General
Mak Hosts 3rd Hadithi Ya Mzizi in honour of Nshuti Balaam Kabaasa
Makerere University on 29th August 2025 hosted the 3rd edition of Hadithi Ya Mzizi, an event held under the theme “Shaded Economy” at the Yusuf Lule Central Teaching Facility Auditorium. The gathering was marked by an exhibition and panel discussion, serving two main purposes: to celebrate the resilience and innovation of the informal sector through the Hadithi Ya Mzizi exhibition and to memorialize its founder, the late Nshuti Balaam Kabaasa. Balaam a final year student awaiting graduation in January 2026 passed away suddenly on 22nd June 2025.
The platform, conceived by Balaam, was designed to allow Africans to tell their own stories, inspire younger generations, and promote Pan-Africanism by celebrating Black excellence, re-centering the African experience, and encouraging youth engagement in continental and global challenges.
Representing the Vice Chancellor, the Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration, Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, described the event as a befitting gesture by the University. He noted that the exhibition was an important event utilizing art to celebrate Balaam’s life, “an individual who was an economist by profession but deeply loved art.” He pointed to the art pieces displayed outside as a reflection of his passion and thanked all funders and organizers for their support in remembering Balaam’s life. Prof. Ireeta expressed hope that the exhibition will become an annual event to ensure that Balaam’s life “is continuously remembered, as he was a nice gentleman.”
Mr. Yusuf Kiranda, the University Secretary, also spoke at the event, sharing the emotional difficulty of the day since it had only been a few months since the University lost Balaam, whom he referred to as his son. He explained the absence of some friends who were still overwhelmed by grief and prayed for strength for all members of the family and friends present. He emphasized that Balaam’s vision was to promote the connection between art and economic development, noting that “art transcends mere beauty, carrying profound messages.” He further highlighted that Balaam created a platform to help those less familiar with art to understand these deeper meanings. Mr. Kiranda, encouraged all to carry forward Balaam’s vision with confidence, emphasizing its importance “beyond a mere memory, as it addresses the necessity of a functional economy.”
Prof. Sarah Ssali, Director of the Institute of Gender and Development Studies—whom Balaam fondly referred to as kaaka (grandmother in Runyakore)—welcomed participants to the event. She explained that Kabaasa conceived the Hadithi Ya Mzizi platform and the themes for the previous exhibitions. Hadithi Ya Mzizi, meaning “Tales of the Roots” in Kiswahili, is a Pan-African social advocacy initiative dedicated to reclaiming African narratives through creative expression. “Founder Balaam Kabaasa believed art was a tool for memory, liberation, and voice for the marginalized,” she said.
Prof. Ssali outlined the platform’s four objectives: to celebrate Black excellence, unite Pan-Africans across borders, re-center the African experience for youth, and encourage active youth engagement in addressing challenges. She also highlighted the success of the two previous exhibitions. The first, Tales of Black Excellence in the Eyes of Winnie Mandela, celebrated the end of Black History Month in 2023, paying tribute to Winnie Mandela’s life, her role in Africa’s liberation, and her influence on women’s empowerment through art and dialogue. The second exhibition, Hymns of the Nation, was a multidisciplinary showcase of visual art, music, and poetry held in 2024 that addressed themes such as domestic violence, girl-child empowerment, and community relationships.
She explained that this third exhibition, themed The Shaded Economy, celebrates the resilience of those working in the informal economy, particularly young people in the gig economy who thrive despite being excluded from formal economic metrics. Prof. Ssali thanked the event funders, including the Office of the Deputy Speaker, Makerere University’s Advancement Office, Switch Africa, and the Media Challenge Initiative (MCI).
The keynote address was delivered by Prof. Ibrahim Mike Okumu, Dean of the School of Economics, who expressed delight at speaking about the shaded economy, a subject he extensively covered in his PhD research. He illustrated this economy by highlighting the resilience of young Ugandans engaged in diverse activities such as providing boda-boda rides, food delivery, graphics design, online sales, and coding. He defined it as “the livelihood and creativity existing between informal survival and formal employment,” ranging from mobile money agents and street vendors to musicians, digital freelancers, and artists. Prof. Okumu emphasized that these individuals “constitute the pulse of Uganda’s everyday economy,” and dedicated the discussion to the memory of Balaam Kabaasa.
