Agriculture & Environment
Mak Climate Conference Calls for Africanizing Global Resilience Discourses
The International Climate Change Conference held at Makerere University has sparked significant discussions on the need to tailor global climate resilience and adaptation strategies to fit the African context.
The conference, themed, ” Grounding Climate Change in East Africa,” brought together Over 100 participants from eight universities in East Africa and the diaspora encompassing natural scientists, social scientists, humanities, medical, law and art scholars as well as Government ministries and agencies, the private sector and civil society organistaions to debate and propose solutions for the pressing climate issues facing East Africa.
Funded by University of Cambridge in the US, the two day conference (25th -26th July 2024) was convened by Makerere University’s Department of Environmental Managemnet in conjunction with University of Cambridge spearheaded by Prof. Justine Namaalwa , Dr. Patrick Byakaga and Adam Branch.
The conference underscored the urgent need to reframe global climate strategies to better suit African realities. Integrating local knowledge, mainstreaming climate issues across disciplines, enhancing collaboration between academia and practitioners, and valuing cultural perspectives provide a comprehensive roadmap for effective climate action in East Africa. The participants call for immediate and sustained efforts to implement these resolutions to address the climate crisis effectively.
While officially opening the conference at Makerere University CEDAT Conference room, the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs, represented by Dr. Robert Wamala, emphasized the collaborative effort between Makerere University and the University of Cambridge as a significant milestone in addressing global climate challenges.
Dr. Wamala noted that Africa is the most vulnerable continent to climate change due to its limited adaptive capacities. “The continent faces increasing climate extremes like droughts and floods, exacerbating poverty and destroying livelihoods,” he said. He highlighted the dire predictions for East Africa, mentioning significant impacts on agriculture, health, infrastructure, and businesses.
“Climate change is recognized as a constraint limiting East Africa’s efforts to attain many critical sustainable development goals,” Wamala added, stressing the urgency for sustainable solutions amid rising conflicts and insecurity in drought-prone areas.
The conference aims to foster meaningful dialogue and explore innovative solutions to climate change. Dr. Wamala encouraged active participation from attendees, stating, “We all shall be able to shape the conversations on climate change based on our unique experiences, insights, and knowledge.”
He highlighted three key themes for the conference: Africanizing global discourses of resilience and adaptation, Deepening climate justice from East African perspectives, and Grounding climate actions by addressing constraints and building momentum. “These themes encapsulate the manifest nature of climate change and the need for knowledge when exploring opportunities for effectively addressing the challenge,” he explained.
Dr. Wamala concluded by expressing gratitude to the Department of Environmental Management and international partners, reaffirming Makerere University‘s commitment to addressing global challenges. “Together, let us interrogate the complexities of climate change and trigger discussions on tangible actions that will shape a sustainable future,” Dr. Wamala urged.
Co-Convener Highlights the Power of Collaboration in Addressing Climate Change
Representing the Principal of the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Co-Convener Assoc. Prof. Justine Namaalwa, who is also Chair of the Department of Environmental Management, emphasized the critical role of academic institutions in tackling climate change. Namaalwa underscored that the conference represents a culmination of the college’s mandate to advance research and education in agricultural and environmental sciences.
Prof. Namaalwa praised the collaborative spirit of the conference, noting, “This event is a testament to the power of collaboration and our shared vision to address the pressing issue of climate change in our region.” She highlighted the diverse range of participants, including academics, government officials, and private sector representatives, all coming together with the common goal of enhancing understanding and shaping effective climate actions tailored to East Africa.
She expressed her gratitude towards the leadership of Makerere University and the Centre of African Studies at the University of Cambridge for their significant contributions. “Our appreciation goes to our esteemed partners at the Centre of African Studies, University of Cambridge. Your invaluable partnership and mutual respect have been instrumental in making this conference a reality,” Prof. Namaalwa stated.
Addressing the conference attendees, Namaalwa called for a multidisciplinary approach to climate change. “Climate change is a multifaceted issue that intersects with various fields, including environmental science, agriculture, economics, law, medicine, sociology, and public policy. By integrating insights from these diverse disciplines, we can develop comprehensive and effective actions tailored to our region’s specific needs.” she said.
