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Mak to train green economy and climate finance experts

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Makerere University has embarked on an ambitious programme to address the challenges faced by the African continent in accessing climate finance and building green economies.

Makerere University is a member of the Regional Universities for Capacity building in Agriculture (RUFORUM), which consists of 170 African countries and 40 universities in Africa.

RUFORUM seeks to facilitate the creation of vibrant transformative universities catalyzing sustainable development inclusive agricultural development to feed and create prosperity for Africa.

Speaking at the 2nd RUFORUM Triennial conference, which was held in Windhoek, Namibia from 12-16 August 2024, Makerere University’s research team, led by Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga, presented a deliberate action to train and build a pool of professionals in climate finance and green economies development and management.

Makerere University, a research driven institution in Africa, in partnership with the Government of Uganda, the private sector and several regional stakeholders, is in advanced stages of introducing a Regional Programme; Master of Science in Green Economy and Climate Finance. The graduate degree programme scheduled to start next academic year (August 2025) with an initial intake of 40 students, is focused on building a pool of professionals equipped with skills and knowledge to liberate Africa from limited access to global climate finances.

Seated from Left to Right: Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga, the Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Prof. Yazidhi Bamutaze and Mr. Agaba Issa Mugabo with members of the Makerere University Team that attended the 2nd RUROFUM Triennial in Windhoek Namibia. Second RUFORUM Triennial Conference hosted by the Government of Namibia and RUFORUM member Universities in Namibia, 12-16 August, 2024, Windhoek under the theme “Operationalising Higher Agricultural Education and Research Ecosystems for Innovation, Industrialisation, and Economic Development in Africa: A Call for Action.
Seated from Left to Right: Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga, the Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Prof. Yazidhi Bamutaze and Mr. Agaba Issa Mugabo with members of the Makerere University Team that attended the 2nd RUROFUM Triennial in Windhoek Namibia.

“Through this Master’s degree programme, Makerere University, the Government of Uganda, in partnership with regional and international stakeholders as well as the private sector, will not only be positioned to fill the critical human resources capacity needs that most of the agencies and institutions in Africa are facing, but also train staff to support agencies to access finances,” said Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga.

The Master of Science in Green Economy and Climate Finance is a result of broader engagements in curriculum development involving Makerere University College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, the Government of Uganda (Ministry of Agricultural, Animal Industry and Fisheries, Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Ministry of Water and Environment), GIZ-Uganda, Global Green Growth Institute, Stellenbosch University-South Africa, University of Nairobi-Kenya. Malawi University of Science and Technology, University of Embu-Kenya, University of Juba-South Sudan, John Garang University- South Sudan, University of Maroua-Cameroon and University of USSEIN–Universite du Sine Saloum El-Hadj Ibrahima NIASSE-Senegal.

The Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe commended Makerere University researchers for working with reputable partners in the public and private sectors and African Universities to find home grown solutions to Africa’s development challenges.

The Makerere University Research team that participated in the RUFORUM Side Event on Climate Finance, Transparency and Green Growth included:  Prof. Gorettie Nabanoga, Prof. Yazidhi Bamutaze, Prof. Justine Namaalwa, Dr. Paul Isolo Mukwaya, Dr. Catherine Mulinde, Dr. Patrick Byakagaba, Professor John Baptist Tumuhairwe, Dr. Isa Kabenge, and Dr Alex Nimusiima.

Left to Right: Prof. Justine Namaalwa, Prof. John Baptist Tumuhairwe, Prof. Johnny Mugisha, Prof. Yazidhi Bamutaze and Dr. Catherine Mulinde during the 2nd RUROFUM Triennial in Windhoek Namibia. Second RUFORUM Triennial Conference hosted by the Government of Namibia and RUFORUM member Universities in Namibia, 12-16 August, 2024, Windhoek under the theme “Operationalising Higher Agricultural Education and Research Ecosystems for Innovation, Industrialisation, and Economic Development in Africa: A Call for Action.
Left to Right: Prof. Justine Namaalwa, Prof. John Baptist Tumuhairwe, Prof. Johnny Mugisha, Prof. Yazidhi Bamutaze and Dr. Catherine Mulinde during the 2nd RUROFUM Triennial in Windhoek Namibia.

Climate change is said to have significant and varied effects on agriculture in Africa, a continent that is heavily dependent on farming for food security, livelihoods and economic stability.

Adapting to climate change (for example through irrigation, new crop varieties or improved farming techniques) requires investment, which may be beyond the reach of millions of farmers.

