Agriculture & Environment
Makerere Hosts Climate Adaptation workshop: Calls for Action to Mitigate Climate Change Threats to Agricultural Sector
Kampala, 19th December 2024: The Department of Geography, Geo-informatics, and Climatic Sciences at Makerere University, in collaboration with the Department of Geography at Kyambogo University, held a workshop to disseminate research findings from three climate adaptation and mitigation projects funded by the Regional Universities Forum for Capacity Building in Agriculture (RUFORUM), RAINCA, WASCAL, Akademiya2063, and the Carnegie Corporation of New York under the CECAP Program.
The workshop, which took place on 19th December 2024, at the GIS Lab of Makerere University, focused on three key projects: Land Use Management & Artificial Intelligence for Crop Production, Land Use & Carbon Stocks, and Adaptation to Climate Change Induced Vulnerability. The goal of the workshop was to engage in-country stakeholders on interpreting the research findings and strategically applying them to mitigate the impact of climate change on Uganda’s agricultural sector across various agro-ecosystems and agro-ecological zones. Recommendations were drawn up in the form of policy briefs to guide climate adaptation efforts.
While officially opening the workshop the Dean of the School of Forestry, Environmental, and Geographical Sciences (SFEGS), Dr. Revocatus Twinomuhangi, extended a warm welcome to participants at the workshop, where he also delivered both the opening and closing remarks. In his address, Dr. Twinomuhangi commended the study’s Principal Investigator (PI) for successfully implementing the project and enhancing Makerere University‘s reputation. He expressed gratitude to the project’s partners for their collaborative efforts, as well as to the department for fostering an enabling environment for the research. Additionally, Dr. Twinomuhangi acknowledged the support of funders such as DGRT, whose contributions made the project possible.
The Dean thanked all the participants for their attendance, emphasizing the importance of continuing the work initiated by the project. He expressed optimism that the research would lead to publications in high-impact journals and be effectively packaged for policy and decision-making. As the workshop concluded, Dr. Twinomuhangi offered his well wishes for safe travels, a restful holiday, and a Merry Christmas, with hopes for a prosperous 2025.
Project PI Dr. Catherine Mulinde on Purpose of the Workshop:
Dr. Catherine Mulinde, Principal Investigator of the climate adaptation projects, addressed the workshop participants, outlining the purpose of the event. She emphasized that the workshop brings together three collaborative projects aimed at addressing climate change impacts on Uganda’s agricultural sector, with the involvement of Makerere University, Kyambogo University, and several funding institutions.
“The workshop encompasses three projects in one, and it’s a collaboration among the team members, the universities, and the donors,” Dr. Mulinde explained. She detailed the three projects, beginning with the Land Use Management and Artificial Intelligence for Crop Production project. This initiative focuses on modeling land productivity and management practices using artificial intelligence, supported by RUFORUM and the Responsible Artificial Intelligence Network on Climate Action in Africa (RAINCA), with funding from the International Development Research Centre (IDRC). The second project, Land Use and Carbon Stocks, examines carbon sequestration practices in various districts, including Mbale, Serere, Nakapiripiri, and Palisa, and is also supported by RUFORUM and IDRC. The third project, led by Dr. Mulinde, explores adaptation strategies for regions severely impacted by climate change, covering a broader range of areas including Mbale, Kapchorwa, Bulambuli, Luwero, Nakaseke, and Nakasongola.
Dr. Mulinde emphasized that the workshop aims to share key findings from these projects and engage stakeholders in validating and interpreting the results. “We don’t want to leave the results on the desks,” she stressed. “We want to make sure that these findings are shared with the people who can act on them in the communities.” A key goal of the workshop was to develop actionable policy recommendations, with input from local stakeholders who understand the practical aspects of implementing solutions. “You know the ‘how’ and the ‘what’ and you know where the resources are,” Dr. Mulinde said. “We want to develop recommendations that are not just theoretical, but truly implementable.”
