Connect with us

Veterinary & Biosecurity

Mak and UVRI Pilot Cyberbiosecurity Project to Safeguard Laboratory Facilities

Published

on

By Joseph Odoi

A consortium of researchers from Makerere University‘s College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources, and Biosecurity (COVAB) and the Uganda Virus Research Institute (UVRI), with support from CRDF Global have piloted a cyberbiosecurity project to address the growing threat of cyberattacks on laboratories handling high-risk biological materials.

As per  the International Federation of Biosafety Associations (IFBA), CyberBiosecurity is the “safeguarding and mitigation of misuse, exploitation, damage to or disruption of valuable information, data, databases, equipment, and facilities at the interface of the biological laboratory, related life sciences facilities, and digital worlds.”

The project, titled “Establishment of Cyber Biosecurity Inventory and Procedures for Effective Safety and Administrative Controls for COVAB and UVRI Laboratories in Uganda,” is led by Associate Professor Lawrence Mugisha from COVAB, Makerere University, and Dr. Stephen Balinandi from UVRI.

While hosting the workshop on August 16, 2024  at the  Centre for Biosecurity and Global Health, Makerere University ,  Professor Mugisha  in a special way welcomed the participants  to the workshop. He noted that; Cyber threats and attacks have become a  serious threat to many establishments including (government institutions, business enterprises and other critical facilities like financial and health facilities) across the global disrupting services and causing serious financial losses in addition to individual and institutional safety.

Associate Professor Lawrence Mugisha giving an overview of the project. Makerere University and Uganda Virus Research Institute Pilot Cyberbiosecurity Project to Safeguard Laboratory Facilities, Workshop, 16th August 2024, Centre for Biosecurity and Global Health, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Associate Professor Lawrence Mugisha giving an overview of the project.

‘’ More recently these attacks have extended and targeted laboratories handling biological materials including high risk and highly pathogenic organisms like anthrax, ebola, SARS-CoV2 viruses with potential for bioterrorism.

To contribute to data driven interventions  aimed at securing and protecting laboratory facilities handling high consequence/risk pathogens from cyber-attacks and the need for cyberbiosecurity,  Makerere University led by College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) in collaboration with Uganda Virus Research Institute (UVRI) is implementing the first pilot project in Uganda on Cyberbiosecurity.

This collaborative project  is aimed at  mapping and identifying  potential cybersecurity threats to the biological laboratories at Makerere University and UVRI by conducting a thorough information and communication Technology (ICT) risk assessments.  The project will then develop comprehensive Cybersecurity Standard Operating Procedures, guidelines and manuals with a goal of establishing  Cyberbiosecurity Policy.  Furthermore, the project is aimed at  creating awareness about  cyber threats, cyber biosecurity, biosafety and biosecurity among staff, scientists/researchers and management at the two institutions to promote Cyber security best practices’’ explained Prof. Mugisha

In his opening remarks, CoVAB Principal Prof. Frank Norbert Mwiine emphasized the reality of cyberbiosecurity threats, sharing that he himself has been a victim of a cybersecurity breach involving his atm. He urged the team to consider developing training projects focused on cyberbiosecurity and to build a strong cybersecurity research team within CoVAB and UVRI. Prof. Mwiine also called on the team to actively seek research opportunities around cyberbiosecurity adding that   CoVAB is open to collaborations.

CoVAB Principal Prof. Frank Norbert Mwiine sharing insights on cyberbiosecurity  at the Workshop. Makerere University and Uganda Virus Research Institute Pilot Cyberbiosecurity Project to Safeguard Laboratory Facilities, Workshop, 16th August 2024, Centre for Biosecurity and Global Health, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
CoVAB Principal Prof. Frank Norbert Mwiine sharing insights on cyberbiosecurity  at the Workshop.

Furthermore, Prof. Mwiine expressed his gratitude to Prof.  Mugisha for his tireless efforts in coordination and leading activities and projects  advancing ethics, bioethics and biosafety in Uganda, noting that Prof. Mugisha played a key role in establishing Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC) and Institutional Biosafety Committee (IBC) at Makerere University. Prof. Mwiine also reiterated Makerere University’s commitment to cyberbiosecurity and biosecurity, highlighting the ongoing research collaboration between CoVAB and UVRI.