In the African Countries Economic Outlet report, the African Development Bank estimates that the continent requires as much as $ 2.8 trillion through 2030 to implement its climate commitments set out in countries’ national targets under the Paris 2015 Agreement.

Whereas there is a huge and diverse global climate finance landscape and portfolio, Africa is yet to effectively tap into this potential. Findings indicate that Africa’s climate finance remains very low, at 3% of global climate finance, and tend to focus on small-scale fragmented and uncoordinated operations primarily in middle-income countries

Prof. Nabanoga noted that Africa’s negotiation in international fora is inadequate and the continent is dis-advantaged when it comes to negotiation for resources to advance climate change initiatives and building green economies.

Ritah Namisango is the Principal Public Relations Officer at Makerere University.

Ritah Namisango
Ritah Namisango

Agriculture & Environment

Mak Signs MoU with NAU China to Boost Agricultural Research and Innovation

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Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (Right) and Prof. Zhu Yan (Left) shake hands as they display the signed MoU on 28th July 2025. Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe signs MoU with Nanjing Agricultural University (NAU), China delegation led by Hon. Vincent Bamulangaki Ssempijja in pursuit of collaborative academic and industry research with a focus on agricultural and environmental sciences, 28th July 2025, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

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.

The MoU signing in progress. Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe signs MoU with Nanjing Agricultural University (NAU), China delegation led by Hon. Vincent Bamulangaki Ssempijja in pursuit of collaborative academic and industry research with a focus on agricultural and environmental sciences, 28th July 2025, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The MoU signing in progress.

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 NAU delegation poses for a group photo outside the Main Building with Hon. Vincent Bamulangaki Ssempijja (Yellow tie) and Assoc. Prof. Robert Wamala (Left) after the MoU signing. Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe signs MoU with Nanjing Agricultural University (NAU), China delegation led by Hon. Vincent Bamulangaki Ssempijja in pursuit of collaborative academic and industry research with a focus on agricultural and environmental sciences, 28th July 2025, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The NAU delegation poses for a group photo outside the Main Building with Hon. Vincent Bamulangaki Ssempijja (Yellow tie) and Assoc. Prof. Robert Wamala (Left) after the MoU signing.

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.

Betty Kyakuwa
Betty Kyakuwa

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Agriculture & Environment

Mak Moves to Revitalize Food Technology & Business Incubation Centre to Drive Innovation & Entrepreneurship

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Participants, including students, partners, and innovation stakeholders, at the launch of the revitalization programme on 10th July 2025. Launch of the revitalization programme for the Food Technology and Business Incubation Centre (FTBIC), School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bioengineering (SFTNB), College of the Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) , Makerere University by Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, 10th July 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

By Ssembogga Derrick

Makerere University marked a significant milestone on Thursday, 10th July 2025, with the launch of the revitalization programme for the Food Technology and Business Incubation Centre (FTBIC). This initiative is poised to position the FTBIC as a national hub for food innovation, student enterprise development, and agro-industrial transformation.

Hosted under the School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bioengineering (SFTNB) at the College of the Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), the revitalization of the FTBIC is intended to bridge the gap between academia and industry.  “We aim to achieve this by supporting food-based start-ups, enhancing graduate entrepreneurship, and promoting the commercialization of research,” Dr Julia Kigozi, Dean, SFTNB explained. The project receives critical funding from the Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund (MakRIF), which consistently supports innovation and research-based development at the university.

The Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (Right) with the Dean SFTNB and PI, Dr. Julia Kigozi (Left) at the event. Launch of the revitalization programme for the Food Technology and Business Incubation Centre (FTBIC), School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bioengineering (SFTNB), College of the Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) , Makerere University by Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, 10th July 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (Right) with the Dean SFTNB and PI, Dr. Julia Kigozi (Left) at the event.

Unveiling a New Strategic Vision

The event, held under the theme “Revitalizing FTBIC to Unlock Innovation and Entrepreneurship Potential among Makerere University Graduates”, marked the official launch of the Centre’s revitalization programme to key stakeholders. It featured the presentation of FTBIC’s new strategic vision and direction, highlighting the commitment of the institution and its partners to fostering graduate entrepreneurship and innovation in food systems. The event also aimed to raise awareness of the Centre’s crucial role in supporting industry, research, and national development.

Participation of stakeholders

The launch attracted a vibrant and diverse audience of over 50 participants. Among the attendees were student representatives; partners from other incubation centers both within and outside Makerere University, including MIIC, UNIPOD, and DGI; as well as representatives from national innovation stakeholders such as Uganda Industrial Research Institute (UIRI) and StartHub Africa.

