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Universities urged to embrace AI for climate change adaptation and mitigation

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African universities have been challenged to harness the power of emerging digital technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) to transform the agricultural sector and mitigate the effects of climate change on the African continent.

Agriculture is the major source of livelihood in most African countries yet it is one of those that are most-affected by climate change. Faced with this challenge, universities, farmers and communities should embrace digital technologies in farming and livestock production and management.

In addition, the use of digital technologies would not only contribute to the transformation of the agriculture sector, but also make the sector interesting and attractive to the young people constituting 60% of the total population in Africa.

These deliberations featured prominently at the second RUFORUM Triennial Conference from 12th to 16th August 2024 held in Windhoek, Namibia specifically during the Scientific Session under the theme; ‘AI and Climate Change’ and another scientific session on ‘Emerging Issues-Digitization of Education.’

Prof. Patrick Okori, RUFORUM Executive Secretary. 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.
Prof. Patrick Okori, RUFORUM Executive Secretary.

The Regional Universities for Capacity Building in Agriculture (RUFORUM), which consists of 170 African countries and 40 universities in Africa, seeks to facilitate the creation of vibrant transformative universities catalyzing sustainable development inclusive agricultural development to feed and create prosperity for Africa.

At the strategic level, participants noted that AI was a reality that had come to stay, which necessitates Universities to come up with policies to integrate AI into teaching and learning, research, and knowledge transfer.

This strategic approach was re-echoed by Prof. Patrick Okori, the Executive Secretary of RUFORUM, when he said: “Universities should focus on the integration digital technology in all processes.  Digital technology should enable universities, farmers and communities to share information, knowledge and skills to enable the transformation of the agricultural sector.”

Prof. Okori emphasized that digitization of agriculture should be inclusive with the young people, women, persons with disabilities and refugees empowered to participate in the various chains within the agricultural sector. 

Dr. Isa Kabenge, Prof. Anthony Gidudu and Prof. John W. Makokha in a panel discussion. 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.
Dr. Isa Kabenge, Prof. Anthony Gidudu and Prof. John W. Makokha in a panel discussion.

During these interactive sessions, participants also discussed some fears about digital technologies such as AI.  These include: overdependence on AI reduces critical thinking of students and learners in general; AI puts the credibility of the learners in balance-how do you detect lies; using AI and upholding the ethical standards in research, teaching and learning.  There was also a serious fear of losing jobs due to AI.

The Vice Chancellor of Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology in Kenya, Prof. Victoria Wambui Ngumi, reminded participants that there was need to be frank and accept that the young people (Gen. Z) were ahead of their teachers in AI applications and usage.  

Responding to the Vice Chancellor’s revelation (real life scenario), the Dean School of the Built Environment at Makerere University College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology, Dr. Anthony Gidudu, noted that universities should invest resources to bridge the gap between the digital experts and the digital migrants. This involves committing to a deliberate effort to train and re-tool the human resources in the respective universities.

Noting the niche of Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, which is anchored in hands-on training, the Vice Chancellor sought guidance from the researchers, panelists and participants on the viability of applying AI and practical courses in the conduct of hands-on training.

Dr. Anthony Gidudu (Left) and Dr. Drake Patrick Mirembe (Right) contribute to the panel discussion. 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.
Dr. Anthony Gidudu (Left) and Dr. Drake Patrick Mirembe (Right) contribute to the panel discussion.

In his response, Dr. Gidudu revealed that AI is not an end in itself as human beings are still in control with ability to conduct research that informs AI applications and processes. He pointed out that in the various presentations focusing on research conducted by researchers from Makerere University, AI applications are informed by researchers. The researchers were on ground, undertook field studies, interacted with the farmers and community leaders. Using a real-life example, Dr. Gidudu explained that whereas an airplane uses technology and AI to advance into space, the pilot (a human being) takes charge.

