Computing & IS
Makerere Launches AI and Data Science Centre to Drive Africa’s Technological Development
Kampala, March 13, 2025 – Makerere University has officially launched the Makerere University Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Data Science (Mak-CAD), a hub dedicated to advancing AI research and innovation for Africa’s development.
Themed “Building Responsible AI Research and Innovations for Impact,” the launch highlighted the Centre’s mission to harness AI’s transformative power to address critical issues, improve human development indices, and contribute to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Mak-CAD is focused on leveraging AI for Africa’s development, with an emphasis on sectors like healthcare, agriculture, natural language processing, and climate action. The Centre is guided by Responsible AI principles, aiming to develop customized AI solutions, improve data quality, build local expertise, and integrate AI into policy. Its objectives include advancing AI research, training MSc and PhD students, and fostering collaborations with global AI labs.
Spearheaded by Dr. Joyce Nakatumba Nabende, the Centre is funded by the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) Canada and the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office. It collaborates with institutions such as Wellcome, APHRC, Google, and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to drive AI innovation in Africa.
Mak-CAD will operate through two research labs: the Makerere Artificial Intelligence Lab in the Department of Computer Science, College of Computing and Information Sciences and the Marconi Machine Learning Lab in the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering in the College of Engineering, Design and Art.
The launch event, held at Block B of the College of Computing and Information Sciences, featured significant activities including a keynote address on the need for AI4D multidisciplinary efforts by Dr. Agnes Kiragga of APHR, a panel discussion on AI4D research themes by a team of experts namely Tumuhamye Nathan (Programme Analyst and Head of Exploration, UNDP); D. Ernest Mwebaze (Sunbird ai), Dr. Edwin Mugume (College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology, Makerere University). In addition to PhD students’ presentations and poster viewings of ongoing AI projects and innovations, 10 graduate students were awarded scholarships.
As Makerere positions itself as a leader in AI research in Africa, stakeholders expressed optimism about the Centre’s potential to transform key sectors and contribute to national and continental development.
UK Commits to Supporting Uganda’s AI Ecosystem
Presiding over the launch as chief guest, HE Tiffany Kirlew, Deputy British High Commissioner to Uganda, commended the initiative, emphasizing AI’s role in addressing critical challenges.
“This lab is not just about research; it’s about solutions—solutions that matter to people in health, the environment, food security, and economic growth,” she said. “AI-powered diagnostics developed here could mean faster, more accurate, and more accessible testing for diseases like malaria and tuberculosis, especially in rural areas where doctors are scarce.”
Kirlew highlighted Uganda’s opportunity to build AI solutions tailored to local needs. “Unlike some developed nations that have had to adapt to AI, Uganda has a chance to leapfrog development by creating homegrown AI solutions,” she said.
The UK, she noted, is committed to supporting Uganda’s AI ecosystem through research partnerships, digital skills training, and scholarships. Kirlew emphasized the country’s unique position to develop AI solutions powered by local talent and driven by local challenges. She expressed excitement about the UK’s role in Uganda’s AI and tech journey, mentioning the AI for Development @AI4Dev program, which invests in Africa-focused AI research.
She also highlighted the UK’s digital access program in Eastern Uganda, empowering over 100 entrepreneurs with future-ready digital skills. Reflecting on Uganda’s transformation, she expressed confidence that with the exceptional talent present, Uganda will not only keep pace with the AI revolution but also assume a leadership role.
Kirlew concluded by resonating with Makerere University’s motto, “We build for the future,” expressing eagerness to see the Mak-CAD grow and make a profound impact on Uganda’s future.
Africa Must Embrace AI to Avoid Being Left Behind – Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe
Makerere University Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, emphasized the urgent need for Africa to embrace artificial intelligence (AI) to avoid being left behind in the global technological revolution.
“As far as artificial intelligence is concerned; will Africa be left behind again?” he posed. “This is the defining question for us, and Makerere University is determined to ensure that we are part of this technological revolution.”
Prof. Nawangwe highlighted AI’s pivotal role in research, education, and innovation. He stressed the importance of training more PhD graduates who can drive AI advancements across the continent.
“Artificial intelligence is the future of the world. Those who want a good life must harness it,” he stated, echoing the urgency for Africa to integrate AI into its development strategies.
Reflecting on Africa’s educational challenges, Prof. Nawangwe pointed to the need for 1 million PhDs in the next 10 years to lift the continent out of poverty. “We must train like China does. We must contribute to the number of PhDs that the World Bank is talking about,” he urged.
While celebrating Makerere’s global achievements, he also acknowledged the challenge that remains. “Our students have competed worldwide and beaten the best. But why do we keep quiet about our successes?” he asked.
