Business & Management
The Women RISE Project: Building Resilience among Adolescent Girls and Young Women in Artisanal Mining Communities through Transformative Research
The COVID-19 pandemic profoundly affected vulnerable populations, with adolescent girls and young women in unplanned artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) settlements bearing the brunt of its impact. Already grappling with economic hardships and inadequate healthcare access, these communities faced intensified challenges during and after the crisis, further deepening the existing inequalities.
To address some of these pressing concerns, the Women RISE research Project was launched to explore the economic and health impacts of COVID-19 on adolescent girls and young women in unplanned mining communities, examining their coping mechanisms and resilience during and after the pandemic.
The Women RISE project titled, “Economic and Health Impact and the Resilience of Last Mile Populations in Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining Unplanned Settlements in Sub-Saharan Africa Before, During and After COVID-19,” focused on Ghana and Uganda as case studies.
The project team consists of the following researchers; Betty Kwagala, Makerere University (Principal Investigator), Lydia Kapiriri, McMaster University, Canada (Co-Principal Investigator), Lydia Osei, University of Ghana (Co- Investigator), Stephen Wandera, Makerere University (Co- Investigator), Fred Ngabirano, Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, Uganda (Co- Investigator/Decision maker), Deborah Mensah, Northern Empowerment Agency- Ghana (Co- Investigator) and Miriam Mutabazi, Uganda Christian University (Co- Investigator)
The composition of the research team is testimony that the two-year collaborative project brought together leading institutions from Canada, Uganda, and Ghana to assess these challenges and develop targeted interventions to enhance future crisis preparedness, with support from the International Development Research Center (IDRC).
To share these critical findings and explore policy implications, an end of project dissemination workshop was convened on 13th March 2025 bringing on board stakeholders comprising distinguished researchers, government representatives, project participants and civil society leaders for an insightful discussion on translating research into action, ensuring that adolescent girls and young women in ASM communities are better equipped to withstand future crises. Representatives from the following Ministries actively participated in the dissemination workshop: Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, the Ministry of Local Government, the Ministry of Health, and the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development.
Officiating at the dissemination workshop, the Principal of the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) at Makerere University, Prof. Edward Bbaale commended the project team for undertaking a study that highlights the pressing economic and health challenges faced by adolescent girls and young women in artisanal and small-scale mining communities in Uganda and Ghana before, during and after the CoVID-19 pandemic. He underscored the critical role of evidence-based research in shaping policies and programs that foster sustainable development.
“This collaborative project not only brings to the forefront the critical economic and health challenges faced by adolescent in the small scale mining sectors in both Uganda and Ghana, but also highlights their remarkable resilience before, during, and after COVID-19 pandemic. The work you have undertaken transcends national boundaries, reinforcing the value of international partnerships in tackling shared challenges. It is my great honor and privilege, to officially open this important workshop,” the Principal said.
Prof. Bbaale explained that research projects such as the Women Rise project, Universities play a vital role in identifying gaps and generating knowledge to guide policy and programming. He emphasized that having government, civil society, and the private sector actively engaged in research efforts significantly enhances the chances of translating findings into meaningful action. He stressed that the results of this research would be practical, policy-relevant, and instrumental in opening up more opportunities for future collaboration
“I am pleased that this project contributes meaningfully to Makerere University‘s research-led agenda, where evidence-based inquiry drives policy formulation, program design, and sustainable development. As a university, we take pride in pioneering collaborations between academia, government, and civil society, ensuring that research findings translate into actionable solutions for our communities,” he stated.
Beyond being a platform for sharing research findings, Prof. Bbaale said that the dissemination workshop serves as a critical space for dialogue among stakeholders and exploring avenues for scaling up research insights into impactful interventions. He noted that such engagements are essential in ensuring that vulnerable populations, such as adolescent girls and young women in small-scale mining communities, receive the support they need to build resilience and improve their livelihoods.
The Women RISE project created awareness of the challenges faced by adolescent girls and young women in mining areas. Some of these included: dropping out of school, early pregnancies, exposure to sexual practices and intimacy at a very early age, contracting of HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases and gender based violence.
Focusing on the health risks/challenges in artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM), Dr. Stephen Wandera, an academic member of staff at Makerere University College of Business and Management Sciences stated that the rudimentary approaches to mining without protective gear expose adolescent girls and young women to mercury and dust, while men involved in the extraction are exposed to dangerous gases and dust.
“Nearly 97% of adolescent girls and young women engage in gold ore processing using mercury without personal protective gear, which exposes them, and sometimes their children to health hazards,” he said.
Dr. Wandera shared that 28% of the women reported mercury-related health issues, including fatigue, stress, headaches, muscle and joint pain, numbness, liver problems, tremors, skin rashes, respiratory illnesses like TB and, in some cases, the birth of children with congenital defects among ASM workers, with Central Uganda being a key area of concern.