Responding to the fear of losing jobs, Ketshepileome Matlhoko from the University of Free State, said: “We have to face the reality. AI will not take away your job, but an individual who knows AI will take away your job.”

On the issue of credibility, ethical standards and detection of lies, the participants agreed that universities should come up with policies on using AI ethically.  For instance, there should be a point of caution in regard to overdependence on AI. “Humans must not be over dependent on AI. They must be able to make decisions that override the AI decisions,” he said.

Institutional Communication Officers for Makerere University and UMU Nkozi Ritah Namisango (Left) and Proscovia Nabatte (Right) respectively. 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.
Institutional Communication Officers for Makerere University and UMU Nkozi Ritah Namisango (Left) and Proscovia Nabatte (Right) respectively.

Prof. Isa Kabenge, a researcher at Makerere University College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, assured participants that AI presents an opportunity to universities to enhance research and contribute to changing livelihoods. Noting that Makerere University runs an artificial intelligence laboratory under its College of Computing and Information Sciences, Prof. Kabenge disclosed plans by Makerere University researchers to team up to establish an AI Innovations Hub, aimed at integrating AI into agricultural management.

In his presentation, Prof. Kabenge demonstrated research that involved the use of AI to monitor and track livestock production. AI models such as the Cattle Detection Model and the Cattle Identification Model provide real-time information to farmers and researchers. In the area of livestock farming, Prof. Kabenge plans to use AI in livestock health monitoring, pasture characterization and management, livestock behavior monitoring.

Dr. Catherine Mulinde presents her research. 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.
Dr. Catherine Mulinde presents her research.

Dr. Catherine Mulinde, a researcher from Makerere University College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, explained that maize is one of the crops affected by climate change. She presented research on modelling land productivity and crop yields under changing climate and land use management using AI. Focusing on the maize farmers in the Kyoga Basin, Dr. Mulinde noted that AI informed their research on the productivity of land and the determinants of the productivity of maize. Despite the rampant land fragmentation issues, inorganic and organic fertilizers as well as pesticides application had a positive impact on the maize production.

In a presentation titled; Remote Sensing as an enabling technology for agriculture, Dr. Anthony Gidudu demonstrated the use of satellite imagery to develop products and services through remote sensing to transform the agricultural sector.  Focusing on AI and future research prospects, Dr. Gidudu said: “Remote sensing: use satellite imagery and drone data (earth observation) combined with AI to create detailed maps of crop health, soil moisture and nutrient levels. AI algorithms can process this data to provide real-time recommendations for site-specific management.”

Focusing on the digitization of education, Dr. Drake P. Mirembe from Makerere University College of Computing and Information Sciences, rallied universities and participants to change from the traditional methods of learning to embrace the student-centered and problem-based approach, which involves knowledge co-creation by the teacher and learner. Dr. Drake P. Mirembe is also a Member of the National Taskforce on AI.

Prof. John W. Makokha from Kibabii University moderates a session. 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.
Prof. John W. Makokha from Kibabii University moderates a session.

Prof. John W. Makokha from Kibabii University explained that the North Rift of Kenya has received intensive impacts of climate change.  He then demonstrated the use of smart technology to predict climate change effects on terrestrial plant diversity and conservation for sustainable livelihoods in the North rift of Kenya. In this research, AI models through the North Rift Weather prediction system were designed for broader community adoption. It provides consistent data and advice on behavior of agricultural patterns.

As indicated through the presentations and demonstrations, the key message was that advances in technology such as AI should be adopted to contribute to the transformation of the agricultural sector. A multi-disciplinary approach to research should be undertaken to enable the different disciplines to enrich the application and usage of AI research and models. Engagement of farmers, leaders at the different levels and communities in general informs and enriches AI application and usage. Participants were informed that some of the AI areas for further research include: Investigation of how different agricultural practices affect land productivity and crop yields, studying the economic implications of adopting AI-based land use management strategies to farmers, integration of pest and diseases prediction and monitoring using AI; developing AI models for site-specific crop management to optimize inputs like water, fertilizers and pesticides, climate resilience and AI.