Dr. Mulinde also acknowledged the challenge of translating complex scientific concepts like artificial intelligence into locally understood terms, highlighting the importance of making the research accessible to the community. “It’s one of the challenges in academia—translating science into language that our local communities can understand,” she noted.
She concluded with an invitation to stakeholders to provide feedback on the research findings and contribute to the development of policy briefs. These documents will be used to drive climate adaptation efforts at the local level, ensuring that the research can have a lasting impact on Uganda’s agricultural resilience in the face of climate change. “By the end of the day, we expect to validate the results, address divergences, and develop policy briefs that can be shared back with your communities for further action,” Dr. Mulinde concluded.
Uganda, ranked as the 49th least ready country in terms of climate change adaptation
Uganda, ranked as the 49th least ready country in terms of climate change adaptation, faces immense challenges in securing its agricultural sector from the impacts of climate change. MAAIF Commissioner Freddie Kabango, who was present at the workshop, emphasized the pivotal role agriculture plays in Uganda’s economy, livelihoods, and national GDP. He stated, “Agriculture is at the center of Uganda’s climate change discussions because it directly impacts the livelihoods of many Ugandans. With agriculture heavily dependent on natural resources, it is highly vulnerable to climate change.”
In his presentation, Commissioner Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries Freddie Kabango discussed the diverse impacts of climate change on Uganda’s agricultural sub-sectors—crop production, livestock, and fisheries. He outlined how climate variability, manifested in extreme droughts, floods, and landslides, has already led to reduced productivity, crop destruction, and livestock losses. He further highlighted the critical importance of adaptation strategies in response to these challenges.
“Uganda is experiencing climate change variability, which is evident in extreme weather patterns. Our agriculture sector, which is primarily rain-fed, is one of the most vulnerable to these changes,” Kabango added. “Climate adaptation is crucial, and we need to protect our natural resources to secure the future of agriculture.”
The workshop also featured a series of discussions on the strategies Uganda is pursuing to enhance climate resilience, including research and development, sustainable land management practices, and the promotion of climate-smart agricultural technologies. Kabango mentioned initiatives such as solar-powered irrigation systems and breeding for pest and disease-tolerant varieties to help mitigate the effects of climate change.
Despite Uganda’s low ranking in climate adaptation, Kabango expressed optimism that through research, policy development, and collaborative efforts, the country could strengthen its climate resilience. “While we are currently ranked as the 49th least ready country in adaptation, we are not without solutions. We are committed to increasing research and development efforts to improve the country’s preparedness,” he said.
RUFORUM Representative Hails Student AI Innovations in Predicting Crop Yields and Livestock Carbon Emissions
RUFORUM Representative Mr. Yamungu Alongo Boniface highlighted the innovative contributions of AI to climate action during his remarks at the workshop. He began by introducing RUFORUM (Regional Universities Forum for Capacity Building in Agriculture), a network of 180 universities in 40 African countries, with its headquarters based in Makerere University, Uganda. “RUFORUM started as a project funded by the Rockefeller Foundation,” he explained, recounting how it began with just 10 universities in five African countries and has since expanded significantly. “Uganda, and particularly Makerere University, has benefited greatly from the network’s growth, with many funding opportunities directed here,” he noted.
The evolution of RUFORUM was discussed, with Mr. Alongo explaining that in 2004, following the end of the Rockefeller Foundation-funded Forum for Agriculture project, the network formalized its mission as the Regional Universities Forum for Capacity Building in Agriculture. “From 10 founding universities, we now have 180 universities, covering all regions of Africa,” he shared. This growth has allowed for collaboration on numerous research projects, such as the AI for Climate Action initiative.
He described the partnership among RUFORUM, WASCAL, and Academia 2063, which secured funding from the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) to launch a research hub focused on artificial intelligence for climate action. “Makerere University applied for several grants, and though they were eligible for four, only two were granted to ensure broader continental representation,” Mr. Alongo explained.
