General
Empowering and Shaping Tomorrow’s Peacebuilders: Transformative Reflections on a 3-Day Training
On December 5, 2024, the Julius Nyerere Leadership Centre (JNLC), in partnership with Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS), concluded its three-day Youth Leadership Training Programme with a cross-generational dialogue on peace and security. This dynamic gathering, held in the serene gardens of Julius Nyerere Leadership Centre at Makerere University, brought together student leaders and alumni from various universities to exchange insights with seasoned experts and practitioners.
The “Ekyooto” Experience: Bridging Generations
The event, modeled after the traditional “Ekyooto” fireside gathering, facilitated open conversations between youth and experienced leaders. Discussions tackled peacebuilding, conflict resolution, gender, and regional politics. Participants explored innovative solutions to local and global peace and security challenges, enriched by intergenerational wisdom.
Leadership Perspectives
Dr. Nansozi Muwanga, JNLC Executive Director, emphasised the dialogue’s purpose: bridging young and experienced voices to provide a holistic view of peace and security challenges. She lauded participants’ enthusiasm and highlighted their potential to translate lessons into actionable solutions for their communities.
Ms. Angella Kasekende of KAS highlighted the transformative nature of cross-generational conversations, sharing how similar dialogues had shaped her leadership journey. She stressed the value of interactive learning over information-heavy training, enabling participants to directly engage with experts.
Insights from Prof. Julius Kiiza
Prof. Julius Kiiza, a political science and political economy expert, delivered a thought-provoking presentation on Servant Leadership, Pan-Africanism, and Peacebuilding in the Great Lakes Region. Addressing the question Whose Security Counts?, he argued that true peace extends beyond the absence of war to encompass human, economic, and cyber security. He urged leaders to prioritize citizens’ welfare, economic opportunities, and meritocracy, framing these within the broader concept of Staatsbildung (state-building).
Key Themes and Reflections
- Human-Centered Security: Addressing unemployment, access to resources, and functioning institutions as prerequisites for genuine peace.
- Meritocracy and Good Governance: Advocating for competence-based leadership to drive national progress.
- Pan-African Aspirations: Exploring the potential for African unity, inspired by historical state-building models.
Cross-Generational Panel Explores Root Causes of Conflict
Moderated by Prof. Julius Kiiza, a distinguished panel at the Julius Nyerere Leadership Centre included Prof. Philip Kasaija, Prof. Helen Nambalirwa Nkabala, Ms. Joanna Grace Nakabiito, and Ms. Nashiba Nakabira. They addressed the root causes of conflict and strategies for peacebuilding, drawing insights from academia, policy, and practice to address the root causes of conflict, identity-related disputes, and the roles of youth and women in peacebuilding.
Root Causes of Conflict
The panelists identified marginalisation, greed, colonial legacies, and identity-based disputes tied to religion, ethnicity, or politics as key conflict drivers. To understand identity-based conflicts, participants were asked, “What non-negotiable rights are you ready to fight for?”
Prof. Nkabala urged a shift from a “hardware” focus on peace (guns and uniforms) to human security, emphasizing livelihoods, governance, and distinguishing positive peace from mere absence of conflict. She also highlighted the media’s dual role in fueling or resolving disputes, stressing the importance of trauma-informed peacebuilding and responsible journalism.
Prof. Kasaija categorised conflicts using the “conflict tree” framework, noting interconnections among colonialism, resource greed, and constructed identities. He highlighted the evolution of security from state-centered to human-focused, emphasizing individual well-being as a pillar of stability.
Ms. Nakabiito addressed the complexity of identity conflicts, which are deeply tied to self-concept and collective identity. She stressed the need to address marginalisation and dismantle media narratives that portray such disputes as irrational.
Tackling Conflict and Building Peace
Panelists agreed on the need for inclusive, multi-dimensional approaches to address the root causes of conflict. They emphasized leadership, collaboration, and proactive engagement by youth and women as essential for fostering sustainable peace. The discussion offered participants practical frameworks and insights to address challenges, inspiring them to drive transformative change in their communities.