He concluded by urging Makerere to continue leading Africa’s AI revolution, emphasizing that the university must not only contribute globally but also drive transformative change within the continent. “What are we bringing back home?” he questioned, underscoring the importance of making AI a tool for Africa’s development.
CoCIS Principal Hails UK Envoy, Highlights AI Lab’s Achievements
The Principal of Makerere University’s College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS), Prof. Tonny Oyana, welcomed the UK High Commissioner to Uganda, expressing gratitude for the diplomat’s visit and highlighting the college’s strides in artificial intelligence, data science, and sensor technology.
Prof. Oyana underscored the institution’s commitment to becoming a global leader in technology-driven research. “Our niche in the college is computer science, data science, artificial intelligence, and sensor technology,” he said. “We position ourselves not just as African leaders but as global leaders in this field.”
Prof. Oyana also lauded the recent collaborative efforts with South Korea, noting that the partnership would enhance the college’s infrastructure. “One of the initiatives includes shared workspaces in the new research building and repair of lifts, which will be constructed in collaboration with the College of Engineering,” he revealed.
He acknowledged the contribution of Dr. Joyce, a key figure in the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Lab, crediting her leadership for sustaining the lab’s growth. “We were worried about the lab collapsing, but she has mobilized resources and enabled scientific advancements,” he stated.
Additionally, Prof. Oyana commended Dr. Ernest Mwebase for his pioneering efforts in AI, recognizing his role in training the next generation of scientists. “Dr. Mwebase played a critical role in the development of AI at Makerere, and his leadership at Sunbird AI, Uganda’s first locally owned AI company, is commendable,” he said.
He also highlighted the college’s recent academic achievements, revealing that CoCIS graduated 681 students, including 12 PhD holders—the highest number in the college’s history. “Seven of these PhD graduates were female, a strong testament to our efforts in gender parity,” he added.
Prof. Oyana concluded by reaffirming the college’s dedication to advancing AI research and equipping students with skills for the 21st century. “We promise to be leaders in preparing youthful talent and driving research productivity in AI and sensor technology,” he affirmed.
Just as parents, we must nurture a newborn to realize its full potential- Dr. Balikuddembe
Dean of the School of Computing and Informatics Technology, Dr. Joseph Kibombo Balikuddembe, likened the Centre to a growing plant or a newborn that requires nurturing, strategic input, and constant development to flourish. As a university, the goal is to remain at the forefront of innovation, equipping students and industry players with cutting-edge research and solutions that address real-world challenges—from health and agriculture to language models and policy formulation.
“Today, we celebrate the launch of a new initiative at the School of Computing and Information Technology. Just as parents nurture a newborn, we must cultivate and grow this new endeavor to reach its full potential”, Dr Joseph Balikudembe
Principal of CEDAT Pledges Commitment to AI Research and Collaboration for Smart Solutions at Makerere University
The Principal of the College of Engineering, Design, Art, and Technology (CEDAT) at Makerere University Prof. Moses Musinguzi emphasized the importance of collaboration in maximizing synergies between the college’s departments and the growing field of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Prof. Musinguzi highlighted the evolving role of technology in both teaching and operations, noting how AI is transforming industries and how it aligns with CEDAT’s mission.
“At CEDAT, we design machines, and with the shift from analogue to digital systems, computing has become central to the design and operation of these machines,” the Principal explained, underlining the deep connection between engineering and computing in modern technology.
Prof. Musinguzi acknowledged that many in the academic community are still familiarizing themselves with AI. However, he expressed confidence that initiatives like the one being discussed would significantly enhance the university’s capacity to understand and apply AI in various fields, including research, teaching, and institutional operations.
Reflecting on his recent trip to South Korea, Prof. Musinguzi shared how AI and robotics are integrated into everyday life, even in the hospitality industry. “In the restaurant we visited, a robot served us. This is AI in action,” he said, noting the profound impact of AI in bridging the technological divide between the global north and south.
He also raised an important question about the role of African universities in this technological shift. “Before we talk about automating Uganda or creating smart cities, why not start here at Makerere University? Let’s lead by example by developing prototypes and testing them on our campus first,” he proposed, emphasizing the role of local solutions in fostering wider societal changes.
In closing, the Prof. Musinguzi reaffirmed CEDAT’s commitment to AI research and collaboration with other colleges within Makerere University. “We look forward to not just producing research papers, but also tangible, real-world outputs that will benefit communities and showcase the innovative contributions of our university,” he said.
