms with the necessary supporting documents, applying for a student visa, and preparing for their departure to the U.S for their academic journey. He highlighted important resources such as educationusa.state.gov, collegeboard.org, and finaid.org, which can be visited for accurate and credible information.

“Make sure to always check the eligibility criteria before applying to any university and focus on finding institutions that match your academic, financial and personal goals,” he advised, while encouraging participants to carefully plan their academic journey.

Mr. Ezra On’rel Nuwenyine. Three-day Careers Fair 2026, bringing together students, industry leaders, and policymakers to discuss the future of work in the era of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Day 2 held under the theme “Scholarship and fellowship opportunities for students and graduates in the United States (US)”, 12th March 2026, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mr. Ezra On’rel Nuwenyine.

Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI)

Sharing his personal experience, Mr. Joseph Luswabi, a veterinary medicine student at Makerere University, shared about his remarkable participation in the Young Africa Leaders Initiative (YALI). He explained that the program provides leadership and professional development opportunities to young people across Africa.

Mr. Luswabi informed students that his selection to participate in the YALI program required persistence, revealing that he applied four times before being selected in 2024. He shared that his experience, which included intensive training on leadership and networking with fellows across the continent, has broadened his perspective beyond his academic discipline.

“Before you leave the University, make sure you apply and gain an opportunity to participate in any fellowship program,” he said. He encouraged students to take advantage of fellowship opportunities while still at the university, emphasizing that such experiences provide exposure, leadership training, and access to influential professional networks that can significantly shape their career path.

Mr. Joseph Luswabi (2nd L) shares his experience. Three-day Careers Fair 2026, bringing together students, industry leaders, and policymakers to discuss the future of work in the era of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Day 2 held under the theme “Scholarship and fellowship opportunities for students and graduates in the United States (US)”, 12th March 2026, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mr. Joseph Luswabi (2nd L) shares his experience.

Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship

Another speaker, Mr. James Katumba, President – Hubert Humphrey Fellowship alumni association in Uganda, shared insights about the prestigious fellowship designed for mid-career professionals. The program, named after former U.S. Vice President Hubert Humphrey, focuses on leadership, public service, and professional development.

Mr. Katumba elaborated that the fellowship takes professionals to the United States for a 10-month non-degree academic study, during which fellows are placed at different universities where they can attend courses, engage with faculty members, and undertake professional placements aligned with their career goals.

Reflecting on his journey, Mr. Katumba encouraged students not to be discouraged by rejection during competitive applications, and emphasized that persistence often pays off, sharing that many successful fellows apply multiple times before being selected.

Mr. James Katumba (R) contributes to the panel discussion. Three-day Careers Fair 2026, bringing together students, industry leaders, and policymakers to discuss the future of work in the era of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Day 2 held under the theme “Scholarship and fellowship opportunities for students and graduates in the United States (US)”, 12th March 2026, Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mr. James Katumba (R) contributes to the panel discussion.

The second day of the Fair also featured presentations from several partner universities – Ashesi University, Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), and industry players – Tamani Solutions and AniScholar, who presented study and employment opportunities available to students and graduates. These equipped participants with the knowledge and resources needed to take the next step in their academic and professional journeys. Ms. Ritah Namisango, a Public Relations and Communication Specialist at Makerere University moderated the proceedings of the Career Fair.

Writer: Christopher Kaahwa is an alumnus of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars’ Program at Makerere University

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Call For Applications for Masters Research Support: Drug Safety in Uganda

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SPH and CHS Masters Graduands at the 76th Graduation Ceremony. 76th Graduation Ceremony, Day 1, College of Health Sciences and School of Public Health. Commencement Speaker-Prof. Nicholas Ozor, the Executive Director of the African Technology Policy Studies Network, Nairobi, Kenya. 24th February 2026, Freedom Square, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Makerere University in collaboration with University of Liverpool received funding from the UK Medical Research Council to build research capacity in Drug Safety Science in Uganda. The goal of this project is to equip and nurture emerging research leaders and professional scholars in Uganda to generate high-quality, contemporary evidence in Drug Safety Science that is translatable into policy and practice.

Research modalities span Biomedical Sciences, Clinical Medicine, Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Social Sciences, Implementation Science, and other policy-related disciplines. The project prioritises the fields of pharmacovigilance, pharmacoepidemiology, clinical pharmacology and therapeutics, pharmacogenomics, and clinical disciplines focused on medication use and medication safety.

Applications are invited from ambitious Masters candidates to join our high-impact research project focused on understanding the adverse drug reactions of dolutegravir and isoniazid in people living with HIV in Uganda. We will support graduate students of:

  • Makerere University College of Health Sciences
  • Mbarara University of Science and Technology
  • Gulu University
  • Busitema University

The closing date for applications is 31st March 2026.

Enquiries and Applications may be submitted to drugsafetyuganda@gmail.com

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Makerere University Affirms E-Mobility Push with Fast-Charging Station Launch

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Hon. Dr. Monica Musenero (L) and Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (R) hold the Electric Fast-Charging Station's cables after the launch on 13th March 2026. Hon. Dr. Monica Musenero commissions first DC Electric C6-180 Fast-Charging Station installed in collaboration with Kiira Motors Corporation (KMC), Senate Building Parking Lot, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa on Friday 13th March 2026.

In a landmark event symbolizing Uganda’s stride towards sustainable transportation, Hon. Dr. Monica Musenero Masanza, Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation, commissioned the first Electric Fast-Charging Station at Makerere University on Friday 13th March 2026. The ceremony, held at the Senate Building Parking Lot, marks a pivotal moment in the nation’s e-mobility journey, blending academic innovation with industrial application and governmental support.