She urged participants to focus on opportunities for innovation and progress. “The challenges posed by climate change are immense, but so are the opportunities for innovation. Let us emphasize the potential for positive change and work together to build resilient communities, protect our ecosystems, and foster sustainable development.”
In conclusion, Prof. Namaalwa expressed confidence that the conference would act as a catalyst for meaningful action and new partnerships. “I am confident that this conference will inspire new initiatives and collaborations aimed at addressing climate change effectively. Let us seize this opportunity to exchange ideas, share best practices, and forge lasting collaborations for a better future.”
Calls for Unified Climate Research, Localized Solutions, and Redefining Global Models
The Head of African Studies at the University of Cambridge, Prof. Adam Branch outlined three main intellectual and institutional goals for the “Grounding Climate Change in East Africa” conference, emphasizing the need to address fragmentation in climate research, political transformations driven by climate discourse, and the influence of Western-dominated climate models.
Prof. Branch pointed out the fragmentation in climate change research driven by donor priorities. He explained that much of the current research is conducted under varied agendas and lacks coordination among different disciplines and institutions. “The conference aims to bring together researchers from various disciplines and universities to build common agendas, discuss shared challenges, and address the fragmentation caused by donor-driven priorities,” he said.
Branch addressed the political and social transformations triggered by climate change discussions. He noted that climate change is driving significant shifts in policies, institutional changes, and civil society agendas. “Given the broad impacts of climate change, it is crucial to create a platform where civil society, activists, academics, practitioners, and political leaders can reflect on these changes and collaborate on navigating the evolving political and social landscape,” Prof. Branch stated.
Prof. Branch also discussed the need to challenge the dominance of Western climate models and agendas. He highlighted concerns about the relevance of global climate policies and models to African contexts, emphasizing that these frameworks often overlook Africa’s environmental histories and adaptation practices. “To ensure that climate actions are relevant and effective, we must ground climate change discussions in African environmental histories and needs, driven by African researchers. This approach will help avoid perpetuating climate injustice and promote genuine environmental justice,” he asserted.
He concluded by reaffirming the importance of the conference in addressing these key issues, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and ensuring that climate strategies are tailored to the unique needs and histories of African societies.
Conference Highlights Multidisciplinary Approaches to Climate Change
The conference, held over two days, explored three core themes: Africanizing global discourses of resilience and adaptation; Deepening climate justice with East African perspectives, and Grounding climate actions by addressing constraints and building momentum.
The conference attracted eight universities in East Africa and beyond including Gulu University, Makerere University, University of Cambridge, Uganda Martyrs University Nkozi, University of Dodoma, University of Dar es Salaam, Lira University, and Addis Ababa University. A total of 28 scholarly papers were presented, alongside three keynote speeches and six panel discussions.
During the opening, agenda setting and overview roundtable, Prof. Justine Namaalwa emphasized the critical role of research in shaping climate actions. Dr. Patrick Byakagaba discussed the importance of harnessing synergies between universities and civil society organizations for climate resilience and justice.
Byakagaba emphasized the multifaceted nature of climate justice, stating, “Climate change disproportionately impacts vulnerable populations, and achieving climate justice means addressing these disparities. It involves not only fair distribution of costs and benefits but also correcting historical wrongs.” He explained that climate justice is deeply intertwined with both distributive justice—where wealthier nations shoulder more responsibility—and corrective justice, which seeks to address past inequities.
Byakagaba highlighted the growing involvement of civil society organizations (CSOs) and governments in adopting climate justice perspectives. “while some Global South nations are enacting climate laws that incorporate human rights and intergenerational considerations, successes in climate litigation have been sparse.” This is often due to the technical challenge of proving causal links between human activities and localized climate impacts. He stressed that “robust evidence from technical experts, often based in universities, is essential to support these legal claims.”
Universities, once considered detached from real-world problems, are increasingly aligning their research with societal needs and community priorities. Dr. Byakagaba noted, “The collaboration between universities and CSOs is crucial. Universities have the research capabilities to provide actionable insights, while CSOs offer on-the-ground perspectives and practical experience.” This partnership is seen as a vital strategy for developing and implementing effective climate-resilient interventions.