In addition to the IDRC funding, Mr. Alongo noted that RUFORUM has been involved in other projects under the Global Research Alliance (GRA), funded by the government of New Zealand, which focuses on climate change, greenhouse gas emissions, and related research. “Prof. Mkwaya and other departments at Makerere, as well as universities in Kenya and Tanzania, have also benefited from GRA funding,” he said.
Highlighting the impact of the AI projects, Mr. Alongo celebrated the success of a student who developed a crop yield prediction model that outperformed international systems. “The model was more accurate than even DISSAT, a widely recognized tool for agro-technology transfer,” he pointed out. In livestock, students developed amodel which can launch a drone to count animals and the amount of carbon stocks emitted by the animals. He stressed the importance of sharing such findings with local communities and policymakers to ensure the research is implemented effectively. “We need to make sure our findings are used by those who can take action—farmers, policymakers, and ministries,” he said.
Mr. Alongo concluded with a call to action for further collaboration. “We need to mobilize resources to bring these innovations to the field and ensure they are implemented for sustainable change,” he urged. “This workshop is just the beginning, and we must work together to make a real difference.” He also passed greetings from RUFORUM’s Executive Secretary, Prof. Patrick Okori, emphasizing his support for the project and the ongoing efforts to disseminate the findings.
Key Insights and Policy Recommendations
The workshop brought together members of academia, policy makers from government ministries and agencies and representatives from research implementing districts. Participants delved into key issues affecting the region, offering insights and recommendations that could shape future policies and research in environmental management.
Group I: Land Use and Cover
One of the major discussions in the first group focused on the changing land use patterns and their impacts on soil fertility. As communities in the region expand their agricultural activities, they face the challenge of soil degradation, which reduces crop yields. Experts emphasized the need for sustainable land management (SLM) practices to restore soil fertility and boost agricultural productivity. Agroforestry, particularly in lowland areas, was identified as a key solution, alongside wetland restoration, which has been proven to store more carbon.
Participants also suggested that promoting plant diversity in agricultural areas could help increase carbon stocks. This would contribute to the region’s efforts to combat climate change and improve environmental resilience.
Policy recommendations from the group included prioritizing wetland restoration, promoting afforestation and forestation efforts, and enforcing stricter water management regulations. They also stressed the importance of effective urban planning and the establishment of disaster management committees at the local level to respond to climate-related challenges. Additionally, there was a call to compensate district extension workers for their role in promoting sustainable land practices.
Research topics highlighted for future manuscripts included environmental pollution, carbon stock modeling, the impacts of gender on land use and carbon stocks, and the relationship between migration, land use, and carbon storage.
Group II: Adaptation to Climate Change and Vulnerability
The second group focused on the vulnerability of communities to climate change and the need for effective adaptation strategies. A key takeaway was the importance of promoting climate-smart agriculture across all sectors, ensuring that agricultural practices are both sustainable and resilient to climate impacts. The group also called for the mainstreaming of climate change adaptation into all sector work plans and budgets, urging governments to operationalize existing policies, which have often remained underutilized.
Community sensitization was identified as a major challenge, with many local stakeholders unaware of existing climate change policies. The group recommended that efforts be made to build the capacity of both policy implementers and communities to ensure that adaptation strategies are understood and implemented effectively. Affirmative action for the most vulnerable groups, including women, the elderly, and children, was also proposed to ensure that their specific needs are addressed in climate policies.
The group identified five key areas where local governments can influence policy design and implementation. These include promoting multi-stakeholder engagement, basing policies on evidence-driven research, integrating new technologies like AI into policy frameworks, and ensuring gender responsiveness and social inclusivity in national adaptation policies.
Group III: Land Management and Agricultural Practices
The third group discussed land management practices and the potential of technology to improve agricultural productivity. The group stressed the need for region-specific land management approaches, tailored to the unique challenges of different areas. They also highlighted the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in enhancing decision-making processes, particularly in precision agriculture and irrigation management. AI can provide more accurate data and predictions, helping farmers make informed decisions and optimize resource use.