“While there are policy guidelines in place, having a policy is one thing, but following and properly implementing those guidelines is another. Unfortunately, most workers operate without personal protective equipment, exposing themselves to serious health risks. The challenge is that, as humans, we often tend to overlook the dangers if the effects are not immediately visible, assuming that everything is fine. However, this lack of protection can have long-term, detrimental health effects,” Dr. Wandera said.
Dr. Wandera pointed out that miners in the Eastern region continue to use mercury, leading to the contamination of water sources. The health risks, he warned, extend beyond miners to entire communities, as contaminated water from mining sites drains into swamps where people cultivate rice and vegetables, posing a major public health threat.
“Mining runoff is contaminating both soils and water bodies. We visited a site where ore was being processed, and the wastewater was flowing directly into a swamp. Some of this water reached areas where people were growing rice and vegetables. As a result, these individuals will eventually consume crops contaminated by the runoff. This situation poses a significant disaster waiting to happen,” Dr. Wandera warned.
Dr. Wandera outlined key recommendations to mitigate risks in artisanal mining, including strengthening coordination with the Ministry of Health and integrating mental health support in affected areas. He stressed the importance of enforcing occupational health and safety regulations while working towards the sector’s formalization. Additionally, he advocated for establishing effective monitoring systems and conducting regular inspections to enhance mining safety. He also recommended equipping miners with resources on safer techniques and alternative technologies, implementing education and training programs on the dangers of mercury, and fostering multi-sectoral collaboration at national and local levels to address environmental, occupational, and public health concerns.
Dr. Miriam Mutabazi, Co- Investigator from Uganda Christian University presented critical findings on the health and well-being of young women in Uganda’s artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) sector. She stressed the urgent need to address sexual and reproductive health challenges in these communities, emphasizing that economic vulnerability often compels young women to engage in high-risk behaviors, exposing them to significant health risks.
She noted that the study revealed a troubling trend where adolescent girls and young women engage in risky sexual practices, often in exchange for work opportunities, cash, or gold. “We realized that transactional sex and the temporal nature of relationships lead to multiple sexual partnerships, and this is very common in the mining settings. We also found that although the reports on sexual violence were low, interaction with the different participants revealed that there was actually a lot of gender-based violence, including sexual violence,” Dr. Mutabazi explained.
The findings indicated that 28% of the young women who had ever had sex had multiple sexual partners in the past year. These behaviors, she said, compounded by widespread substance abuse, have led to alarming rates of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), with 40% of respondents reporting STI transmission.
She highlighted that the most vulnerable young women for instance those with lower wages, limited economic opportunities, and histories of sexual violence—were at the highest risk of negative reproductive health outcomes. Despite the relatively high use of modern contraceptives at 69%, adherence remained a major challenge, with inadequate access to family planning counseling and education.
In response to these findings, Dr. Mutabazi called for urgent action to protect and empower young women in the mining sector. She emphasized the need for a multi-stakeholder approach involving government, NGOs, and local leaders to strengthen health services and education in mining communities. Among the key recommendations was the prioritization of artisanal miners as a high-risk population for STIs and HIV.
Dr. Mutabazi proposed a holistic intervention strategy that includes raising awareness on behavioral change, promoting alternative income sources to reduce transactional sex, preventing sexual violence, and advocating for safer sexual practices and committed relationships. She emphasized the need to expand access to youth-friendly reproductive health services, particularly through mobile clinics that reach young women directly at their workplaces. Additionally, she called for increased investment in family planning services, enhanced health education on the dangers of mercury exposure in mining areas, and the revitalization of a multi-sectoral approach that actively involves mining host communities.
Expounding on the health hazards, Prof. Betty Kwagala, an academic member of staff at Makerere University College of Business and Management Sciences informed the participants that most women in the mining areas carry their children to work, which also exposes the children to health and occupational risks.
Prof. Kwagala who is the Principal Investigator-Women RISE project noted that although the adolescent girls and young women faced health challenges, the most driver into this unfortunate scenario, were the economic factors.
She explained that when the adolescent girls and young women were trained and financially empowered through seed funding, the majority stopped going to the mining areas. “The adolescent girls and young women formed saving groups, became entrepreneurs, some went back to school, while others created alternative sources of income,” she said. In addition, the financially empowered adolescent girls and young women were able to transform their lives and children, uplift their families, friends and communities in general.
Presenting the gender dynamics in Artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM), as well as piloted interventions and their outcomes, Prof. Kwagala revealed that artisanal mining serves as an economic lifeline for many families across Uganda. She highlighted that these communities present significant challenges, particularly for young women and adolescent girls, who face gender-based disparities and reproductive health risks.
