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Makerere-Incubated Safe Bangle Technologies Wins Prestigious World Summit Award for Innovation Against GBV

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By Joseph Odoi

In a groundbreaking achievement, SafeBangle Technologies, an innovation incubated at Makerere University, has won the prestigious World Summit Award 2025 for its groundbreaking contribution to the fight against gender-based violence (GBV) in Africa. This remarkable honor comes in recognition of the development and implementation of a real-time domestic violence reporting bracelet.

The award was presented to the SafeBangle team that was represented by Saul Kabali, Messach Luminsa, and Janet Christine Nabaloga from SafeBangle Technologies at the WSA Global Congress in Hyderabad, India, where Uganda’s innovation potential was proudly showcased on a global stage.

The award was conferred in the Inclusion & Empowerment category for Safe Bangle’s cutting-edge solution; a wearable safety bracelet designed to address the pressing challenge of gender-based violence (GBV) across Africa.

The SafeBangle is a smartwatch-like, real-time domestic violence reporting bracelet that allows users to send SMS alerts via a single button press. Its core mission is to create a safer, more secure environment for women and children in Africa through innovative, affordable tech solutions.

According to Saul Kabali and Messach Luminsa, the innovators behind SafeBangle from SafeBangle Technologies, hosted at the Resilient African Network Lab. This award is very timely and a recognition that cements the importance of community rooted technology.

The team further stated that ‘’This award is a powerful affirmation of our mission and refuels our commitment to empowering Ugandan women and girls through innovation and technology. It influences our next steps by opening doors to new partnerships, increasing our credibility, and accelerating efforts to scale the SafeBangle nationally. We’re now more equipped to positively impact the daily lives of Ugandan women and girls through our SafeBangle bracelet.

To further the innovation, the team has called upon government to support the Safe Bangle Innovation

‘’Governments can support us by providing funding, facilitating policy support, and creating collaborative platforms for innovation. NGOs can help with grassroots outreach, and connect us to potential donors and funders interested in solving Sexual and Gender Based Violence amongst vulnerable communities; and tech partners can enhance scalability through infrastructure, data insights, and capacity building.

Moving forward, the team emphasized the importance of uniting innovation, partnership, and purpose to scale impact. “As we empower communities, invest in local solutions, and promote collaboration, we can transform how technology protects and uplifts women and girls across Uganda,” added the award-winning team.

The Story Behind the Safe Bangle Bracelet Innovation

According to the Safe Bangle innovators  Saul Kabali and Messach Luminsa , ‘’The inspiration behind SafeBangle came from a deeply personal place. ‘’We heard countless stories of women who couldn’t call for help during moments of danger. We were deeply affected by the story of Aisha, a young woman in a rural village who was attacked while walking home alone at night. With no way to call for help, she felt helpless and vulnerable. This incident made us realize the critical need for immediate reporting alert tools, accessible to women like Aisha. We knew technology could play a crucial role and this incident awakened a strong desire in us to create a solution’’

How the SafeBangle Real-time Domestic Violence Reporting Bracelet works. Makerere University School of Public Health/Resilient Africa Network (MakSPH/RAN), Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW), Somero Uganda, Safe Bangle Technologies roll out of a real-time domestic violence reporting bracelet. Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
How the SafeBangle Real-time Domestic Violence Reporting Bracelet works.

To Makerere University School of Public Health’s Dr. Juliet Kiguli, who collaborated closely with the team during the rollout of the bracelet, this award is a vote of confidence in the work of Makerere University, whose core function focuses on teaching, learning, community engagement, research, and innovation, all contributing to the university’s efforts in addressing domestic violence.

‘’The award-winning innovation stems from the findings of a longitudinal study led by the Makerere University School of Public Health.