In her presentation centered around Dual-Use Research of Concern (DURC), Sandra Matinyi, Co-founder and Executive Director of Nuo Bioscience, shared critical insights on the global guidance framework for the responsible use of life sciences. This framework, published by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2022, focuses on mitigating biorisks and governing dual-use research.

Sandra Matinyi, Co-founder and Executive Director of Nuo Bioscience, sharing critical insights on the global guidance framework for the responsible use of life sciences. Makerere University and Uganda Virus Research Institute Pilot Cyberbiosecurity Project to Safeguard Laboratory Facilities, Workshop, 16th August 2024, Centre for Biosecurity and Global Health, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Sandra Matinyi, Co-founder and Executive Director of Nuo Bioscience, sharing critical insights on the global guidance framework for the responsible use of life sciences.

‘’With the emergence of new technologies and rapid advancements in life sciences research, there was previously no global guidance for identifying or mitigating risks related to dual-use research of concern until the WHO introduced this framework in 2022.’’

She noted that Uganda, while still lacking a specific policy on DURC, is among the first countries to pilot the introduction of the WHO framework. This positions Uganda at the forefront of adopting international standards for biosecurity, which is essential given the global nature of these concerns.

“As a country, Uganda has not yet developed a specific policy, but we are among the first to pilot the introduction of this framework.

‘’Mitigating biorisks and governing dual use research is a global issue as we live in a global village. Its a shared responsibility and everyone has a role to play including scientists, researchers, the public among others. The framework is based on a one health approach and it does not assume a one fits it all approach. We ought to customize framework to the Ugandan context.’’” added.

A Participant making a submission at the workshop. Makerere University and Uganda Virus Research Institute Pilot Cyberbiosecurity Project to Safeguard Laboratory Facilities, Workshop, 16th August 2024, Centre for Biosecurity and Global Health, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
A Participant making a submission at the workshop.

In her presentation, Dr. Monica Namayanja highlighted the critical importance of establishing a Bio-Risk Management Committee, the role of dedicated biosafety officers, and the need for specialized laboratory managers. She emphasized that the involvement of top management is crucial for effective bio-risk management, noting that continuous improvement in this area is essential for maintaining best practices.

During the workshop, participants and project team shared   lessons and facility based best practices desired for cybersecurity focusing on pertinent aspects of safeguarding digital and biological infrastructures.

The presentations also explored emerging topics in biosecurity including Dual Research (DUR), Dual Research of Concern (DURC) and Know Your Collaborator |(KYC)

The project, which started in April 2024 and is set to conclude in September 2024, was made possible with support from CRDF Global (Strengthening Individuals | Building Relationships | Improving Our World).

For More Information, please contact project Principal Investigator, Prof. Lawrence Mugisha, Tel.+256772566551, email: mugishalaw@gmail.com/lawrence.mugisha@mak.ac.ug

Mak Editor

Veterinary & Biosecurity

Global Scholar Prof. John B. Kaneene Pushes for Structural Change in Ugandan Universities to Elevate Research and Innovation

Published

on

Guest lecture by Prof. John B. Kaneene. Theme “Industrial Biomedical Research and Innovation: Lessons from Michigan State University for Uganda’s New Industrial STI Dispensation” 26th August 2025, CEBIGH, College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Renowned academic Prof. John B. Kaneene has called for sweeping structural reforms across Ugandan universities, including Makerere University, to enhance their global competitiveness and research output. Speaking at a forum on science and innovation, held on August 26th at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), Makerere University, Prof. Kaneene emphasized the urgent need for improved facilities to support active research participation.

He urged institutions to revamp their reward systems, noting that scholars who achieve significant milestones should be recognized in line with their contributions. “Success must be incentivized,” he said, adding that such recognition would motivate researchers and elevate academic standards.

The guest lecture was held under the theme “Industrial Biomedical Research and Innovation: Lessons from Michigan State University for Uganda’s New Industrial STI Dispensation.” The session explored the transformative role of universities in enhancing human wellbeing, societal development, and economic growth. It offered critical insights into institutional frameworks such as tenure and promotion, innovation and research ecosystems, and mentoring and incentive structures—drawing valuable lessons from Michigan State University to inform Uganda’s evolving science, technology, and innovation landscape.

Guest lecture by Prof. John B. Kaneene. Theme “Industrial Biomedical Research and Innovation: Lessons from Michigan State University for Uganda’s New Industrial STI Dispensation” 26th August 2025, CEBIGH, College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. John B. Kaneene from Michigan State University was the Guest Speaker at the Science and Innovation forum at CoVAB, Tuesday, 26th August 2025.

