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Rockefeller Foundation, 11 Other Agencies Honored with 2024 Climate and Health Champion Awards

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The Ministry of Health Uganda has recognised 12 outstanding agencies and eight individuals for championing climate change and health resilience in Uganda. They received the 2024 climate and health champions awards.

The awards were presented at the launch of the Climate Change Health National Adaptation Plan-H-NAP (2025-2030) to address the significant threat climate change poses to public health and enhance the resilience of the health sector against climate-related impacts in the country, by the Rt. Hon. Lukia Isanga Nakadama, the 3rd Deputy Prime Minister of Uganda and the woman Member of Parliament for Mayuge District while presiding over the ceremony as the Chief Guest at Sheraton Hotel, Kampala on Thursday August 22, 2024.

Speaking at the launch of the H-NAP, Dr. Diana Atwine, the Permanent Secretary Ministry of Health noted that climate change is a cross-cutting phenomena and that many institutions and individuals have been engaged in activities that directly or indirectly promote building of a climate resilient health system in Uganda.

The Ministry of Health handed the award to The Rockefeller Foundation, an American private foundation and philanthropic medical research and arts funding organization. The Foundation provided technical and financial support to Uganda to conduct the vulnerability assessments of the health sector and develop the Health National Adaptation Plan. With this funding, Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH) was asked to generate evidence through field research whose results were used to develop the H-NAP.

The Foundation was recognized for its technical and financial support towards Uganda’s climate and health response. Mr. William Asiko, Vice President and head of The Rockefeller Foundation’s Africa Regional Office received the award on behalf of The Foundation.

Other organisations that received the awards were the Office of the Prime Minister for its continued support to climate health emergencies. The Ministry of Water and Environment’s Department of Climate Change also received an award in recognition of the collaborative efforts on climate and health policies and governance in the country.

The World Health Organisation (WHO) Uganda country office also was recognized for its technical and financial support. Also, MakSPH received an appreciation award for its contributions to building a climate-resilient system in Uganda for its technical support in developing the H-NAP. Professor Rhoda Wanyenze, the Dean, received the award on behalf of the School.

Dr Christine Musanhu, the Acting WHO Representative in Uganda and Professor Rhoda Wanyenze received awards on behalf of their institutions. Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH) at the Ministry of Health launch of the National Climate Change Health National Adaptation Plan (H-NAP), 22nd August 2024, Sheraton Kampala Hotel, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr Christine Musanhu, the Acting WHO Representative in Uganda and Professor Rhoda Wanyenze received awards on behalf of their institutions.

Regenerate Africa’s Executive Director Mr. Charles Kabiswa, received the Appreciation Award in recognition of Regenerate’s technical and financial contribution towards building a climate resilient health system in Uganda. Regenerate Africa is a non-profit organisation that aims to contribute to, and accelerate Africa’s transition to a regenerative economy.

Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI), Seed Global Health Uganda, Pathfinder Uganda, Amref Africa, Tree Adoption Uganda and Reproductive Health Uganda equally received awards as a token of appreciation for the advocacy and distinguished support to the health sector.

Ministry of Water and Environment's PS Mr Alfred Okot Okidi and Mrs. Margaret Athieno Mwebesa. Commissioner, Climate Change; National Focal Point, UNFCCC receive the climate and health champions 2024 award. Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH) at the Ministry of Health launch of the National Climate Change Health National Adaptation Plan (H-NAP), 22nd August 2024, Sheraton Kampala Hotel, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Ministry of Water and Environment’s PS Mr Alfred Okot Okidi and Mrs. Margaret Athieno Mwebesa. Commissioner, Climate Change; National Focal Point, UNFCCC receive the climate and health champions 2024 award.

Individual awards went to the Hon. Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng, Minister of Health as a special recognition for her technical, political leadership towards a climate resilient health system. Other officials recognized in the Ministry include; Dr. Diana Atwine, the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Henry Mwebesa, the Director General, Dr. Danie Kyabayinze, Director Health Services -Public Health, Dr. Herbert Nabaasa, Commissioner Health Services -Environmental Health Department and Dr. Didacus Namanya, a Health Geographer/ Climate Change Focal Person at the Ministry of Health for their technical leadership and advocacy.