The Vice Chancellor engaging with participants who showcased some of the products from the Centre. Launch of the revitalization programme for the Food Technology and Business Incubation Centre (FTBIC), School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bioengineering (SFTNB), College of the Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) , Makerere University by Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, 10th July 2025, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The Vice Chancellor engaging with participants who showcased some of the products from the Centre.

Most notably, the event was honored by the presence of the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe. The Vice Chancellor commended the revitalization efforts, acknowledging the Centre’s immense potential to incubate hundreds of food-based start-ups and create employment opportunities for thousands of graduates. “The Centre is now well-positioned to become a flagship platform for innovation, employment creation, and agro-industrial development in Uganda and beyond. Makerere University remains committed to supporting such initiatives that align with national priorities and global development goals.”

 The event featured the unveiling of the operational framework for the revitalized Centre, highlighting its commitment to innovation, entrepreneurship, and practical graduate training. Stakeholders in attendance expressed enthusiasm and pledged support for future collaboration, research, and product development initiatives aligned with national development priorities. The event also provided a platform to deepen partnerships with private sector actors and development organizations, reinforcing confidence in the Centre’s potential to serve as a national model for university-led incubation.

Students attend a practical session in the Food Technology and Business Incubation Centre (FTBIC), College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda. Date taken: 12th August 2010
Students attend a practical session in the Food Technology and Business Incubation Centre (FTBIC), College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda. Date taken: 12th August 2010

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Agriculture & Environment

SophiA Project Upgrades Medical Infrastructure at Buvuma Health Centre IV, Trains Technicians for Maintenance Works

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Some of the trainees and trainers with the Coordinator of the project at Makerere University, Dr Nicholas Kiggundu (9th R) during the workshop. European Union-funded Sustainable Off-Grid Solutions for Pharmacies and Hospitals in Africa (SophiA) Project, comprehensive Training of Trainers workshop, June 23 to 27, 2025, Conference Hall, School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bioengineering (SFTNB), College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Overview of the Sustainable Off-Grid Solutions for Pharmacies and Hospitals in Africa (SophiA) Project

Despite ongoing urbanization across Africa, the majority of the population still resides in rural and remote areas, where infrastructure development remains limited. These regions face significant challenges such as lack of access to healthcare, education, clean water, and reliable electricity, contributing to higher rates of illness and poverty compared to urban centres. According to reports, Sub-Saharan Africa has approximately 120,000 public health facilities (22,000 hospitals and 98,000 health posts), of which around 26% lack any electricity access, and only 28% have reliable power supply.

Access to good healthcare is critical for sustainable development. However, many rural medical centres operate under harsh conditions – using polluted water, lacking cooling for medicines, and facing poor sanitation – largely due to unreliable electricity and water supply. Although half of the population in Sub-Saharan Africa lacks electricity, the region has abundant renewable energy potential that can be effectively harnessed through off-grid solar photovoltaic (PV) systems.

The Dean, School of Food Technology, Nutrition, and Bioengineering at Makerere University, Dr Julia Kigozi welcoming participants to the workshop. European Union-funded Sustainable Off-Grid Solutions for Pharmacies and Hospitals in Africa (SophiA) Project, comprehensive Training of Trainers workshop, June 23 to 27, 2025, Conference Hall, School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bioengineering (SFTNB), College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The Dean, School of Food Technology, Nutrition, and Bioengineering at Makerere University, Dr Julia Kigozi welcoming participants to the workshop.

To address the above-mentioned challenges facing the African Continent, Makerere University in partnership with 13 organizations across Europe and Africa developed a project titled, “Sustainable Off-grid solutions for Pharmacies and Hospitals in Africa (SophiA)”. The five-year project that began on 1st October 2021 is funded by the European Union (Project: 101036836 – SophiA – H2020-LC-GD-2-3-2020). At Makerere University, the project is coordinated by Dr. Nicholas Kiggundu, Associate Professor in the Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES).