While carrying out a study after the Covid-19 Pandemic, we identified gaps when it comes to reporting and response to Gender Based Violence (GBV) among women in informal settlements. Therefore, we used to incorporate the SafeBangle intervention to solve the problem of lack of affordable and immediate reporting mechanisms for violence using a bracelet that reports violence in real time

We’re excited about the progress so far, and with this recognition, we hope that more like-minded partners will join us to scale this initiative and ultimately help make the world a safer place for all.” Added Dr Kiguli of the Safe Bangle innovation potential

The research team, comprising Dr. Juliet Kiguli (Principal Investigator), Dr. Roy Mayega (Deputy Chief of Party, RAN), and Dr. Agnes Nyabigambo (Study Coordinator), piloted the bracelet under the PEER (Partnerships for Enhanced Engagement in Research) program with support from USAID and the National Academies of Sciences.

A consortium of partners, including SafeBangle Technologies, Makerere School of Public Health/RAN , the Medical College of Wisconsin, and Somero Uganda, implemented the rollout of the Domestic Violence Real-Time Reporting Bracelet. The initiative was supported by USAID and the National Academy of Sciences in Washington, DC. Key contributors to the project included Dr Juliet Kiguli Roy Mayega from Makerere University School of Public Health, Dr. Kelly Robbins, Dr. Lina Stankute-Alexander, Dr. Brent Wells, Dr. Melissa Trimble, and Uganda’s Dr. Gloria Kasozi at USAID. Wisconsin Madison Medical University’s Prof. Julia Dickson-Gomez was also a collaborator.

In terms of the acceptability of the SafeBangle innovation as a solution to GBV, the team has piloted the technology with more than 1,000 users, resulting in a 63% reduction in response times

During the event, SafeBangle Team participated in the “Equity by Design” panel, sharing insights on inclusive technology development with global experts including Dorothy Gordon, Abhishek Singh from India’s Ministry of Electronics and IT, Baroness Beeban Kidron, and representatives from UNESCO and WE Hub.

About SafeBangle Technologies

SafeBangle Technologies is a Ugandan social enterprise hosted at Resilient African Network Lab focused on addressing gender-based violence through innovative safety solutions. The company combines wearable technology with an interactive web platform to provide real-time reporting of violence and physical assaults, even in areas without internet connectivity. Founded in 2018, SafeBangle operates with a mission to make safety accessible and affordable for vulnerable populations, especially women and children.

Mak Editor

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Call for Apllication: The James M. Ntambi Postdoctoral Fellowship

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Professor James M. Ntambi, a professor in the UW–Madison Department of Biochemistry. Photo: wisc.edu

The James M. Ntambi Postdoctoral Fellowship offers an exciting opportunity for early-career scientists who have completed their Ph.D. training at a university in Africa. Fellows will be able to expand their existing research experience in biochemistry related to human metabolic diseases, continue their career development, and make impactful contributions to the scientific community upon their return to Africa.

The selected fellows will work in a cutting-edge research lab led by a faculty member from the University of Wisconsin–Madison Department of Biochemistry who will mentor and support the fellow throughout the duration of the fellowship.

The Department of Biochemistry is built on a commitment to excellence in basic research, established when it was founded in 1883, and continuing to the present day. Contributions by our researchers have dramatically changed our understanding of life and rank among the highlights of biochemistry to date. You can learn more about the Department’s history on our About page, and about the University of Wisconsin–Madison on the university’s main website.

Madison, Wisconsin is located northwest of Chicago, Illinois, an approximately 2.5 hours drive or bus ride from O’Hare International Airport.

Application materials must be uploaded by August 31, 2025.
Accompanying recommendations must be uploaded by September 15, 2025.