Dr. Herbert Nabaasa, Commissioner Health Services -Environmental Health Department and Dr. Didacus Namanya, a Health Geographer/ Climate Change Focal Person at the Ministry of Health receive their awards. Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH) at the Ministry of Health launch of the National Climate Change Health National Adaptation Plan (H-NAP), 22nd August 2024, Sheraton Kampala Hotel, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Herbert Nabaasa, Commissioner Health Services -Environmental Health Department and Dr. Didacus Namanya, a Health Geographer/ Climate Change Focal Person at the Ministry of Health receive their awards.

Among those awarded was Dr. John Bosco Isunju, a Lecturer and Lead on the Climate Change Vulnerability and Adaptation Assessment (VAA) and H-NAP for his technical support and advocacy.

Uganda’s H-NAP was developed to guide climate change adaptation efforts in the health sector and was informed by the Climate Change Vulnerability and Adaptation Assessment (VAA) conducted in 716 selected health facilities across Uganda.

Climate change is by far the greatest threat to human health. Existing scientific evidence from the intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Assessment Reports and other sources show that environmental determinants of health such as water, food, air among others have been and will continue to directly and indirectly affected. At the same time, all other components of the health system such as the health infrastructure, health workforce, essential products and supply chains are also being negatively affected by climate change.

Uganda is already experiencing the effects of climate change, which is characterized by floods, and landslides with shorter or longer rains, harsher droughts, and warming up in different parts of the country.

Droughts affect the availability of safe and adequate water supply for domestic consumption, and floods contaminate water with disease causing pollutants, which can result in water-related diseases such as typhoid and cholera.

The vulnerability assessment conducted in 2023 had their results shared at national stakeholder’s validation meetings and at the COP28 in Dubai.

The VAA reported that nearly half (47.6%) of healthcare facilities are vulnerable to drought, while 39.7% face the risk of floods in Uganda. Additionally, 31.1% are exposed to storms, 12.0% are at risk from rising water levels, and 11.7% are susceptible to landslides. Lightning poses a threat to 8.9% of facilities, heat waves affect 2.0%, and cold waves impact 0.1%.

Other findings from the VAA assessment reveals that a significant 76.5% of healthcare facilities in Uganda that are affected by drought reported considerable impacts on their health workforce. Additionally, 73.6% experienced disruptions in water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services, while 32.6% faced challenges related to infrastructure, technologies, products, and processes.

This H-NAP that has been launched covers ten components based on the WHO framework aimed at building a climate resilient low-carbon health system which is capable of anticipating, responding to, coping with, recovering from. and adapting to climate-related shocks and stress, while minimising the greenhouse gas emissions and other negative environmental impacts to deliver quality care and protect the health and well-being of present and future generations of Uganda.

The H-NAP proposes a range of short-term and long-term interventions across ten components: climate- transformative leadership and governance, climate-smart health workforce, integrated risk monitoring, and sustainable financing among others. Specific actions include; developing guidelines for mainstreaming climate and health, training health workers, enhancing disease surveillance systems, and revising infrastructure standards for climate-proofing.

Partners at the launch of the H-NAP after fundraising meeting at the sidelines of the event. Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH) at the Ministry of Health launch of the National Climate Change Health National Adaptation Plan (H-NAP), 22nd August 2024, Sheraton Kampala Hotel, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Partners at the launch of the H-NAP after fundraising meeting at the sidelines of the event.

Stakeholders at the H-NAP launch noted that its success relies on strong collaboration between government ministries, health agencies, civil society organizations, and the private sector, ensuring a coordinated and effective response to climate change.

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Davidson Ndyabahika

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75th Graduation Ceremony of Makerere University:  MakCHS presents Graduands

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Graduands jubilate during the Mak75thGrad Ceremony. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 2, CoBAMS, CHS and CoNAS. 14th January 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

The Makerere University College of Health Sciences (MakCHS), College of Natural Sciences, and College of Business and Management Sciences presented graduands for conferment of degrees on the 14th January, 2025 which was the day 2 of the 75th Graduation Ceremony of Makerere University that commenced on Monday 13th January 2025. 

MakCHS presented a total of 886 graduands including (23) Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), (456) Masters and (407) Bachelors. For the second year, MakCHS produced the researcher with the biggest number of publications, Prof. Moses Kamya and he received an award for the achievement.

PhD recipients on Day2 of the Mak75thGrad Ceremony. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 2, CoBAMS, CHS and CoNAS. 14th January 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
PhD recipients on Day2 of the Mak75thGrad Ceremony.

