Business & Management
Swedish Ambassador Calls on Uganda to Lead Africa’s E-Mobility Revolution
By Monica Meeme and Jane Anyango
Kampala, July 2, 2025
The 4th Cohort of the Inclusive Green Economy (IGE) Fellows 2024–2025 has graduated with certificates at a colorful ceremony held at the Kampala Kolping Hotel. The new IGE cohort 2025–2026 was also introduced during the event. The fellows—senior public servants from five key government institutions—completed a year-long training on green economic transformation, focusing on reducing emissions in Uganda’s transport sector. The participating institutions included the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development (specifically the new Climate Finance Unit), Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development, Ministry of Water and Environment, the National Planning Authority, and the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA).
The IGE Fellowship, funded by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida), is a capacity-building initiative coordinated by the University of Gothenburg in collaboration with Uganda’s Makerere University. This year’s program brought together senior officials from Uganda’s public sector to address policy and practical challenges in promoting e-mobility and reducing transport emissions.
The graduation ceremony attracted over 120 participants from Uganda’s ministries and agencies in water, minerals, and energy, as well as private sector players, academia, and civil society organizations. Dignitaries from Makerere University, including Vice-Chancellor Prof. Mukadasi Buyinza, several deans, and commissioners were present. Also in attendance were representatives from Kira Motors, UETCL, and other stakeholders in Uganda’s emerging e-mobility sector. The event was presided over by the Swedish Ambassador to Uganda, H.E. Maria Håkansson, as Chief Guest. Other dignitaries included the Minister for Science, Technology and Innovation, Hon. Dr. Monica Musenero; the Vice-Chancellor’s representative, Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi (also Academic Registrar and Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs); and the Principal of the College of Business and Management Sciences, who also leads the Uganda IGE program.
Sweden’s Call to Action
H.E. Maria Håkansson commended Uganda’s efforts to transition to a green economy and urged the country to lead Africa’s e-mobility revolution. Speaking at the ceremony, Ambassador Håkansson emphasized the importance of clean transport solutions for achieving climate goals and driving national development.
“It is a pleasure and honor to celebrate a cohort of professionals now better equipped to shape Uganda’s green economy,” she said. “This year’s focus on e-mobility is not just timely—it’s essential.”
She stressed that transitioning to electric mobility is more than a technological shift—it’s a paradigm change with broad social, economic, and environmental implications.
“Uganda, with its abundant renewable energy resources—solar, hydro, and bioenergy—is uniquely positioned to lead this transition,” she noted. “Clean energy must power clean transport.”
Drawing on Sweden’s experience, Håkansson said Swedish companies have set global benchmarks in electric vehicle technologies and infrastructure. She reaffirmed Sweden’s readiness to support Uganda in building a sustainable e-mobility ecosystem.
“Investment in charging infrastructure, incentives for EV production and use, and public awareness campaigns are essential to making this work,” she said.
She also called for a whole-of-society approach, urging collaboration between government, academia, the private sector, and civil society.
“It’s inspiring to see multi-sectoral representation here. This is exactly what’s needed to move from policy to impact,” she added.
A Message to the Graduates: Be the Pioneers
Addressing the 2024 IGE Fellows directly, Ambassador Håkansson described them as pioneers of Uganda’s green transformation.
“You have the knowledge, the skills, and the platform to influence policy, drive innovation, and lead by example,” she said. “Embrace that responsibility with passion and determination. Uganda’s future is in your hands.”
She concluded by congratulating the fellows and reaffirming Sweden’s commitment to supporting Uganda’s green economy agenda.
“Your achievements are not just personal milestones; they are part of a broader mission to ensure a better, cleaner, and more sustainable future for all.”
Minister Musenero Urges Integration of STI and Economic Policy
Minister for Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr. Monica Musenero, called for urgent alignment of science, technology, and innovation (STI) with economic policy to transition Uganda into a sustainable green economy.
She emphasized the role of public sector leadership in combating climate change through e-mobility, energy efficiency, and adaptive economic strategies.
