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Veterinary & Biosecurity

Mak Hosts INSSPIRE Project Workshop on Enhancing Evidence-Based Education on Food Systems and Climate Change

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Written by Jacinta Nakaye

Kampala, Uganda – October 14, 2024 – Makerere University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (COVAB) is hosting a five-day Training of Trainers workshop for the Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) model.  This is part of the Innovation for Sustainability and Societal relevance (INSSPIRE) project, which focuses on enhancing evidence-based education in food systems and climate change.

The workshop that brought together partners and stakeholders from various higher education institutions across Southern and Northern Africa to brainstorm innovative strategies for addressing these pressing global challenges.

During the opening session held at the Centre for Biosecurity and Global Health (CEBIGH) at CoVAB, stakeholders demonstrated their progress in implementing Real Life Learning Labs (RLLL), an experiential learning approach designed to foster interdisciplinary collaboration on real-world development projects. These labs aim to tackle relevant issues in agriculture, industry, and society by equipping students with practical skills and problem-solving capabilities.

Assoc. Prof.r Robert Wamala, Director of Research and Graduate Training represented the Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe at  the opening ceremony .

Associate Professor Robert Wamala, Makerere University’s Director of Research and Graduate Training delivered a keynote address on behalf of Vice Chancellor Makerere University Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe. He emphasized the severe impact of climate change on global food systems, particularly in vulnerable regions. “Climate change disrupts food systems globally, aggravating food security by impacting agricultural production through extreme weather events and shifting rainy seasons,” he stated. Prof. Wamala highlighted the need for transformative solutions that address the intertwined issues of food security and environmental degradation, which was on the areas to be addressed through the intervention.

The INSSPIRE project aims to stimulate innovative education and build inter-university capacity through international partnerships. By focusing on capacity building in higher education, the initiative supports staff development at participating universities in Kenya and Uganda thereby enhancing the delivery of educational modules on food systems and climate change.

Dr. Denyse Snelder, a senior advisor in Food and Nutrition Security and Sustainable Land & Water Management at the Centre for International Cooperation- Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (CIS-VU) makes a presentation during the workshop.

 Dr. Kato Charles Drago from CoVAB who is the team lead for the INSSPIRE project at Makerere University, coordinated the workshop, which attracted  participation from institutions such as South Eastern Kenya University, the Institute for Innovation & Development of the University of Ljubljana, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Maseno University, the University for Development Studies (UDS) in Tamale, Ghana, and the University of Energy and Natural Resources (UENR) in Sunyani, Ghana.

Prof. Frank Norbert Mwiine, the Principal of COVAB made his remarks and promised total support to the project.
Prof. Frank Norbert Mwiine, the Principal of COVAB made his remarks and promised total support to the project.

Prof. Frank Norbert Mwiine, the Principal of COVAB, in his address to the participants noted that Uganda’s economy largely depends on agriculture and the sector supports several families and employs a big part of the population both formally and informally including graduates from Makerere University across several disciplines. He said food systems in the country were rapidly evolving as a result of population demands amidst the increasing challenge of climate change. ‘We are glad that the INSSPIRE project plans to address this gap by strengthening food systems and adapting them to the challenges of climate change, he said.

Some of the participants in the workshop have a look at one of the posters spelling out activities of Real-Life Learning Labs

Prof. Mwiine appreciated the support that CoVAB will receive from the project in enriching curricula for two courses under the Bachelor of Animal Production Technology (BAP) by building the capacity of  staff  to deliver modules on food systems, which he said, would make the graduates competitive in the ever-changing job market. The training of staff in curriculum enrichment and new course delivery approaches like the Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL), and gamification will help improve teaching and aid student’s interest and understanding of agriculture-based courses. He observed. While addressing himself on the real life-learning labs pioneered by the INSSPIRE project, he said the model will facilitate students to acquire practical skills and hence enhance their relevance in the community as the students and staff support communities to identify real-life challenges and tackle them holistically. He reaffirmed the commitment of the college leadership in moving these innovations forward, as demonstrated and that the college was ready to engage further in resource mobilization drives to propel the innovations forward.