Despite their significant contributions, Prof. Kwagala said that women in artisanal mining remain marginalized. “Women are often relegated to low-paying and labour-intensive roles, such as panning and carrying ores, while men dominate the more lucrative aspects of mining. This limits women’s economic advancement and reinforces a cycle of poverty and dependence,” she said.
The findings revealed that, beyond economic marginalization, women in mining communities face an increased risk of gender-based violence. Their vulnerability is further aggravated by the absence of formal labor protections and legal recourse, highlighting the urgent need for policymakers and community leaders to take proactive measures to address these challenges.
Young women and adolescent girls in mining areas frequently encounter significant reproductive health risks. Limited access to healthcare services and inadequate sexual health education contribute to high rates of early pregnancies, unsafe abortions, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV/AIDS. Additionally, sexual exploitation is prevalent, with many women subjected to coercion and harassment in exchange for economic survival.
As a result, Prof. Kwagala emphasized the urgent need for improved healthcare infrastructure and awareness campaigns to promote safe reproductive health practices. Strengthening access to contraception, maternal healthcare, and counseling services would be a pivotal step in addressing these challenges.
Another critical issue affecting young women in mining communities is the lack of educational opportunities. Prof. Kwagala disclosed that many adolescent girls drop out of school due to financial hardships, early pregnancies, or the need to contribute to household incomes. Without proper education and vocational training, they remain trapped in exploitative labour conditions with little hope for economic mobility.
To break this cycle, Prof. Kwagala called for community-driven initiatives that provide skills training, scholarships, and mentorship programs. Equipping young women with alternative income-generating skills can empower them to seek better economic opportunities beyond the mining sector.
Prof. Kwagala called for urgent action from the government, civil society, and private stakeholders to improve conditions for young women in artisanal mining. She recommended strengthening labor laws to ensure gender equity and protect women from exploitation, establishing mobile clinics and reproductive health education programs, and creating financial literacy and entrepreneurship initiatives to help women diversify their income. Additionally, she emphasized the need for gender sensitization programs to challenge harmful cultural norms and reduce gender-based violence. She also underscored the importance of advocating for increased resource allocation to adolescent and youth programs at all levels, supporting collaborative efforts to regulate excessive alcohol and drug abuse, establishing rehabilitation centers where feasible, and implementing interventions that engage male miners in promoting sexual behavior change and responsible parenthood.
Testimonies from adolescent girls and women empowered by the Women RISE project:
This being the end of the project dissemination, the participants listened to powerful testimonies from some of the adolescent girls and young women whose life was positively transformed through the Women RISE project. The transformation has had multiplier effects extending to uplifting the livelihoods of children, families and communities, where these girls and women conduct their work.
“We were monitored, trained in financial literacy and saving, entrepreneurship and equipped with life skills. We have created alternative sources of income. We have been transformed and empowered to lead better lives,” testified some of the adolescent girls and young women amidst applause from the stakeholders.
One participant emphasized that the support from partners and stakeholders is crucial for sustaining this momentum. It was disclosed that plans are already in place to expand the reach of the project, to integrate community health and education systems, and address new challenges that may arise in these rapidly growing districts.
Courtesy of the Women RISE project, the young people speak with confidence. They are in position to speak publicly and advocate for the needs of their peers. Many are making informed decisions about their lives, choosing to abstain from unprotected sex, using family planning methods, and making more assertive decisions about relationships. One participant mentioned, “I have learned that protecting my life is essential. I don’t go with anyone. I ask myself, ‘Who am I going with? What is his health status?”
Another young person shared, “This program changed my life. I was tested for HIV, and I am now confident in my decision not to engage with any man before knowing his status. Abstinence is my choice.”
What does this say about resilience? These young people have demonstrated remarkable growth and are now capable of standing resiliently in case of future crises. They have learned how to manage businesses, with many having multiple income streams. One notable success story is a young person who, after dropping out of school due to teenage pregnancy, financed her child’s delivery using proceeds from her business and she testified that she went back to school to complete her studies.
Peer mentorship has contributed to both personal and community resilience. Through these programs, young people have built self-esteem and empathy while advocating for others. One peer mentor said, “I have made many new friends. Even older people trust me, and I am able to help them, even escorting them to health facilities when necessary.”
Initiatives being undertaken by the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development:
Addressing the stakeholders, Mr. Fred Ngabirano, Commissioner for Youth and Children Affairs at the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development highlighted the power of grassroots transformation in fostering economic and social development.
He emphasized the commitment of the Government of Uganda to addressing social challenges and creating sustainable opportunities for young people and women in vulnerable sectors. He said that among the various initiatives under the Ministry’s mandate is the Juakali Center, which plays a crucial role in identifying and supporting women and young people in their economic journeys. “Once we organize groups of young people, we collaborate with Juakali to provide them with opportunities,” he explained.