“This cohort has shown what’s possible when we equip our civil service with tools and knowledge beyond traditional silos,” she said. “STI alone cannot transform our economy. Without the right incentives and economic policies, even the best innovations may not scale.”
E-mobility was central to the fellows’ training. From motorcycles to buses, Uganda’s electric vehicle transition was presented as both an environmental necessity and an economic opportunity. Kira Motors Corporation was highlighted as a standout example that has inspired regional interest.
“Our transport sector is a major emitter,” said one program coordinator. “But through e-mobility and better planning, we can make real progress. That’s why we brought together not only policymakers but also private sector players, utility providers, and boda-boda operators.”
The IGE Program operates in Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, and Ethiopia. It combines technical training, peer learning, and national policy engagement.
Fellows visited institutions in Rwanda, Kenya, and Ethiopia to exchange experiences and showcase Uganda’s successes—particularly the Kira EV initiative, which has become a regional benchmark.
Dr. Musenero emphasized Uganda’s commitment to using STI to meet its climate goals but cautioned against fragmented efforts.
“Africa may contribute less than 4% of global emissions, but we suffer disproportionately,” she said. “This is our moment to lead—not just through innovation, but by creating the right environment for innovation to flourish.”
Musenero Warns Against Passive Technology Adoption
Dr. Musenero urged African nations to stop passively receiving technology and instead harness it for economic sovereignty and relevance.
She argued that unless African countries take control of their role in the Fourth Industrial Revolution, they risk falling into cycles of dependency.
“We now have enough PhDs, institutions, and qualified leaders,” she said. “So it’s unacceptable that Africa receives this revolution as it did the last—awed by foreign inventions but unable to replicate them.”
While e-mobility is often framed as a climate solution, she urged fellows to focus on wealth creation, job generation, and manufacturing.
“Thriving means growing despite challenges. Harnessing is using innovation as a launchpad for prosperity. That’s the mindset we need.”
She warned that Uganda’s green transition must go beyond emissions reduction to address economic transformation.
Dr. Musenero offered a historical account of how past industrial revolutions left Africa behind—not due to lack of technology, but due to lack of understanding.
“The first industrial revolution didn’t start with a master plan—it started small and grew. But countries that embraced it changed forever. Africa, meanwhile, was herding cattle,” she said.
Now, with digital technology, AI, biotechnology, and green energy, Africa must act decisively.
“We were unprepared then. But now we have the tools, the minds, and the responsibility.”
She concluded with a call for internships and deeper policy engagement, suggesting that all IGE Fellows be seconded to her ministry.
“We need you to think—not just about policies, but about the why. Why e-mobility? Why now? What does it mean beyond emissions?”
Makerere University Urges Fellows to Champion Uganda’s Green Future
Prof. Mukadasi Buyinza, representing the Vice-Chancellor, urged the graduates to become ambassadors of the green economy, leading transformative change.
He praised the year-long training as timely and vital for addressing regional environmental and economic challenges.
“Technology never solves problems without creating others,” he said. “As we develop, we must manage the disruptions that come with it.”
The program, supported by Sida and hosted by Makerere University, equips senior government officials with tools for green policy-making. This year’s fellows came from finance, energy, environment, and planning sectors—central to Uganda’s development.
Prof. Buyinza highlighted the inclusion of climate finance officers, planners, and engineers, noting that cross-sector collaboration is key.
“This is how we build a green industrial economy,” he said. “Green skills, green jobs—that’s the call of the time.”
He celebrated the program’s regional scope, involving fellows from Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Ethiopia, and stressed knowledge-sharing across borders.
“This transition from diesel to electric vehicles offers real opportunities to improve air quality, reduce emissions, and modernize transport.”
He concluded by reminding graduates of their duty:
“You are our ambassadors. We count on you to deliver transformative, scalable programs that shape Uganda’s future.”
Prof. Edward Bbaale: “Seeds of Transformation”
Prof. Edward Bbaale, Director of the IGE Programme, described the initiative as a model of interdisciplinary excellence.