Speaking to the congregation, Professor Barnabas Nawangwe – Vice Chancellor, Makerere University welcomed everyone to Makerere University’s 75th Graduation. He congratulated the 13,658 graduates, including 143 PhD recipients, 53% female graduates and 47% male graduands who will be awarded degrees through the graduation week. He commended the efforts of staff, parents, and sponsors in supporting the students’ journeys. Professor Nawangwe praised the achievements of Makerere’s Colleges and Schools, he commended MakCHS for the leadership in research and innovation flying the Makerere flag globally. He noted, ‘The College of Health Sciences is our flagship college for research and community engagement. This college accounts for 50% of all research grants won and also 50% of all the publications by the University. The College celebrated 100 years last year, making it the oldest college at Makerere University’.

MakCHS Principal Assoc. Prof. Bruce Kirenga (2nd left) with MakCHS Faculty. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 2, CoBAMS, CHS and CoNAS. 14th January 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
MakCHS Principal Assoc. Prof. Bruce Kirenga (2nd left) with MakCHS Faculty.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe speaking during the Graduation. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 1, CoCIS, CEES, CoVAB and School of Law. 13th January 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe speaking during the Graduation.

Prof. Nawangwe reiterated Makerere’s transformation to a research-led institution supported by the government funded Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund (Mak-RIF). “We are addressing national priorities, such as improving the Parish Development Model and advancing e-governance,” he stated. The Vice Chancellor also congratulated Dr. Crispus Kiyonga on his appointment as Chancellor and urged graduates to leverage their education to create solutions for societal challenges.

Professor Nawangwe advised the graduands thus, ‘We have equipped you with the knowledge and skills that will make you employable or to create your own businesses and employ others. Do not despair if you cannot find employment, instead reflect on the immense opportunities around you and raise them as an entrepreneur.’

Professor Puleng LenkaBula, Principal and Vice-Chancellor of the University of South Africa (UNISA) delivered the commencement speech where she called on the graduands to remain resilient and emancipate Africa’s people. Her address titled “The Power of Resilience – African Woman, Find Your Generational Mission and Redefine Your Worth”, Professor LenkaBula highlighted the critical role of African women in shaping the continent’s destiny.

Prof. Puleng LenkaBula, Vice Chancellor of the University of South Africa delivering her commencement lecture. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 1, CoCIS, CEES, CoVAB and School of Law. 13th January 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Puleng LenkaBula, Vice Chancellor of the University of South Africa delivering her commencement lecture.

Professor LenkaBula expressed gratitude for being invited to such a significant occasion and extended greetings from South Africa, including from UNISA’s Chancellor, former South African President Dr. Thabo Mbeki. She praised Makerere University for its legacy of academic excellence and contributions to the African continent, emphasizing its role in anti-colonial struggles, post-colonial development, and its steadfast commitment to African unity. She called for a renewed focus on gender equity in academia and leadership, noting the disproportionate burdens faced by women in society. Citing the achievements of Makerere University in gender mainstreaming, she expressed optimism about the role of young leaders in dismantling patriarchal systems and fostering inclusive development.

Professor LenkaBula concluded her address to graduands with a call to action: “Your graduation is not merely a personal achievement but a contribution to Africa’s collective progress. History has thrust upon you the task of creating a future defined by resilience, innovation, and equality.”

In his remarks, Dr. Crispus Kiyonga – Chancellor, Makerere University congratulated graduands upon making it to the 75th Graduation Ceremony of Makerere University. Dr. Suruma expressed his appreciation of His Excellency the President and First Lady/Minister of Education and Sports for giving him the opportunity to serve Uganda and for the continuous support extended to Makerere University, requesting the congregation to join him and give them a warm applause.  Dr. Kiyonga reiterated President Museveni’s directive to Makerere University to integrate the teaching of political economy across all courses to enhance students’ understanding of the country’s socioeconomic conditions. The directive, welcomed by the university’s top management, will be incorporated into the curriculum to align education with the needs of the people and the nation.

Hon. Dr. Crispus Kiyonga addresses the congregation. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 1, CoCIS, CEES, CoVAB and School of Law. 13th January 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Hon. Dr. Crispus Kiyonga addresses the congregation.

He expressed appreciation that the government has pledged to bolster Makerere’s research funding and he encouraged the University to strengthen partnerships with the private sector to commercialize innovations developed at the institution.

The new Chancellor pledged support to the University management in saving its land and urged that an agro-industrial park be established. “This park would serve three purposes: teaching, generating income, and acting as a demonstration site for communities across the country,” Dr. Kiyonga noted. He also emphasized the urgency of addressing Uganda’s food insecurity, highlighting that 40% of children in the Rwenzori region are stunted, with malnutrition affecting most regions of the country.