At the discourse attended by scientists, prodigy Scientists, administrators, and regulators of Scientists, Prof. Kaneene also criticized the current promotion framework, calling for stricter, merit-based criteria free from political interference. He proposed a more rigorous system for academic progression, from Assistant Lecturer to Lecturer, Senior Lecturer, and ultimately Professor. “The title of Professor should be earned through demonstrable excellence in both research and teaching,” he stated, arguing that current standards fall short.

In addition to structural reforms, Prof. Kaneene highlighted the need to improve the quality and quantity of academic publications. He advocated for a shift from basic science to industrial and translational research, where universities produce innovations that directly benefit public health and economic development. “We must bridge the gap between research and real-world solutions,” he said.

Prof. Kaneene concluded by urging the Ugandan government to recognize universities as engines of national progress. He called for increased funding, better infrastructure, and targeted support for top scientists. “With the right investment, our universities can drive economic growth and improve the health of our communities,” he affirmed.

Speaking at the opening of the event, Ms. Brenda Nakazibwe, Bureau Chief, Pathogen Economy at the Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) Secretariat under the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation, reiterated the government’s commitment to advancing Uganda’s pathogen economy and strengthening its scientific research ecosystem. She highlighted the Secretariat’s role in supporting research development and fostering ecosystem establishment as Uganda moves toward sustainable growth. She emphasized that the bureau is actively working to position science and innovation as key drivers of economic transformation.

Ms. Nakazibwe commended the presentation by Prof. John B. Kaneene, a distinguished U.S.-based academic, describing his insights as highly relevant to both scientists and the general public. She acknowledged his longstanding contributions to Uganda’s scientific landscape, particularly his involvement in the foundation of the STI Open Platform (STI OP), formerly known as the Presidential Scientific Initiative on Epidemics (PRESIDE). The PRESIDE initiative was instrumental in fast-tracking research and innovation in vaccines, drugs, and therapeutics in response to emerging diseases and public health threats.

She further emphasized the importance of the issues raised during the discussion, including innovation, research incentives, academic tenure, and promotion systems. Ms. Nakazibwe described these as “tangible and actionable areas” that must be addressed across all levels of Uganda’s scientific and academic institutions.

“These are not abstract ideas and practical reforms that can strengthen our research culture and ensure our scientists are empowered to deliver solutions for national development,” she stated.

(L) Prof. Enock Matovu, Director CEBIGH, where the discourse was hosted. Guest lecture by Prof. John B. Kaneene. Theme “Industrial Biomedical Research and Innovation: Lessons from Michigan State University for Uganda’s New Industrial STI Dispensation” 26th August 2025, CEBIGH, College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
(L) Prof. Enock Matovu, Director CEBIGH, where the discourse was hosted.

While introducing Prof. John B. Kaneene, Prof. John David Kabasa emphasized that the discourse stemmed from a longstanding consortium between universities in the United States and Africa. This partnership has been instrumental in driving major advancements in Uganda’s veterinary and biosecurity sectors. Speaking at the strategic engagement on science and innovation, Prof. Kabasa highlighted the consortium’s focus on capacity building in the integrated management of transboundary diseases and zoonoses, noting that it laid the foundation for transformative change in the country’s scientific and academic landscape.

He noted that the partnership’s strength and future-oriented vision led Makerere University to approve a development strategy and investment plan that upgraded its Faculty of Veterinary Medicine into the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity. “Biosecurity became central to our mission because we are focused on global biosecurity,” Prof. Kabasa said.

Prof. John David Kabasa explained that the discourse stemmed from a longstanding consortium between universities in the United States and Africa. Guest lecture by Prof. John B. Kaneene. Theme “Industrial Biomedical Research and Innovation: Lessons from Michigan State University for Uganda’s New Industrial STI Dispensation” 26th August 2025, CEBIGH, College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. John David Kabasa explained that the discourse stemmed from a longstanding consortium between universities in the United States and Africa.

Over the past 15 years, he said, the consortium has yielded significant milestones, including the establishment of a Master’s program in Biosecurity, ongoing development of a PhD in Biosecurity, and the creation of a Centre for Biosecurity and Global Health. These efforts are now being aligned with the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation to promote Industrial Biomedical Research and Innovation, key pillars of Uganda’s emerging industrial bioeconomy under the pathogen economy framework championed by His Excellency, the President of Uganda.