Sabina di Prima (right), a Sustainable Food Systems specialist and Manager of International Cooperation Projects at the Centre for International Cooperation- Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (CIS-VU) leads a group of participants during an experiential demo

As the workshop unfolds over the coming days, participants will deliberate on innovative strategies to transform food systems and advance climate change education, underscoring the critical importance of multidisciplinary approaches in fostering sustainable development.

Harriet Musinguzi

Veterinary & Biosecurity

The New Cohort at CoVAB Urged to Prioritize Academic Progress and Innovation as they got oriented into the Covabian Family

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Some of the proud Covabians, including Ms. Ritah Ndibalekera, Chairperson of the College Guild Council, ushered in the incoming students at the orientation. Orientation to welcome incoming undergraduate students at College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), Thursday 7th August 2025, Media Room, CoVAB, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

The College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (COVAB) at Makerere University held an orientation to welcome its incoming undergraduate students. The event, held in the Media Room, Thursday, 7th August 2025, also served as a platform to promote leadership, innovation, and academic excellence.

The Principal of the college, Prof. Frank Norbert Mwiine, stressed to the new undergraduate students the importance of having a clear life plan and pursuing it with unwavering dedication. He noted that whether their journey lasts three or five years, success depends on their full commitment. Prof. Mwiine urged students to work together, support each other, and stay focused on both their academic and personal goals. “I stand before you not just as your Principal, but as your brother and your friend,” he said. “I’m here to walk this journey with you, and I pray that you understand the value of embracing your purpose.”

Prof. Mwiine emphasized that university life demands discipline, focus, and responsibility. He urged students to familiarize themselves with key institutional policies, citing the example of the Safeguarding Policy and the Fees Policy, both available on the university website. “We were once young like you,” he said, “and we hope that you remain with us until you successfully graduate.” Acknowledging their new independence, Prof. Mwiine reminded students that while they may be out of sight of their parents and guardians, the university now takes on the parental role. “We take responsibility for disciplined students,” he noted, encouraging them to live responsibly and support one another as brothers and sisters within the CoVAB family.

Left to Right: Prof. Frank Norbert Mwiine, Principal of CoVAB; Dr. Claire M. Mugasa, Dean of SBLS; Prof. Robert Tweyongyere, Dean of SVAR; and Mr. Walter Odoch, College Bursar, during the student orientation held on Thursday, 7th August 2025. Orientation to welcome incoming undergraduate students at College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), Thursday 7th August 2025, Media Room, CoVAB, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Left to Right: Prof. Frank Norbert Mwiine, Principal of CoVAB; Dr. Claire M. Mugasa, Dean of SBLS; Prof. Robert Tweyongyere, Dean of SVAR; and Mr. Walter Odoch, College Bursar, during the student orientation held on Thursday, 7th August 2025.

He stressed the importance of academic commitment, particularly for those enrolled in five-year programs, urging them to complete their studies within the designated timeframe. “As a parent, I feel aggrieved when students stay longer than expected,” he said. Prof. Mwiine described the university as a space for intellectual growth, self-expression, and discovery—especially in the sciences, where students are expected to grasp core principles, challenge ideas, and enjoy the pursuit of knowledge. He also acknowledged the financial sacrifices made by privately sponsored students and cautioned scholarship recipients to safeguard their opportunities. He warned against excessive use of social media, encouraging students to use digital platforms purposefully for learning, communication, and personal development.

In his welcome remarks, the Deputy Principal, Assoc. Prof. James Acai Okwee, congratulated the incoming undergraduate cohort on their admission to Makerere University, describing it as a pivotal transition from student to professionalism. He noted that the students were stepping into esteemed fields such as laboratory science, animal production and management, and veterinary medicine, which careers play a vital role in society. “This stage of your life will shape the kind of professional and person you become,” he said.

A section of staff who were at the orientation. Orientation to welcome incoming undergraduate students at College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), Thursday 7th August 2025, Media Room, CoVAB, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
A section of staff who were at the orientation.

Prof. Acai highlighted CoVAB’s proud legacy, emphasizing that many accomplished individuals have passed through its programs, which are recognized and respected globally. “At CoVAB, we cultivate diverse careers, create opportunities, and produce professionals who make a lasting impact,” he affirmed. While acknowledging the widespread concern about unemployment, he reassured students that CoVAB graduates are well-prepared to make meaningful contributions to Uganda’s development. “You won’t find our products aimlessly walking the streets,” he said. “They are trained to lead, innovate, and serve.”