Piloted in Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Malawi, and Uganda, SophiA aims to provide sustainable off-grid energy solutions to rural and remote health facilities, fostering economic growth and ensuring equitable access to energy and healthcare. Using various technologies, such as photovoltaics, solar thermal, electrical and thermal storage, water treatment and natural refrigerants with low global warming potential, SophiA has developed and manufactured locally innovative, modular, affordable and efficient solar powered systems for providing:

  1. Safe and clean drinking water, free of bacteria and viruses, and deionised water for medical purposes;
  2. Hot water and steam production for thermal requirements of the hospitals;
  3. Cooling of medicines and food at +5°C;
  4. Low temperature storage of blood plasma and vaccines at -30°C;
  5. Ultra-low temperature storage of sensitive medication (e.g. some Covid-19 or Ebola vaccines) at -70°C.
The trainees during the session on sustainable energy systems and their applications conducted Dr. Peter Tumutegyereize. European Union-funded Sustainable Off-Grid Solutions for Pharmacies and Hospitals in Africa (SophiA) Project, comprehensive Training of Trainers workshop, June 23 to 27, 2025, Conference Hall, School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bioengineering (SFTNB), College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The trainees during the session on sustainable energy systems and their applications conducted Dr. Peter Tumutegyereize.

In addition, PV MedPort, a simple and 100% solar-powered solution has been developed and tested as a mobile health care station in small remote areas in 4 different geographical conditions in Africa. The SophiA system has been manufactured in Africa and will provide, for the first-time, innovative solutions based on climate-friendly natural refrigerants to cover cooling demand for three different temperature ranges (-70°C, -30°C and +5°C). The system has been tested and demonstrated at four rural hospitals in remote regions throughout the African continent covering the major geographical regions and different climatic conditions in Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Malawi and Uganda.

SophiA Project initiatives in Uganda

In Uganda, all Health Centre IV hospitals with surgical theatres have been connected to the national grid except Buvuma Health Centre IV, which serves over 120,000 people scattered across 52 islands. Recognizing this gap, the Ministry of Health selected Buvuma Health Centre IV for the SophiA project to demonstrate sustainable off-grid solutions.

Prof. Isa Kabenge, Head, Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering at Makerere University addressing the trainees. European Union-funded Sustainable Off-Grid Solutions for Pharmacies and Hospitals in Africa (SophiA) Project, comprehensive Training of Trainers workshop, June 23 to 27, 2025, Conference Hall, School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bioengineering (SFTNB), College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Isa Kabenge, Head, Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering at Makerere University addressing the trainees.

The SophiA System at Buvuma Health Centre IV provides the following services:

  1. Off-grid electricity supply
  2. Safe, clean drinking water for patients, staff, and the community
  3. Hot water and steam systems crucial for maternal care
  4. Solar-powered cooking and meal preparation
  5. Cooling systems for surgery and intensive care units
  6. Refrigeration for medicines at +5°C, blood plasma storage at -30°C, and ultra-low temperature storage (-70°C) for sensitive vaccines such as those for COVID-19 and Ebola

Training of Trainers Workshop

As the SophiA project approaches completion in September 2025, it is vital to establish a skilled pool of technicians capable of handling maintenance and minor repairs of the system components, including solar panels, water treatment units, generators, batteries, and cooking kits.

Dr. Peter Tumutegyereize conducting a training on sustainable energy systems and their applications. European Union-funded Sustainable Off-Grid Solutions for Pharmacies and Hospitals in Africa (SophiA) Project, comprehensive Training of Trainers workshop, June 23 to 27, 2025, Conference Hall, School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bioengineering (SFTNB), College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Peter Tumutegyereize conducting a training on sustainable energy systems and their applications.

From June 23 to 27, 2025, Makerere University hosted a comprehensive Training of Trainers workshop. The training programme encompassed a diverse range of topics delivered by subject matter experts from institutions, including Makerere University (Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering – CAES, and the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology – CEDAT), Hochschule University of Applied Sciences, and Busitema University. Participants were carefully selected from diverse professional backgrounds, including recent engineering graduates from CAES and CEDAT, Makerere University, University technical staff, personnel from Kyambogo University, officials from Buvuma District Works and Health Departments, and electricians from Kampala City. The training sessions were conducted at Makerere University and Buvuma Health Centre IV Hospital. 

Training Modules Included:

  1. Sustainable energy systems and their practical applications
  2. Energy generation and storage technologies
  3. Solar water heating: design, operation, maintenance, and performance optimization of solar water heaters, crop dryers, and concentrating solar heaters
  4. Solar PV technologies in Uganda: cell technology, system design, operations, maintenance, and hands-on practicals for standalone and grid-connected systems
  5. Public health implications of water quality
  6. Water treatment and quality management, including protocols, parameters, and case study on the MCDI treatment system
  7. Water quality testing methodologies
  8. Introduction to sustainable refrigeration and cooling technologies
  9. Environmental impact and safety considerations for refrigerants
  10. Refrigeration cycles and component overview
  11. Life cycle assessment of SophiA technologies
  12. Thermal energy storage within the SophiA system
  13. Steam as a productive energy source
A student from the Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering showcasing her project at the workshop. European Union-funded Sustainable Off-Grid Solutions for Pharmacies and Hospitals in Africa (SophiA) Project, comprehensive Training of Trainers workshop, June 23 to 27, 2025, Conference Hall, School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bioengineering (SFTNB), College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
A student from the Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering showcasing her project at the workshop.