Dr. Kiyonga also pointed out Africa’s underperformance despite its vast resources, describing it as a contradiction. “It is our responsibility to change the conditions of our people and ensure Africa rises to its potential,” he urged.

The ceremony was graced by Hon. Joyce Moriku Kaducu, Minister of State for Primary Education, who represented the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni. Other dignitaries included members of Parliament, the judiciary, the diplomatic corps, and academics.

The Minister lauded Makerere University for its dedication to academic excellence and innovation. “Today reflects the resilience, hard work, and commitment of our graduates, supported by the university staff, management, and parents,” she said. The Minister commended the Vice Chancellor and management for fostering research and innovation while urging them to maintain robust quality control systems to uphold the institution’s integrity.

Min. Kaducu representing the Minister of Education. 75th Graduation Ceremony, Day 1, CoCIS, CEES, CoVAB and School of Law. 13th January 2025, Freedom Square, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The Minister of State for Primary Education Hon. Dr. Joyce Moriku Kaducu represented the Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataaha Museveni.

She also reflected on Makerere’s recent milestones, including the commissioning of a new the launch of the School of Graduate Studies and Research. “Your achievements stem from hard work, transparency, and accountability. They set Makerere apart as a leader in higher education,” she noted. Addressing the graduates, Hon. Kaducu encouraged them to apply their skills to solve societal challenges. “Makerere has equipped you with critical thinking and creativity. Use this to seize opportunities, make a difference, and shine wherever you go,” she concluded. During the 75th graduation ceremony held from the 13th -17th January, 2025, a total of 13,658 graduands were awarded degrees and diplomas in various disciplines. Of these, 143 received PhDs, 1,813 Masters Degrees, 243 postgraduate Diplomas, and 11,454 Bachelor’s Degrees. 53% of the graduands are female and 47% are male.  44% of the PhD graduands are female. A total of 491 graduands received first class degrees. 

Zaam Ssali

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Certificate in Water, Sanitation and Hygiene 2025

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The Head, Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics-Prof. Nazarius Mbona Tumwesigye (6th L) and the Head, Department of Disease Control and Environmental Health-Dr. Esther Buregyeya (4th L) pose with 25 graduands of the WASH Short Course on 20th July 2018, MakSPH, Mulago Campus, Makerere University.

Course Objectives

The course is intended to strengthen the capacity of practicing workers to successfully identify and manage Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) opportunities and problems by facilitating the acquisition of adequate knowledge, development of skills and attitudes through understanding and use of the 6 essential services of WASH. These are to:

  1. Monitor WASH status to identify and solve community environmental health problems.
  2. Diagnose and investigate WASH problems and health hazards in the community.
  3. Inform, educate and empower people about WASH issues.
  4. Mobilise community partnerships and actions to identify and solve WASH problems.
  5. Evaluate effectiveness, accessibility and quality of personal and population-based WASH services.
  6. Research for new insights and innovative solutions to WASH problems.

Course Structure

The course is an 8-weeks programme of study. Participants will spend 3 weeks (full-time) at Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH) while 4 weeks will be spent at suitable workplaces / field sites. The final week of the course will be spent at MakSPH for presentation of project / field work, final examination, and the certificate awarding ceremony. This is a day programme and will run from 26th May to 18th July 2025.

Course Modules

  • Water Resources Management
  • Environmental Sanitation
  • Hygiene Promotion
  • WASH Policy, Planning and Financing
  • Field / Project Work

Mode of delivery of the course includes lectures, tutorials, seminars, practicals and field work.

Dates26th May to 18th July 2025
FeesUgandansInternationals
 UGX 900,000USD 500
Dates and Fees for the Certificate in Water, Sanitation and Hygiene 2025

Who should apply?

  1. Practicing officers in the WASH sector including those working in local government, non governmental organizations (NGOs) or the private sector.
  2. Environmental Health workers who wish to broaden their knowledge and skills as a form of Continuous Professional Development (CPD) so as to be better equipped to implement WASH activities.

Entry requirements for admission to the course are Uganda Advanced Certificate of Education (UACE) or its equivalent with at least 1 year working experience in WASH.

How to apply?

Application forms and procedure can be obtained from the Department of Disease Control and Environmental Health, Makerere University School of Public Health, New Mulago Hospital Complex or from the website below:
https://sph.mak.ac.ug/academics/water-sanitation-and-hygiene-wash

The deadline for receiving applications is Wednesday 26th March 2025.