He further explained that the Office of the Deputy Principal is responsible for quality assurance and the coordination of effective teaching and learning, including the development of the global timetable for all academic programs. Prof. Acai concluded by encouraging students to remain focused on their academic mission, to be self-driven, and to use their freedom wisely. “Let your commitment to the purpose that brought you here guide your choices,” he advised.

Incoming undergraduate students who attended the orientation at CoVAB. Orientation to welcome incoming undergraduate students at College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), Thursday 7th August 2025, Media Room, CoVAB, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Incoming undergraduate students who attended the orientation at CoVAB.

The Dean School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Resources (SVAR), Prof. Robert Tweyongyere noted that all of the students were admitted on merit and shared that working hard and discipline were the two major principles of success.  ‘Now you have entered into another journey, you need to be re-energized for the next period. He noted that some of the reasons why students do not complete on time focused on forgetting the cardinal reason as to why they were at university. All of us here went through this stage successfully, and you can do it.  Citing an example of a former student who failed to complete because of football, he asked them to make the right decisions. Do not lie back and struggle with challenges, but come up and approach the respective offices to seek counsel and advice whenever need arises

Dr. Claire M. Mugasa, Dean of the School of Biosecurity, Biotechnical and Laboratory Sciences (SBLS), warmly welcomed the new students with a message that resonated deeply with purpose and possibility. She likened their arrival at the university to receiving a blank slate or an open canvas waiting to be filled.

“Whatever you write on this slate is what you will go out with,” she emphasized, urging Freshers to take ownership of their academic journey.

She reminded them that while the slate is theirs, they are not alone. The faculty and staff are here to guide, support, and equip them with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed. Responsibility, she noted, must extend beyond academics into communication, conduct, and personal growth.

The College Registrar, Mr. Byarugaba Richard, flanked by Ms. Rose Nalwanga from the Guidance and Counselling Centre, Makerere University. Orientation to welcome incoming undergraduate students at College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), Thursday 7th August 2025, Media Room, CoVAB, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The College Registrar, Mr. Byarugaba Richard, flanked by Ms. Rose Nalwanga from the Guidance and Counselling Centre, Makerere University.

The College Registrar, Mr. Byarugaba Richard, welcomed the new students with a message underscoring the importance of timely registration and active engagement with his office. He noted that the registration process is the first step in becoming a bonafide student and emphasized that privately sponsored students would receive their original admission letters upon completing registration. Mr. Byarugaba outlined the college’s four-level assessment structure, the continuous assessment, practical exams, oral exams, and the final university examination, all of which contribute to the final mark. He also drew attention to the institution’s strict policy on examination malpractice, informing students about the Exam Irregularities Committee, which handles cases of misconduct. He urged students to uphold academic integrity and take responsibility for their learning.


The College Librarian, Ms. Lydia Namugera Senjovu, welcomed students and affirmed their eligibility to access library services upon presentation of a valid photo ID, including provisional admission letters. She noted that the library is open daily from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM, offering a wide range of academic support services. These include access to electronic resources, reference services, information literacy sessions, and plagiarism detection tools to uphold academic integrity. She also emphasized the responsible use of Artificial Intelligence, cautioning against its abuse in academic work. Students were encouraged to take a brief tour of the library to familiarize themselves with its facilities. As a Safeguarding Champion, Ms. Senjovu highlighted the importance of safeguarding, which involves protecting students’ rights and promoting a safe and respectful learning environment.

Members of the Makerere University Veterinary Students Association (MVSA). Orientation to welcome incoming undergraduate students at College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), Thursday 7th August 2025, Media Room, CoVAB, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Members of the Makerere University Veterinary Students Association (MVSA).

Senior Superintendent of Police Gubira Gerald, Chief Security Officer at Makerere University, urged students to utilise police services whenever they need assistance. He reminded them that life at Makerere can be enjoyable and free, provided they follow university regulations and abide by the laws of Uganda. He expressed concern that some students had already lost original documents, which can be difficult and stressful to replace.