The station, a DC Fast Charger C6-180 installed in collaboration with Kiira Motors Corporation (KMC), is designed to power electric vehicles efficiently, supporting Uganda’s shift from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources. This setup ensures high-power DC charging ideal for fleet operations.

Hon. Dr. Musenero, in her keynote remarks, highlighted the profound significance of the occasion, tracing its roots back to 2011 when Makerere unveiled the Kiira EV – Uganda’s first electric vehicle prototype. “This infrastructure is the physical manifestation of a journey that began on this very hill nearly two decades ago,” she stated, emphasizing how the university’s initial proof-of-concept challenged skepticism about Africa’s role in automotive technology.

Participants who included differently-abled students pose for a group photo in front of the Kayoola Diesel Coaches. Hon. Dr. Monica Musenero commissions first DC Electric C6-180 Fast-Charging Station installed in collaboration with Kiira Motors Corporation (KMC), Senate Building Parking Lot, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa on Friday 13th March 2026.
Participants who included differently-abled students pose for a group photo in front of the Kayoola Diesel Coaches.

The event, she noted, completes a narrative full circle, with the birthplace of the Kiira EV now hosting the infrastructure to sustain a modern electric fleet. The commissioning aligns seamlessly with Uganda’s National E-Mobility Strategy, which aims to localize 65% of the e-mobility value chain by 2040 and create over 500,000 high-quality green jobs.

Hon. Dr. Musenero underscored the strategy’s focus on reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels while enhancing environmental well-being. “We are transforming Uganda into a net source of e-mobility solutions,” she declared, pointing to the potential for Ugandan intellect to produce vehicle parts and charging systems domestically.

In his remarks at the event, the Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe described the launch as a “multi-faceted achievement,” not only advancing the institution’s inclusive agenda but also setting an example for public institutions in adopting e-mobility. In so doing, Makerere University has positioned itself at the forefront of this transition.

On September 26, 2025, President Yoweri Museveni commissioned the Kiira Vehicle Plant in Jinja and handed over three Kiira Motors Corporation (KMC) buses to Makerere University to enhance staff and student mobility. The fleet included two diesel-powered Kayoola Coaches and one electric Kayoola EVS 8.5m bus donated by KMC specifically to aid the movement of differently-abled staff and students. This move demonstrates academia’s capacity to integrate home-grown solutions into daily operations, impacting the economy through practical science.

Hon. Dr. Musenero hands over the keys to the KMC buses to Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe. Hon. Dr. Monica Musenero commissions first DC Electric C6-180 Fast-Charging Station installed in collaboration with Kiira Motors Corporation (KMC), Senate Building Parking Lot, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa on Friday 13th March 2026.
Hon. Dr. Musenero hands over the keys to the KMC buses to Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe.

The commissioning of the fast-charging station is rooted in a long history of collaboration. The Kiira Electric Vehicle Project, hatched in the former Faculty of Technology, has evolved into a national movement for automotive manufacturing. Hon. Dr. Musenero praised this progression: “We have moved beyond proving that an electric vehicle can be built in Uganda. We are now ensuring our electric vehicles are deployed across the continent, solving Africa’s mobility problems.”

Academia’s role remains central, as Hon. Dr. Musenero elaborated. While government provides policy frameworks and the private sector offers capital, universities supply the essential knowledge. The E-Mobility Skilling Programme at Makerere University‘s Innovation Pod (Mak-UniPod) is training the next generation of electric vehicle engineers, who are tackling “moonshot projects” to redefine urban transport. Research into optimizing local resources, such as Uganda’s lithium and cobalt deposits for battery production, is also underway.

A key environmental highlight of this development is Uganda’s renewable energy advantage. With over 95% of the national grid powered by hydroelectric dams, every charge at this station utilizes clean energy. “We are using our own water to power our own vehicles, keeping our wealth within our economy rather than exporting it to purchase foreign oil,” Hon. Dr. Musenero remarked, framing the launch as Uganda plugging into the global renewable shift. She pledged the Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) Secretariat’s continued collaboration with Makerere University, KMC, and partners to proliferate such stations across Kampala and beyond.

Addressing Makerere students, Hon. Dr. Musenero issued a challenge: “See this charging station as a symbol of your own potential. The engineers who built the first Kiira EV were once sitting exactly where you are. They did not wait for permission to be great.” She urged them to leverage available resources to innovate, building on a legacy that has shifted national conversations.

Hon. Dr. Musenero (3rd R) with R-L: Eng. Paul Isaac Musasizi, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Dr. Winifred Kabumbuli, Rev. Dr. Lydia Nsaale Kitayimbwa and Prof. Moses Musinguzi. Hon. Dr. Monica Musenero commissions first DC Electric C6-180 Fast-Charging Station installed in collaboration with Kiira Motors Corporation (KMC), Senate Building Parking Lot, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa on Friday 13th March 2026.
Hon. Dr. Musenero (3rd R) with R-L: Eng. Paul Isaac Musasizi, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Dr. Winifred Kabumbuli, Rev. Dr. Lydia Nsaale Kitayimbwa and Prof. Moses Musinguzi.

The event drew distinguished guests, including Members of Management, Eng. Paul Isaac Musasizi, KMC’s CEO and his management team, private sector partners, development agencies, and university faculty.

Looking ahead, this launch propels Uganda towards a “Qualitative Leap” in its economy, as Hon. Dr. Musenero described. By fostering innovation and investing in young minds, the nation aims to lead in technological advancement. The station not only powers vehicles but ignites progress, ensuring Uganda remains at the forefront of Africa’s e-mobility revolution.

As the ceremony which was intermittently “blessed” by drizzles drew to a close, the feeling of hope for a cleaner, self-reliant future – one charged by Ugandan ingenuity, was unmistakable.

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