Key Takeaways from Panelists:
Prof. Helen Nambalirwa Nkabala
- Advocated for a human-centric approach to peace and security, highlighting livelihoods, human rights, and the distinction between positive and negative peace.
- Stressed governance and representation as essential pillars for societal harmony.
- Emphasized the responsibility of the media in fostering peace, warning against dehumanizing language and sensationalism that escalate conflicts.
- Advocated for trauma-informed peacebuilding, urging the need to address unresolved trauma as a foundation for sustainable peace.
- Encouraged proactive youth and women’s leadership, suggesting readiness to act even with partial preparedness.
Associate Prof. Philip Kasaija
- Introduced the “conflict tree” framework, linking conflicts to colonial legacies, marginalization, greed, and constructed identities.
- Traced the evolution of security definitions from state-centric to human-centric approaches, emphasizing individual well-being as the ultimate security goal.
- Highlighted resource greed and grievances as intertwined conflict drivers, with examples from the DRC and Darfur.
- Addressed latent regional conflicts (e.g., border disputes) and urged comprehensive, inclusive conflict-resolution strategies.
Ms. Joanna Grace Nakabiito
- Examined identity-related conflicts, emphasizing their roots in self-concept tied to ethnicity, religion, or political ideology.
- Distinguished between necessary (group identity) and sufficient (marginalization) conditions fueling identity conflicts.
- Called for meaningful youth inclusion in peacebuilding, moving beyond token representation.
- Advocated for better coordination among youth empowerment initiatives to align with global and regional frameworks.
Ms. Nashiba Nakabira
- Highlighted the link between strong national institutions and regional integration, using South Sudan’s struggles as an example.
- Criticized barriers to intra-African movement and reliance on foreign donations, urging domestic resource mobilization.
- Addressed the gender disparities in peace processes, emphasizing the need for women’s capacity building in negotiation and diplomacy.
Mr. Robert Muhangi
- Urged youth to advocate for national peace and security action plans, ensuring resource allocation for youth training.
- Encouraged grassroots mobilization of small youth groups to engage in conflict resolution and peacebuilding.
- Highlighted the importance of integrating peace initiatives at the community level for broader impact.
Ms. Falade Olutoyin
- Questioned the persistence of patriarchy, advocating for gender equality as a pathway to women’s leadership and decision-making roles.
- Linked corruption to women’s marginalization, particularly in conflict zones, stressing the need to address governance flaws to enable women’s empowerment.
Core Recommendations:
- Address the Root Causes of Conflict: Focus on marginalization, resource greed, and identity-based grievances.
- Promote Human-Centric Security: Broaden definitions of security to encompass individual livelihoods and well-being.
- Empower Youth and Women: Foster meaningful participation in peace processes, ensuring capacity-building and leadership opportunities.
- Strengthen Institutions for Integration: Build robust national frameworks to facilitate effective regional collaboration.
- Leverage Media for Peace: Promote peace narratives and train journalists in peace reporting to prevent conflict escalation.
- Combat Corruption: Redirect resources from corrupt practices to inclusive governance and women’s empowerment.
This panel underscored the complexity of conflicts in Africa and the importance of a multi-faceted, inclusive approach to peacebuilding and governance. The discussion laid a foundation for actionable strategies to empower marginalized groups, harmonize initiatives, and foster a culture of sustainable peace. Here’s a summary of key insights and recommendations:
Key Issues Highlighted
Identity-Based Conflicts:
- Rooted in self-concept based on ethnicity, religion, or ideology.
- Often exacerbated by systemic marginalization and colonial legacies, as exemplified by the Tutsi-Hutu conflict.
- Requires addressing underlying marginalization to prevent escalation.
Youth and Women’s Participation:
- Youth face systemic barriers limiting their decision-making roles.
- Women are disproportionately affected by conflicts and underrepresented in peace processes.
- The intersectionality of age and gender adds layers of vulnerability, particularly for young women.
Structural Barriers:
- Weak national institutions hinder regional integration efforts.