SSP Gubira urged students to stay alert, highlighting the high rate of theft, scammers, and robbers, even near student hostels. He stressed the need to protect personal belongings like laptops and phones, and advised students to live within their means, avoid accepting suspicious free offers, and stay away from drugs and other illegal activities. He also recommended using the main entrance when entering campus, remaining visible, moving in groups, and always being aware of their safety.

Ms. Rosemary Nalwanga from the Counseling and Guidance Centre highlighted the importance of proper orientation to help students navigate campus life and avoid unnecessary difficulties. She advised students to be careful when choosing friends, recognizing their value while also emphasizing the importance of building healthy and supportive relationships.

She explained that orientation is not just about logistics, but about preparing for the full spectrum of experiences that come with the academic journey. Life at university, she noted, is not only about academics but also about building networks and connections. Lecturers, for instance, can serve as mentors and even open doors to future career opportunities.

Ms. Nalwanga urged students to embrace failure as part of growth. “Many talk about success, but most people fail before they succeed,” she said, encouraging students to seek help when facing setbacks. The right support, she emphasized, can make all the difference.

Her message also included a call to develop entrepreneurial skills, especially in cases where formal employment may not be immediately available. She emphasized the importance of managing fear, particularly the fear of failure, which often hinders achievement.

“We want you to thrive,” she concluded, “and successfully transition from university to the world of work.”

Ritah Ndibalekera, Chairperson of the College Guild Council, encouraged new students to immerse themselves in campus life by joining clubs and associations. She emphasized that these groups play a crucial role in building social networks and fostering both academic and personal development. Among the initiatives she highlighted were the AniScholar Career Hub, which supports students in shaping their academic and professional paths; the Emerging Leaders Program, aimed at nurturing leadership potential; and the Animal Health and Welfare Club, which promotes advocacy and awareness in animal care. She urged students to take full advantage of these opportunities to enrich their university experience and prepare for future success.

Some of the Associations that were at the College to welcome the incoming students. Orientation to welcome incoming undergraduate students at College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), Thursday 7th August 2025, Media Room, CoVAB, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Some of the Associations that were at the College to welcome the incoming students.

Harriet Musinguzi

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Research

The newly refurbished CoVAB-based Research Centre for Tropical Diseases and Vector Control (RTC) Commissioned

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(R-L) VC Makerere University Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, GALVmed's Dr. Johnson Ouma, CoVAB Principal Prof. Frank Norbert Mwiine, CEBIGH's Dr. Enoch Matovu, Dean SBLS, Dr. Claire M. Mugasa, Dean SVAR Prof. Robert Tweyongyere at the commissioning of the RTC Lab at CoVAB on Friday, 1st August 2025. Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, officially inaugurates newly upgraded Research Centre for Tropical Diseases and Vector Control (RTC) Lab at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), Monitoring of Ticks and Acaricide Resistance in Uganda (MoTAR) project, with support from the Global Alliance for Livestock Veterinary Medicines (GALVmed), 1st August 2025, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

On Friday, 1st August 2025, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, officially inaugurated the newly upgraded Research Centre for Tropical Diseases and Vector Control (RTC) Lab at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB). The event brought together a wide range of stakeholders, including representatives from the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF), the funding partner GALVmed, the Uganda Veterinary Association (UVA), and the Uganda Animal Health Laboratory Network, staff and students of the college.

A once-outdated research lab in Uganda, as recently as 2015, has undergone a remarkable transformation, emerging as a multi-unit scientific powerhouse that now plays a pivotal role in advancing national health priorities and training students across diverse disciplines. Strategic partnerships fueled this revitalization, the most recent being the MoTAR project, Monitoring of Ticks and Acaricide Resistance in Uganda, implemented by CoVAB.  With support from the Global Alliance for Livestock Veterinary Medicines (GALVmed), the MoTAR project will establish a total network of nine technically equipped laboratories across the country. The labs, three of which have been commissioned, including RTC, Gulu, and Kumi labs, will be central to diagnosing tick-borne diseases, tracking acaricide resistance, and generating data to inform national policy and improve livestock productivity.