On behalf of the family his mother, Mrs. Pamela Kabaasa thanked Makerere University, the Guild leadership, Balaam’s friends, and all attendees for honoring her son. She described him as her “sonshine,” as a non-conformist who consistently chose not to follow the crowd, recalling his early passion for fine art alongside mathematics and economics. She shared memories of his entrepreneurial spirit, family devotion, and leadership ambitions. “He was full of ideas, but his strongest passion was for fine art,” she said. She also spoke of his role as a dependable “deputy parent” to his siblings, always looking out for their well-being.
A touching poem was delivered by Nicole Kabaasa in tribute to her late brother, while Steven Kiwanuka Kafeero, a friend of Balaam, also presented a poem in his memory.
The panel discussion, moderated by Ssali Richard a third year Law Student, featured young entrepreneurs who had started informal businesses while still at university. These included Ethan Kaweesi of Mbio Za Mungu Fashion Brand, Beatrice Eyotaru, who runs a laundry business and participates in the student work scheme, Akanyihayo Joshua, who sells mattresses, Victor, who owns a perfume business, and Mr. Amos Desmond Wambi of Switch Africa.
Joy Eve Serunjogi who spoke on behalf of Hadithi Ya Mzizi (Tales of the roots) explained that the initiative name symbolizes that the strength of a tree comes from its roots rather than its branches. She emphasized that the movement, founded at Makerere by Balaam, is one of art, identity, and storytelling, with a vision to reclaim African narratives and a mission to empower youth through art, dialogue, and innovation.
In his remarks, H.E. Ssentamu Churchill James, the Guild President, described the gathering as “a unique intersection of beauty and burden, reflection and resilience.” He observed that it not only celebrated artistry but also confronted pressing economic realities. “The event also honors the memory of a departed soul whose light continues to shine through the displayed works,” he noted. He further emphasized that “art speaks where statistics fail, effectively telling human stories, reflecting inflation, embodying struggle, and inspiring hope in ways that reports or policies rarely do.” The exhibition was dedicated to the memory of Nshuti Balaam Kabaasa, a non-conformist lover of art, brother, friend, and student whose passing left a significant void.
The event was attended by several Makerere University officials and friends of the late, including Prof. Wamala of the Directorate of Research, Innovation and Partnerships, Dr. Winifred Kabumbuli, Dean of Students, and H.E. Rose Nabwire, Guild President of Makerere University Business School among others.
General
Makerere University Leaders Call for Excellence in Research and Supervision as Academic Staff and PhD Students Receive Certificates
By Moses Lutaaya
Kampala, 15 December 2025 — Makerere University on Monday held a reflective and inspiring Certificate Award Ceremony at the CTF 2 Auditorium , Yusuf Lule to award academic staff who completed the Graduate Supervision and Mentorship Course and PhD Students who successfully undertook the University’s compulsory cross-cutting doctoral courses. The event was presided over by the Deputy Vice Chancellor – Academic Affairs, Prof. Sarah Ssali.
The ceremony honored the efforts and achievements of 58 academic staff members, 39 men and 19 women from various colleges including CEDAT, CAES, CEES, COVAB and COBAMS, who completed a rigorous three-week Graduate Supervision and Mentorship programme.
Additionally, PhD students were recognized for completing cross-cutting courses in Philosophy of Methods, Scholarly Writing and Communication, and Advanced Research Methods.
In her keynote remarks, Prof. Sarah Ssali, the Deputy Vice Chancellor–Academic Affairs, delivered a message of encouragement and renewed commitment to research excellence at Makerere University.
“It is both an honor and a privilege to be here today to celebrate a significant academic milestone, the completion of the PhD Cross-Cutting Courses by our students and the award of Supervision Certificates to our academic staff.”
“Your completion of this course is not just a personal achievement, but a critical contribution to strengthening the research and mentoring capacity of Makerere University.”