Makerere AI Lab Leads Groundbreaking Research in Artificial Intelligence – Project Leader Dr. Joyce Nakatumba
Makerere University’s Artificial Intelligence (AI) Lab continues to lead the way in AI research on the African continent, tackling some of the most pressing challenges in health, agriculture, climate, and language technology. Established in 2011, long before AI became a global phenomenon, the lab has played a pioneering role in applying AI to real-world problems.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Joyce Nakatumba Nabende, the Principal Investigator and a senior lecturer in the Department of Computer Science, reflected on the lab’s journey and its impact over the years. “We started this journey under the leadership of Dr. John Quinn and Dr. Ernest, at a time when AI had not yet gained mainstream attention,” she said. “This was before ChatGPT became a household name, and before artificial intelligence became widely recognized. Our focus was on leveraging AI to solve real-world problems, even before the hype.”
Dr. Nakatumba commended Makerere University for creating an environment that fosters research and innovation. “I appreciate the university for enabling us to do this research. The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, has provided immense support in grant management and administration, ensuring that our work continues to thrive,” she said.
Over the years, the AI Lab has grown in scope and impact. Initially focused on malaria microscopy, a project that has since evolved into the Makerere AI Health Lab under Dr. Rose Nakasi, the lab has expanded its research into multiple fields. “We started with malaria microscopy under Ocular, and now our research spans several domains, including agriculture, climate change, and language technology,” Dr. Nakatumba noted.
A significant achievement of the lab has been its role in training and mentoring young AI researchers. “One of our proudest accomplishments is seeing our students grow. We have trained both MSc and PhD students, many of whom started as interns and are now leading researchers in their own right,” she said. “It is fulfilling to watch them take on bigger roles, apply their knowledge, and contribute to the advancement of AI.”
However, AI research in Africa has faced its own set of challenges, one of the biggest being access to data. “Machine learning thrives on data. When we started, we realized that there were no datasets for African languages, health applications, or many other sectors,” Dr. Nakatumba explained. “We have since worked tirelessly to build datasets in health, agriculture, climate science, and language processing. These datasets are now publicly available, not only for our research but also for AI development globally.”
Dr. Nakatumba emphasized that the lab operates under three key pillars: advancing AI science, training students, and ensuring that research translates into practical impact. “People often ask, ‘You’ve done all this research, but is it being used?’ That is our guiding principle—making sure that our AI innovations are not just theoretical but are solving real challenges in society,” she said.
Through partnerships with institutions such as the National Agricultural Research Organization (NARO), the Uganda Cancer Institute, and the Institute of African Languages, the lab has developed AI-powered solutions tailored to local needs. “From using AI to monitor air quality in Uganda’s urban centers to deploying AI-driven diagnostic tools in healthcare, we align our research with the pressing issues facing our communities,” she noted.
She also highlighted the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, which has been central to the lab’s success. “Our work goes beyond computing. We collaborate with health scientists, engineers, linguists, and environmentalists. This multidisciplinary approach has helped us secure international grants such as those from the NIH for data science programs,” she said.
Dr. Nakatumba reaffirmed the lab’s commitment to advancing AI research and training more students in the field. “We are moving towards establishing a Center for AI and Data Science at Makerere University. With support from institutions like IDRC and FCDO, we aim to push the boundaries of AI innovation, train more students, and ensure that our work has a lasting impact,” she said.
Keynote Speaker Dr. Agnes Kiragga Calls for Accelerated AI Integration to Transform Public Health and Education in Africa
In her keynote address, Dr. Agnes Kiragga, an expert in health systems and data science, shared a compelling vision for the role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in transforming Africa’s public health and educational systems. She emphasized the potential of AI to reshape the continent’s future, particularly in addressing the deep health challenges and educational needs that many African nations face.
Dr. Kiragga, a senior researcher at the African Population and Health Research Centre (APHRC) in Nairobi, Kenya, highlighted the importance of AI in revolutionizing healthcare delivery, from infectious disease management to chronic disease prevention. “The digitalization of health systems, driven by AI, is not just a luxury but a necessity if we are to improve access and outcomes, especially in remote areas,” she noted.
She also underscored the significance of AI in the education sector, referencing the continent’s growing youth population. “With Africa’s workforce expected to expand dramatically by 2030, AI-powered educational tools can play a pivotal role in scaling up skills development, particularly in digital literacy,” she stated. She also pointed out that innovations like mobile-based education platforms and AI applications for healthcare could drive progress in regions with limited infrastructure.
While excited about Africa’s AI potential, Dr. Kiragga stressed the urgency of overcoming barriers to digital inclusion, including limited internet access and mobile penetration. “To achieve the transformative potential of AI, we must ensure that innovations reach the last mile, from rural villages to urban centers,” she said.