Policy advocacy for climate justice relies heavily on rigorous, objective research. Dr. Byakagaba explained, “Countries with strong climate laws often have advisory committees that include technical experts from academia and civil society. These committees are vital for shaping and implementing effective climate strategies.” However, many regional and local governments in East Africa still face challenges in creating actionable climate plans.
Addressing barriers to effective university-CSO partnerships—such as power imbalances and differing timelines—requires significant reform. Dr. Byakagaba concluded, “Overcoming these challenges will necessitate a shift in mindset within both universities and CSOs. Strong collaborations between these institutions can drive meaningful climate action and address the pressing challenges of climate change.”
Additionally, Adam Branch and Dr. Florence Ebila presented on extending the climate change debate and engendering climate change action, respectively.The conference featured three keynote addresses. Mathew Bukhi Mabele from the University of Dodoma presented on “Green Extractivism and a Surging Commodity Frontier in African Carbon Forestry.” On the second day, Laury Ocen delivered a keynote on “Framing Climate Security within the Historical Lenses of Oral Texts,” while Aaron Werikhe and Kimono Jamil from the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Water and Environment discussed “Mainstreaming Climate Change in National and Local Government Budgets in Uganda: Opportunities and Challenges.”
Panel discussions covered a range of topics. Panel One, chaired by Prof. Namaalwa, included debates on climate change politics, data, and justice. Panel Two, led by Solomon Olum, focused on land, natural resources, and livelihoods, with discussions on gender dynamics, carbon hegemony, and conservation agriculture. Panel Three, chaired by Arthur Oworo, explored culture and climate change, with presentations on literature, disaster risk reduction, and indigenous knowledge.
Day Two Featured Panel Four, chaired by Laury Ocen, which examined environmental hazards and social vulnerability, including studies on ecosystems, biodiversity, and the impacts of climate change in East Africa. Panel Five, led by Irene Anying, presented research on local climate knowledge and adaptation practices, while Panel Six, chaired by Adam Branch, addressed land, displacement, and ecology, featuring discussions on refugee self-reliance, land tenure, and sustainable development.
The conference successfully fostered a multidisciplinary dialogue on climate change, emphasizing the need for collaborative and context-specific solutions to address the challenges facing East Africa and beyond.
Communiqué: Key Takeaways and Resolutions from the Conference
The conference addressed several critical issues, providing clear resolutions for tackling climate change in East Africa. A major focus was the pivotal role of academia in shaping climate adaptation and resilience strategies for Africa.
Universities and research institutions were urged to lead by developing curricula and research agendas that incorporate African perspectives and solutions. This includes supporting civil society organizations (CSOs) with accessible information and fostering collaborative actions. There was a strong call to mainstream climate change across all academic disciplines, advocating for interdisciplinary approaches and ensuring that all fields, including the humanities, contribute to climate solutions.
The importance of evidence-based climate action was emphasized. It was highlighted that research should inform decision-making processes to ensure that interventions are grounded in solid evidence. This approach is crucial for implementing effective strategies to address climate change challenges.
The conference also underscored the need for research to be deliberate and intentional in influencing policy and practice. Researchers were encouraged not only to generate evidence but also to actively engage in refining and rebutting existing policies and practices. This focused effort aims to ensure that research findings contribute directly to improving climate policies and practices.
Researchers were urged to contribute to climate change mitigation efforts through targeted research that provides actionable insights and solutions for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating climate impacts. Additionally, there was a call for researchers to provide evidence-based results that support both national and international climate policy processes, including the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). This will ensure that climate strategies are informed by the latest research findings.
Academia is expected to play a proactive role in supporting policy and strategy development. Researchers were urged to align their work with policy processes, offering valuable data and analysis to shape and refine climate strategies. This commitment is crucial for bridging the gap between research and practical climate action, ensuring that policies are effective and grounded in robust scientific evidence.
The conference also emphasized the urgent need to realign global climate strategies to better address African realities. By integrating local knowledge, mainstreaming climate issues across disciplines, enhancing collaboration between academia and practitioners, and valuing cultural perspectives, participants laid out a comprehensive roadmap for effective climate action in East Africa. Immediate and sustained efforts are required to implement these resolutions and address the climate crisis effectively.
Local knowledge and perspectives were highlighted, with the conference stressing that societies affected by climate change should not only be seen as victims but also as repositories of valuable indigenous knowledge. Challenging conventional notions of climate change and integrating local insights is essential for developing more effective and contextually relevant solutions.