To the PhD students, Prof. Ssali offered warm congratulations and encouragement. “These courses have equipped you with essential tools to conduct high-quality, ethical research and to engage with complex academic questions. This achievement reflects your hard work, intellectual growth, and commitment to excellence.”
She reaffirmed Makerere University’s commitment to research advancement. “As a University, we remain deeply committed to fostering a culture of research excellence. We will continue to invest in both our students and our staff, ensuring that we uphold the highest standards in research and academic supervision.”
The Director of Graduate Training, Prof. Julius Kikooma, challenged the PhD students to approach research with urgency, intentionality, and a clear sense of purpose.
“Completing the crosscutting courses in Philosophy of Methods, Advanced Research Methods, and Scholarly Writing and Communication has not been an easy task. However, the certificate alone is not the end goal. Don’t simply compile these certificates. Make them meaningful.”
Prof. Kikooma emphasized that the value of the courses lies in applying the knowledge gained. “These certificates give you the foundation knowledge. The question now is: Can we see the application of that knowledge in your different fields?”
He further urged doctoral students to begin producing serious academic work now, not at the end of their studies. “If you are becoming someone to be listened to, start now. It means the course is becoming useful. Write about issues that speak to societal challenges. Produce thinking pieces. Produce better outputs. “Look for low-lying fruits that can make your PhD journey more exciting and impactful.”
Prof. Kikooma also reminded students that while the PhD journey is shared by the academic community, its weight is uniquely felt by the candidates. “Your PhD journey is ours as a group. But you feel the heat. Speak to us so we understand your challenges. “You cannot be here for more than three years. Why are some of you still here? Is the journey heavy? How can we support you to complete it?” He asked.
He encouraged students to build thought leadership through the PhD Forum, adding that the forum is a strong voice for the students. A PhD is automatic leadership in the knowledge domain. Why doesn’t the PhD Forum come up with periodic writings that reflect what communities are experiencing? Start now so that by the time you finish the course, you hit the ground running.”
The Ag. Director of the Centre for Teaching and Learning Support (CTLS), Dr. Dorothy Ssebowa Kyagaba, gave a message to the academic staff who completed the Graduate Supervision and Mentorship Course, speaking with admiration for their dedication and high level of engagement.
“I congratulate all the academic staff who have completed the three-week Graduate Supervision and Mentorship Course. Your commitment, hard work, and enthusiasm have been evident throughout the training.”
She described the course as a cornerstone of Makerere’s commitment to strengthening graduate supervision. “This course is a key component in Makerere University’s drive to strengthen the quality of graduate training, research supervision, innovation, and strategic partnerships.”
She highlighted the thematic richness of the training; covering Knowledge Production Perspectives, Supervisory styles, Supervisory meetings and conversation skills, Research Ethics, Intercultural supervision and diversity, Scholarly writing and feedback as well as Examination processes and Doctoral Viva. She expressed gratitude to the Directorate of Graduate Training led by Prof. Kikooma, and to Prof. Ssali for providing leadership that advances graduate training across Makerere University.
General
From Knowledge to Impact: Empowering Youth Leaders and Young Women with Transformative Leadership Skills
By JNLC Team
On 4th December 2025, more than 70 participants gathered at Mountains of the Moon University (MMU) in Fort Portal for a three-day comprehensive leadership training targeting youth, young women, and local council leaders.
Organised by the Julius Nyerere Leadership Centre (JNLC) in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the training aimed to strengthen practical leadership skills and nurture a new generation of community-centered, ethical, and solution-oriented leaders.
The first day introduced participants to foundational themes such as servant leadership, the meaning of power in leadership, self-leadership, emotional intelligence, mental well-being, and effective communication. Through these sessions, participants gained practical tools to engage and influence communities responsibly, mobilize resources, and contribute effectively to sustainable development.
Honouring Nyerere’s Legacy of Transformative Leadership
In her remarks, Dr. Nansozi K. Muwanga, Executive Director of JNLC, urged young leaders from higher education institutions across Uganda to embrace their central role in shaping the country’s future. She stressed that Uganda’s developmental trajectory—and that of the wider East African region—will be determined by empowered, ethical, and visionary youth.