- Fragmented initiatives lack coordination, undermining peacebuilding programs.
- Patriarchy restricts women’s roles in leadership and peacebuilding.
Abuse of Power in Professional Spaces:
- Women face exploitation and harassment in leadership contexts.
- Cultural and systemic issues discourage victims from seeking justice.
Corruption:
- Deepens economic inequalities, disproportionately affecting women in conflict zones.
- Diverts resources that could empower women and youth in leadership.
Educational Disparities:
- Women face additional challenges accessing quality education in conflict regions.
- Lack of networks and support makes it difficult for women to sustain leadership roles.
Recommendations and Insights
Enhancing Youth Engagement:
- Adopt and implement national action plans for youth inclusion in peace and security.
- Equip youth with skills through training programs like those led by the Julius Nyerere Leadership Centre.
Promoting Women’s Leadership:
- Increase investment in women’s capacity-building for preventive diplomacy and peace negotiations.
- Address systemic barriers to education and leadership, ensuring equitable resource allocation.
Strengthening Institutions:
- Build robust national frameworks to support regional integration and peace initiatives.
- Mobilize domestic resources to reduce reliance on foreign aid.
Addressing Gender-Based Violence and Harassment:
- Establish policies and support systems to protect women in professional and leadership spaces.
- Create safe avenues for victims to report abuses without fear of retaliation.
Building Networks and Coalitions:
- Foster coordination among peacebuilding initiatives to align with global frameworks.
- Encourage collective advocacy by women and youth to amplify their voices.
Continuous Learning and Advocacy:
- Encourage participants to stay informed about global and regional conflicts.
- Promote proactive steps toward leadership, utilizing knowledge gained from training sessions.
Looking Ahead
This transformative programme serves as a reminder that peacebuilding is a collective endeavor, requiring bold ideas, cross-generational collaboration, and unwavering commitment. The training and dialogue fostered a shared commitment to tackling peace and security challenges. As future leaders, participants were equipped with tools, perspectives, and networks to drive transformative change across Uganda and Africa.
Closing Remarks
The collaborative efforts of organisations like Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS), Makerere University Rotary Peace Centre, and Julius Nyerere Leadership Centre highlight the value of mentorship and training. As emphasized by facilitators, this initiative is not only about expanding knowledge but also about equipping young leaders with tools to foster meaningful change. Furthermore, the cross-generational dialogue underscored the need for collective action, deliberate policy-making, and active participation to achieve sustainable peace and security in Africa.
The Chairperson and Members of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) Board of the Higher Education Council on Tuesday 29th July 2025 paid a courtesy visit to Makerere University following the 5th Meeting of the IGAD Universities Forum held in Kampala from 28th to 29th July. The delegation was received by the Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs), Prof. Edward Bbaale in the presence of Dr. Muhammad Kiggundu Musoke, Makerere University’s representative to IGAD.
In his welcome remarks, Prof. Bbaale on behalf of the Vice Chancellor and the University Management thanked the delegation for including a visit to Makerere on their Kampala itinerary, “It is an honour and privilege to host you here today,” he remarked. He equally thanked Dr. Kiggundu Musoke for representing the University on IGAD and facilitating the visit.
Prof. Bbaale acknowledged that IGAD continues to play a critical role in fostering regional cooperation, peacebuilding, and sustainable development in the Greater Horn of Africa. “The inclusion of higher education in IGAD’s strategic priorities speaks volumes about the importance you attach to knowledge, skills, and research as tools for transforming societies,” he supplemented.
The Acting DVCAA reiterated that Makerere University takes great pride in her IGAD membership, as well as the collaborative research partnerships, capacity-building initiatives, and policy dialogues that seek to harmonise and strengthen higher education in the region undertaken therein. He equally lauded the participation of regional Vice Chancellors and Senior Academic Leaders in IGAD’s activities, “Your presence affirms our collective resolve to build stronger institutions and knowledge systems that respond to the developmental needs of our communities.”