Climate change was recognized as a cross-cutting issue impacting various sectors of society. The conference underscored the necessity of addressing climate change across political, economic, social, and scientific fields. Comprehensive engagement from all academic disciplines, including the humanities, is vital. Integrating diverse perspectives will ensure a holistic approach to tackling climate change and its multifaceted impacts.
Sustainable charcoal practices were identified as a critical area for environmental conservation and local livelihoods. The sub-region was highlighted as a key area for implementing such initiatives, emphasizing the need to mitigate deforestation and support community well-being.
Participants were encouraged to become proactive climate change activists, advocate for climate considerations in budget plans, and integrate these issues into everyday practices. Effective climate action requires collaboration between academia and CSOs to create and implement meaningful policies and initiatives.
Communication strategies were addressed, with a focus on using vernacular languages to effectively communicate climate change. This approach is crucial for bridging the gap between universal and local understandings, making climate information more accessible and relevant to diverse communities.
The conference stressed the need for a critical approach to data justice and climate modeling. There was a call for examining climate models and data with consideration of historical injustices, ensuring they inform policies and practices thoughtfully. Caution was advised to avoid perpetuating inequalities or misrepresenting local conditions.
Cultural perspectives and environmental justice were also highlighted. Cultural values and traditional knowledge play a crucial role in conserving natural resources and promoting environmental sustainability. The rich content of oral culture can offer valuable insights for developing effective climate change responses and resilience strategies.
Jane Anyango
Principal Communication Officer
Agriculture & Environment
Makerere Students Urged to Register Agricultural Innovations to Avoid Plagiarism
By Hasifa Kabejja & Buwule Joseph Mary
The Principal of the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) at Makerere University, Prof. Gorettie Nabonoga has urged student innovators to safeguard their intellectual property rights. Speaking at the end-of-recess exhibition organized by the School of Food Technology, Nutrition, and Biosystems Engineering to showcase student-led innovations, she cautioned students about the risks of intellectual theft.
“It is essential to take proactive measures to protect your ideas,” Prof. Nabanoga emphasized. “If you have developed something original and useful, make sure to register your innovation. Intellectual property rights are essential for securing the recognition and rewards you deserve. Remember, plagiarism is not just an academic issue – it affects business and innovation.”
She commended the students for their creativity and responsiveness to local market needs.
Held at the School premises on 24th July 2025, the exhibition, attended by students, staff and industry stakeholders, featured a wide array of student-created products, including solar-dried fruit snacks, low-cost grain sorters, biodegradable packaging from crop waste, and nutrient-rich baked goods targeting malnutrition. Students presented petri dishes from a microbial analysis of street-vended mangoes sold around Makerere University, revealing that the fruits may be unhygienic and potentially unsafe for consumption. They also demonstrated a low-cost water purification technology designed for cleaning and reusing wastewater from pilot or food processing plants. The system utilizes moringa seed powder, charcoal, sand, stones, and cotton wool to produce clean, clear water suitable for reuse, such as for cleaning. Additionally, the students showcased the use of activated charcoal and beeswax to extend the shelf life of fruits like bananas and passion fruit. These innovative, low-cost technologies have the potential to be further developed and adopted by farmers and traders to reduce postharvest losses. The innovations were developed during a 10-week recess programme that immerses students in hands-on fieldwork, research, and product development.
In his remarks, Prof. Ivan Muzira Mukisa, Head, Department of Food Technology and Nutrition, encouraged the students to envision their projects beyond the academic realm and focus on transforming them into viable commercial enterprises. “The future of agriculture lies in innovation. The students have demonstrated the potential to solve pressing challenges, create jobs, and build businesses. Their work shouldn’t end at the exhibition. It should continue into the market,” he said.
Dr. Stella Byakika, Coordinator of the recess programme, emphasized the importance of experiential learning in shaping Uganda’s next generation of agricultural leaders. “This programme goes beyond fulfilling academic requirements. It is a practical training platform where students apply their knowledge to real-world problems. We are preparing them not just to graduate, but to lead in transforming Uganda’s agricultural and agro-processing sectors,” she explained.