As the project beneficiaries shared their transformational experiences, Mr. Ngabirano highlighted key lessons drawn from their testimonies. He emphasized that transformation is not solely reliant on financial aid, but rather on effective strategic planning, capacity development and resource management.
“Some individuals have received venture capital funds such as Youth Livelihood Programme, but have not made significant progress. This raises an important question—what is the key to success? The answer lies in effective financial planning and passion-driven work; it is about how well you plan and utilize what you have,” he remarked.
The Commissioner emphasized the importance of passion in professional and entrepreneurial success, saying, “If someone lacks passion for what they do, no amount of facilitation will drive success.” He thus lauded the young entrepreneurs who have followed their passion—whether in hairdressing, the grocery business, or other trades—and have, as a result, seen remarkable progress in their endeavors.
Mr. Ngabirano called for prioritizing human resource development as a means to transform people. He elaborated that investing in developing human potential should be a key focus. As the government continues to collaborate with academic institutions and grassroots organizations, Mr. Ngabirano stated that the future of youth and women empowerment remains promising.
Strategies being undertaken by the Ministry of Health:
Dr. Allan Kasozi from the Division of Adolescent Health at the Ministry of Health highlighted the pressing health challenges faced by young people, particularly those engaged in artisanal mining. He stressed the urgent need for targeted interventions to protect vulnerable youth working in hazardous conditions. Dr. Kasozi revealed that the Ministry of Health is finalizing the Adolescent Health Hosted Implementation Plan, a comprehensive strategic document that will guide adolescent health policies and interventions for the next five years. He underscored the importance of targeted service delivery, ensuring that healthcare efforts effectively reach both remote areas and the most at-risk populations.
Dr. Kasozi expressed his deep appreciation for the resilience and hard work of all stakeholders involved in the Women RISE project research, acknowledging the critical insights it has provided. He emphasized that while policymakers may not always have the opportunity to closely observe the daily realities of young miners, this research has shed light on crucial issues that demand immediate attention.
“The findings from this study, alongside the voices of young people, have been incredibly enlightening. These insights will play a pivotal role in shaping our strategies at the Ministry of Health to effectively tackle the challenges faced by adolescent populations, particularly those in vulnerable sectors like artisanal mining,” he stated.
He credited the project research team for their invaluable contributions, noting that their work provides vital evidence to inform better health planning for Uganda’s youth. “This research presents an opportunity for us to lead with informed solutions. It reinforces the need for a multi-faceted approach to adolescent health, ensuring that young people, regardless of their circumstances, receive the care and support they need.”
Contribution from the Ministry of Local Government:
Mr. Rashid Biruma from the Ministry of Local Government who represented the Commissioner for Local Council Development, Mr. Swizin Mugyema stated the critical role of research in addressing national challenges. He acknowledged the existence of numerous problems facing the country and highlighted that the identification of specific issues through research is crucial in finding solutions. He noted that the workshop had provided valuable insights into the scale of the challenges, which extend beyond the specific areas being discussed.
One major issue raised during the workshop was the problem of child labour in mines. Mr. Biruma referred to this as a significant concern, particularly due to its association with crimes and children in conflict with the law. He praised the Ministry of Labour, Gender, and Social Development for its efforts in rehabilitating children involved in such activities, particularly through diversion programs aimed at reintegrating them into society.
“Child labour is associated to various related issues, including crime and children in conflict with the law. This is a critical issue that requires urgent attention, and we must explore ways to address and redress it. We are grateful for the support from the Ministry, which is assisting us, particularly through diversion programs aimed at rehabilitating children involved in criminal activities,” he said.
In addition to tackling child labour, Mr. Biruma highlighted the importance of leadership, particularly at the local government level. He reiterated that the Ministry of Local Government would continue ensuring compliance with legal frameworks and enforcement of rights.
Education, both formal and civic, was another point of emphasis. He encouraged the use of established community structures to promote civic education, stressing that awareness and community engagement are crucial to the success of these initiatives. He also urged the dissemination of information to local government officials to ensure compliance with community engagement strategies.
Presentation of findings on sexual behaviours of young male artisanal miners in Kassanda District:
In a study conducted by Ms. Patience Natwijuka, a Master of Science student funded by the project and her team at Makerere University, critical insights have been revealed regarding the sexual behaviors and factors influencing consistent condom use among adolescent and young male artisanal miners in Kassanda District, Central Uganda. The research, which focused on mining sites in Kagaba and Kayonza, sheds light on the health risks faced by this vulnerable population and highlights the urgent need for targeted interventions.
The study, which involved a survey of 304 male participants aged 15 to 24 years, sought to assess sexual activity, multiple sexual partnerships, transactional sex, and socioeconomic determinants affecting condom use. The findings paint a stark picture of the realities young miners face, emphasizing the intersection of economic vulnerability, risky behaviors, and health outcomes.