“If I could launch laboratories every single day and do nothing else, I would,” declared Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Vice Chancellor, during the unveiling ceremony. “Our vision is to transform into a more research-intensive, research-led university that journey begins here.”

He emphasized the transformative power of innovation, urging the community to view research not just as an academic pursuit but as a driver of development and job creation. He commended CoVAB for its remarkable research output, attributing it to the university’s ranking.

Prof. Nawangwe encouraged researchers to embrace a mindset of creativity and production. He noted the increasing volume of patent, trademark, and copyright applications processed by the university’s intellectual property office, which, he said, was evidence that scholars were now committed to turning ideas into impactful solutions.

The Vice Chancellor applauded the critical work taking place in the RTC lab, especially in addressing livestock mortality amid growing population pressures. He challenged vaccine researchers to ensure their innovations directly respond to the urgent need to safeguard the livestock sector, which is a cornerstone of national food security and economic stability.

While addressing the issue of a lack of jobs in the country, he said the responsibility of job creation lies on the shoulders of the researchers.  “It is we who must create jobs through the students we train, and the innovations we make. We want every Makerere student to go out with a company in their hands to create jobs, he said, while congratulating the RTC team for the great work done.

The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe flanked the Principal Investigator of the RTC Lab Dr. Patrick Vudriko and other college staff, officials from MAAIF, Uganda Veterinary Association, VISUKA, the service provider inside the RTC lab. Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, officially inaugurates newly upgraded Research Centre for Tropical Diseases and Vector Control (RTC) Lab at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), Monitoring of Ticks and Acaricide Resistance in Uganda (MoTAR) project, with support from the Global Alliance for Livestock Veterinary Medicines (GALVmed), 1st August 2025, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe flanked the Principal Investigator of the RTC Lab Dr. Patrick Vudriko and other college staff, officials from MAAIF, Uganda Veterinary Association, VISUKA, the service provider inside the RTC lab.

The RTC lab’s strategic rise from humble beginnings

According to Dr. Patrick Vudriko, Head of the Facility and Principal Investigator of the MoTAR project, the transformation began in 2011, when the lab faced challenges of outdated equipment and limited operational capacity. Fueled by a vision for change, he said, a committed team spearheaded efforts to restore and reinvent the research center. A turning point came in 2016, when Dr. Vudriko received advanced training in Japan, which, coupled with the arrival of modern equipment, marked the beginning of a structured reorganization. By 2022, the lab had evolved into a robust multi-unit research complex featuring four specialized laboratories, namely genomics, serology, pharmaceutical research and development, and a general research unit, each aligned with CoVAB’s academic departments and Uganda’s broader scientific agenda.

Dr. Patrick Vudriko explains to the VC the progress made in the RTC Lab over time and the potential in terms of research output. Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, officially inaugurates newly upgraded Research Centre for Tropical Diseases and Vector Control (RTC) Lab at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), Monitoring of Ticks and Acaricide Resistance in Uganda (MoTAR) project, with support from the Global Alliance for Livestock Veterinary Medicines (GALVmed), 1st August 2025, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Dr. Patrick Vudriko explains to the VC the progress made in the RTC Lab over time and the potential in terms of research output.

The upgraded RTC Lab has become a magnet for budding scientists across a wide spectrum of disciplines and institutions. While rooted within CoVAB, the facility draws active participation from other colleges at Makerere University, including the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology, particularly in the field of nanotechnology, the College of Health Sciences for pharmaceutical studies, the College of Natural Sciences for natural products research, and food science programs. Its national impact is further underscored by strong collaborations with external institutions such as Kyambogo University, Kampala International University (KIU), and Busitema University, and students from foreign universities. Beyond academia, the lab contributes to national health efforts as evidenced by collaborations with the FAO and JICA that have enabled community outreach, especially in Kiboga District, focusing on disease diagnostics and the management of ticks. Dr. Vudriko noted that the insights gained since 2013 stress the urgency of proactive research and rapid testing, since chemical resistance complicates tick control.

The PI explained that MoTAR, working closely with MAAIF, initiated efforts towards developing a digital National Information Management System. This integrates tick species mapping, acaricide resistance data, and pathogen tracking across Uganda’s ecologies. The refurbished and newly equipped labs will make high-quality data contributions to the system and in turn support the agricultural policy development in Uganda.