On behalf of her classmates, Ms. Ndegema Daphine, a Third Year student of Human Nutrition, expressed gratitude for the hands-on experience gained during their internship. “During the recess term, we had the opportunity to work directly with children suffering from severe acute malnutrition, including cases with edema and dermatosis. We participated in both inpatient and outpatient therapeutic care, which gave us a real-world perspective on the clinical management of these conditions. Unlike in the classroom, where we only study such cases theoretically, the internship allowed us to witness the treatment process a nd see patients recover first-hand. With guidance from our supervisors, we were able to conduct clinical assessments for malnutrition and edema, as well as evaluate dietary needs. We also put into practice what we had learned in our communication skills course by delivering nutrition education sessions, helping patients and caregivers understand the importance of proper nutrition in recovery and long-term health.”
Delivering her remarks, the Dean of the School of Food Technology, Nutrition, and Biosystems Engineering (SFTNB), Dr Julia Kigozi appreciated the University and College Administration for their unwavering support towards students’ projects and academic endeavours. She commended the students for their creativity and commitment to excellence in their work. “Our goal is to nurture and produce well-rounded graduates who not only excel academically but also embody an entrepreneurial mind-set, a strong work ethic, a deep sense of social responsibility, and respect for authority. These values are essential as they prepare to make meaningful contributions to society and the broader global community.”
Held annually, the recess programme equips students with field experience through community-based projects, agribusiness development, and food innovation. The culminating exhibition serves as a platform for feedback, exposure, and networking with industry professionals.
More photos from the exhibition
Agriculture & Environment
CAES Revitalizes Internship Programme to Boost Students’ Field Experience & Community Impact
In an effort to enhance practical learning and support community and government initiatives, the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) at Makerere University has taken significant steps to revitalize its internship programme. The renewal offers students immersive field experiences, allowing them to develop crucial skills, gain first-hand insight into industry challenges, and make meaningful contributions to agricultural development. It equally fosters stronger collaborations with agricultural industries, research institutions, and community organizations.
This year, 51 students from various departments within the College engaged in diverse agricultural activities on farms across Mpigi and Masaka Districts, with a strong focus on the Parish Development Model (PDM) and the 4-Acre Model. In Mpigi, the training took place in Kasamu village, while in Masaka, the students were assigned to farms located in the Kyesiiga, Buwunga, and Kyanamukaka sub-counties. The primary host farms were Mbulamu Integrated Farm in Mpigi District and Green Valley Farm in Masaka District. Coordinated by Dr. Emmanuel Opolot from the Department of Soil Science and Land Use Management and Dr. Gabriel Karubanga of the Department of Extension and Innovation Studies, the internship aimed to provide hands-on learning in sustainable farming practices while sharing innovations with local farmers. The students engaged in multiple agricultural enterprises, including coffee, poultry, banana, and maize farming. They also acquired and shared expertise in modern irrigation techniques, production of renewable energy, and record keeping.
Key Enterprises and Training Areas
- Coffee Production
Over 60% of coffee quality is influenced by the method of harvesting, making it a critical focus area for improvement. In collaboration with local farmers, the students engaged in knowledge sharing and capacity building on sustainable farming practices aimed at increasing yields and improving both harvest and post-harvest handling processes. The students emphasized the importance of proper harvesting techniques, highlighting the differences between good and poor practices and how these can directly impact the quality of coffee. Training sessions covered key stages of post-harvest handling, including selective harvesting of ripe cherries, the floating process to remove defective beans, proper drying techniques to avoid mold and fermentation, accurate weighing and packaging, as well as safe storage and transportation methods to maintain bean quality. Additionally, the students gained practical knowledge in establishing and managing high-quality nursery beds. They learned how to produce healthy, disease-free seedlings by avoiding common mistakes in coffee farming, such as poor soil preparation, overcrowding, or inadequate pest control.
- Poultry Farming and Management
The students gained and exchanged knowledge on sustainable poultry farming practices. Key areas of learning included the significance of proper chick brooding, essential components of an effective brooding system, and step-by-step procedures for setting up and managing a successful brooder. Emphasis was placed on the care and management of chicks throughout the brooding period to ensure optimal growth and health. In addition, students acquired practical skills in egg quality assurance and grading based on established standards, which are crucial for market readiness and consumer safety. They also explored innovative and eco-friendly practices such as azolla farming for supplemental feed, and the use of black soldier fly larvae as a sustainable source of high-protein poultry feed. Furthermore, the importance of strict biosecurity measures to prevent disease outbreaks and maintain flock health was emphasized throughout the training.