“You are seeds of transformation,” he said. “You’ve not just completed a course—you’re now champions of Uganda’s green transition.”
Fellows were drawn from five key institutions and focused on reducing transport emissions through energy efficiency and e-mobility.
Prof. Bbaale emphasized the need for cross-sector dialogue and noted that e-mobility is not just about technology—it’s also about infrastructure, incentives, and economics.
“Scientific breakthroughs must be matched by sound economic policy,” he said. “Without the right tools—taxes, subsidies, regulation—green initiatives may stall.”
He pointed out that Africa, though contributing less than 4% of global emissions, suffers disproportionately, demanding urgent and pragmatic responses.
He lauded the regional scope of the program and Uganda’s leadership, particularly the Kira EV model, which has drawn admiration across East Africa.
Prof. Bbaale credited Sida, the University of Gothenburg, Makerere leadership, and Dr. Musenero for bridging the gap between science and economics.
“Be the voice of change. Let your work reduce emissions, create jobs, and improve lives,” he urged the graduates.
The Journey of the 2024 IGE Fellows
When the 2024 IGE Cohort began in April, few anticipated the scale of transformation—both professionally and personally.
One fellow, Charles Ochen from the Ministry of Water and Environment, described it as “a lived experience in real policy transformation.”
Fellows engaged in immersive workshops, field visits, and practical sessions grounded in Uganda’s development context. A solar-powered facility visit early in the program emphasized the feasibility of renewables.
The cohort’s focus—“Energy Efficiency and Reduced Emissions in Uganda’s Transport Sector”—was timely. They studied everything from electric motorcycles to EV infrastructure.
Doreen Ankunda identified key barriers:
- Unpredictable tax exemptions
- Lack of standards for charging infrastructure
- Limited fiscal incentives
- Low public awareness
Their policy proposal included:
- National charging infrastructure guidelines
- Stable EV-related tax policies
- Incentives for local assembly
- Public education campaigns
Fellows also participated in peer learning across the region. Uganda’s Kira Motors was praised, while insights from Kenya and Rwanda enriched their understanding.
Charles Ochen emphasized: “You can’t bring policy without bringing stakeholders.”
Panel Discussion and Closing Remarks
Panelists highlighted both opportunities and challenges in Uganda’s e-mobility sector.
Kira Motors, Uganda’s flagship EV manufacturer, reported progress: nine electric buses in operation, over 300 operators trained, and expansion plans underway.
However, challenges persist:
- Low rural awareness and misinformation
- Shortage of trained EV technicians
- Limited charging infrastructure
- High EV costs for ordinary users
Policy gaps also remain. Drafts on EV standards and battery recycling await approval.
Commissioner Dr. Brian Isabirye stressed institutional alignment: “If Parliament can fund fuel cars, why not electric buses?”
Sweden’s ambassadorial team praised the IGE platform for uniting voices across sectors.
“Too often, we work in silos. This forum proves that dialogue leads to action.”
Monica Meeme is an Internee and Jane Anyango is the Communication Officer EfD Uganda
Business & Management
CoBAMS Orientation: Principal urges first year students to prioritize academics
Welcoming the first year students to Makerere University, and to the College of Business and Management Sciences in particular, the Principal-Prof. Edward Bbaale said: “Prioritize your academics. I urge you to remain focused. This is your season of hard work. You are here to contribute to the transformation of Uganda and the world at large.”
The Principal made the remarks on Day One (5th August 2025) of the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) Orientation. Organised by the College Management and 91st College Guild Council, the Orientation is scheduled to take place from 5th to 8th August 2025 at Makerere University Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility (CTF2 Auditorium).
The Principal congratulated the first year students upon joining CoBAMS-the leading training unit and supply chain of professionals in economics, business, statistics and planning fields.
“We are proud to be shaping the future economists, business leaders, entrepreneurs, policy analysts, actuaries, and statisticians who will go on to transform industries, drive public policy, and make impactful decisions globally,” he remarked.