Kiragga called for stronger collaboration across sectors and nations to create policies that foster AI innovation while addressing data governance and ethical concerns. “AI is data-hungry and needs robust governance frameworks to ensure that it serves the public good,” she emphasized.
As Africa stands on the brink of an AI-driven future, Dr. Kiragga’s message was clear: innovation and strategic partnerships are key to unlocking AI’s full potential for the continent’s development.
UNDP Calls for AI Policy and Practical Applications to Address Uganda’s Development Challenges
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) called for urgent action to elevate discussions on Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Uganda, emphasizing the need for a national AI policy and practical AI applications to address key development challenges in agriculture, healthcare, and mobility.
Tumuhamye Nathan, UNDP Program Analyst and Head of Exploration, stressed that AI must be contextualized to fit Uganda’s unique challenges rather than being perceived as an abstract or foreign concept. “We need to elevate the discussion of AI to look at our context in which we operate. If you look at agriculture, how do we use AI to advance technology within this sector? If you look at mobility, what role can AI play in improving transportation?” he stated.
He emphasized that for AI to have meaningful impact, it must be integrated into real-life solutions that resonate with ordinary Ugandans. He illustrated this with an example from his hometown of Kanungu, where many people may not have formal education but still need to understand how AI can improve their lives. “They need to understand AI from the perspective of their real-life experiences. For us, using tools like ChatGPT is about accessing quick information, but how do we communicate AI to someone who has never been to a classroom but still needs to see its value?” he posed.
One of the critical areas where AI can make a transformative impact is healthcare. Nathan highlighted Uganda’s high maternal mortality rate due to a shortage of health workers and questioned how AI can be leveraged to bridge this gap. “We are losing so many mothers because we say we don’t have enough health workers to attend to them during childbirth. How do we use AI to amplify healthcare interventions, ensuring that AI tools support maternal care and other critical health services?” he asked.
He emphasized that AI’s significance lies in its ability to provide practical solutions to such challenges. “The responsible and responsive use of AI should directly address key areas like healthcare, transport, and agriculture,” he noted.
Uganda’s Lack of an AI Policy
Despite the growing importance of AI, Uganda currently lacks a national policy to regulate and guide its implementation. Nathan revealed that discussions with the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance are ongoing, with the Permanent Secretary of ICT tasked by Cabinet to spearhead the development of an AI policy. “Everyone is talking about AI, but what does it mean from a policy perspective? If you develop an AI-powered tool for healthcare, how does it fit within government systems if there is no policy framework to support it?” he questioned.
He acknowledged that while it is beneficial to learn from existing AI implementations before developing regulations, the rapid advancement of technology means Uganda cannot afford to delay its policy framework. “Technology is moving very fast, and we cannot wait. We need a policy, and conversations are ongoing. We hope that by the end of this year, we will have made significant progress,” he stated.
UNDP’s AI Capacity-Building Initiatives
To further support AI adoption in Uganda, UNDP is rolling out advanced AI training programs this year. The initiative will focus on building AI models and systems that can address local challenges. “We are not just looking at AI on a digital scale but focusing on practical AI applications. If we have data, how can we use it to develop AI models that solve real problems?” Nathan explained.
The training will include both residential and non-residential programs, equipping participants with hands-on skills in AI development. UNDP plans to collaborate with innovators to identify how AI can support their solutions. “It’s not just about teaching someone how to use ChatGPT. We want to see how AI can help an innovator solve a local problem in a meaningful way,” he added.
Nathan assured stakeholders that UNDP will continue working closely with the government to ensure responsible AI adoption. He stressed that ongoing consultations will help shape a policy framework that ensures AI benefits all Ugandans. “We will be moving around the country, consulting stakeholders together with the Ministry of ICT to ensure that AI is leveraged for the benefit of everyone,” he stated.
As AI continues to shape the future, UNDP remains committed to supporting Uganda’s AI ecosystem through policy advocacy, training, and collaboration with innovators to drive AI-powered development solutions.
Computing & IS
VC Nawangwe Launches CoCIS Endowment Fund to Support Excellence in Education, Research and Innovation
The College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS) on Friday 15th August, 2025 launched a permanent endowment fund to provide sustainable, long-term support across three critical pillars: enhancing student opportunities through scholarships and bursaries, accelerating groundbreaking research endeavors, and catalyzing innovation within the college.
The goal is to ensure a continuous stream of resources, enabling the college to attract top talent, invest in cutting-edge facilities, and remain at the forefront of technological advancement and academic leadership for generations to come.
The CoCIS Endowment Fund was officially launched by Professor Barnabas Nawangwe, Vice Chancellor of Makerere University on day two of the staff retreat (14th -16th , August 2025) held at the Source of the Nile Hotel in Jinja City.