- Banana Farming
The students acquired skills in the agronomic practices essential for successful banana cultivation. This included learning how to select high-quality planting materials to ensure healthy crop establishment. They were trained in proper planting techniques and maintenance practices such as weeding, mulching, and composting to improve soil health and moisture retention. The training also covered the appropriate application of manure and fertilizers to promote optimal plant growth. Additionally, students gained practical knowledge in pruning, propping, and desuckering to manage plant structure and enhance yield. The students equally attained skills in effective pest and disease management to protect the crop from common threats.
- Maize Farming
The students gained and exchanged valuable insights on the essential conditions necessary for the successful growth and development of maize. Mr. Lubwama Fred, a maize farmer from Mpambire village in Mpigi District, who benefits from support under the Parish Development Model (PDM), highlighted the positive impact of this knowledge-sharing. He explained that the information provided by the students helped him to effectively address several challenges that had been limiting productivity on his farm. These challenges included pest infestations such as monkeys and other pests, crop diseases, unpredictable price fluctuations in the market, and issues related to soil infertility. With the new strategies and techniques learned, Mr. Lubwama has been able to improve crop health and yield, demonstrating the practical value of the internship programme.
- Artificial Insemination and Silage Making
In the livestock sector, students were provided with practical training and hands-on experience in artificial insemination techniques, an essential method for enhancing genetic quality and improving breed performance in farm animals. Additionally, they learned the intricacies of silage making, a vital process for preserving high-quality forage to ensure consistent and nutritious livestock feed during dry seasons.
- Smart Irrigation and Water Conservation in Agriculture
In collaboration with farmers, the students explored advanced and innovative irrigation methods aimed at promoting water conservation in agriculture. They gained hands-on experience with various systems such as drip irrigation, sprinkler irrigation, solar-powered pumps, and manual watering techniques. Alongside understanding how these technologies function, the students also learned essential maintenance practices to ensure the longevity and efficiency of irrigation equipment. They were introduced to practical water-saving strategies that can help optimize water usage, reduce wastage, and contribute to sustainable farming practices.
- Sustainable Solar Drying for a Bountiful Harvest
During their training, the students acquired valuable skills in sustainable solar drying techniques. This eco-friendly method harnesses the power of the sun to effectively dry agricultural produce, helping to preserve quality while reducing reliance on conventional energy sources. By mastering these techniques, the students are better equipped to promote environmentally responsible practices that contribute to increased food security and reduced post-harvest losses.
- Record Keeping
Students developed a comprehensive understanding of record-keeping practices, recognizing it as a crucial component of modern farming. Accurate and systematic record keeping enables farmers to track crop performance, manage resources efficiently, monitor financial transactions, and make informed decisions to enhance productivity and sustainability in agricultural operations.
- Biogas Production
During their internship, students actively engaged in hands-on training in biogas production. This practical experience allowed them to understand the underlying biological and chemical processes, operate relevant equipment, and appreciate the environmental and economic benefits of renewable energy generation through biogas technology.
CAES Field Days and End of Internship Programme
The 8-week internship programme, which commenced in June 2025, concluded with field day activities held on 22nd and 23rd July at Mbulamu Integrated Farm in Mpigi District and Green Valley Farm in Masaka District, respectively. According to Dr. Emmanuel Opolot, one of the internship coordinators, the event aimed to showcase the students’ work and foster an exchange of experiences between the interns and local farmers. Additionally, the activities provided a valuable opportunity to gather feedback from the farmers on the training gaps. During the event, participants, including the students’ supervisors from CAES, Makerere University, and farmers from the respective districts, toured the various projects the students had been working on.