Prof. Bbaale pointed out that the College consists of three (3) schools namely Economics, Business, as well as Statistics and Planning. Providing a brief on the leadership of the College, he mentioned the Deputy Principal-Associate Professor James Wokadala, the Dean, School of Economics-Associate Professor Ibrahim Mike Okumu, the Dean, School of Business-Associate Professor Godfrey Akileng, and the Dean, School of Statistics and Planning-Dr. Margaret Banga. With reference to the orientation programme, he informed the students that they would have specialized sessions with the Deans and staff of the respective schools on 6th August 2025. The Principal also acknowledged Heads of Departments, and the College Management Board as key players in leadership.
Inspired by the rich and celebrated history of Makerere (established in 1922), Prof. Bbaale notified the students that the institution celebrated 100 years of excellent service to humanity in 2022, and has built a reputation that transcends borders. “The name, Makerere University is recognized, respected, and revered. I call upon you, to wholeheartedly guard and protect the institution’s name and reputation,” he said.
Tackling safety and well-being, Prof. Bbaale guided that safeguarding starts with an individual. He encouraged the students to read the Makerere University Safeguarding Policy to understand the safeguarding concerns, guidelines and responsibilities of the respective Offices. He informed the students that the College had safeguarding champions including a student representative, who have been trained to handle the safeguarding concerns, and to work closely with the students’ body to identify and report safeguarding matters.
He also cautioned the students against any forms of misconduct. “The University is committed to ensuring zero tolerance against sexual harassment, and exam malpractices. During the orientation, staff from the Gender Mainstreaming Directorate will provide a brief on the Policy and Regulations against Sexual Harassment, and the College Registrars will guide you on the academic policies.”
The address by the Principal set the pace for presentations on the following critical matters: Life at Campus, Guidance and Counselling, Makerere University Tuition Policy, Information Technology and Library resources, the Emerging Leaders Program (ELP), and a networking session with the 91st College student leaders.
Building on to the Principal’s powerful message, the following University officials interacted and engaged students on 5th August 2025: Ms Juliet Mirembe Ssewankambo-Acting College Registrar, Ms. Rose Nalwanga-Senior Counsellor, Dr. Peace Musiimenta-Representative of the Emerging Leaders program team, Mr. Peter Mubiru-College Bursar, Ms. Claire Nakaseeta-from the College Library, Mr. Gilbert Nsazimaana-DICTS, Ms. Namazzi Madrine Kayima-School of Economics Registrar, Ms. Stella Butamanya-School of Statistics and Planning Registrar, Ms. Ritah Namisango-Principal Communication Officer, and Mr. Moses Kibirango-Web Administrator.
From 6th to 8th August 2025, the student centered orientation features sessions on the following: Academic policies, orientation meetings with leadership of the respective Schools, understanding the responsibility of a student, health and wellness, brainteaser activities, gender mainstreaming, sensitization about the Red Cross, tour of the library and exposure to resources, as well as IT and hands-on-training.
Delighted that the first year students had turned up in big numbers, filling the auditorium to the brim, the Chairperson of the 91st College Guild Council, Fahad Ssozi Batte, said the 2025 orientation was planned to provide a rich and rewarding experience to students, as they commence the academic year 2025/2026. In addition, Ssozi Batte noted that the information and knowledge shared would provide a firm foundation to the students about life on campus. He thanked the entire College student leadership for remaining steadfast in the advancement of student interests.
Business & Management
COVID-19 Deepened Food Insecurity Among Uganda’s Urban Poor, With Women Hit Hardest, EfD Study Finds
Kampala – July 31, 2025
A study by researchers from the EfD-Mak Centre at Makerere University has revealed stark gender differences in the impact of COVID-19 on food security among Uganda’s urban poor, with female-headed households bearing the brunt of the crisis. The findings were presented at a stakeholder dissemination meeting held at Tick Hotel in Kawempe Division, Kampala.