One of the most alarming findings was that the median age of first sexual intercourse among these young miners was 16 years. On average, they reported having 16 lifetime sexual partners, with around 8 sexual partners in the last 12 months alone. Such patterns of sexual activity significantly heighten the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV, raising concerns about the well-being of these young workers.
The study revealed that 24% of respondents had contracted an STI in the past year, while 55% engaged in multiple sexual partnerships. Additionally, 11% reported involvement in transactional sex, where economic hardships often push them into high-risk relationships. Compounding the risks, 56% of the adolescents reported alcohol use, a factor known to impair judgment and contribute to risky sexual behaviors.
A deeper analysis of the factors affecting consistent condom use revealed that marital status and parental survival played significant roles. Married or cohabiting young miners were less likely to use condoms consistently compared to their single counterparts. The findings highlighted the need for strategies to ensure that all young people irrespective of survival status of parents, receive guidance on safer sex.
Given these findings, Ms. Natwijuka and her research team strongly recommend the implementation of comprehensive health education programs in mining areas. These programs should focus on raising awareness about HIV, STIs, and the importance of condom use among young artisanal miners. Her study serves as a wake-up call to all stakeholders, urging collaborative efforts to safeguard the well-being of young artisanal miners and mitigate the rising health crisis in Uganda’s mining communities.
Way Forward:
Prof. Kwagala shared that education remains a key pillar in the discussions, with a strong focus on empowering adolescent girls and boys in mining districts. Notably, districts such as Kassanda have made significant strides by offering vocational training opportunities, equipping young people with practical skills for a sustainable future. These initiatives have enabled many, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, to return to school or enroll in vocational institutions, providing them with viable alternatives beyond the mining industry and fostering long-term economic empowerment.
While the challenges remain, the commitment from district leaders to continue building on the project’s successes is clear. One participant emphasized that the support from partners and stakeholders is crucial for sustaining this momentum. Plans are already in place to expand the reach of the project, to further integrate community health and education systems, and address new challenges that may arise in these rapidly growing districts.
In Kassanda, for example, district leaders are focused on ensuring that more adolescent girls and boys have access to the resources they need to succeed. With the involvement of more partners and stakeholders, including local schools, health facilities, and NGOs, there is confidence that the district will continue to make progress in addressing the needs of its young people.
Prof. Kwagala emphasized that an integrated, community-driven approach is key to addressing mining community challenges. She noted that peer mentorship and education are empowering youth to advocate for safer practices and healthier lifestyles. While challenges remain, she highlighted the collective effort of local leaders, project partners, and youth as a model for lasting change. With continued commitment, the project aims to create a lasting impact, fostering healthier and more resilient generations.
She noted that outreach efforts to schools are underway to address the alarming dropout rates among girls, many of whom face early pregnancies, mining work, or repeated pregnancies. Prof. Kwagala highlighted that some girls become pregnant as early as 12 years old, stressing the urgency of interventions to create better opportunities for them.
Prof. Kwagala explained that several initiatives are in place to keep girls in school. For instance, peer mentors in Kassanda have reached out to 720 pupils. These provide age-appropriate education on menstrual hygiene, abstinence, and other essential health topics. The impact on schools has been ignificant, with peer educators playing a key role in engaging parents as well and in guiding children to health facilities for necessary services.
Prof. Kwagala highlighted the vital role of private-public partnerships in the program’s success, where partnership with an NGO and public health facility providers in partnership with trained peer mentors, through outreach or mobile clinics facilitated delivery of services like counseling, PEP, contraceptives, STI testing, HIV testing, and ARVs. This has led to increased service utilization and referrals among young people, fostering trust in these resources. She also emphasized the importance of mobile clinics in reaching remote communities with limited access to healthcare. These clinics have successfully built trust and confidence, offering a more accessible and reliable healthcare option.
Business & Management
Driving Sustainable Growth: Eco-Efficiency and Cleaner Production are vital in shaping the future of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises
By Ritah Namisango and Christopher Kaahwa
On Wednesday, 15th April 2026, the School of Business under the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) at Makerere University hosted a project dissemination workshop that brought together researchers, practitioners, policymakers and faculty members.
The workshop focused on the presentation of findings and policy recommendations from the research project titled: Promoting Eco-Efficiency (EE) and Cleaner Production (CP) for sustainable development of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Uganda.
Opening the workshop, Associate Professor Godfrey Akileng, the Dean, School of Business represented by Dr. Anthony Tibaingana, the Head, Department of Marketing and Management welcomed participants and highlighted the role of research in connecting Makerere University to the wider community.