Students’ Reflections
Sharing their experiences, the students, led by Mr. Mayson Wangusa (Mpigi District) and Mr. Clever Asiimwe (Masaka), explained how the programme had profoundly transformed their mind-set and equipped them with essential skills in modern agriculture. “Initially, when we travelled to these remote villages for our internship, the sheer isolation almost discouraged us from continuing. However, as time passed, we adapted to the environment and began to truly appreciate and enjoy the training. Through this hands-on experience, we acquired invaluable practical skills that have significantly enriched our understanding of agricultural practices. We are deeply grateful to the University and College Management, our dedicated coordinators, the supervisors, and our generous hosts for their unwavering support throughout this journey. Their guidance and encouragement played a crucial role in making this learning experience both meaningful and rewarding.”
Farmers’ Perspectives
According to Mr. Tonda Deogratious, the owner and proprietor of Mbulamu Integrated Farm in Mpigi District, the initiative is highly commendable. “I thank Makerere University for this kind of arrangement. While its primary goal was to equip students with practical skills, we as farmers have benefited immensely. The students have been incredibly resourceful and we have learned a lot from working with them. Their presence has broadened our approach to modern farming practices. With our 60-acre coffee farm, a student recommended introducing an Agricultural Production Log (APL) to improve management and is currently drafting for us a proposal in that line. The students also suggested using Indigenous Microorganism (IMO) solutions to enhance piggery management, and we are now collaborating on a proposal in that area. We have also gained valuable skills in tick management and record keeping. Given their expertise, I plan to continue working with the students. I also strongly encourage the University to sustain this partnership.”
Mr. Tonda further praised the students for their discipline and professionalism throughout the training programme.
As a farmer operating within the 4-acre model, Mr. Tonda highly advocates for mixed farming. “By integrating different types of agricultural activities, such as crop cultivation alongside livestock rearing, farm units can mutually support one another, leading to increased efficiency and resilience. This approach not only maximizes the use of available land and resources but also helps reduce overall costs by diversifying income sources and minimizing dependency on a single commodity.”
Mr. James Kabiito, the proprietor of Green Valley Farm located in Kyesiiga Sub County, Masaka District, is equally appreciative of the programme. He emphasized the vital role that universities play in advancing and transforming the agricultural sector. According to Mr. Kabiito, collaborating directly with students on his farm has been a significant benefit. Speaking during the field day activities on 23rd July 2025, he noted that the students had consistently demonstrated resourcefulness, bringing fresh ideas and energy that contributed positively to the farm’s operations. “This hands-on partnership not only supports the students’ practical learning but also enhances the overall productivity and innovation within the agricultural community.”
Remarks by the DPMOs
Mpigi District DPMO, Mr. Patrick Ssserwadda and Masaka District DPMO, Mr. Ssekayi Godfrey expressed gratitude for the programme, emphasizing its role in enhancing the partnership between academic institutions and grassroots communities. They noted that such initiatives not only provide practical solutions to local challenges but also create a platform for mutual learning and knowledge exchange. “The collaboration between the University and local governments is a significant step forward. It allows us to tap into academic research and innovation to improve livelihoods and drive sustainable development in our districts,” Mr. Sserwadda explained. Mr. Ssekayi echoed the sentiment, calling for even deeper collaboration in research and extension services. “Strengthening research partnerships will enable us to address community-specific needs more effectively, and ensure that interventions are both evidence-based and impactful,” he stated.
Remarks by the University officials
Speaking on behalf of the Dean of the School of Agricultural Sciences (SAS), Dr. Olupot Giregon praised the initiative, describing it as a transformative approach to enhancing the practical dimension of agricultural training. He emphasized that such hands-on experience is essential for bridging the gap between academic training and real-world agricultural practice. Dr. Olupot expressed the School’s commitment to ensuring the continuity and sustainability of the programme, highlighting its potential long-term benefits for both students and host communities. Furthermore, he advocated for the integration of a soil management component within the district production units, noting its critical role in enhancing agricultural productivity and sustainability. He thanked the host communities for their invaluable support and hospitality towards the students. He acknowledged the University and College leadership for their foresight and innovation in reshaping the internship programme to better meet the evolving needs of students and the agricultural sector.