Dr. Muwanga reminded participants that the Julius Nyerere Leadership Centre draws inspiration from the leadership values of Mwalimu Julius Kambarage Nyerere, who championed youth as drivers of Africa’s development. Established in 2018 by H.E. President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni as a Presidential Initiative hosted by Makerere University and the Uganda Management Institute, JNLC continues this legacy by equipping young Africans with the intellectual, moral, and practical leadership skills required in a fast-changing world.
Expanding Impact Through the JNLC–UNDP Youth Leadership Programme
Dr. Muwanga highlighted that since 2021, the JNLC–UNDP Leadership Training Programme has empowered more than 700 youth leaders from Uganda and beyond. The programme cultivates a growing network of community-centered changemakers capable of influencing governance and driving sustainable development.
To address challenges faced by alumni—such as limited visibility, resource constraints, and weak mentorship—JNLC launched the Alumni Impact Activation Strategy. The initiative supports alumni-led projects aligned with UNDP’s G4D priorities through mentorship, empowerment, and visibility. This approach amplifies our investment in Uganda’s youth and ensures that leadership development translates into sustainable solutions in climate resilience, women’s economic empowerment, and digital innovation,” she noted.
Youth at the Heart of Africa’s Development
Reflecting on Africa’s demographic landscape, Dr. Muwanga noted that a youthful population presents both immense opportunity and profound responsibility. Realising this potential requires intentional nurturing of leaders who value justice, unity, ethical conduct, and collaborative governance.
“This is the aspiration that guides our work at JNLC,” she affirmed. “We aim to equip young people with the skills to think critically, lead responsibly, and contribute meaningfully to Uganda’s development and Africa’s broader ambitions.”
“You Are Today’s Leaders” — Message from Mountains of the Moon University
Representing the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Pius Coxwell Achanga, Mrs. Roselyne Ssali—the Dean of Students—affirmed the university’s strong commitment to cultivating ethical, capable, and community-oriented leaders.
She emphasized the value of inter-institutional collaboration, noting that leadership thrives on shared learning and collective growth. She encouraged participants to engage actively, exchange ideas, and learn from one another.
Addressing the youth directly, Mrs. Ssali underscored that leadership is not a distant possibility but a present responsibility.
“You are not here by mistake,” she said. “The saying that you are ‘tomorrow’s leaders’ does not apply. You are today’s leaders, and that is something we cannot take for granted.”
She commended the JNLC–UNDP collaboration for expanding leadership opportunities and equipping young people with practical, real-world skills.
Leadership, Intellect, Capacity, Health, and Safety — Insights from the RCC
Officially opening the training, Ms. Asuman Nasike, Resident City Commissioner of Fort Portal City, shared her inspiring journey from Youth Councillor to RCC. She encouraged participants to treat every leadership role as a “nursery bed” for growth and reminded them that leadership is driven by intellect and capacity—not age or physical size.
“In your roles as local, youth, and women leaders, remember that leadership is defined by capacity, not size. It is about the mind, not the stature. I may be small in size, yet I lead this city. Let my example prove to you that young people can lead and make a difference,” she said.
She highlighted essential leadership qualities: integrity to earn trust, effective communication through feedback, leading by example, decisiveness in difficult moments, and resilience in the face of setbacks. She also emphasized personal well-being, responsible health practices, and surrounding oneself with mentors and peers who inspire growth.
Learning from Nyerere’s Leadership Ideals
Drawing from the life and leadership of Mwalimu Julius Nyerere, Mr. Ivan Ssegawa Sebastian, former EAC Youth Ambassador to Uganda, outlined enduring values that shaped Nyerere’s leadership: human dignity, collective responsibility, unity and cultural identity, and service above self.
These ideals, he noted, remain essential foundations for ethical and people-centered leadership today.
Principles of Servant Leadership
Leadership trainer and clinical psychologist Mr. Ronald Ssaazi guided participants through the principles of servant leadership, drawing insights from leaders like Nyerere, Nelson Mandela, Martin Luther King Jr., and Gamal Abdel Nasser.