Visit the website to learn more, including eligibility details and how to apply: https://biochem.wisc.edu/the-james-m-ntambi-postdoctoral-fellowship

Mak Editor

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Partnering for Health: Makerere and AHF Uganda Cares Unite Against HIV/AIDS

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National Medical Director-AHF Uganda Cares, Dr. Lubanga Augustine hands over condom dispensers and condoms to the 91st Vice Guild President-H.E. Kadondi Gracious as officials witness on 30th July 2025. Makerere University and the Aids Healthcare Foundation (AHF) Uganda Cares meeting to collaborate on HIV/AIDS prevention and care services for the University’s student population, 30th July 2025, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

Makerere University and the Aids Healthcare Foundation (AHF) Uganda Cares on July 30, 2025 held a meeting focused on establishing and strengthening collaboration between the two institutions in the fight against HIV/AIDS. The collaboration will particularly focus on prevention and care services for the University’s student population.

Speaking at the event, the Deputy University Secretary, Mr. Kizito Simon who presided over the meeting mentioned that Makerere University is involved in human capital development, aiming to create a healthy population alongside an educated one. “It’s not only good to have an educated population, but a healthy population as well,” he noted.

Mr. Kizito stated that the government supports various interventions in HIV prevention, care, and treatment, with the Makerere University Infectious Diseases Institute (IDI) playing a leading supportive role. On this note, he encouraged AHF Uganda Cares to equally come on board in order to strengthen the fight against HIV/AIDS.

The Deputy University Secretary outlined the Makerere University strategic plan’s prioritization of engagement and partnerships with various sectors, including ministries, departments, agencies, international organizations, civil society, and the private sector in order to strengthen its research-led aspirations. He therefore encouraged Uganda Cares to support HIV AIDS services, including prevention, care, and treatment, and to collaborate in research and innovation, especially with faculty members already engaged in HIV AIDS-related research.

However, he highlighted the demographic vulnerability of Uganda’s young population, with 73.2% aged between zero and thirty years old, making them a high risk group for infections. “This is more than just a time bomb for all of us here, because this is the population which we are hoping to be productive in the later years,” he pointed out.

Makerere University and the Aids Healthcare Foundation (AHF) Uganda Cares meeting to collaborate on HIV/AIDS prevention and care services for the University’s student population, 30th July 2025, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
The meeting in session.

Mr. Kizito expressed appreciation for the wellness clinic initiative, which is poised to provide accessible sexual reproductive health services to students at no cost. On this note, he stressed the need to publicize these services to ensure students are aware of the available resources and are supported to overcome shyness and reluctance to seek help.

The 91st Guild President Makerere University, H.E. Ssentamu Churchill James with concern noted the increasing levels of irresponsible behavior among young people, which has led to the high risk of contracting STDs, and welcomed initiatives proposed by AHF Uganda Cares.

He further highlighted the recent concluded HIV awareness campaign with Guild Leaders and the Director of the Makerere University Hospital. The campaign was aimed at educating students about HIV and other STDs, emphasizing the importance of knowledge and awareness.

H.E. Ssentamu pointed out that the first year students who are soon arriving on Campus are a key target audience for these awareness efforts. He stressed the importance of abstinence but also emphasized the need for protection in case of emergencies.

The 91st Guild President suggested the possibility of counseling for those who have already contracted STDs. “I hope we can have an attachment of counselling for people that have already contracted diseases,” he stated.

He took note of existing efforts such as the government’s stock of contraception and the presence of health ministers at every hall of residence. In this regard, he proposed a linkage between the initiative and these health committee members through the Guild Minister of Health Affairs to ensure continuity.

National Medical Director of AHF Uganda Cares, Dr. Lubanga Augustine. Makerere University and the Aids Healthcare Foundation (AHF) Uganda Cares meeting to collaborate on HIV/AIDS prevention and care services for the University’s student population, 30th July 2025, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
National Medical Director of AHF Uganda Cares, Dr. Lubanga Augustine.

The National Medical Director-AHF Uganda Cares, Dr. Lubanga Augustine expressed gratitude for the opportunity to discuss collaboration with Makerere University. He particularly noted previous collaborations and the need to seize opportunities for future collaboration.