Ritah Namisango
Ritah Namisango

Agriculture & Environment

Makerere hosts International Conference on Food Systems Transformation for Climate Actions

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H.E. Muhammad Hassan Wazir (6th Left) and Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (4th Left) pose for a group photo with participants at the ICTW-FSTCA 2025 Opening Ceremony on 28th October. Makerere University hosts the International Conference and Training Workshop on Food Systems Transformation for Climate Actions (ICTW-FSTCA 2025) under the COMSTECH Forum for Environment and Ecosystem Restoration (CFEER). Opening Ceremony, 28th October 2025, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

By Betty Kyakuwa and Eve Nakyanzi

Makerere University will from 28th to 30th October 2025 host the International Conference and Training Workshop on Food Systems Transformation for Climate Actions (ICTW-FSTCA 2025) under the COMSTECH Forum for Environment and Ecosystem Restoration (CFEER). COMSTECH is the Standing Committee for Scientific and Technological Cooperation, one of four standing committees of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) dedicated to the promotion and cooperation of science and technology activities among the member states.

Speaking at the opening ceremony on 28th October, the High Commissioner of Pakistan to Uganda, H.E. Muhammad Hassan Wazir, commended Makerere University and COMSTECH for convening discussions on such a timely and relevant theme. Emphasising the urgency of collective action, he remarked, “Climate change is real. While the whole world has been feeling its impact for several years, we in Pakistan witnessed devastation. We recently experienced a large-scale cloud burst, severe flood, flash flooding and melting of the glaciers in the Himalayas.”

H.E. Muhammad Hassan Wazir (2nd Right) poses for a group photo at the Main Building Entrance with Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (2nd Left), Dr. Julia Kigozi (Left) and another official. Makerere University hosts the International Conference and Training Workshop on Food Systems Transformation for Climate Actions (ICTW-FSTCA 2025) under the COMSTECH Forum for Environment and Ecosystem Restoration (CFEER). Opening Ceremony, 28th October 2025, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
H.E. Muhammad Hassan Wazir (2nd Right) poses for a group photo at the Main Building Entrance with Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (2nd Left), Dr. Julia Kigozi (Left) and another official.

H.E. Wazir noted that such experiences reveal the deep vulnerabilities of global food systems and the need for coordinated solutions. The High Commissioner also applauded Uganda’s progress in infrastructure and economic stability, describing it as an attractive environment for investment and collaboration. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to work closely with African countries—particularly Uganda—in areas such as agro-processing, water-saving irrigation technologies, and climate-resilient crops, as part of the “Look Africa Policy”, an initiative launched in 2018 to strengthen bilateral and multilateral cooperation between Pakistan and the African continent.

In his welcome address, the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, emphasized the importance of universities in addressing Africa’s pressing food security challenges amid high population growth and climate change. He highlighted Makerere’s century-long legacy of academic excellence, innovation, and contributions to regional development, including breakthroughs in medicine, agriculture, and technology. Prof. Nawangwe underscored the university’s commitment to research, innovation hubs, and youth entrepreneurship as key solutions for building resilient and sustainable food systems, and expressed hope that the knowledge shared at the workshop would benefit educators, students, and farmers alike.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe delivers his welcome address. Makerere University hosts the International Conference and Training Workshop on Food Systems Transformation for Climate Actions (ICTW-FSTCA 2025) under the COMSTECH Forum for Environment and Ecosystem Restoration (CFEER). Opening Ceremony, 28th October 2025, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe delivers his welcome address.