He noted that Makerere in pursuit of her strategic research-led agenda takes cognizance of the importance of partnerships at regional and international levels and urged the leaders present to nurture them. “We need to build a strong academic and research network so that we have seamless flow staff and students on the African continent,” adding that “We hope this visit will further deepen the bonds between our institutions and inspire new opportunities for collaboration in teaching, research, innovation, and regional integration.”
Dr. Kebede Kassa Tsegaye, the IGAD Senior Coordinator of Education, Science, Technology and Innovation Program expressed delight at visiting Makerere, noting that the University and Republic of Uganda are strategic and extremely valuable partners of the regional body.
In her remarks, Dr. Victoria Anib Majur the Head, IGAD Health and Social Development Division thanked Makerere and other regional universities for promoting mobility among learners by endorsing the implementation of the IGAD Regional Qualifications Framework (IGADQF). “It is our pleasure that your institution and all other partner institutions in the region are joining IGAD in fulfilling the mission of regional integration through skills development and through qualifications.”
She reiterated IGAD’s commitment to push for; excellence in education, inclusivity of gender and persons with disabilities, and promotion of skills that will prepare learners, especially refugees, returnees, and those from host communities in the IGAD region for the marketplace. The IGAD Secretariat is hosted by the Republic of Djibouti and region covers the host country-Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan and Uganda.
The National Enterprise Corporation (NEC) has successfully delivered yet another milestone project to Makerere University with the handover of a fully refurbished Mary Stuart Hall. The renovation, which cost UGX 10.5 billion, began on 26th July 2024 and was completed exactly a year later, on 25th July 2025.
Mary Stuart Hall is one of three major projects entrusted to NEC by the university, the others being the renovation of Lumumba Hall and the construction of a perimeter wall. These developments follow a presidential directive to renovate all halls of residence at Makerere University, aimed at enhancing student welfare and improving living conditions on campus.
Speaking at the event, Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe commended NEC for their exceptional work. “I must thank NEC for the job well done,” he said, adding that “this facility looks better than some hotels.” He also expressed gratitude to the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Mama Janet Museveni, whom he credited as the driving force behind the renovations. He urged students and stakeholders to take care of the newly renovated facility: “Let us try to maintain the facility the way it has been handed over.” The Vice Chancellor emphasized that the purpose of these renovations is to foster an environment conducive for leadership development.
Prof. Anthony Muwagga Mugagga, Principal of the College of Education and External Studies (CEES), represented the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration). He commended the Vice Chancellor for fulfilling his campaign promise to transform university infrastructure and expressed appreciation to the Government for the financial support. “I can report from what I’ve seen, that there is value for money,” he stated. Prof. Muwagga further encouraged student leaders to promote responsible behaviour that protects and preserves university property for future generations.
Lieutenant General James Mugira, Managing Director of NEC, emphasized the significance of the project, describing the refurbished building as a symbol of “female empowerment and liberation.” He applauded the university leadership for their trust and confidence and reaffirmed NEC’s commitment to quality and timely project delivery. He highlighted the role of proper accommodation in fostering health, safety, academic performance, and social interaction among students. “A healthy mind, in a healthy body,” he said, adding that good housing promotes “safe and hygienic living and physical and mental health.” He also underscored the importance of regular maintenance to preserve the facility and avoid expensive renovations.
Mr. Simon Kizito, Deputy University Secretary equally extended appreciation to the President, the Ministry of Education and Sports, and the Directorate of Estates and Works for their role in the project’s success. He thanked the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development for ensuring that the necessary funds were released on times.
Representing the Dean of Students’ Office, Dr. Rodney Rugyema hailed the project as a significant milestone in enhancing student welfare. He revealed that Mary Stuart Hall will accommodate 521 students and includes facilities for persons with disabilities, such as lifts and ramps. He pledged to uphold the standards and purpose of the hall.
Guild President H.E. Ssentamu Churchill James expressed his gratitude to NEC and the university administration, particularly applauding the Vice Chancellor’s for his hands-on approach and consistent involvement in the university’s affairs.