Three Top Most Contributing Researchers to the Fund Honored
The Principal and his Deputy presented the CoCIS Research Excellence Awards to Dr. Rose Nakasi, Dr. Joyce Nakatumba Nabende and Prof. Engineer Bainomugisha as the most outstanding researchers who have contributed to the College Endowment Fund. The trio have successfully written research winning proposals and attracted a number of grants boosting the college resource envelop from which the endowment fund is drawn.
18 students to benefit annually
This endowment fund will ensure that resources are strategically allocated to maximize impact on the colleges’ educational and research objectives.
This planned college endowment fund is motivated by the need to promote early- career faculty research and support high-potential students. Over time, the college leadership has observed that a significant and increasing number of CoCIS students struggle to pay tuition fees. Investing in these talented individuals will yield substantial returns for both the students and the institution.
The college endowment initiative will support 18 students annually through four scholarship tiers;- 1 student ($2000 full scholarship); 2 students( $1,500 each substantial support); 5 students( $1,000 moderate support); and 10 students($ 500 each foundational support).
The Annual investment ($15,000 total ) will provide transformative opportunities for students from low socio-economic backgrounds to secure their academic future and career success.
Students on standard programs mainly second year or third year students from the college undergraduate programmes; software engineering –third year or fourth year students will be eligible. All beneficiaries must maintain good academic standing with a minimum of a CGPA of 3.6 throughout their sponsorship period.
Research and Innovation
In terms of research and innovation, the college is the region’s premier computer, library and information science hub for ICT innovation and research. Faculty conducts research in Artificial intelligence and data science, software systems, networked systems and their security, the impact of digital technology on records management in libraries, museums, archives and learning. Others are in policy and information seeking behavior in health, agriculture, ICT, land, law and finance among others.
VC Unveils the vision for the University Financial independence
While officially launched the Fund, Prof. Nawangwe unveiled the strategic vision for the university’s financial independence and future innovation. He conveyed the significance of endowment funds, observing that institutions like Harvard possess an endowment bigger than Uganda’s GDP, granting them the capacity to act freely. He presented this model as ‘the way to go even for us’, confirming that the university council approved colleges establishing their own endowments, to be managed alongside the main university fund.
The Vice Chancellor expressed considerable encouragement for CoCIS, particularly learning that it is funding the endowment from the proceeds of the research funding that they receive, and commending its initiative in already touching students by giving out funds.
He then turned to the imperative of Artificial Intelligence, a field he believes is where now the world is going forever. Recalling a UNESCO conference, he shared a touching question posed to African leaders: As far as AI is concerned, will Africa be left behind again? This query he said deeply impacted him, driving the university’s commitment to promote digitalization, promote anybody, any attempt to enhance our capacity in digitalization, computing, in artificial intelligence.
For Africa to develop, Nawangwe argued, the focus should not be on competing globally but on using AI to solve own problems and move people out of poverty. He lauded CoCIS for its amazing work, especially in leveraging AI for health solutions, and for its potential to foster millionaires among its students.
The Vice Chancellor also conveyed the university’s commitment to research and innovation as essential for national stability and poverty alleviation. He cautioned that failure to create jobs through innovation could lead to very unstable countries in Africa, with multitudes of children in the streets.
He projected the university’s dedication to a new Science and Technology Center and noted that the forthcoming Science and Graduate Training building will dedicate its entire ground floor to innovation, even suggesting repurposing lecture rooms as innovation is much more important.
He argued CoCIS’ leadership to do more with that background, knowing that ‘we must do it to save our country, to save our continent.’
In his address, Prof. Tony Oyana, Principal College of Computing and Information Sciences, (CoCIS) discussed the establishment of an endowment fund to support students, research, and innovation. The fund is designed to provide opportunities for students to excel and bridge the gap left by limited government funding.
Professor Oyana shared his personal journey, showcasing the role of scholarships and foundation endowments in his education. He inked the importance of investing in students, citing their potential to excel with support. According to him, students, especially those who are talented but lack resources, can make significant progress with even a small amount of support.
The endowment fund will align with the university’s mission and strategic objectives, focusing on education, research, and innovation. He noted that research-led initiatives can make the college stand out in the world and attract people seeking expertise.
The college has invested in treasury bonds and is exploring other investment opportunities, such as Unitrust. Professor Oyana encouraged colleagues to invest their monthly money in bonds and trust, citing the benefits of diversifying investments.
He acknowledged the challenges the college faces in relying solely on government funding, which can be unpredictable and subject to change. The endowment fund will provide a stable source of funding, enabling the college to pursue its goals and make a meaningful impact.