In his keynote address, Dr. Logan Cochrane, Dean of the College of Public Policy at Hamad Bin Khalifa University (HBKU) Qatar, outlined the pressing challenges and promising opportunities shaping global food systems today. He noted that climate change is creating new public health risks, such as malaria spreading to areas that had previously been unaffected, while also disrupting agricultural productivity. Equally concerning are shifts in global diets: more people are consuming processed, salty, and fatty foods, resulting in an unprecedented situation where, in 2025, as many children are overweight as are underweight—approximately 10% of the global population in each category. This dual challenge, he observed, underscores that food systems are not only insufficient but increasingly unhealthy. Dr. Cochrane also highlighted structural vulnerabilities, including overreliance on global food trade, limited irrigation, poor road networks, and inadequate access to markets, hospitals, and schools as factors that reduce the African continent’s efficiency and resilience.

Despite these challenges, Dr. Cochrane emphasized optimism and actionable opportunities. He shared that sustainable local production, especially of regionally relevant crops like Ethiopia’s taro and false banana, can improve nutrition and domestic food security. Strengthening regional trade networks, particularly through initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Agreement, presents a US$50 billion opportunity for Africa to reduce dependence on imports.

Dr. Logan Cochrane delivers the keynote address. Makerere University hosts the International Conference and Training Workshop on Food Systems Transformation for Climate Actions (ICTW-FSTCA 2025) under the COMSTECH Forum for Environment and Ecosystem Restoration (CFEER). Opening Ceremony, 28th October 2025, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Logan Cochrane delivers the keynote address.

He added that Governments can play a transformative role by enabling smallholders and the private sector through infrastructure improvements, policy support, and food reserve systems. Reducing food loss and waste, which can reach up to 50% from farm to kitchen, he noted, is another key area for efficiency gains. Furthermore, he said that social protection programs, early warning systems for pests and diseases, and school-based nutrition initiatives can safeguard vulnerable populations while supporting farmers’ livelihoods.

Finally, Dr. Cochrane highlighted the need to make agriculture “cool” for young people, by integrating technology, circular food systems, and innovative approaches to attract the next generation to agricultural careers. By leveraging these opportunities, he argued, food systems can become healthier, more resilient, and more sustainable for the future.

Mr. Alex Bambona. Makerere University hosts the International Conference and Training Workshop on Food Systems Transformation for Climate Actions (ICTW-FSTCA 2025) under the COMSTECH Forum for Environment and Ecosystem Restoration (CFEER). Opening Ceremony, 28th October 2025, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Mr. Alex Bambona.

Mr. Alex Bambona who represented the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF) highlighted Uganda’s commitment to the global food systems transformation agenda. He noted that in September 2021, Uganda joined international efforts to address food security and recognized several challenges in fully harnessing the country’s natural endowments. “Uganda is a beautiful country, gifted by nature, and has the potential to feed not only East Africa but much of the continent,” he said. However, he stressed that gaps remain, particularly in the application of science and technology to transform agriculture. Mr. Bambona also identified climate change as a significant challenge, acting as a negative driver that must be addressed for Uganda to realize its full potential in sustainable food production.

Ms. Angela Atukunda, representing the Secretary General of the Uganda National Commission for the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)/ Islamic World Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), highlighted Uganda’s longstanding engagement with international cooperation through its membership in the OIC since 1974, which also brought the country into ICESCO. She explained that UNATCOM, as Uganda’s National Commission for UNESCO/ICESCO, plays a key role in promoting science, innovation, education reform, and cultural heritage preservation in collaboration with government ministries, academia, civil society, and international partners.

Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (Left) presents a Makerere Coffee Table book to Ms. Angela Atukunda as H.E. Muhammad Hassan Wazir (Centre) witnesses. Makerere University hosts the International Conference and Training Workshop on Food Systems Transformation for Climate Actions (ICTW-FSTCA 2025) under the COMSTECH Forum for Environment and Ecosystem Restoration (CFEER). Opening Ceremony, 28th October 2025, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (Left) presents a Makerere Coffee Table book to Ms. Angela Atukunda as H.E. Muhammad Hassan Wazir (Centre) witnesses.