The Hall Chairlady Ms. Anthea Ampaire described the reopening as a landmark moment, calling Mary Stuart Hall “a beacon of hope and a sanctuary for students.” She highlighted the importance of providing spaces that empower women and support their academic journeys.
Dr. Kenneth Ssemwogerere, Head of the Department of Architecture at the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT) who led the Project Management Team, noted that the renovation was a collaborative effort involving both students and staff. He commended all involved for their dedication.
Following this successful handover, NEC is set to begin renovation works on the Centre for Continuing Education (CCE) Hall commonly referred to as Complex Hall, as it continues to implement the presidential directive to revamp student accommodation across public universities.
The Infectious Diseases Institute (IDI) at Makerere University on July 24, 2025 launched a ground-breaking 384kWp solar-powered electricity grid, Africa’s largest campus-based solar system. Inaugurated by the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, the solar grid marks a significant milestone in strengthening sustainable research infrastructure and improving energy access in Uganda, especially in resource-limited settings.
The launch was not only a celebration of green energy but also of medical innovation, as it coincided with the unveiling of drones designed to deliver life-saving drugs to hard-to-reach areas such as Buvuma and Kalangala Islands. This dual initiative underscores IDI’s commitment to combining technological innovation with public health solutions that have tangible impact.
In his remarks, Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe expressed deep pride in Makerere University’s academic excellence and innovation culture. “Today, I am very proud to be the Vice-Chancellor of Makerere. We continue to shine because of our centres of excellence, like IDI,” he said. He also emphasized the importance of continued investment in science and technology to combat epidemics, strengthen health systems, and bridge Africa’s persistent energy gap through sustainable options like solar power.
Prof. Samuel Abimerech Luboga, Chair of the Board of Directors at IDI, thanked the university leadership for their consistent support and lauded the solar project’s environmental and social impact. “This project, empowering our campus with renewable energy, demonstrates our commitment to the environmental, social and governance agenda,” he said. Prof. Luboga reaffirmed the Board’s commitment to ensuring that all IDI initiatives deliver real value to communities. “We pledge to continue this oversight and ensure that every investment from solar panels to data labs drives impact and accountability,” he emphasized. He called upon researchers, innovators, and the broader community to rally behind the shared vision of a healthier and more sustainable future.
Ms. Susan Lamunu Shereni, Head of Finance and Administration at IDI, presented an update on the Institute’s sustainability initiatives, revealing that IDI has already installed solar systems in 150 health facilities across Uganda. “Infectious Disease Institute was first founded to address the sustainability concern specifically goal number three of the Sustainable Development Goals which is good health and wellbeing,” she said, “but in the process of doing that we’ve addressed other SDGs.” She noted that the solar system continues to generate power even on cloudy days and projects an annual savings of $85,000—enabling a full return on investment within five years. “We will also reduce carbon footpring by about 25,000 kg,” she added.
The solar project, valued at $380,000, represents a bold step toward achieving energy efficiency and reliability in the delivery of critical healthcare services.
In the same event, IDI also introduced its Medical Drones Project, launched through its Academy—a collaboration between Makerere University and the Ministry of Health established a decade ago. Mr. Patrick, the project coordinator, shared that the drone initiative is targeted at solving transportation challenges in underserved regions such as West Nile and Kalangala. “We have been delivering Antiretroviral drugs (ARV’s) to Kalangala for almost four years now,” he said. He reported impressive outcomes, including a 100% mutation treatment rate in the first 24 months and 95% viral suppression among recipients.
The inauguration was graced by key figures from Uganda’s academic and medical research community, including Dr. Robert Kalyesubula, Senior Lecturer and Head of the Department of Physiology at Makerere University College of Health Sciences; Dr. Andrew Kambugu, the Sande-McKinnell Executive Director at IDI; and Prof. David Serwadda, Africa Centre of Excellence Global Council Chair and renowned Professor at the School of Public Health and author of the first-ever paper on HIV/AIDS in Uganda, and the IDI senior management team.
Together, these initiatives reaffirm IDI’s role as a continental leader in health innovation and sustainable development—combining science, energy, and equity in service delivery for the greater good.
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