The research, led by Dr. Fred Matovu, Fred Kasalirwe, and Anitah Kyamugabwa, focused on Kawempe Division, one of Kampala’s most densely populated and low-income areas. Using data from a 2022 household survey of 415 respondents, along with focus group discussions and interviews with key government stakeholders, the study examined how the COVID-19 pandemic and related economic disruptions worsened food security in informal urban settings.
Speaking on behalf of the EfD Uganda Director, Dr. Peter Babyenda stressed that Uganda’s current social protection structures are inadequate, especially for the most vulnerable. He called for policy frameworks that are informed by grassroots realities. “We need policies that involve those affected from the ground up, especially the urban poor who live on daily incomes. During COVID-19, these groups suffered immensely when lockdowns were imposed without consultations,” he said.
The study, titled “Differences in COVID-19 Effects on Food Security and Adaptive Strategies among the Urban Poor: Experiences from Uganda and Tanzania”, was conducted between 2022 and 2023 in collaboration with EfD Tanzania. In Uganda, the research focused on how urban poverty intersected with gender and food insecurity.
Presenting the findings, Fred Kasalirwe reported that poor urban households, especially those relying on informal employment, were disproportionately affected due to low and unstable incomes. The containment measures introduced in March 2020 including stay-at-home orders, closure of schools, suspension of public transport, and night curfews had a devastating effect on daily earners. As economic activity halted, access to food, healthcare, and essential services declined sharply.
The research found that food security and dietary quality worsened for both male- and female-headed households. However, the impact was more severe for female-headed households due to greater caregiving responsibilities and fewer income-generating opportunities. With limited access to social safety nets, families resorted to extreme coping strategies such as selling household assets, depleting savings, and changing their diets involuntarily. Kasalirwe noted that government food assistance during the crisis was inconsistent and insufficient.
He explained that female-headed households faced unique challenges, often balancing caregiving with limited means to earn income during lockdowns. “These households suffered more from income shocks, leading to worsened nutrition among children and the elderly,” he said. Most had to rely on informal networks or personal savings to survive.
The study also noted an unexpected finding: persons with disabilities experienced relatively improved food security during the crisis, likely due to targeted social support. However, this level of support was not extended to most households, exposing critical gaps in Uganda’s social protection systems.
While the COVID-19 pandemic was a primary focus, researchers emphasized that food insecurity among the urban poor in Uganda has been driven by a wider series of shocks. These include prolonged droughts, floods, mudslides, economic recessions and the suspension of major aid programs such as USAID. Each of these events has further strained already fragile food systems and household resilience.
Kasalirwe warned that unless Uganda adopts robust and inclusive social protection policies, the country will remain vulnerable to future crises. He urged the government to consider gender-responsive strategies that recognize the disproportionate burden carried by women and informal workers. “Government programs often collapse because communities are not involved in designing or owning them,” he said. “What we need is a bottom-up approach where self-help mechanisms and community buy-ins are developed alongside government interventions.”
He further noted that while COVID-19 provided the context for the study, the findings are applicable to a wide range of future shocks, including public health emergencies, climate change, and global economic downturns. “We’ve seen floods in Mbale, Ebola outbreaks, and the ripple effects of the Ukraine war. We need systems that don’t crumble when funding dries up,” he said.
The researchers urged both the government and development partners to shift focus from emergency responses to long-term resilience building. They emphasized that coping strategies such as selling productive assets or reducing food intake are impoverishing and unsustainable. The study called for a strong policy framework that prioritizes food security, supports vulnerable populations, and enhances urban livelihoods.
The study recommends a participatory approach that actively involves vulnerable communities in the design and implementation of social protection programs. It also calls for the establishment of community-based safety nets that are sustainable even in the absence of regular government funding. The researchers stressed the importance of gender-sensitive planning, especially in informal settlements where women face heightened challenges during economic shocks. Additionally, the government is urged to streamline its social protection initiatives through the Ministry of Gender, Labour and Social Development, ensuring effective outreach and awareness to reach those most at risk.
The research was funded by the EfD Global Hub and coordinated by the EfD-Mak Centre. Participants at the dissemination meeting echoed the urgency of addressing urban food insecurity and preparing more effectively for future crises.