He noted that MSMEs form the backbone of Uganda’s economy making up the largest share of businesses across sectors and because of this, any meaningful research must speak directly to their realities.
The Dean of the School of Business commended the project team namely Dr. Marion Nanyanzi, Dr. Kasim Sendawula, and Associate Professor Peter K. Turyakira, for positively contributing to the university’s goal of being a research-led institution.
He explained that Eco-Efficiency (EE) is about using available resources wisely not just for today, but for tomorrow and generations to come. “In a country where most businesses operate on a small scale, understanding how to produce more with less is essential,” he said.
Dr. Tibaingana acknowledged the government of Uganda through the Makerere University Research and Innovation Fund (MakRIF) for funding the research project titled, Promoting Eco-Efficiency (EE) and Cleaner Production (CP) for sustainable development of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Uganda. He recognized Professor Fred Masagazi Masaazi, Chairperson of the Mak RIF Grants Management Committee (GMC) and thanked him, for gracing the dissemination workshop with his personal presence.
Achieving sustainable growth through eco-efficiency and cleaner production
The main presentation led by Dr. Marion Nanyanzi, the Principal Investigator (P.I.) unpacked the research project in a detailed and practical way. At its core, the study explored how MSMEs, particularly in the Food and Beverage (F&B) Service sector in Uganda can achieve sustainable growth by balancing three key areas: economic performance, environmental responsibility and social contribution.
From a social perspective, Dr. Nanyanzi stated that businesses were found to be playing an important role in creating jobs, supporting local suppliers, and contributing to community activities. She added that the study was also focused on reducing environmental harmful practices such as reliance on charcoal and firewood and adopting cleaner energy sources that would economically yield increased profits for enterprises.
The study revealed that while these enterprises significantly contribute to employment and government revenue, they face serious constraints pointing out that high operational costs especially electricity remain a major challenge. “ So, many businesses are forced to turn to cheaper alternatives that are harmful to both health and environment creating a difficult balance between survival and sustainability,” she said.
Amidst these challenges, the study highlighted the resilience and creativity of entrepreneurs. It was found out that many business owners have developed coping strategies to remain operational with some of them adjusting production depending on customer flow especially in areas such as Kampala where demand fluctuates with academic calendars. Dr. Nanyanzi noted that other entrepreneurs have found ways to manage resources more carefully for instance through switching on refrigerators at night when electricity tariffs are lower or re-using water to reduce costs.
Makerere University Guest House highlights its cleaner production strategy
Adding a practical perspective to the study, Mr. Patrick Ojiambo Lwande, the manager of Makerere University Guest House shared how cleaner production is being implemented by the facility in its everyday operations. He mentioned that the facility undertakes waste segregation, recycling and proper waste management as key practices. “Organic waste is separated and repurposed, recyclable materials are re-used and hazardous waste is carefully handled to avoid environmental pollution,” he stated.
Appreciation of eco-efficiency and cleaner production measures
These practices reflect an emerging understanding of eco-efficiency by business owners who are beginning to recognize that reducing waste and conserving resources can directly improve their production line.
The study also found out that many enterprises are making efforts towards cleaner production. Hygiene standards are being improved, waste is better managed and emissions are controlled through simple measures such as chimneys and ventilation system. In some cases, food waste is used as animal feed while other organic materials are re-used in farming. However, the progress to transition towards more sustainable practices is slowed down by various obstacles including limited financial capacity, lack of technical skills and low awareness among business owners.
Key recommendations
To address these gaps, the project team proposed the following practical recommendations:
- Increasing access to affordable financing by government and financial institutions through introducing subsidies, grants, or low-interest green financing schemes to support investment in cleaner production technologies,
- Promoting public-private partnerships to lower the cost of eco-efficient equipment and infrastructure,
- Undertaking capacity building and training programmes, awareness and sensitization campaigns,
- Strengthening institutional and regulatory frameworks, research and innovation support,
- Providing support for small and informal businesses by designing tailored interventions for micro and small enterprises, and
- Encouraging business clustering and cooperative models to enable shared access to eco-efficient technologies and resources.
MakRIF supports research that addresses national priorities
Professor Fred Masagazi Masaazi, Chairperson of Mak-RIF Grants Management Committee (GMC) emphasized the importance of research that addresses national priorities, noting that government support for research is meant to generate practical solutions.
Professor Masagazi Masaazi highlighted the critical role of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Uganda’s economy, describing the research presented as both timely and relevant. “This is exactly the kind of research Uganda needs — research that directly impacts society and supports economic transformation,” he said.
He encouraged researchers to explore collaborations across disciplines. “Bringing together expertise from different fields can lead to stronger and more impact-oriented solutions that respond to the country’s development needs,” he added. He also called for greater engagement with policymakers and industry players during dissemination.