He expressed gratitude to Eako for sponsoring the meeting and Google for investing in the college’s state-of-the-art laboratory.
On his part, Mr. Emmanuel Kitamirike, the Makerere University Endowment Fund Administrator revealed that the Fund has a rich history dating back to the 1930s when teachers and church leaders donated money, which was invested in the UK for 70 years before being formalized in 2014.
“The fund has grown from Shs8.6 billion to Shs14 billion, with a target of reaching Shs20 billion by the end of the financial year. This is attributed the growth to strategic investments in treasury bonds and Unit trusts, which have yielded returns supporting university activities. We’ve reinvested 65 million in Treasury bonds and reinvested 138 million in Unit trusts of the money that we earned,” he said.
The university has secured funding from the United Arab Emirates, $100,000, to establish the Endowment Fund for the Advancement of Women Education, which will support female students pursuing postgraduate STEM disciplines. Kitamirike noted that “if you have $1 million and you have 15% return on investment, you have some almost 500 million that you can put up every year for scholarship support.”
The fund’s administrators have implemented the Mak Advance System, an alumni management software that enables donations with as little as Shs1,000. Mr. Kitamirike reported that donations have been coming in, and has received 40 million in the last two years through that system.
The fund’s growth is expected to enhance student life experiences and encourage alumni to give back to the institution.
The university’s endowment fund model is inspired by institutions like Harvard, which has a massive endowment fund where by its Alumni definitely sometimes even give an estate, hey have their money.
The College has been actively promoting research and innovation through its RISE Program, which focuses on research, innovations, services, and engagement. Dr. John Ngubiri reported that the program has disbursed approximately 540 million in grants, with 90% going to staff and 10% to students. The funding distribution is skewed in favor of the School of Computing and Informatics Technology (SCIT), with few grants received from EASLIS
The most popular research areas include intelligent systems, particularly AI, health and nutrition, smart teaching, and small businesses. Dr. Ngubiri noted they’ve had very many applications from the area of AI, indicating a growing interest in the field. The program has yielded impressive outcomes, including research projects expanding into bigger grants, startups emerging from student projects, and students receiving awards.
Some notable examples of staff who have implemented projects include Dr. Rehema Baguma, Dr. Odongo Steven, and Dr. Hasifah Namatovu, who were able to expand their research into bigger grants. Startups like YoWaste and MobiFuel have also emerged from student projects, demonstrating the potential for innovation and entrepreneurship. YoWaste alone has reportedly generated a turnover of around 600 million.
Despite the progress, Dr. Ngubiri noted some challenges, including limited funding, plagiarism, gradualism, and the finalist student problem. He noted, the volume of funding is always a challenge, and that they have to live within it. To address these challenges, He suggested adopting a thematic approach to grants, formalizing startups, and exploring equity options to provide a sustainable source of funding.
The college could get shares in startups and use the returns to fund other projects. Dr. Ngubiri also emphasized the importance of looking ahead and planning for the future, saying “if when someone is writing a seed, he looks ahead on where this seed can be put to germinate so that people don’t get stuck along the way.”
While discussing the research agenda for the School of Computing and Informatics Technology, the Dean Dr. Joseph Kibombo Balikuddembe stressed that the research should be internationally recognized and address real-world societal and business challenges. “Our research is internationally recognized and addresses real-world society and business challenges,” he said, citing an example of engineers being able to tell the air quality of different cities.
Dr. Balikuddembe emphasised the importance of being centers of knowledge, innovation, leadership, and development, and positioning the school to lead the digital transformation and contribute to the global innovation ecosystem.
He also expressed the need for specific strategic objectives, including advancing cutting-edge research in AI, data science, and related fields, promoting interdisciplinary and collaborative research, and strengthening graduate research capacity and supervision. “We cannot do that without having specific strategic objectives that can get us there,” he said, outlining objectives such as enhancing international partnerships and visibility, and translating research into innovation, policy, and practical solutions.
Dr. Balikuddembe expressed concerns about protecting intellectual property, citing instances of students and researchers failing to protect their innovations before presenting them publicly. “Before you know it, someone may have picked the idea and moved on,” he warned.
The school is focusing on various areas, including AI, data science, cyber security, and emerging technologies like block chain applications and augmented reality. “Mentorship programs, capacity building initiatives, and partnerships with industry and international universities to drive research and innovation are crucial,” he noted.
The East African School of Library and Information Sciences (EASLIS) has developed a research agenda for the next five years, focusing on five thematic areas. According to Dr. Sarah Kaddu, Dean of EASLIS, the research agenda is rooted in five principles, including being relevant, impactful, interdisciplinary, inclusive, and sustainable. The thematic areas include information governance and digital transformation, indigenous knowledge and culture informatics, wellness and health informatics, digital literacy and education, and transparency, accountability, and legal records.