Ms. Atukunda emphasized that platforms provided by events such as ICTW-FSTCA 2025 are crucial for sharing knowledge, shaping policy, and building partnerships to address urgent climate action needs through food systems transformation. She noted that globally, food systems account for nearly one-third of greenhouse gas emissions, and without reform in production, processing, transport, and consumption, efforts to limit global warming will fall short.

She further noted that climate change is already threatening food security through unpredictable rainfall, soil degradation, droughts, floods, and pests—impacts that disproportionately affect smallholder farmers. She stressed the importance of climate justice and the development of homegrown solutions rooted in science, indigenous knowledge, innovation, and inclusive governance.

A video of H.E. Prof. Dr. Iqbal M. Choudhary delivering his address. Makerere University hosts the International Conference and Training Workshop on Food Systems Transformation for Climate Actions (ICTW-FSTCA 2025) under the COMSTECH Forum for Environment and Ecosystem Restoration (CFEER). Opening Ceremony, 28th October 2025, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
A video of H.E. Prof. Dr. Iqbal M. Choudhary delivering his address.

The opening ceremony held in the Senior Common Room, Main Building was virtually addressed Coordinator Genera, OIC-COMSTEC-H.E. Prof. Dr. Iqbal M. Choudhary and the Advisor/Director, Science and Technology, ICESCO-Dr. Muhammad Sharif. ICTW-FSTCA 2025 will feature a number of discussion and working sessions on Day 1 and Day 2 and conclude on 30th October with a filed visit to the National Crops Resources Research Institute (NaCRRI) in Namulonge and the Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK).

Dr. Muhammad Sharif addresses the conference virtually. Makerere University hosts the International Conference and Training Workshop on Food Systems Transformation for Climate Actions (ICTW-FSTCA 2025) under the COMSTECH Forum for Environment and Ecosystem Restoration (CFEER). Opening Ceremony, 28th October 2025, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Muhammad Sharif addresses the conference virtually.

Betty Kyakuwa
Betty Kyakuwa

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Agriculture & Environment

RUFS Empowers Smallholder Farmers to Build Resilience against Floods & Droughts

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Prof. Frank Mugagga and the RUFS Project Team pose for a group photo with Kasese smallholder farmers. The Resilient Urban Food Systems (RUFS) project led by Prof. Frank Mugagga, Department of Geography, Geo-Informatics, and Climatic Sciences, CAES, Makerere University, Kampala and funded through the AgriFoSe2030 Programme initiative titled “Strengthening Urban Food Systems Resilience to Flood and Drought Risks through New Strategic Partnerships: Consolidating Gains from the RUFS Project in Kasese Municipality and Mbale City, Uganda,” intensive two-day training workshop for smallholder farmers in Kasese Municipality 13th and 14th October 2025, East Africa.

Smallholder farmers across the globe are increasingly confronted with the dual challenges of water-related stresses, ranging from devastating floods to prolonged droughts. These cyclical extremes threaten livelihoods, food security, and sustainable agricultural productivity. To effectively address these challenges, it is essential to implement resilient, integrated strategies that recognize the complex and fluctuating nature of water availability.

Prof. Frank Mugagga. The Resilient Urban Food Systems (RUFS) project led by Prof. Frank Mugagga, Department of Geography, Geo-Informatics, and Climatic Sciences, CAES, Makerere University, Kampala and funded through the AgriFoSe2030 Programme initiative titled “Strengthening Urban Food Systems Resilience to Flood and Drought Risks through New Strategic Partnerships: Consolidating Gains from the RUFS Project in Kasese Municipality and Mbale City, Uganda,” intensive two-day training workshop for smallholder farmers in Kasese Municipality 13th and 14th October 2025, East Africa.
Prof. Frank Mugagga.