Research and Industry pathways
The Dean, School of Business, Associate Professor Godfrey Akileng urged researchers, faculty and participants at the dissemination workshop to rethink how research translates into real economic value, emphasizing stronger research to industry pathways at Makerere University and beyond.
Promoting environmental compliance
Mr. Peter Ssekajja, Senior Environmental Officer (Cleaner Production), National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) informed participants about the ongoing efforts to promote environmental compliance, referencing the establishment of a Compliance Assistance Unit and the introduction of the National Environment Sustainability Awards as some of the supporting measures.
He stated that these initiatives aim to support businesses in adopting sustainable practices while recognizing those that are leading the way. “Environment is no longer just about enforcement, but also about guidance, innovation and collaboration,” he emphasized.
Mr. Ssekajja reflected on the changing nature of environmental challenges as populations grow and resources becoming more strained. He appealed for efficient and responsible use of resources by business owners. He implored the business owners to consider sustainability not as a burden, but as an opportunity.
Participants enlightened on eco-efficiency and cleaner production
Dr. Jude Mugarura, the Head, Department of Marketing and Management, appreciated the dissemination workshop which presented them with an opportunity to listen to both the research project team and two practitioners namely Makerere University Guest House, and the National Management Environment Authority (NEMA). “We are therefore able to bridge the academia and the field of practice,” said Dr. Mugarura.
Dr. Seperia Bwadene Wanyama, from the School of Business, thanked Mr. Peter Ssekajja from NEMA for his presentation on cleaner production and eco-efficiency, which demonstrated to the participants some of the day-to-day wasteful practices with respect to resources, that they were engaged in, without knowing the implications. A key highlight focused on the usage of water in toilets which indicates the button to press after a short call, and the one to press after a long call, which would greatly save water consumption. “Learning is a continuous process. I have learned from the presentations of the findings by the research project team, as well as, Mr. Peter Ssekajja, who provided an informative presentation on real life practices on eco-efficiency and cleaner production.”
Conclusion: Toward a Clean and Resilient Economy
The workshop concluded with a strong call for collective action to support MSMEs in adopting eco-efficient practices. With the right support, small businesses can become engines of sustainable development. “This study provides practical insights that, if implemented, can transform MSMEs into drivers of sustainable development,” Dr. Sendawula emphasized.
Overall, the research outlines a clear pathway toward a greener, more resilient Ugandan economy—where MSMEs thrive while contributing to environmental sustainability and social well-being.
Academics, researchers and students at Makerere University have been urged to deepen research into whether international donors cooperate or compete in the provision of aid, amid growing concerns that shifts by major funders could significantly affect service delivery in developing countries.
The call was made during a public lecture delivered on April 16, 2026, by French economist Nathalie Ferriere, titled “Donor Cooperation or Competition: What Do We Know from Economics Research and What Should We Investigate.” The lecture, part of the Environment for Development Initiative seminar series, attracted faculty, researchers and students .
Ferriere, an Associate Professor at Sciences Po Aix affiliated with the Aix-Marseille School of Economics, is in Uganda for a two-week research engagement involving consultations with government institutions including the Ministries of Finance and Health as well as local governments.
Study Donor Reactions to Aid Withdrawals
Ferriere said her research focuses on how donors respond when a major funder withdraws support particularly in sensitive sectors such as family planning.
“My research here is about the interaction between family planning providers’ aid. I look at how the withdrawal of US aid in given years affects the spending of other donors,” she explained.
She noted that her findings show a delayed but concerning pattern.
“Once the US stops giving family planning aid, other donors at the beginning do not react for one or two years but after, they also start to reduce funding,” she said.
Ferriere warned that such trends could have direct implications for countries like Uganda, where a significant portion of health services relies on foreign aid.
“If you have a decrease in this aid, you will have a decrease in family planning provision,” she said adding that governments must anticipate such shifts.
“If you want to keep the same level of services, the government should increase its own expenditure. My next research will be to understand how governments respond in such situations,” she added.
Lecture Opens New Research Frontiers
College Principal and EfD centre Director Edward Bbaale described the lecture as timely and aligned with the university’s strategic direction to strengthen research and international collaboration.
“The topic speaks a lot to me because it opens up research frontiers. What should we really take on as researchers? How else can we look at cooperation or competition in terms of aid?” Bbaale said.
He commended Ferriere for partnering with Makerere researchers on aid-related studies, noting that such collaborations are critical for building a research-driven institution.
“We are excited that of all universities in Africa, you chose to work with researchers from Makerere University,” he said.
Bbaale emphasized that the university is positioning itself as a research-led institution, with internationalization and partnerships at its core.
“A research university is not only about teaching. It is about meetings like this to exchange ideas, to understand where we are and where we are going,” he added.