For further details, contact:

Course Administrator
Ms. Irene Nassazi
Makerere University School of Public Health
New Mulago Hospital Complex
E-mail: inassazi@musph.ac.ug Tel. +256771671354

Course Coordinator
Dr. David Musoke
Makerere University School of Public Health
New Mulago Hospital Complex
E-mail: dmusoke@musph.ac.ug Tel. +256788572129

Co-Course Coordinator
Mr. Allan Ssembuusi
Makerere University School of Public Health
New Mulago Hospital Complex
E-mail: assembuusi@musph.ac.ug Tel. +256759955067

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New Principal at MakCHS

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Left to Right: Mr. Evarist Bainomugisha, Mr. Deus Tayari Mujuni, Mr. Simon Kizito, Prof. Damalie Nakanjako, Prof. Bruce Kirenga, Dr. David Patrick Kateete (Rear), Prof. Henry Alinaitwe, Dr. Richard Idro (Rear), Mr. Patrick Akonyet and Prof. Annettee Nakimuli at the handover ceremony on 2nd December 2024. Handover of Principal Office by Prof. Damalie Nakanjako to Assoc. Prof. Bruce Kirenga, 2nd December 2024, College Boardroom, College of Health Sciences (CHS), Makerere University, New Mulago Hospital Complex, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

On 2nd December 2024, Assoc. Professor Bruce Kirenga officially took over as Principal of the College of Health Sciences, Makerere University (MakCHS) in a handover ceremony held in the College Board Room. Dr. Kirenga succeeds Professor Damalie Nakanjako, who successfully completed her four-year term.

The ceremony was attended by members of the MakCHS Administrative Board and key university leaders, including Ag. Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration) Professor Henry Alinaitwe, Chief of Human Resources, Mr. Deus Tayari Mujuni, & Deputy University Secretary Mr. Simon Kizito, among others.

Prof. Damalie Nakanjako (2nd Left) shows of her plaque as Ag. DVCFA-Prof. Henry Alinaitwe (2nd Right), Deputy US-Mr. Simon Kizito (Left), Dr. David Patrick Kateete (Right) and Dr. Richard Idro (2nd Right) witness. Handover of Principal Office by Prof. Damalie Nakanjako to Assoc. Prof. Bruce Kirenga, 2nd December 2024, College Boardroom, College of Health Sciences (CHS), Makerere University, New Mulago Hospital Complex, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Damalie Nakanjako (2nd Left) shows of her plaque as Ag. DVCFA-Prof. Henry Alinaitwe (2nd Right), Deputy US-Mr. Simon Kizito (Left), Dr. David Patrick Kateete (Right) and Dr. Richard Idro (2nd Right) witness.

In her remarks, Professor Nakanjako reflected on her time in office with gratitude and pride since she assumed office in December 2020. She expressed her full support for MakCHS in contributing towards training and research in Makerere University.

Professor Nakanjako thanked the university top management for the support rendered to during her term of office as Principal. I thank family, friends and colleagues who supported and allowed me share my time with the college, especially beyond official hours.

Assoc. Prof. Bruce Kirenga delivers his acceptance remarks. Handover of Principal Office by Prof. Damalie Nakanjako to Assoc. Prof. Bruce Kirenga, 2nd December 2024, College Boardroom, College of Health Sciences (CHS), Makerere University, New Mulago Hospital Complex, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Assoc. Prof. Bruce Kirenga delivers his acceptance remarks.

Dr.  Kirenga, a pulmonologist, researcher, and founding director of the Makerere University Lung Institute, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Makerere leadership and the search committee for entrusting him with the responsibility of steering the college. He noted; “It’s a true honour to have been entrusted with this role. The search process was rigorous, but I learned so much from the ideas shared by my colleagues—it was a truly honourable competition.”

With a vision for collaboration and growth, Dr. Kirenga outlined his priorities, including improving staffing, improving relationships with teaching hospitals, and addressing infrastructure needs. He emphasized a leadership style rooted in inclusivity and teamwork, saying, “Let’s create a common vision through consultation and work together. I’ll visit every unit in the college to hear directly from staff about their challenges, needs, and ideas for moving forward.”

Dr. Kirenga also shared plans to establish a forum of past leaders to harness their collective wisdom and ensure continuity in leadership.

Zaam Ssali

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