Dr. Kaddu pointed out the importance of collaboration and partnerships in achieving the research agenda’s goals. “We need to partner with others who are well-facilitated, well-endowed, and have the skills,” she said. The school is also prioritizing mentorship, with a focus on guiding both staff and students in research and academic maturity. She noted that mentorship has come out even in the previous presentation. “We really need to be mentored so that we are in harmony with one another.”
The research agenda is aligned with the university’s strategic plan and aims to address national and continental development priorities. Dr. Kaddu stressed the importance of addressing burning social, economic, and technological needs in Uganda and East Africa. The school is also committed to producing research that is transformative in social and economic imaginations of the country and Africa.
The key highlights of the research agenda include thematic areas such as information governance and digital transformation, indigenous knowledge and culture informatics, wellness and health informatics, digital literacy and education, and transparency, accountability, and legal records.
In his closing remarks, the Deputy Principal of the College of Computing and Information Sciences, Dr. Peter Nabende, expressed gratitude over the presentation on the CoCIS Endowment Fund, recognizing its significance in advancing College’s progress.
He encouraged colleagues to explore high-risk investments in their field and appreciated the emphasis on research areas. Dr. Nabende also acknowledged the college’s achievements, expressing pride in the team’s work.
Nabende called upon colleagues to write presentations and share knowledge citing the importance of interdisciplinary research.
“We have the capability to learn from each other and move forward,” he stated.
The Deputy Principal called upon the college alumni, staff and well wishers to contribution to the CoCIS Endowment Fund that will be pivotal in providing sustainable support to students, research, and innovation initiatives.
‘We urge you to consider contributing to the endowment fund and becoming part of this noble endeavor. Every contribution, big or small, counts, and we look forward to your support.’ Nabende appealed.
Beyond the Launch to Fun Activities
Staff were treated to a cocktail and barbecue dinner as well as fun activities including surfing River Nile. Besides formal work tasks, retreats offer significant benefits like fostering stronger team cohesion through informal interactions, boosting employee morale and reducing stress through a change of scenery, and enhancing communication and collaboration skills in a relaxed setting.
These retreats also provide opportunities for leadership development, allowing employees to step outside their typical roles and showcase new skills. Furthermore, retreats can reinforce institutional culture, values, and mission in a memorable and impactful way, leading to increased employee engagement and a stronger sense of belonging.
Kampala, Uganda — Christine Kikome, a finalist in the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science program at Makerere University’s College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS), has emerged as the Best Pitch Winner at the prestigious Africa Innovation Fellowship (AIF) bootcamp in Johannesburg, South Africa. Kikome walked away with a prize of R10,000 (South African Rands) for her pioneering project FloralIntel – a digital health and education platform that uses artificial intelligence to identify medicinal plants and preserve indigenous knowledge.
The AIF, organized by South Africa-based WomHub in partnership with the Royal Academy of Engineering, brings together top women entrepreneurs from across Africa to showcase their innovative ventures. Kikome was selected for her outstanding pitch and impactful innovation.
The Selection Criteria
Kikome first learned about the Africa Innovation Fellowship through Mr. Marvin Galiwango, her lecturer, who encouraged her to apply following a research project in her second-year Machine Learning course. The project had developed into a functional prototype that used AI to identify medicinal plants.
With an already working Minimum Viable Product, Kikome applied and successfully navigated a rigorous selection process, including interviews that ran from August to December last year. She was chosen among the top 25 women-led startups on the continent.
The eight-month fellowship began virtually in January, following onboarding in December. Participants attended monthly sessions, with the program culminating in a physical bootcamp in Johannesburg from July 19. During the bootcamp, entrepreneurs received training in business leadership, personal branding, and pitching. Kikome impressed investors and judges on the final day, winning the Best Pitch Award and the accompanying R10,000 prize.
What Kikome Did to Emerge Winner
Kikome’s winning venture, FloralIntel, began as a course project during her undergraduate studies. Along with fellow Computer Science students Geofrey Okumu and Emmanuel Wagisha, and Gerald Obote, a final-year Biotechnologist from the College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS). The group developed a web-based application that integrates computer vision and machine learning to identify and classify traditional medicinal plants. The platform also connects users with certified herbalists, while preserving indigenous knowledge in digital format.
The innovation addresses the gap between traditional herbal medicine and modern healthcare, enabling accessibility and education for users interested in herbal treatment.
What’s Next for FloralIntel?