Prof. Kabasa, alongside Prof. John B. Kaneene and other founding scientists, announced plans to elevate the consortium’s work to a new level, with a renewed focus on global biosecurity and industrial bioeconomy. He revealed that partners mentored through the original initiative, including directors from the National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO), senior scientists at the ministry level, and academics from other universities, are injecting fresh energy into the collaboration.

“We are now engaging to define how universities can lead national transformation, and what strategic steps they must take to reposition themselves,” Prof. Kabasa stated. He confirmed that a series of follow-up meetings will be held to chart the path forward.

Dr. Monica Namayanja, Centre Manager CEBIGH. Guest lecture by Prof. John B. Kaneene. Theme “Industrial Biomedical Research and Innovation: Lessons from Michigan State University for Uganda’s New Industrial STI Dispensation” 26th August 2025, CEBIGH, College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Monica Namayanja, Centre Manager CEBIGH.

The Centre for Biosecurity and Global Health (CEBIGH) is one of the specialized units established at Makerere University, whose creation is part of a broader vision to develop a regional veterinary college through the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB). As a key research and development entity, CEBIGH is instrumental in repositioning CoVAB as a leading driver of scientific innovation, strategic research, and public service nationally and globally. Through its work, CEBIGH is emerging as a major contributor to Uganda’s growing pathogen economy.

Harriet Musinguzi

Continue Reading

Research

Makerere Scientists Document Climate-Smart Innovation in Sentema, Applaud Farmer’s Odor-Control Breakthrough

Published

on

Some of the Cattle on the farm located in a residential area in Sentema. Regional research initiative “Building Capacity for Innovation and Advancement of Climate Smart Agriculture in East and Southern Africa” (CICSA-E&SA) visited to Mr. Mugisha Jonan, urban farmer and environmentalist in Sentema Wakiso District, adoption of innovative practices redefining the feasibility of farming in densely populated urban settings through the Nutrient Recycling Innovation, CoVAB, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda.

A team of scientists under the regional research initiative “Building Capacity for Innovation and Advancement of Climate Smart Agriculture in East and Southern Africa” (CICSA-E&SA) visited Mr. Mugisha Jonan, an urban farmer and environmentalist in Sentema Wakiso District, whose adoption of innovative practices is redefining the feasibility of farming in densely populated urban settings.

Mr. Mugisa, a farmer and environmentalist explains how he started his farm and took on the use of the innovation. Regional research initiative “Building Capacity for Innovation and Advancement of Climate Smart Agriculture in East and Southern Africa” (CICSA-E&SA) visited to Mr. Mugisha Jonan, urban farmer and environmentalist in Sentema Wakiso District, adoption of innovative practices redefining the feasibility of farming in densely populated urban settings through the Nutrient Recycling Innovation, CoVAB, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda.
Mr. Mugisa, a farmer and environmentalist explains how he started his farm and took on the use of the innovation.

Through the Nutrient Recycling Innovation, Mr. Mugisha has not only resolved the persistent issue of odor from his dairy farm, but is also unlocking more profitable outcomes by embracing climate-smart agricultural techniques. Central to his approach is the use of VTC Technology, a system designed to recover nutrients from diverse waste streams, including farm and market waste, and return them to their original sources. This transformative method was introduced to him by Dr. Herbert Mukiibi, a renowned scientist from the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity at Makerere University.

The Scientists inspect the innovation where wastes are dumped and will eventually turn into manure. Regional research initiative “Building Capacity for Innovation and Advancement of Climate Smart Agriculture in East and Southern Africa” (CICSA-E&SA) visited to Mr. Mugisha Jonan, urban farmer and environmentalist in Sentema Wakiso District, adoption of innovative practices redefining the feasibility of farming in densely populated urban settings through the Nutrient Recycling Innovation, CoVAB, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda.
The Scientists inspect the innovation where wastes are dumped and will eventually turn into manure.

Based on the demonstration on the farm, the innovative practice will help in reshaping urban agriculture by enhancing sustainable food production while simultaneously addressing critical environmental challenges such as waste management and odor control. Mr. Mugisha’s work stands as a compelling example of how local science-driven solutions can empower urban farmers and contribute to greener, more resilient cities.