Another key message was the importance of education and knowledge sharing to improve the implementation of sustainable land management practices. Participants noted that many farmers lack access to essential information, which hinders their ability to adopt better practices. Ensuring that agricultural extension services are equipped with the knowledge and tools to train farmers in new technologies was seen as a crucial step toward improving productivity.
Policy recommendations from this group included enhancing the existing National Agriculture Adaptation Plans (NAPAs) to make them more region-specific and improving the integration of AI into agricultural extension services. There was also a call for the establishment of a national agriculture data infrastructure policy to support real-time data collection and forecasting, which would enable better agricultural planning and response.
Moving forward, the workshop concluded with a call to action for stakeholders to work together to implement the recommendations discussed. The importance of evidence-based policies, the integration of new technologies like AI, and the prioritization of vulnerable communities were central themes throughout the discussions. As Makerere University continues to play a critical role in addressing climate change and land management issues, the insights gained from this workshop will undoubtedly contribute to the development of more effective and sustainable policies for the future.
About the three Research projects
Dr. Catherine Mulinde presented three important research projects focused on addressing climate change, land use management, and agricultural productivity in Uganda.
Project 1: Carbon Stocks and Climate Change The first project, titled Effect of Changes in Land Use, Cover, and Climate on Carbon Stocks in Selected Agricultural Zones of Uganda, was led by Dr. Paul Isolo Mukwaya, with Dr. Catherine Mulinde and Dr. Geoffrey Gabiri collaborating from Makerere and Kyambogo Universities, respectively. The project’s primary objective was to assess carbon stocks in vegetation and soils in two agroecological zones, Nakapiripirit and Manafwa in Mount Elgon. The team focused on evaluating soil carbon fluxes, the impact of land cover and climate change, and the heterogeneity of environmental factors on carbon levels. Additionally, they projected future changes in carbon stocks and land use scenarios. The research team included students Elizabeth Ahumuza and Vincent Wabwire, who explored the relationship between land use, soil carbon, and meteorological drought in Karamoja. The findings from this project were shared with the community and presented at international platforms.
Project 2: Responsible AI for Agricultural Productivity The second project focused on the application of responsible artificial intelligence (AI) in modeling land productivity and crop yields in the face of changing climate and land use. Led by Dr. Mulinde, Dr. Paul Mukwaya, and Dr. Geoffrey Gabiri, the project aimed to explore how AI can assist smallholder farmers who are struggling with decreasing yields due to climate change. The project was conducted in the Lake Kyoga Basin, covering both the highlands (Mbale) and lowlands (Pallisa). The team used machine learning to quantify the relationship between climate change, land management practices, and crop yields, offering insights into how farmers can improve productivity. The project’s students, Irene Nekesa (Kyambogo University) and Kisakye Angela, conducted household interviews and community outreach, presenting findings at international forums, including the RUFORUM conference in Namibia. Angela’s poster was awarded the best presentation at the conference. The project highlighted the need for greater awareness and knowledge of AI in agricultural communities, as many local stakeholders struggled to interpret its potential.
Project 3: Climate Change Adaptation in Coffee Farming Systems The third project was a postdoctoral research initiative supported by Makerere University‘s Directorate of Research and Graduate Training, focused on adaptation to climate change-induced vulnerability in coffee farming systems. Dr. Mulinde was the principal investigator, with Associate Professor Revocatus Twinomuhangi serving as the research mentor. This study, part of the CECAP program funded by the Carnegie Corporation of New York, aimed to identify the most effective adaptation practices to improve household welfare and agricultural productivity in coffee farming. The research focused on Arabica coffee in the Mount Elgon region (Kapchorwa, Bulambuli, Mbale) and Robusta coffee in the central region (Luwero, Nakaseke, Nakasongola). It identified agroforestry, soil conservation methods, and the use of organic and inorganic fertilizers as effective practices for increasing productivity. The findings were disseminated at both community and international levels, with a focus on cross-sectional surveys, farmer interviews, and data analysis. Amina Twaha, and Margaret Annet Nabirye masters student, contributed significantly to the study by examining household vulnerability to climate shocks.