 He highlighted that AHF Uganda Cares provides cutting-edge medicine regardless of the patient’s ability to pay and advocates for conducive policies to increase access to HIV and STI services.

Dr. Lubanga emphasized the importance of addressing the gap in young people’s access to health services particularly for sexual health issues. He noted that even parents and guardians often avoid discussing sexual issues contributing to a lack of education awareness among young people.

He pointed out that funding for HIV prevention has shifted towards treatment despite the need for continued prevention efforts. In this, he called for increased advocacy and partnerships to secure funding for health services particularly for young people. He appreciated past interventions such as installing condom dispensers in hostels and the need for renewed partnerships with university leaders.

Dr. Lubanga expressed willingness to collaborate with the University Hospital to ensure that no one is left behind in HIV and STI services. As a sign of their commitment, AHF Uganda Cares handed over condom dispensers and condoms to the university.

Dr. Byamugisha Josaphat, Director at the Makerere University Hospital emphasized the importance of prevention in health, through programs such as STI prevention, HIV early treatment, and health education “Prevention is better than cure,” he said. He highlighted that the hospital has got satellite clinics at the Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute Kabanyolo (MUARIK) and the Jinja Campus, serving a significant number of students, staff and the public.

The Director discussed the need for health education and information materials, including pamphlets and WhatsApp messages, to educate students and the public about HIV. “The university is already running health education programs for students and surrounding communities,” he stated.

Prof. Josaphat Byamugisha (Right) makes his remarks as Dr. Lubanga Augustine (Left) and Mr. Simon Kizito (Centre) listen. Makerere University and the Aids Healthcare Foundation (AHF) Uganda Cares meeting to collaborate on HIV/AIDS prevention and care services for the University’s student population, 30th July 2025, Main Building, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
Prof. Josaphat Byamugisha (Right) makes his remarks as Dr. Lubanga Augustine (Left) and Mr. Simon Kizito (Centre) listen.

Dr. Byamugisha further highlighted the importance of male circumcision as a preventive measure against HIV, which is already being offered at the university hospital. “We are aware that safe male circumcision can prevent about 60% of male HIV,” he explained. 

He talked about the need for supplies and human resources for screening, emphasizing the importance of protecting the university community and surrounding areas. “The university hospital aims to go beyond just serving students but also help the broader community,” he added.

The Hospital Director emphasized the importance of peer-to-peer interaction between students and staff to enhance health education and support as this could help the students open up more on sexual issues which may not be the case with a person who is older than them. He further explained students undertaking internship at the Makerere University Hospital already have the advantage of easily talking to the staff about these issues.

Dr. Byamugisha highlighted the need for post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) drugs and counseling, ensuring that people understand the importance of taking these drugs. He suggested specific targets for collaboration, such as supporting a medical officer and providing services rather than cash. “Many a time we don’t need cash, we need in-kind support through a person or provision of a service,” he stated.

In his final remarks, he appealed for support to make services more accessible to students and reiterated the importance of collaboration to protect students and the broader community.

The Deputy Principal, College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT)-Prof. Kizito Maria Kasule, highlighted that 75% of young people contracting HIV are between the ages of 14 and 24, indicating a need for targeted prevention efforts.

He pointed out the poverty among girls as a significant issue contributing to the spread of HIV because they look at the sexual related practices as means of earning a living which has led to the high spread of these infections.

Prof. Kasule emphasized the importance of involving different religious institutions to sensitize people about the organization’s work and counteract negative perceptions. He suggested that the organization should collaborate with various religious institutions. “Even Born Agains are involved in the sexual relationships but cannot come out to express themselves,” he added.

He stressed the importance of open discussions about gender and sexuality free from fear and trouble, and he raised the need for sensitization within and outside the institution.

 Coordinator of the HIV program at AHF Uganda Cares, Mrs. Mbabazi Martha, introduced the girl’s act program which aims to empower young women to address issues affecting them at various levels, from primary school to national policy. “The program encourages young women to raise their voices and influence policies that affect their lives,” she commented.