Prof. Asaete, Dr. Nampanzira, Dr. Herbet Mukiibi were conducted around the vegetable garden where the manure is applied. Regional research initiative “Building Capacity for Innovation and Advancement of Climate Smart Agriculture in East and Southern Africa” (CICSA-E&SA) visited to Mr. Mugisha Jonan, urban farmer and environmentalist in Sentema Wakiso District, adoption of innovative practices redefining the feasibility of farming in densely populated urban settings through the Nutrient Recycling Innovation, CoVAB, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda.
Prof. Asaete, Dr. Nampanzira, Dr. Herbet Mukiibi were conducted around the vegetable garden where the manure is applied.

Dr. Dorothy Nampanzira Kalule led a team that included Dr. Herbert Mukiibi, the innovator who collaborated directly with Mr. Mugisha to implement the nutrient recycling innovation. Also part of the team was Prof. Josephine Esaete from the College of Education and External Studies, part of the members of the bigger project research team that includes Prof. Robert Stephen Tabuti and Prof. Vincent Muwanika, both from the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) at Makerere University.

 “Mr. Mugisha’s work exemplifies the kind of innovation we aim to capture, document and validate as solutions that are proven to work, locally driven, environmentally sound, and socially inclusive,” said Dr. Nampanzira, following a tour of the project site nestled within a densely populated urban residential area.

Dr. Nampanzira said the reason for the visit to the farmer was because through the project, scientists were looking out for farmers doing unique things that actually give them good results which are not known to the scientists. She said the purpose was to validate such practices and have them promoted.

A vegetable garden with a high yield. Regional research initiative “Building Capacity for Innovation and Advancement of Climate Smart Agriculture in East and Southern Africa” (CICSA-E&SA) visited to Mr. Mugisha Jonan, urban farmer and environmentalist in Sentema Wakiso District, adoption of innovative practices redefining the feasibility of farming in densely populated urban settings through the Nutrient Recycling Innovation, CoVAB, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda.
A vegetable garden with a high yield.

The project, Building Capacity for Innovation and Advancement of Climate-Smart Agriculture in East and Southern Africa (CICSA-E&SA), continues to engage with farmers who have adopted some climate-smart agricultural practices by identifying and supporting solutions that work for farmers on the ground. Through hands-on engagement and collaboration, the initiative focuses on practical innovations that address real challenges, ensuring that climate-smart agriculture is not only sustainable, but also accessible and effective for local communities.

While describing the innovation demonstrated by Mr. Mugisha, Dr. Herbert Mukiibi explained that the Nutrient Recycling Technology is designed to recover nutrients from various waste streams such as domestic, farm, hospital, schools or market waste and return them to their original source. If the nutrients came from the garden, the ultimate goal is to return them to the garden, Dr. Mukiibi noted. He said that most systems release nutrients through waste, which wastes are often mistreated because people don’t realize they are valuable resources. He said through such interventions, they were coming in to tap on these wastes and return them to the garden in a ready form that can be used by the crops for better yields without necessarily using inorganic forms of fertilizers.

Dr. Mukiibi emphasized that this technology not only promotes sustainable agriculture but also transforms public perception of waste, from a nuisance into a valuable resource thereby encouraging more responsible and productive environmental practices. He commended Mr. Mugisha, the farmer behind the initiative, for embracing the technology and personally financing its development. Thanks to Mr. Mugisha’s commitment, the project has advanced to the point where it is nearly ready to produce, package, and sell organic manure, marking a significant milestone in practical nutrient recycling.

“We want to document the various innovations that promote climate-smart agriculture while simultaneously addressing farmers’ real-world challenges,” said Prof. Asaete Josephine, who is part of the research team. “The innovation demonstrated by Mr. Mugisha not only solved his initial problem, the unpleasant smell of dung that was causing concern in the neighborhood, but also evolved into a broader solution. What began as an effort to manage odor has also addressed nutrient deficiencies. That’s where the climate-smart aspect comes in, she noted.  Instead of spending resources on inorganic fertilizers, the farmer is now benefiting from nutrient recycling, which promotes faster plant growth while tackling the original issue of odor.”, she noted.