Donor Behaviour Key to Development Outcomes
Lecturer John Bosco Oryema said the lecture underscored the importance of understanding donor dynamics for countries dependent on external funding.
“When a big donor behaves in a specific way, other donors will follow in the same way,” Oryema noted.
“For developing countries that depend on aid, we need to study the behaviour of our donors. When one reduces, others may also reduce, and our development interventions may fail,” he warned.
Researcher Alice Nalwera highlighted the tendency of donors to align their decisions based on actions taken by leading funders.
“Most donors tend to cooperate and follow what others are doing. There is an aspect of information sharing,” she said.
“What the US is doing will greatly influence what other donors do in terms of disbursement,” she added..
Evelyn Nizame, a third-year economics student said cooperation among donors is essential.
“It is very important for donors to cooperate on key projects to deliver quality services to the people,” she said.
Another student, Nabakoza Joan, emphasized the risks of fragmented aid. “When there is a lot of competition, there is fragmentation of funds. But if donors cooperate under one policy, it leads to better outcomes for developing countries,” she explained.
Business & Management
EfD Uganda sends off internee Ruth Asiimwe to African Development Bank, prides in strong mentorship
Environment for Development (EfD) Centre at Makerere University on 16th April 2026 bid farewell to its third intern, Ruth Asiimwe, who has secured a position with the African Development Bank in Juba South Sudan, with staff and alumni hailing the programme’s growing record of nurturing top talent.
Asiimwe’s departure adds to a list of successful transitions by EfD interns into key national and international institutions. The centre’s first intern, Alice Nalweera, joined the Economic Policy Research Centre (EPRC) before becoming an assistant lecturer at Makerere University’s School of Economics, while the second, Lean Ankunda, was recruited by the Bank of Uganda.
Speaking at the farewell, Policy Engagement Specialist Peter Babyenda said Asiimwe’s achievement reflects the strength of EfD’s mentorship model.
“In the same way we bid farewell to Alice and Lean as they moved on to EPRC and Bank of Uganda respectively, today we are here again because of the mentorship we are providing,” Babyenda said. “Ruth is now joining the African Development Bank in Juba, and we are proud of her.”
Babyenda also credited the EfD leadership and partners, noting that the Sida-funded centre, established in 2019, has consistently invested in building research capacity among young scholars.
“We started this mentorship programme to help students learn from what we are doing and become researchers. Wherever you go, please represent us well,” he added.
“A nursery bed for young professionals”
The Director of the EfD Makerere Centre, Prof. Edward Bbaale, described the centre as a “nursery bed” for young professionals, emphasizing its role in shaping future leaders.
“EfD is a place where we nurture seedlings and later transplant them into the main garden. Ruth has been very diligent and professional, and I have no doubt she will represent us well,” Bbaale said.
He added that Asiimwe’s move extends the centre’s influence beyond Uganda. “She is not leaving the EfD network; rather, our footprint is expanding to the African Development Bank and to another country. This makes collaboration easier and strengthens our presence.”
Centre Manager and Supervisor Gyaviira Ssewankambo said the internship programme was introduced to strengthen internal capacity and has since evolved into a critical talent pipeline.
“Ruth has made us proud. She set a high benchmark, and we expect those coming in to build on that,” Ssewankambo said.
Research Fellow Dr. Nicholas Kilimani highlighted the importance of targeted mentorship and talent identification in building a strong team.
“We are dealing with highly specialised talent. The approach of identifying and nurturing dedicated young professionals has paid off, and Ruth is a clear example,” he said.
Staff members also praised Asiimwe’s character, describing her as humble, disciplined, and professional. Data Manager Fred Kasalirwe noted that beyond academic excellence, her soft skills set her apart.
“You may be academically strong, but without soft skills it is difficult to thrive. Ruth is extremely humble and will blend well in any environment,” he said.
Administrative Officer Hilda Makune echoed similar sentiments, saying Asiimwe’s positive attitude and interpersonal skills made her stand out.
“We will miss her. Her humility and teamwork have been exceptional, and we are confident she will represent us well,” Makune said.
Alice Nalwera, the pioneer intern, urged Asiimwe to uphold the centre’s reputation and inspire others.
“Wherever we go, we carry EfD with us. Talk good about the centre and inspire other young women to follow this path,” Nalwera said.
In her remarks, Asiimwe credited EfD for shaping her professional journey, emphasizing the importance of a supportive work environment.
“I have learned that working in a good environment with supportive leadership motivates you to do better. EfD has given me that foundation,” she said.
She also thanked her supervisors and colleagues for mentorship and guidance, noting that the experience had prepared her for the demands of her new role.
Asiimwe’s departure coincided with the introduction of a new intern, Kevin Apolot, who takes over as the centre continues its mentorship programme aimed at producing the next generation of researchers and policy professionals.
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