GALVmed supports small-scale livestock farmers through MoTAR

Speaking on behalf of the funding agency GALVmed, Dr. Johnson Ouma, the MoTAR Project Coordinator, expressed gratitude for the support provided by Makerere University towards the smooth project implementation. He underscored GALVmed’s mission to expand access to veterinary products and services for small-scale livestock producers, particularly those who lack the financial resources and proximity to essential inputs like drugs and diagnostics.

Dr. Ouma cited compelling research evidence that highlighted the widespread challenge of tick infestations and increasing resistance to acaricides, which has significant implications for livestock health and productivity. Thus, he explained the importance of investing in robust information systems capable of mapping acaricide resistance, tick distribution, and the prevalence of tick-borne pathogens.

He commended Makerere University for taking a leadership role in developing these innovations, with the intent that successful strategies would be replicated in other countries facing similar challenges. Dr. Ouma concluded with optimism, noting that the MoTAR project is expected to yield impactful outcomes, both locally and internationally.

A glimpse inside the RTC Laboratory, the newly refurbished a cutting-edge research space equipped with advanced instrumentation. Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, officially inaugurates newly upgraded Research Centre for Tropical Diseases and Vector Control (RTC) Lab at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), Monitoring of Ticks and Acaricide Resistance in Uganda (MoTAR) project, with support from the Global Alliance for Livestock Veterinary Medicines (GALVmed), 1st August 2025, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
A glimpse inside the RTC Laboratory, the newly refurbished a cutting-edge research space equipped with advanced instrumentation.

Prof. Frank Norbert Mwiine Applauds RTC Lab’s Transformation

The Principal of CoVAB, Prof. Frank Norbert Mwiine, praised the RTC Lab team led by Dr. Patrick Vudriko for the impressive progress in revitalizing the laboratory. “It’s more than infrastructure; it’s a movement,” he said, emphasizing the lab’s key role in connecting classroom theory with hands-on experience.

Students are now being immersed directly into laboratory environments, gaining exposure to cutting-edge research and diagnostic techniques. Prof. Mwiine underscored that fifth-year veterinary students are actively deployed into districts, engaging with farmers and applying their knowledge on the ground.

Prof. Frank Norbert Mwiine, CoVAB Principal addressed the stakeholders that attended the commission meeting at CoVAB on 1st August 2025. Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, officially inaugurates newly upgraded Research Centre for Tropical Diseases and Vector Control (RTC) Lab at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), Monitoring of Ticks and Acaricide Resistance in Uganda (MoTAR) project, with support from the Global Alliance for Livestock Veterinary Medicines (GALVmed), 1st August 2025, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Frank Norbert Mwiine, CoVAB Principal addressed the stakeholders that attended the commission meeting at CoVAB on 1st August 2025.

This hands-on approach guarantees that future veterinarians are not only academically prepared but also rooted in community involvement and practical problem solving. Through training and outreach initiatives, the labs function both as learning centers and catalysts for societal change.

“We should take Makerere to the community and not the community coming to us” Prof. Mwiine added. He extended appreciation to MAAIF for the proposed 69 veterinary labs to be constructed in the country. He said the college continues to train students who will be handy in the use of the labs.

The RTC Labs are empowering students with real-world experience. Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, officially inaugurates newly upgraded Research Centre for Tropical Diseases and Vector Control (RTC) Lab at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), Monitoring of Ticks and Acaricide Resistance in Uganda (MoTAR) project, with support from the Global Alliance for Livestock Veterinary Medicines (GALVmed), 1st August 2025, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The RTC Labs are empowering students with real-world experience.

Prof. Robert Tweyongyere, Dean of the School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Resources (SVAR), underscored the strategic importance of the RTC Lab by tracing its historical focus on tick-related research. He emphasized that tick resistance goes far beyond science, touching on economics, policy, and sustainability. “When ticks become resistant to acarisides,” he noted, “it leads to increased chemical use, higher costs, and broader socioeconomic consequences.” Prof. Tweyongyere celebrated the lab’s evolution into a national hub, now supporting other laboratories and diagnostic units in communities across Uganda. He further applauded the veterinary fraternity for its commitment to advancing animal health and spearheading diagnostic services in underserved regions.