On behalf of the Principal of CAES, Dr. Richard Miiro from the Department of Extension and Innovation Studies expressed gratitude to the host farmers for their willingness to train and mentor the students. “Makerere University deeply values this partnership, as farmers play a pivotal role in driving the growth and development of the agricultural sector, which remains the cornerstone of Uganda’s economy.” Dr. Miiro highlighted the significant impact of the programme, noting that it has been instrumental in reshaping the perspectives and attitudes of the students toward agriculture. “Through hands-on experience and direct engagement with farming communities, our students gain practical knowledge and skills, leaving the field better equipped and more confident as future agricultural professionals.” Furthermore, he appreciated the Government of Uganda for its continued support and commitment to advancing agricultural education and development. This collaboration, he noted, is a vital step toward strengthening the sector and fostering sustainable agricultural practices that benefit the nation. He commended the coordinators of the programmes for the guidance and mentorship provided to the students. On behalf of the College, Dr Miiro handed over two irrigation pumps to farmer groups in Mpigi and Masaka Districts. He also handed over a soil testing kit donated to the Masaka District Production Unit.
The coordinators represented by Dr. Opolot expressed gratitude to the College and University Management for their visionary efforts in redesigning the agricultural internship programme. “This thoughtful restructuring will significantly enhance the learning experience and better prepare students for the evolving demands of the agricultural sector.” He further praised the students for their resilience, unwavering dedication, and enthusiastic commitment to learning throughout the internship period. “You have demonstrated great potential to drive transformation in the agricultural sector.”
The LC5 Chairman, Masaka District
The LC5 Chairman of Masaka District, Mr. Andrew Battemyetto Lukyamuzi, appreciated the government for its continued support of internship programmes at the district. He highlighted the importance of establishing soil fertility centres within the district to improve crop productivity and ensure sustainable agricultural practices. Mr. Lukyamuzi also called for increased support in providing affordable agricultural inputs to farmers, alongside initiatives aimed at reskilling and empowering them to enhance agricultural output. He underscored the vital role of partnerships between universities and local communities, noting that such collaborations are essential for driving innovation and boosting agricultural production. He advised students to maintain discipline throughout their studies, and encouraged them to approach the job market with an open and adaptable mind-set.
More photos on the activities at: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1EReMonIyk8zHtYdJMaEQVReIb8XXr1lI?usp=sharing
Agriculture & Environment
Mak Signs MoU with NAU China to Boost Agricultural Research and Innovation
Makerere University has today July 28, 2025, signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Nanjing Agricultural University (NAU) of China, aimed at strengthening institutional collaboration in agricultural research, training, innovation, and capacity building.
The agreement, to be implemented at Makerere University’s College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), marks a major milestone in the university’s efforts to foster global partnerships that support sustainable agricultural development and academic excellence.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Makerere University Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, emphasized the importance of the collaboration in enhancing the university’s strategic objectives in agricultural science and innovation. “This MoU is a testament to our shared commitment to advancing research that responds to local and global food security needs. It opens up pathways for our staff and students to gain international exposure while co-developing solutions with NAU,” he said.
Prof. Zhu Yan, Vice President of NAU, led the Chinese delegation and expressed great optimism about the future of the partnership. “NAU is proud to join hands with Makerere University, one of Africa’s premier institutions. Together, we will pursue impactful research, promote knowledge exchange, and cultivate the next generation of agricultural scientists and innovators,” she noted.
Also speaking at the event, Hon. Vincent Bamulangaki Ssempijja, who led the delegation from NAU, expressed confidence in the partnership and its potential to transform Uganda’s agricultural sector. He particularly noted the opportunity to improve the coffee value chain, enhance marketing strategies, and support the production of organic fertilizers through collaborative research and technology transfer. “This partnership is timely. It aligns well with Uganda’s agricultural transformation agenda, and I am confident it will yield lasting impact for our farmers and agro-industrial players,” he said.
The five-year MoU outlines collaboration in various areas including:
- Joint research projects in agriculture, environmental sciences, food systems, and biosystems engineering;
- Student and staff exchanges for training, internships, and fellowships;
- Development of innovative teaching and learning technologies;
- Joint resource mobilization and participation in global partnerships with bodies such as the UNDP and WHO;
- Promotion of knowledge transfer and sustainable solutions to community challenges.
The ceremony was witnessed by university leaders, faculty, and government officials from both institutions, and concluded with a commitment to initiate pilot programs and joint research activities within the next academic year.
This partnership adds to Makerere University’s growing portfolio of global collaborations aimed at expanding its reach, influence, and contribution to solving some of the world’s most pressing challenges through science and innovation.
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