Mr. Mugisha explains the Innovation that has helped him resolve the challenge of waste and odor management on his farm. Regional research initiative “Building Capacity for Innovation and Advancement of Climate Smart Agriculture in East and Southern Africa” (CICSA-E&SA) visited to Mr. Mugisha Jonan, urban farmer and environmentalist in Sentema Wakiso District, adoption of innovative practices redefining the feasibility of farming in densely populated urban settings through the Nutrient Recycling Innovation, CoVAB, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda.
Mr. Mugisha explains the Innovation that has helped him resolve the challenge of waste and odor management on his farm.

Mr. Mugisha informed the visiting team that he initially started the farm to meet his family’s nutritional needs. However, as the farm grew, he encountered significant challenges related to waste management, which led him to connect with Dr. Herbert Mukiibi, whose expertise helped guide him toward innovative solutions. He said he first adopted biogas technology yet, odor problem persisted, leading him to explored more sustainable options and eventually embraced the nutrient recycling innovation. He said transforming waste into organic manure enabled him resolve the environmental concerns but also enhanced the productivity of his vegetable gardens, and is moving towards packaging and sale of organic manure.

The team interacts with Mrs. Mugisha (R). In the background is the slab where the manure will be dried before further processing and packaging. Regional research initiative “Building Capacity for Innovation and Advancement of Climate Smart Agriculture in East and Southern Africa” (CICSA-E&SA) visited to Mr. Mugisha Jonan, urban farmer and environmentalist in Sentema Wakiso District, adoption of innovative practices redefining the feasibility of farming in densely populated urban settings through the Nutrient Recycling Innovation, CoVAB, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda.
The team interacts with Mrs. Mugisha (R). In the background is the slab where the manure will be dried before further processing and packaging.

The CICSA-E&SA project is a multi-institutional collaboration led by Makerere University, in partnership with the Norwegian University of Life Sciences (Norway), Maseno University (Kenya), and LUANAR and DARS (Malawi). The project is funded by the Norwegian Agency for International Cooperation and Quality Enhancement in Higher Education (Diku) and aims to promote climate-resilient agricultural practices across East and Southern Africa.

Harriet Musinguzi

Continue Reading

Research

CoVAB Unveils Taught PhD in Livestock Development and Planning

Published

on

Stakeholders pose for a group photo after unveiling CoVAB's pioneering taught PhD program in Livestock Development and Planning on 14th August 2025. College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) officially launches pioneering taught PhD program in Livestock Development and Planning, marking a significant leap forward in agricultural education and research in Uganda, 14th August 2025, Makerere University, Kampala, East Africa.

The College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) at Makerere University has officially launched its pioneering taught PhD program in Livestock Development and Planning an initiative marking a significant leap forward in agricultural education and research in Uganda. Designed to address pressing challenges in the livestock sector, the program will blend academic rigor with practical relevance, equipping scholars with the skills and knowledge needed to drive sustainable development, enhance food security, and shape policy across the region.

In alignment with Makerere University’s curriculum development framework, stakeholders from across the livestock industry were invited to contribute their insights to ensure the program is relevant, rigorous, and responsive to contemporary challenges.  The stakeholder engagement forum that brought together academics, civil society actors, farmer representatives, donor agencies, and policymakers was convened at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) on Thursday, 14th August 2015. The objective was to solicit broad-based input into the proposed taught PhD program in Livestock Development and Planning, fostering a collaborative approach to shaping its content and direction.

Dr. Dorothy Nampanzira, Head, LIR Department gave opening remarks. Right is Prof. Anthony Mugisha, Left, Dr. Rose Azuba, the facilitator of the stakeholder meeting. College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) officially launches pioneering taught PhD program in Livestock Development and Planning, marking a significant leap forward in agricultural education and research in Uganda, 14th August 2025, Makerere University, Kampala, East Africa.
Dr. Dorothy Nampanzira, Head, LIR Department gave opening remarks. Right is Prof. Anthony Mugisha, Left, Dr. Rose Azuba, the facilitator of the stakeholder meeting.

Dr. Dorothy Nampanzira Kalule, Head of the Department of Livestock and Industrial Resources, welcomed the participants and acknowledged the need for a collaborative effort that would help in the improvement of the proposed program. “This program is not just going to produce intellectually capable individuals, it will produce citizens equipped to solve the real-world challenges facing the livestock industry,” she emphasized.