With a working prototype in place, Kikome’s next step is to scale FloralIntel into a mobile application and expand its reach across the continent. She plans to apply for more fellowships and seek further grants, including support from the Makerere University Innovation Hub.
“I want FloralIntel to educate the younger generation on herbal knowledge something that can save time, money, and lives,” she explained.
Unique Advantages of FloralIntel
FloralIntel stands out for its multifaceted approach to bridging traditional knowledge and modern technology. One of its most impactful features is the digitization of indigenous knowledge, creating a centralized digital database that preserves and documents traditional herbal practices—knowledge that has long been passed down orally and risks being lost. The platform also enables users to identify medicinal plants through a photo-based recognition system, which instantly provides details such as the botanical name, therapeutic uses, and instructions for application.
To ensure safety and credibility, Kikome envisions collaborating with institutions like the National Drug Authority (NDA) and Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB) to onboard verified herbalists who can offer both products and consultations through the platform.
Additionally, FloralIntel serves as a learning tool, offering educational content on herbal medicine, disease management, and daily updates on emerging health trends empowering users with accessible, trusted, and practical health knowledge.
Funding and Appreciation: What the Award Means to Kikome
All travel and accommodation costs for the South Africa bootcamp were fully covered by WomHub, with Kikome only covering her visa expenses. She credits her success to the foundational support provided by the CoCIS RISE Fund, which helped transition FloralIntel from a research concept into a viable prototype.
“This milestone would not have been possible without the foundational support of the COCIS RISE Fund, your mentorship, and Makerere University’s belief in student-led innovation,” Kikome wrote in a thank-you note. This recognition is not just mine, it is a win for the College and a testament to what is possible when academia, research, and innovation are aligned.”
To Makerere University, she expressed deep gratitude for the continuous support from lecturers and administrators. She appreciated Mr. Marvin Ggaliwango and other lecturers who mentored her throughout her academic journey as well as Dr. John Ngubiri the College Coordinator for RISE Funds.
“This award showcases Makerere’s commitment to homegrown innovations that address African challenges,” she added.
Kikome describes the win as a “powerful affirmation” of her passion for building tech-driven solutions that merge traditional knowledge with modern innovations. She also sees it as a demonstration of leadership potential.
“I’ve always wanted to be a leader from class representative to Guild Tribunal member. Founding FloralIntel and leading it to this achievement reaffirms that drive,” she noted.
To fellow students, especially young women, Kikome offers a message of empowerment: “Don’t hide your potential. You’re too visible to be broke.” She urged students to step out of their comfort zones and face challenges head-on.
To student leaders, she emphasized the need for collaboration. “Without teamwork among leaders, it’s hard to achieve meaningful impact on those we lead,” she warned.
Fighting the Odds – Surviving Three Brain Surgeries
Born to Mr. and Mrs. Musooka Drake in Kawanda, Wakiso District, Christine Kikome’s journey has been marked by resilience.
Kikome extended heartfelt thanks to her father, whom she described as her “core supporter.” Despite coming from a humble background, her father never discouraged her ambitions and, even supported her in identifying herbal plants from his knowledge and experience
Diagnosed with a brain tumor at the age of five, she underwent three surgeries – two at Mulago Hospital and one at Mengo Hospital. During her recovery, her grandmother encouraged her to use herbal remedies – an experience that later inspired FloralIntel.
Educated primarily on scholarships, Kikome attended Life Day and Boarding Primary School in Seeta-Bajjo, and Code High School for secondary education, majoring in PCM (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics) at A-level.
She initially joined Makerere on private sponsorship for a BSc in Software Engineering, but later secured a government scholarship post-COVID for a BSc in Computer Science.
Reflecting on her personal journey, Kikome candidly shared her experiences growing up overcoming low self-esteem, and battling stereotypes that discouraged educating girls.
“I was often told I wasn’t beautiful, that I would disappoint my father if he invested in me because many girls drop off with pregnancies,” she recalls. “But I pushed through, got first grade in Senior Four, and proved my worth.”
She describes herself as passionate about leadership, innovation, and community impact. Though sometimes perceived as tough, she says she is a warm, encouraging person who brings positivity to those around her.
“I’ve always wanted to be seen for my brains – not my looks. And now I know, it’s not about your size, it’s about what you bring to the table.”
Kikome’s story is one of triumph over adversity, turning childhood medical challenges, stereotypes and socio-economic hardships into a source of inspiration and innovation.
Through FloralIntel, she aims not only to preserve Africa’s indigenous medicinal knowledge but also to prove that with resilience, mentorship and a supportive academic ecosystem, young innovators especially women, can change the future of health and technology in Africa.
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