He emphasized that leadership begins with self-leadership—self-reflection, self-regulation, and deliberate goal-setting. Quoting John Maxwell’s famous line, “Leadership is influence—nothing more, nothing less,” he reminded participants that they must influence themselves before they can influence others. “You cannot claim to be a leader if no one wants to follow you. Leadership begins when you influence people through your direction, ideas, and example—and that influence must start with self-leadership,” he stressed.
Mr. Ssaazi highlighted that servant leadership is rooted in service—lifting others, meeting them where they are, and helping them grow. He underscored the importance of character, emotional intelligence, meaningful relationships, and consistent action.
He also shared the “Three R’s” framework—Requirements, Returns, and Rewards—encouraging participants to focus on high-impact actions and remain motivated as they pursue purposeful leadership.
Emotional Intelligence & Mental Wellness for Effective Leadership
Dr. Gardner Herbert Rwakiseta, Programme Coordinator at JNLC, underscored that effective leadership is impossible without mental and emotional balance. He explained that clarity, creativity, and inner peace form the foundation of impactful leadership.
Using a powerful analogy, he noted:
“A smartphone may look perfect on the outside, but without a functioning battery, it cannot operate.” He likened mental health to a leader’s battery—indispensable to performance. Dr. Gardner explained that mental wellness is more than the absence of illness; it determines how leaders think, relate, and make decisions. He outlined common mental health challenges and their symptoms and provided practical tools for maintaining emotional balance, including exercise, sleep hygiene, healthy relationships, journaling, and setting digital boundaries.
On digital discipline he advised:
“The small screens were not designed to control you. Manage distractions by limiting unnecessary notifications and practicing intentional use of technology.”
The Power of Effective Communication
Mr. Henry Kasacca, Director of Dialogue and Democracy, emphasized that communication is at the heart of leadership. His session equipped participants with public-speaking skills, active listening, strategies for giving and receiving feedback, and tips for crafting impactful elevator pitches.
He reminded participants that public speaking is not merely addressing a crowd—it is connecting with people, informing them, and motivating them to act. “Preparation, positive non-verbal communication, and confidence are key. Knowing your audience, understanding the purpose of your speech, and structuring your message ensure that it resonates,” he explained.
He noted that leaders often have only a minute to capture attention, stressing the importance of clarity, relatability, and confidence. He also emphasized constructive feedback as an essential tool for growth.
The Meaning of Power in Leadership
Mr. David Nyaribi, Leadership and Governance Specialist at ActionAid International, emphasized that leadership is not defined by position but by the ability to influence, mobilize, and transform communities.
He distinguished authority from power, noting that while authority is granted, power—knowledge, confidence, action—is accessible to everyone.
He outlined four essential types of power:
- Power Over – traditional authority
- Power To – capacity to act and implement
- Power Within – inner confidence and resilience
- Power With – collective strength through collaboration
Mr. Nyaribi urged participants to use power responsibly and be mindful of who they grant influence over them. He also explained the different spaces, levels, and sources of power, from households to global diplomacy, and highlighted the difference between mobilizing (short-term energy) and organizing (long-term structure). “Mobilizing gets people to the table; organizing makes the table productive,” he noted.
Youth Voices: Picking Up the Droplets of Leadership
Bringing a youth perspective, Mr. Ivan Hurira, Speaker of the Regional Youth Parliament, shared the story of a brave hummingbird dropping water on a burning forest, insisting, “I am doing the little I can.” He likened this to the role of young Ugandans—small but consistent actions can spark meaningful change.
“When the forest of Uganda is burning, we, the young people, can do the little we can,” he said.
He encouraged participants to treat the knowledge and skills gained during the training as droplets of leadership—resources they should carry back to their communities to contribute to transformation.
In a move to promote a safe, supportive and inclusive environment at Makerere University, the Office of the Dean of Students has empowered staff members from various colleges, departments and administrative units to champion disability-inclusive education.
Speaking during the capacity building session on inclusion for Students and Staff with Disabilities held at the School of Public Health Auditorium on Friday December 12, 2025, Dr Winfred Kabumbuli, the Dean of Students, noted that her office has decided to train staff to be able to have a campus where every student and staff member feels safe, respected, valued and empowered to thrive.