The Training Sessions

Day One: Introduction to foundational concepts in solar energy technologies

The first day of the SophiA Train the Trainers Workshop focused on building foundational knowledge in sustainable and solar energy systems. Led by Dr. Peter Tumutegyereize and Dr. Francis Mujjuni, participants explored a range of technologies and applications critical to clean energy deployment.

Key topics included:

Sustainable Energy Systems: Introduction to renewable energy systems including bioenergy, hydro, wind, geothermal, hydrogen fuel cells, and battery storage.

Solar Radiation & Geometry: Understanding solar constants, irradiance, and the impact of atmospheric conditions on solar performance.

Solar Thermal Technologies: Detailed look at solar water heating systems (FPCs and ETCs), maintenance, sizing, and solar dryers for agricultural and industrial use.

Photovoltaic (PV) Systems: Working principles, types of PV cells, performance factors, and diagnostics. Practical testing techniques and metrics like Voc, Isc, MPP, and PR were discussed.

Simulation & Application: Olivia Nakiwanuka demonstrated a PVsyst-based simulation of a 2.55 kWp standalone system for a conference hall, showing a high solar fraction (97.88%) and low LCOE (USD 0.03/kWh).

Students from the Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, Makerere University showcasing their projects. European Union-funded Sustainable Off-Grid Solutions for Pharmacies and Hospitals in Africa (SophiA) Project, comprehensive Training of Trainers workshop, June 23 to 27, 2025, Conference Hall, School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bioengineering (SFTNB), College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Students from the Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, Makerere University showcasing their projects.

The sessions emphasized practical skills, performance analysis, and real-world application, equipping participants to train others and support solar adoption, especially in rural and off-grid settings.

Day Two: Water Treatment Technologies

The second day focused on water treatment technologies relevant to low-resource healthcare settings. Facilitated by Sneha De and Mr. Duc Dinh Ngoc from Hochschule Karlsruhe University, sessions covered technical, environmental, and operational challenges, with contributions from Dr. Joshua Wanyama on water quality management and Dr. Prossie Nakawuka on practical water testing.

Key challenges addressed included unreliable water supply and contamination in healthcare facilities, emphasizing the need for decentralized water treatment, especially in rural areas.

Dr Prossie Nakawuka preparing for a hands-on training on water quality. European Union-funded Sustainable Off-Grid Solutions for Pharmacies and Hospitals in Africa (SophiA) Project, comprehensive Training of Trainers workshop, June 23 to 27, 2025, Conference Hall, School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bioengineering (SFTNB), College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr Prossie Nakawuka preparing for a hands-on training on water quality.

Sneha De reviewed biological and physical/chemical water treatment methods, highlighting technologies such as activated sludge, filtration, membrane bioreactors, and advanced disinfection techniques. The SophiA modular water treatment system, integrating ultrafiltration and membrane capacitive deionisation (MCDI), was introduced as a scalable solution for producing safe drinking and deionised water for medical use.

Mr. Duc Dinh Ngoc trained participants on the MCDI technology, an energy-efficient method for salt and fluoride removal suitable for low-salinity water.

The team led by Dr. Nicholas Kiggundu, SophiA Project Coordinator at Makerere University during their tour of facilities at Buvuma Health Centre IV. European Union-funded Sustainable Off-Grid Solutions for Pharmacies and Hospitals in Africa (SophiA) Project, comprehensive Training of Trainers workshop, June 23 to 27, 2025, Conference Hall, School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bioengineering (SFTNB), College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The team led by Dr. Nicholas Kiggundu, SophiA Project Coordinator at Makerere University during their tour of facilities at Buvuma Health Centre IV.

Dr. Joshua Wanyama discussed the water quality management protocols, outlining key physical, chemical, and biological water parameters and monitoring strategies, including modern IoT-based tools, to ensure water safety and public health.

The day concluded with a hands-on lab session by Dr. Prossie Nakawuka, where participants practiced water quality testing using turbidimeters, incubators, and filtration techniques.