Dr. Nampanzira paid special tribute to Professor Anthony Mugisha, whom she described as the “thought leader” behind the initiative. His visionary proposal for a taught PhD program ignited a college-wide collaboration, ultimately leading to the development of a curriculum tailored to the evolving needs of Uganda’s livestock sector, she said. She acknowledged the contribution by departmental staff for their unwavering commitment to the development of the program.  Quoting Nelson Mandela, she underscored the transformative power of education: “Education is the most powerful weapon which we can use to change the world.” She likened the new PhD program to a finely crafted weapon, calling on participants to help sharpen it through open dialogue and shared expertise. “We are here to sharpen this weapon,” she said. “The enemy is food insecurity and poverty. Let us be bold, open, and visionary in shaping this program.”

A section of the stakeholders that were at the meeting. College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) officially launches pioneering taught PhD program in Livestock Development and Planning, marking a significant leap forward in agricultural education and research in Uganda, 14th August 2025, Makerere University, Kampala, East Africa.
A section of the stakeholders that were at the meeting.
Dr. Henry Zakumumpa who represented the Ag. Director, DRGT at the stakeholder engagement. College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) officially launches pioneering taught PhD program in Livestock Development and Planning, marking a significant leap forward in agricultural education and research in Uganda, 14th August 2025, Makerere University, Kampala, East Africa.
Dr. Henry Zakumumpa who represented the Ag. Director, DRGT at the stakeholder engagement.

“We must strike the right balance,” said Dr. Henry Zakumumpa who represented the Ag. Director of the Directorate of Research and Graduate Training Professor Julius Kikooma. “Doctoral research requires depth, time, and intellectual maturity, he said while giving counsel on the program which he said should emphasize more on research output”. Zakumumpa said as part of the ongoing reforms, the university was reaffirming the importance of cross-cutting mandatory courses, including Philosophy of Methods, Research Methodology, Gender Research, and Research Writing. These core units are examinable and graded, forming a critical foundation for doctoral scholarship and ensuring that PhD candidates are equipped with essential research competencies and analytical skills.

While referring the college to existing guidelines  Zakumumpa advised the team to incorporate a benchmarking process that draws on successful external models, notably the taught PhD program at the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), which has been commended for its structured approach and academic rigor.

Staff of CoVAB that participated in the stakeholder engagement. College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) officially launches pioneering taught PhD program in Livestock Development and Planning, marking a significant leap forward in agricultural education and research in Uganda, 14th August 2025, Makerere University, Kampala, East Africa.
Staff of CoVAB that participated in the stakeholder engagement.

Prof. Robert Tweyongyere, Dean of the School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Resources (SVAR), who represented the Principal of the College, Prof. Frank Norbert Mwiine, expressed his delight at the milestone achieved. He described the engagement as a valuable opportunity to refine the program and urged the team to strictly adhere to the provided guidelines in order to successfully navigate the approval processes at both Makerere University and the National Council for Higher Education. He congratulated the Department of Livestock and Industrial Resources (LIR) on their progress and encouraged other departments to follow suit in designing academic programs that are responsive to societal needs.

Prof. Robert Tweyongyere, Dean SVAR congratulated the LIR Department for the milestone. College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) officially launches pioneering taught PhD program in Livestock Development and Planning, marking a significant leap forward in agricultural education and research in Uganda, 14th August 2025, Makerere University, Kampala, East Africa.
Prof. Robert Tweyongyere, Dean SVAR congratulated the LIR Department for the milestone.

Prof. Anthony Mugisha noted that the department initially conceptualized the program idea and, with support from agencies such as RUFORUM, received valuable guidance throughout the development process. He emphasized the importance of advancing beyond technical training to cultivate thought leaders and philosophers within the sector. “With the Master of Livestock Development program, we have begun building a critical mass,” he said, “but we now need to nurture philosophers—individuals who can think deeply and strategically for the future of the sector.”

This PhD focuses on advancing sustainable, ethical, and technologically driven livestock systems. It prepares experts in Livestock production and management, climate-resilient farming, Artificial Intelligence and Digital tools and big data in agriculture as well as Animal welfare and policy leadership.

The organizers of the Stakeholder engagement were recognized and commended for their relentless effort. College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) officially launches pioneering taught PhD program in Livestock Development and Planning, marking a significant leap forward in agricultural education and research in Uganda, 14th August 2025, Makerere University, Kampala, East Africa.
The organizers of the Stakeholder engagement were recognized and commended for their relentless effort.

Harriet Musinguzi

Continue Reading

Trending