Male and female users in the RTC Lab. Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, officially inaugurates newly upgraded Research Centre for Tropical Diseases and Vector Control (RTC) Lab at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), Monitoring of Ticks and Acaricide Resistance in Uganda (MoTAR) project, with support from the Global Alliance for Livestock Veterinary Medicines (GALVmed), 1st August 2025, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Male and female users in the RTC Lab.

Harriet Musinguzi

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Veterinary & Biosecurity

CoVAB Annual Report 2024

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Cover page of the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources, and Biosecurity (CoVAB) Annual Report 2024. Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

It is my pleasure to share the Annual Report for the year 2024, highlighting the various milestones realized in the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources, and Biosecurity. First and foremost, I wish to congratulate all of us for the dedication and effort rendered in the running of the college during the period. This collective commitment enabled us to excel in several areas, in line with the mandate of the college and Makerere University at large.

Our mandate teaching and learning, research and innovation, as well as knowledge transfer and partnerships, has been diligently pursued through the concerted efforts of all stakeholders, students, teaching staff, administrative teams, and valued partners. The college takes pride in the contributions made by our partners, who continue to support us in fulfilling this mandate. We particularly appreciate Norbrook (U) Ltd, which has consistently recognized the best-performing veterinary students with cash prizes annually since 2021.

Among the key achievements in 2024 was the expansion of research facilities at CoVAB. The college successfully established new, state-of-the-art laboratories, including an advanced Biomarker Discovery and Translation Research Laboratory, which continues to lead in developing point-of-care diagnostic kits for infectious and noncommunicable diseases, including cancer. The Biomarker Discovery and Translation Research Laboratory at CoVAB represents a significant leap in biomedical research and innovation. This state-of-the-art facility is dedicated to identifying and translating biomarkers into point-of-care diagnostic kits for both infectious and non-communicable diseases, including cancer. In this regard, CoVAB is poised to make tremendous contributions and impacts in advanced diagnostic development through rapid, accessible, and cost-effective diagnostic tools that can be used in both human and veterinary medicine, thereby contributing to improving early disease detection and treatment outcomes.

In the area of interdisciplinary research, the laboratory fosters collaboration among veterinary scientists, medical researchers, and biotechnologists, ensuring a holistic approach to disease management. Given the increasing prevalence of zoonotic diseases, the lab plays a crucial role in bridging veterinary and human health research, contributing to global health security and supporting One Health initiatives. Other achievements at the college are visible in groundbreaking research projects, with several initiatives launched, including studies on zoonotic disease prevention, vaccine development, and drug action mechanisms.

In the area of community outreach, the college expanded its livestock health programs, providing veterinary services to rural communities and enhancing disease surveillance. This is coupled with the increased international Collaborations where CoVAB strengthened partnerships with global institutions, securing funding for One Health initiatives aimed at tackling emerging health challenges.

These advancements and more not mentioned strategically position CoVAB and Makerere University as key players in addressing major animal and human health challenges, particularly zoonotic diseases, which constitute a significant proportion of emerging and reemerging infectious diseases.

The achievements highlighted in this report would not have been possible without the unwavering support, dedication, and collaboration of various stakeholders. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our students, who are the backbone of our academic community, and whose commitment to learning, research, and innovation continues to propel CoVAB to greater heights. The dedication of our lecturers, researchers, and administrators has been instrumental in driving the college’s mandate forward. Your passion for education, mentorship, and scientific discovery is deeply appreciated. The partners and collaborators, including institutions, organizations, and industry stakeholders such as Norbrook (U) Ltd, have supported our initiatives and strengthened our capacity through funding, knowledge exchange, and collaborative projects. Your contributions are invaluable.

Together, these contributions have made 2024 a truly remarkable year for CoVAB. As we move forward, we remain committed to strengthening these partnerships and building on our shared successes. Thank you for being part of our journey. As we move forward, we anticipate an even more successful period ahead, and together, we shall achieve all that we set out to do.

Prof. Frank Norbert Mwiine
PRINCIPAL

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