Agriculture & Environment
Prof. Isa Kabenge Officially Hands Over Leadership of DABE to Prof. Joshua Wanyama
Prof. Isa Kabenge has officially handed over leadership of the Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering (DABE) at the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), Makerere University to Prof. Joshua Wanyama. Prof. Kabenge has served as Head of Department since 2021, providing four years of leadership marked by institutional growth, strengthened partnerships, and expanded academic output. Prof. Wanyama will serve as Head of Department for a four-year term, effective 6th May 2026.
The handover ceremony, held in the Conference Hall of the School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bioengineering (SFTNB) on 4th June 2026, was attended by key university officials and members of staff from the department. These included the Director of Human Resources, Makerere University, represented by the CAES Principal Human Resource Officer, Mr. Julius Lebo; the Dean of SFTNB, Dr. Julia Kigozi; and the Head of Internal Audit, represented by the College Bursar, Ms. Susan Kyamulabi.
Remarks and Appreciation by the Dean
In her remarks, Dr. Julia Kigozi commended Prof. Kabenge for his dedicated service and exemplary leadership. She appreciated him for the cordial working relationship, professionalism, and steadfast commitment to institutional development. She particularly acknowledged his efforts in initiating and strengthening partnerships with both local and international partners, which have significantly enhanced the department’s academic and research profile.
Dr. Kigozi congratulated Prof. Wanyama on his appointment and expressed confidence that he would build on the accomplishments of his predecessor.
Reflections from Prof. Kabenge
Prof. Kabenge expressed gratitude to the University Management, as well as the staff of DABE, for entrusting him with the responsibility of leading the department over the past four years. He also acknowledged the support extended to him by the College and School leadership throughout his tenure.
“My time in office coincided with particularly challenging circumstances, including the COVID-19 pandemic and staff shortages. Despite these difficulties, I commend the resilience, dedication, and teamwork demonstrated by staff, which enabled the department to continue progressing. This experience has affirmed that DABE has an exceptional team with immense potential that can be leveraged to elevate the department to even greater heights,” he said. “It has been an honour to serve as Head of Department. As I step down, I do so with full confidence in the direction the department is taking.”
Prof. Kabenge encouraged staff to continue strengthening the culture of collaboration that has become a hallmark of the department, emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary engagement. “Many of the issues the department addresses, such as water security and climate-smart agriculture, are complex and require diverse expertise and collaborative approaches,” he noted.
Prof. Kabenge pledged to continue supporting the department, particularly in the areas of research and collaboration.
Achievements registered
The overarching goal of DABE is to remain a leading center of excellence in agro-production and food systems within the region and across East Africa. The Department currently hosts approximately 315 students and offers a range of academic programmes, including the Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Engineering, Bachelor of Science in Water and Irrigation Engineering, Bachelor of Science in Bioprocessing Engineering, Master of Science in Agricultural Engineering, and a PhD in Agricultural Engineering.
Strengthened Research Profile
Prof. Kabenge leaves office at a time when the department has established a strong research profile, with academic staff producing more than 40 publications annually. Research within the department spans a wide range of thematic areas, including soil, water and irrigation engineering; bioprocess engineering; food processing, preservation and bio-based materials; nanotechnology and bioprocessing technologies for agriculture; artificial intelligence and engineering modelling; and power and machinery for sustainable agriculture. This growing research output has been complemented by an expanding network of collaborations that has strengthened the department’s capacity for innovation, knowledge exchange, and practical impact.
Infrastructure and Capacity Building
In addition, DABE has developed several practical training and research facilities, including a fabrication workshop at the Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK), aquaculture ponds, irrigation demonstration and experimental systems, post-harvest handling facilities such as refractive window dryers and hybrid solar dryers, and a water science laboratory currently under development. Many of these facilities have been established through research projects funded by both local and international partners.
The Department also hosts the Africa Water Quality Testing Fellowship, a capacity-building programme implemented in partnership with the Aquaya Institute. The fellowship trains students and early-career professionals in water quality monitoring, testing, and management through classroom instruction, laboratory practice, and field-based research. It aims to strengthen Africa’s water workforce, improve access to reliable water quality data, and support safer drinking water systems. The programme is part of a five-year regional initiative (2021-2026) operating through universities in Uganda, Ghana, and Ethiopia.