Overall, Day Two combined theoretical insights, technology demonstrations, and practical skills, preparing participants to implement sustainable water treatment and quality management systems in healthcare environments.

The team led by Dr Nicholas Kiggundu, SophiA Project Coordinator at Makerere University preparing for the launch of SophiA water at Buvuma Health Centre IV. European Union-funded Sustainable Off-Grid Solutions for Pharmacies and Hospitals in Africa (SophiA) Project, comprehensive Training of Trainers workshop, June 23 to 27, 2025, Conference Hall, School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bioengineering (SFTNB), College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The team led by Dr Nicholas Kiggundu, SophiA Project Coordinator at Makerere University preparing for the launch of SophiA water at Buvuma Health Centre IV.

Day Three: Refrigeration and Cold Storage  

The third day of the SophiA workshop focused on sustainable refrigeration and cold storage technologies tailored for healthcare in Sub-Saharan Africa. Experts discussed energy-efficient, climate-friendly cooling solutions vital for vaccine storage, medicines, and diagnostics, especially in off-grid and rural settings.

Key highlights included the introduction of solar-powered and biomass-based refrigeration systems, thermal energy storage methods, and the use of natural refrigerants like propane, ammonia, and CO₂ as environmentally safer alternatives. Presentations emphasized the critical role of refrigeration in healthcare and the urgent need to replace harmful chemicals with sustainable technologies.

Sessions covered real-world applications such as the SophiA cooling containers in Burkina Faso, safety protocols for flammable refrigerants, and the environmental and economic benefits of solar refrigeration systems assessed through life cycle analysis.

The team prepares to enjoy SophiA water during celebrations to mark the World Refrigeration Day at Buvuma Health Centre IV. European Union-funded Sustainable Off-Grid Solutions for Pharmacies and Hospitals in Africa (SophiA) Project, comprehensive Training of Trainers workshop, June 23 to 27, 2025, Conference Hall, School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bioengineering (SFTNB), College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The team prepares to enjoy SophiA water during celebrations to mark the World Refrigeration Day at Buvuma Health Centre IV.

The day ended with an interactive quiz and discussion, reinforcing learning and encouraging participants to apply sustainable cooling practices in their communities.

Day Four: World Refrigeration Day & Field Visit to Buvuma Island

The fourth day of the SophiA Train the Trainers workshop was dedicated to the celebration of the World Refrigeration Day and a field excursion to Buvuma Island, providing participants with a unique opportunity to witness the SophiA system in action. The day was coordinated by Dr. Sarah Bimbona and Dr. Nicholas Kiggundu, who led the delegation to Buvuma Health Centre IV, the pilot site for the SophiA installation in Uganda.

The Co-PI, Dr Sarah Bimbona presents SophiA water to the in-charge of Buvuma Health Centre IV, Dr. Remegio Ndyanabo. European Union-funded Sustainable Off-Grid Solutions for Pharmacies and Hospitals in Africa (SophiA) Project, comprehensive Training of Trainers workshop, June 23 to 27, 2025, Conference Hall, School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bioengineering (SFTNB), College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The Co-PI, Dr Sarah Bimbona presents SophiA water to the in-charge of Buvuma Health Centre IV, Dr. Remegio Ndyanabo.

The visit served as both a practical extension of the previous day’s technical sessions and a community engagement event. Participants were able to observe the installed SophiA system, which integrates solar-powered refrigeration, water treatment and steam generation technologies designed for off-grid healthcare settings. During the visit, Dr. Kiggundu provided a detailed briefing to local stakeholders, including representatives from the Buvuma District Local Government, delegates from the Buganda Kingdom, and members of the local community. He explained how the SophiA system will enhance healthcare delivery on the island through reliable cold storage for vaccines and medicines, access to clean drinking water, and steam generated for cooking and use in the maternity wards.

As part of the long-term sustainability plan for the SophiA system, the launch of SophiA Water was announced, an entrepreneurial initiative designed to generate revenue locally for the operation and maintenance of the system.  

The trainees and the trainers with the Dean SFTNB, Dr Julia Kigozi at the workshop. European Union-funded Sustainable Off-Grid Solutions for Pharmacies and Hospitals in Africa (SophiA) Project, comprehensive Training of Trainers workshop, June 23 to 27, 2025, Conference Hall, School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bioengineering (SFTNB), College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The trainees and the trainers with the Dean SFTNB, Dr Julia Kigozi at the workshop.

The field trip ended with a certificate awarding ceremony in appreciation of the participants’ dedication and active engagement throughout the training programme.

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