She highlighted the success of the program in engaging young people and influencing policy changes at different levels of governance, such as the distribution of sanitary pads in schools and communities.

Mrs. Mbabazi emphasized the importance of skilling centers for young girls to gain economic independence and avoid exploitation. She highlighted the success of webinars and dialogues in raising awareness and influencing behavior change. In closing, she called for continued collaboration with various stakeholders to support the empowerment of young people and address the root causes of HIV infection.

Mr. Amojong Trevor, a representative from AHF Uganda Cares, introduced the “Boys to Men” initiative program to address poor health seeking behavior and lack of testing among boys. He emphasized that the need to empower girls should go hand in hand with focusing on boys to prevent the spread of HIV.

He mentioned the low demand of female condoms and suggested demonstration on how to use them to increase awareness and usage.

About AHF Uganda Cares

Aids Healthcare Foundation (AHF) Uganda Cares an NGO based in the USA operating in 47 countries, including 14 in Africa. AHF Uganda Cares started in 2002 in the Masaka region and now operates in 32 districts with over seven health facilities. The organization supports over 203,000 lives on HIV treatment and has tested over 7 million Ugandans for HIV.

The organization offers HIV prevention services, including the ABC (Abstinence, Be Faithful, Condom) approach, and provides about 6 million condoms annually.

Nancy Atwenda

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CHS Annual Report 2024

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Left to Right: Mr. Evarist Bainomugisha, Mr. Deus Tayari Mujuni, Mr. Simon Kizito, Prof. Damalie Nakanjako, Prof. Bruce Kirenga, Dr. David Patrick Kateete (Rear), Prof. Henry Alinaitwe, Dr. Richard Idro (Rear), Mr. Patrick Akonyet and Prof. Annettee Nakimuli at the handover ceremony on 2nd December 2024. Handover of Principal Office by Prof. Damalie Nakanjako to Assoc. Prof. Bruce Kirenga, 2nd December 2024, College Boardroom, College of Health Sciences (CHS), Makerere University, New Mulago Hospital Complex, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

It is with great honor that I present to you the Makerere University College of Health Sciences Annual Report 2024. On behalf of the entire College of Health Sciences Community, I express my sincerest thanks and gratitude to the college management team that delivered the work led by Principal Professor Damalie Nakanjako.

The reporting saw several significant achievements that you will be able to read in this report. Notable among these achievements included kick starting the activities to celebrate 100 years since the medical school was started (CHS@100). The College of Health Sciences led and participated in a number of conferences, research dissemination and collaborations notably the college flagship scientific conference, the Joint Annual Scientific Health Conference (JASH) under the theme, “Global Health Security: Partnerships for Epidemic Response and Control in SubSaharan Africa”. Other activities included: hosting Dr. Yin Ye, President of the BGI group in China, a leading institution in genomics research and a manufacturer of whole genome sequencers (alongside illumina Inc. in California), several research dissemination activities of key studies and a symposium on parenting, a ground breaking initiative of our Child Health and Development Centre.

Our faculty continued to engage in research along teaching and providing clinical care and other services in our teaching site. About 400 publications were published and I congratulate all those who made a contribution to this scholarly achievement.

In the area of teaching and learning, I thank all staff academic and non-academic who ensured that our students were taught and examined. I congratulate the School of Biomedical Sciences for having the Biomedical Sciences programme accredited. Two clinical fellowships were also approved by the Uganda Medical and Dental Practitioners Council.

The College of Health Sciences has achieved a lot in this reporting year and the previous years. A lot remains to be done. My team is ready and prepared to take on the challenges of the college in our administration period of 2024-2028.

I wish you all a nice and enjoyable read.

Assoc. Professor Bruce J. Kirenga
PRINCIPAL

Zaam Ssali

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