Welcoming the New Head
Prof. Kabenge congratulated Prof. Wanyama on his appointment and encouraged him to sustain and further strengthen the department’s local and international partnerships. He specifically encouraged the revival of visiting professorships and deeper engagement with the department’s expanding and well-connected alumni network.
Remarks by the University Officials and Incoming Head
The Director of Human Resources, represented by Mr. Julius Lebo, commended the outgoing head for his dedicated service and welcomed the incoming head, appreciating his willingness to take on the leadership role.
Similarly, the College Bursar, Ms. Susan Kyamulabi, praised Prof. Kabenge for his professionalism, strong administrative organization, and prudent management of departmental funds.
In his remarks, Prof. Joshua Wanyama expressed gratitude to University Management for his appointment, and to Prof. Kabenge, for his exemplary servant leadership and mentorship. He acknowledged the department’s steady growth under the outgoing head and thanked staff for entrusting him with the responsibility to lead them.
“I pledge my full commitment to serve. DABE is known for excellence and delivery, and I intend to uphold and strengthen that legacy. We shall continue working as a team to pursue excellence and further develop our department,” he said.
Brief about Prof. Joshua Wanyama
Prof. Joshua Wanyama is a Ugandan academic and Agricultural and Biosystems Engineer serving as an Associate Professor in the Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering at Makerere University. He holds a PhD in Bioscience Engineering from Katholieke Universiteit Leuven (Belgium), a Master of Science in Water Science and Engineering from IHE Delft Institute for Water Education (Netherlands), and a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Engineering from Makerere University.
With over twenty years of experience in teaching, research, and academic mentorship, he specializes in irrigation engineering, water resources management, watershed systems, and climate-smart agriculture. His work focuses on advancing sustainable agricultural water systems and strengthening climate resilience in Uganda and the wider region.
He has supervised several undergraduate and postgraduate students, contributed to curriculum development, and served as an external examiner for a number of universities across Africa. He is a registered professional engineer and an active member of professional bodies including the Uganda Institution of Professional Engineers and the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers.
In recognition of his academic excellence, he was named among the top-performing mid-career researchers and lecturers at the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES) in the 2025 Vice Chancellor’s Research Excellence Awards.
Pictorial of the handover ceremony:
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1RjIS9_8mPM5HVr7UAFP7ik43kkpj-WOY?usp=sharing
Agriculture & Environment
Makerere University, Uganda Red Cross Society Sign MoU to Advance Research, Training & Humanitarian Action
Makerere University and Uganda Red Cross Society (URCS) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening collaboration in research, training, innovation, and humanitarian service delivery.
The agreement, signed on 19th May 2026, establishes a strategic framework through which the two institutions will jointly address pressing national and global challenges by combining academic research with practical humanitarian action.
The MoU was endorsed by Prof. Henry Alinaitwe Mwanaki, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration), on behalf of Makerere University, and Mr. Robert Kwesiga, Secretary General of the Uganda Red Cross Society.
Purpose of the Partnership
The partnership brings together Makerere University’s expertise in research and higher education with the Uganda Red Cross Society’s experience in disaster response, emergency health services, and community outreach, to strengthen efforts in addressing humanitarian and public health challenges. Under the agreement, the institutions will collaborate on joint research projects, academic programmes, staff and student exchanges, and grant applications.
Capacity Building and Knowledge Sharing
Building on this foundation, the two institutions will also work together to strengthen humanitarian assistance, volunteerism, health, and disaster risk management in Uganda through joint capacity-building initiatives. These will include short courses, training programmes, workshops, seminars, conferences, and other professional learning events, as well as the exchange and dissemination of case studies, best practices, and research findings.