The Resilient Urban Food Systems (RUFS) project promotes innovative approaches that empower smallholder farmers to better manage water resources by capturing and storing excess water during periods of abundance, efficiently utilizing limited water supplies during dry spells, and building adaptive capacity to withstand and recover from extreme weather events. Through these solutions, RUFS helps create a foundation for sustainable farming that not only mitigates risks but also enhances productivity and long-term resilience in vulnerable agricultural communities.

Farmers use nutrient rich plants to produce pesticides. The Resilient Urban Food Systems (RUFS) project led by Prof. Frank Mugagga, Department of Geography, Geo-Informatics, and Climatic Sciences, CAES, Makerere University, Kampala and funded through the AgriFoSe2030 Programme initiative titled “Strengthening Urban Food Systems Resilience to Flood and Drought Risks through New Strategic Partnerships: Consolidating Gains from the RUFS Project in Kasese Municipality and Mbale City, Uganda,” intensive two-day training workshop for smallholder farmers in Kasese Municipality 13th and 14th October 2025, East Africa.
Farmers use nutrient rich plants to produce pesticides.

Under the initiative titled “Strengthening Urban Food Systems Resilience to Flood and Drought Risks through New Strategic Partnerships: Consolidating Gains from the RUFS Project in Kasese Municipality and Mbale City, Uganda,” the team conducted an intensive two-day training workshop for smallholder farmers in Kasese Municipality. The workshop aimed to equip farmers with practical skills and knowledge, specifically in the production of organic pesticides and fertilizers, to enhance their adaptive capacity.

Mr. Henry Stanley Mbowa training farmers on pestcide production from animal urine. The Resilient Urban Food Systems (RUFS) project led by Prof. Frank Mugagga, Department of Geography, Geo-Informatics, and Climatic Sciences, CAES, Makerere University, Kampala and funded through the AgriFoSe2030 Programme initiative titled “Strengthening Urban Food Systems Resilience to Flood and Drought Risks through New Strategic Partnerships: Consolidating Gains from the RUFS Project in Kasese Municipality and Mbale City, Uganda,” intensive two-day training workshop for smallholder farmers in Kasese Municipality 13th and 14th October 2025, East Africa.
Mr. Henry Stanley Mbowa training farmers on pestcide production from animal urine.

Conducted on 13th and 14th October 2025 at the residence of Bishop Stephen Nsibambi on Kilembe Road, Kasese Municipality, the training built upon insights and outcomes from the inception meeting of the RUFS Phase II held 18th–21st August 2025. The initiatives under Phase II of the RUFS Project aim to reduce damage from natural hazards, improve drainage and water storage, conserve soil moisture, decrease reliance on rainfall, and ultimately bolster resilience against water-related extremes.

Sprouting tomatoes. The Resilient Urban Food Systems (RUFS) project led by Prof. Frank Mugagga, Department of Geography, Geo-Informatics, and Climatic Sciences, CAES, Makerere University, Kampala and funded through the AgriFoSe2030 Programme initiative titled “Strengthening Urban Food Systems Resilience to Flood and Drought Risks through New Strategic Partnerships: Consolidating Gains from the RUFS Project in Kasese Municipality and Mbale City, Uganda,” intensive two-day training workshop for smallholder farmers in Kasese Municipality 13th and 14th October 2025, East Africa.
Sprouting tomatoes.

The project is led by Prof. Frank Mugagga from the Department of Geography, Geo-Informatics, and Climatic Sciences at Makerere University, and funded through the AgriFoSe2030 Programme.

Juma Wepukhulu presenting to farmers on sustainable agronomic practices based on his experience in Mbale. The Resilient Urban Food Systems (RUFS) project led by Prof. Frank Mugagga, Department of Geography, Geo-Informatics, and Climatic Sciences, CAES, Makerere University, Kampala and funded through the AgriFoSe2030 Programme initiative titled “Strengthening Urban Food Systems Resilience to Flood and Drought Risks through New Strategic Partnerships: Consolidating Gains from the RUFS Project in Kasese Municipality and Mbale City, Uganda,” intensive two-day training workshop for smallholder farmers in Kasese Municipality 13th and 14th October 2025, East Africa.
Juma Wepukhulu presenting to farmers on sustainable agronomic practices based on his experience in Mbale.