“Inclusion is not achieved by policy documents alone, it is achieved through everyday actions when a lecturer adapts teaching materials, when departments provide accessible formats, when buildings are designed with universal access in mind and when we intentionally create belonging for students and staff with disabilities,” Dr Kabumbuli, said.
The University has made significant strides in promoting disability inclusion. There is a policy on Persons with Disabilities and also a Disability support center, enabling students with disabilities to acquire assistive devices to enable them integrate in the learning and social environment.
While addressing participants, Prof. Winston Tumps Ireeta, the Acting Deputy Vice Chancellor (Finance and Administration) who represented the Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, urged all university leaders to ensure that lecture rooms, offices and shared spaces fully reflect the principles of accessibility and universal design.
“My office is committed to improving physical access and ensuring that our infrastructure developments embrace inclusive standards. During the session, let us identify gaps, share insights, and commit to concrete actions. Makerere University’s pursuit of excellence rests on the foundation of safety, dignity, equality, and inclusion,” Prof, Ireeta, said.
The University is a place of learning but also has policies on safeguarding and policy on Persons with Disabilities to ensure that safety, dignity and inclusion form the foundation upon which teaching, learning and research occur.
Prof Ireeta extended appreciation to the Dean of Students and the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University for the consistent leadership provided in driving safeguarding and inclusion agenda.
Speaking at the event, Prof. Justine Namaalwa Jjumba, Director of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, highlighted the transformative partnership between Makerere University and the Mastercard Foundation, which began in 2013.
“Through this collaboration, the University has rolled out three key Educational initiatives: the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, offering 1,000 undergraduate scholarships (10% reserved for students with disabilities); the Africa Climate Collaborative, providing 250 MSc, 40 PhD, and 30 postdoctoral scholarships, with 10% dedicated to learners with disabilities; and e-Learning Initiatives, which allow students to pursue courses of their choice online, enhancing access and flexibility in education,” Prof Namaalwa, said.
During the session, different staff members highlighted that although the University, has made efforts to improve physical accessibility and strengthen the academic and non-academic environment, challenges including inadequate support and inaccessible facilities still exist.
Representing staff living with disabilities on the University Council, Mr. Amon Muteganda appealed to the Government to increase the number of students with disabilities admitted on government sponsorship and also stop choosing academic courses for them.
“I want to thank the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University for ensuring that 10% of their scholarship slots are reserved for students with disabilities. As a University, we need to increase our enrolment of students with disabilities beyond the current 2%. We should also develop a policy that supports students across all academic programs. If a student without hands wants to study architecture, we must support them rather than discourage them, it is the mind that matters, not the physical,” he emphasized.
Mr. Mutenganda also called upon the University to revise its disability policy, with a particular focus on strengthening accommodation and support for persons with disabilities when they are employed.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Marvin Galiwango, a lecturer at the College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS), emphasized that instead of continually relying on imported wheelchairs and technologies, engineers at the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT) should take the initiative to develop technologies and wheelchairs for persons with Disabilities.
“Most persons with disabilities rely on imported technology, which they often cannot afford, leaving them with no choice but to beg. We have engineers at CEDAT who can design and produce these technologies locally, making them accessible and affordable for our people,” he noted,”
In his keynote address, Mr. Ambrose Murangira, a senior expert in disability inclusion at Light for the World, outlined the basic principles of accessible lecture rooms, including a preference for ground-floor rooms or those reachable via a functioning elevator, wide doors, corridors and clear passable pathways between tables and rows.
Students with disabilities should be provided with accessible seats at the front that offer clear sight-lines, tables with extra legroom, and adequate lighting around the presenter and board. Regarding facilities, signposts should indicate the nearest accessible washrooms and emergency exits, which must be both physically and visually accessible.” Mr Murangira, said.
On 1st December, the University joined the world to celebrate the International Day of Persons Disabilities. Students, staff and Members of Parliament with visual, hearing and physical disabilities filled the Main Hall with the aim to promote inclusion, raise awareness on disability rights, and encourage a supportive learning environment for everyone to thrive.
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