Institutional Collaboration and Resource Mobilization
In addition, the partnership will deepen institutional collaboration through the development of strategic alliances, support for advocacy on capacity development action plans, and the promotion of stakeholder participation in each other’s programmes. It will further provide for joint resource mobilization- including co-development of funding proposals, and mutual access to institutional platforms that enhance skills development, methodological expertise, and knowledge transfer.
Student Engagement and Experiential Learning
The collaboration will also provide opportunities for Makerere University students to participate in humanitarian initiatives such as blood donation campaigns, volunteer services, and disaster response activities. In addition, students and staff will benefit from field-based training, internships, and experiential learning opportunities through the Uganda Red Cross Society.
Remarks from Makerere University
Speaking during the signing ceremony, Prof. Alinaitwe commended the Uganda Red Cross Society for its long-standing humanitarian service and strong international reputation. He explained that Makerere University, as a leading research institution, has a responsibility to strengthen humanitarian efforts through evidence-based research, innovation, and professional expertise. “This partnership demonstrates the university’s commitment to applying academic knowledge to real-world humanitarian challenges affecting communities across Uganda and beyond.”
Prof. Alinaitwe highlighted the role of young people in advancing humanitarian action, saying Makerere University’s large student population presents an opportunity to strengthen volunteerism, disaster preparedness, and community engagement initiatives. “Empowering students and young professionals through such partnerships not only contributes to national development but also nurtures a culture of compassion, civic responsibility, and leadership among the next generation,” he noted.
Highlighting potential areas of collaboration between the two institutions, including health services, emergency response, disaster risk management, research, training, and capacity building, Prof. Alinaitwe reaffirmed Makerere University’s strong commitment to humanitarian work. He expressed confidence that the partnership would foster meaningful opportunities for knowledge exchange, innovation, and joint initiatives aimed at improving the wellbeing and resilience of vulnerable communities across the country.
Remarks from Uganda Red Cross Society
Reflecting on the long-standing collaboration between the two institutions, URCS Secretary General, Mr. Robert Kwesiga, expressed gratitude to Makerere University for its continued support toward the organization’s humanitarian work. “The signing of the MoU marks a significant milestone in our partnership and serves as a renewed commitment to deepen collaboration in areas that directly advance public health, disaster preparedness, and community resilience, while enhancing the overall impact of humanitarian service delivery across the country.”
Mr. Kwesiga explained that the formal agreement will provide a structured framework for joint initiatives such as research, student engagement in humanitarian fieldwork, capacity building for staff and volunteers, and knowledge sharing in emergency response systems. According to him, this alignment between academic expertise and humanitarian practice is essential in addressing Uganda’s evolving social and health challenges.
“Makerere University’s role as a leading academic institution brings valuable technical and scientific capacity to the partnership, while the Uganda Red Cross Society contributes practical, field-based experience in disaster response and community support. Together, the two institutions are better positioned to design evidence-based interventions that save lives and strengthen vulnerable communities. The MoU will not remain a symbolic document, but will translate into tangible outcomes that benefit students, researchers, and the wider public through impactful programmes and sustained collaboration,” he noted.
Implementation and Duration
The agreement will run for an initial period of five years and is expected to strengthen Uganda’s capacity in research-driven humanitarian response and sustainable community development. At Makerere University, implementation of the MoU will be coordinated by Prof. Yazidhi Bamutaze, Deputy Principal of the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences and member of staff in the Department of Geography, Geo-Informatics and Climatic Sciences, while Dr. Harriet Rachel Kagoya Kibuule will coordinate on behalf of the URCS.
Pictorial of the MoU signing ceremony: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjCUigt
-
General2 weeks agoApplications for Admission to Undergraduate Programmes 2026/27
-
Agriculture & Environment5 days agoTribute To Professor Abwoli Yabezi Banana (1951–2026)
-
General5 days agoSylas Ruhweza: A Brief Life Marked by Meaningful Accomplishments
-
Health2 weeks agoCall for Applications: Masters Support in Self-Management Intervention for Reducing Epilepsy Burden
-
General2 days agoFreshers’ Joining Instructions 2026/2027