More photos from the workshop
Jane Anyango is the Communication Officer EfD Uganda.
By Ritah Namisango and Monica Meeme
On Tuesday 22nd July 2025, Prof. Edward Bbaale, the Principal of the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) endorsed the newly-established College SACCO by enrolling as a member.
The Mak-CoBAMS SACCO, which was inaugurated on 14th July 2025, provides a platform to improve the economic well-being and quality of life of members through accessible financial services, provision of affordable loans, promotion of a savings and investment culture, financial security, and potential dividends.
The interim Committee that was instituted to kick-start the SACCO has been working under the guidance of the Deputy Principal, Associate Prof. James Wokadala as Patron.
Tasked with finalizing the operations of the SACCO, the Interim Committee, chaired by Dr. Peter Babyenda consists of the following members: Dr. Allen Kabagenyi-Vice Chairperson, Dr. Christopher Alioni-General Secretary, Mr. Peter Mubiru-Treasurer, and Mrs. Juliet Mirembe Ssewankambo-Mobilizer. The Committee members representing the three schools include: Mr. Fred Kasarirwe-School of Economics, Dr. Marion Nanyanzi-School of Business, and Dr. Hellen Namawejje-School of Statistics and Planning. Mr. Joseph Ikarok represents support staff on the SACCO.
As the SACCO kicks off, the Committee agreed on the following contributions: Membership fee of 20,000/=, Annual subscription fee of 30,000/=, a minimum of ten shares at 100,000/= per member, and a minimum monthly contribution of 50,000/=.
The Committee believes that the rates set are manageable by members of staff. According to the Chairperson, Dr. Babyenda, the Committee is enrolling members. He stated that the minimum monthly saving of 50,000/= is a priority, and also called upon each member to pay up the minimum 10 shares before 31st July 2025.
Congratulating the College Principal, Prof. Bbaale upon becoming a member of the Mak-CoBAMS SACCO, the interim General Secretary-Dr. Alioni, reported that they need at least 30 members to start operations.
Following his enrollment as a Member, Prof. Bbaale, lauded the team for the establishment of the SACCO, a long-awaited intervention that will provide financial support to staff members. He thanked Associate Prof. James Wokadala for his resilience and dedication to making this initiative a reality.
Prof. Bbaale explained that the SACCO is well-aligned with the college’s research and academic programs, which focus on business, economics, statistics and planning.He highlighted the critical need for accessible finance, citing it as one of the leading constraints to development and business growth. The SACCO will fill a significant gap by providing staff members with financial support at reasonable interest rates.
Prof. Bbaale believes that the SACCO will transcend his tenure and become a lasting legacy for the college, providing benefits to staff members for years to come. He commended the interim committee for their hard work and commitment to establishing the SACCO. He expressed confidence in the team’s ability to manage the SACCO effectively, citing their strong work ethic and dedication.
Pledging his full support towards the SACCO, Prof. Bbaale rallied members of staff to join the initiative and participate in its activities and programmes. He stated that the SACCO will have a positive impact on the college community, addressing financial constraints and improving the well-being of staff.
The Deputy Principal, Associate Prof. Wokadala, acknowledged the College Principal for hosting the meeting and guiding the process leading to the establishment of the SACCO. He noted that the SACCO is a long-standing dream of the college’s formulators and a game-changer for the institution. To this end, the College Board unanimously welcomed the idea and set up an interim committee to oversee its implementation.
Associate Prof. Wokadala commended the colleagues who volunteered to steer the initiative, expressing confidence that the SACCO would become vibrant and successful. He visualised the SACCO evolving into a microfinance institution or bank with member support.
The Deputy Principal reported that the Principal’s office provided a contribution of 3,000,000/= to kick-start the SACCO’s activities, which would be accounted for by the committee. He emphasized transparency and accountability in managing the funds, noting that the committee would account for every shilling received, and present a report to the Annual General Meeting (AGM).
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