Achievements Registered from the Workshop

The training enhanced the resilience of smallholder farmers by equipping them to better withstand natural hazards, with a special focus on reducing their vulnerability to floods and droughts. The two-day workshop concentrated on the production and use of pesticides and fertilizers derived from locally available, nutrient-rich plants such as Tithonia (Kimyula), Wandering Jew (Naanda), Amaranthus spp. (Ddodo), Black Jack (Sere), and Phytolacca (Luwoko). It also covered the use of ash, animal and human urine, as well as techniques for harvesting and purifying rainwater.

Prof. Frank Mugagga addressing farmers during the training. The Resilient Urban Food Systems (RUFS) project led by Prof. Frank Mugagga, Department of Geography, Geo-Informatics, and Climatic Sciences, CAES, Makerere University, Kampala and funded through the AgriFoSe2030 Programme initiative titled “Strengthening Urban Food Systems Resilience to Flood and Drought Risks through New Strategic Partnerships: Consolidating Gains from the RUFS Project in Kasese Municipality and Mbale City, Uganda,” intensive two-day training workshop for smallholder farmers in Kasese Municipality 13th and 14th October 2025, East Africa.
Prof. Frank Mugagga addressing farmers during the training.

Specifically, smallholder farmers in Kasese Municipality gained practical skills in the production of natural, effective plant teas using decomposing and hairy plants combined with ash, an eco-friendly method to enrich soil sustainably. They were trained in rainwater harvesting through trench digging and other methods, as well as rainwater purification using charcoal. Additionally, the farmers were taken through the process of producing fertilizers using a mixture of cowdung, water and ash, as well as human urine and locally available plants. Furthermore, farmers learned to make organic pesticides from readily available materials such as ash, animal urine, onions, papaya leaves, water, pepper, and soap.

Kasese smallholder farmers attending the training. The Resilient Urban Food Systems (RUFS) project led by Prof. Frank Mugagga, Department of Geography, Geo-Informatics, and Climatic Sciences, CAES, Makerere University, Kampala and funded through the AgriFoSe2030 Programme initiative titled “Strengthening Urban Food Systems Resilience to Flood and Drought Risks through New Strategic Partnerships: Consolidating Gains from the RUFS Project in Kasese Municipality and Mbale City, Uganda,” intensive two-day training workshop for smallholder farmers in Kasese Municipality 13th and 14th October 2025, East Africa.
Kasese smallholder farmers attending the training.

Overall, the training promoted sustainable, eco-friendly farming practices while strengthening smallholder farmers’ skills in pest management and climate-resilient agronomic techniques. It was led by Mr. Henry Stanley Mbowa, Head of Research at AidEnvironment and a member of the RUFS Project.

Insights from the farmers’ representative

Mr. Sunday Salveri, a dedicated smallholder farmer from Kasese, highlighted the critical role of active farmer participation in forming and sustaining a farmer group and association. In his address, he urged fellow farmers to become more engaged and take proactive steps to improve their livelihoods through active group participation. He emphasized that increased involvement is essential for maintaining a vibrant, effective group that benefits all members. Mr. Salveri also encouraged more farmers to join the group, viewing collective effort as key to achieving economic sustainability. “Expanding membership is vital for the association’s growth and resilience,” he noted.

Prof. Frank Mugagga (L) with Bishop Nason Baluku (R). The Resilient Urban Food Systems (RUFS) project led by Prof. Frank Mugagga, Department of Geography, Geo-Informatics, and Climatic Sciences, CAES, Makerere University, Kampala and funded through the AgriFoSe2030 Programme initiative titled “Strengthening Urban Food Systems Resilience to Flood and Drought Risks through New Strategic Partnerships: Consolidating Gains from the RUFS Project in Kasese Municipality and Mbale City, Uganda,” intensive two-day training workshop for smallholder farmers in Kasese Municipality 13th and 14th October 2025, East Africa.
Prof. Frank Mugagga (L) with Bishop Nason Baluku (R).

Furthermore, Mr. Salveri stressed the importance of applying practical business lessons learned on the ground. He suggested that farmers produce fertilizers and pesticides themselves as a way to both generate income and reduce costs for members. To facilitate knowledge sharing and skill development, he proposed establishing a demonstration site to train other farmers. Recognizing the role of family support, Mr. Salveri emphasized involving family members in these activities, highlighting that their participation is crucial for the long-term success and sustainability of agricultural endeavors.

He underscored the need to think beyond agriculture, advocating for the continued existence of the cluster and the RUFS initiative. He expressed hope that these efforts will bring sustained benefits to farmers and their families.

Courtesy Call

The RUFS team paid a courtesy call on the Bishop of Rwenzori region – Lord Nason Baluku who appreciated the team’s efforts. The meeting provided an opportunity to strengthen relationships and reaffirm mutual commitment toward the initiatives.

RUFS Team poses for a group photo with Bishop Nason Baluku. The Resilient Urban Food Systems (RUFS) project led by Prof. Frank Mugagga, Department of Geography, Geo-Informatics, and Climatic Sciences, CAES, Makerere University, Kampala and funded through the AgriFoSe2030 Programme initiative titled “Strengthening Urban Food Systems Resilience to Flood and Drought Risks through New Strategic Partnerships: Consolidating Gains from the RUFS Project in Kasese Municipality and Mbale City, Uganda,” intensive two-day training workshop for smallholder farmers in Kasese Municipality 13th and 14th October 2025, East Africa.
RUFS Team poses for a group photo with Bishop Nason Baluku.

Mariam Kasemiire

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Agriculture & Environment

RUFORUM Set to Hold 21st AGM

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RUFORUM 21st Annual General Meeting (AGM), 1st-5th December 2025, Gaborone, Botswana.

The Regional Universities Forum for Capacity Building in Agriculture (RUFORUM) is set to hold the 21st Annual General Meeting (AGM), from 1st to 5th December 2025 in Gaborone, Botswana. Themed “Positioning Africa’s Universities and the Higher Education Sector to effectively impact development processes on the continent”, the AGM will bring together over 500 participants including university leaders, policymakers, development partners, private sector actors, young innovators, students and researchers from across Africa and around the world.

Hosted in collaboration with the Government of Botswana and the Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (BUAN); the AGM will serve as a platform for strategic dialogue and collective action to strengthen the role of African universities in delivering sustainable development outcomes.

This year’s AGM will focus on the following sub themes:

  • Sub-theme 1. Strategic partnerships for growth: Building bridges for the future
  • Sub-theme 2. Science for development: Generating contemporary and relevant solutions at scale
  • Sub-theme 3. Capacity sharing to train the next generation of leaders in agri-food systems transformation
  • Sub theme 4. RUFORUM Governance Meetings

Speaking ahead of the event, Prof. Patrick Okori, Executive Secretary of RUFORUM, stated,

“Our universities are central to Africa’s development. By focusing on collaboration, science, and skills, this AGM will help shape the future of higher education in Africa to be more responsive, inclusive, and impactful. We are honored to work with the Government of Botswana in advancing this vision.”


Useful Links

AGM Website: https://agm.ruforum.org/

AGM Press Release: https://news.ruforum.org/botswana-to-host-the-21st-ruforum-annual-general-meeting/

Coverage from RUFORUM: https://news.ruforum.org/science-positioned-as-a-catalyst-for-africas-growth-at-ruforums-21st-annual-general-meeting-launch/

Mak Editor

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