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.
The Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs (DVCAA) Prof. Sarah Ssali on 15th July 2026 commended the Research and Education Network for Uganda (RENU)’s Industrial Trainee Program, describing it as the perfect hands-on intervention for the future workforce. She made the comments while on a guided tour of RENU’s on-campus Lab facility where ten undergraduate students from Makerere and other Universities are undergoing a two-month practical training.
Origin of tour
The tour was prompted by a 24th June 2026 meeting with a RENU delegation led by CEO, Mr. Nicholas Mbonimpa, aimed at broadening the existing partnership with Makerere University beyond internet service provision to supporting teaching, learning and research activities. During the said meeting, Prof. Ssali expressed Makerere‘s desire to produce graduates that are not only academically grounded but also cognizant of the needs of the job market.
In his response then, Mr. Mbonimpa expressed RENU’s readiness to continue advancing digital transformation through advancing resilient connectivity, research infrastructure, and innovative initiatives that enhance teaching, learning, and research. He shared that the Senate Building’s computer network had been revamped in line with advancing resilient connectivity, and the initiative would be expanded to the College of Engineering, Design, Art and Technology (CEDAT) buildings and other premises subsequently.
The RENU CEO further highlighted that resilient connectivity forms a good basis for the proposed Open Radio Access Network (RAN) Architecture deployment set to be done within six months, so as to boost training of students in 5G and other technologies. Other initiatives discussed included training staff and students on acquisition of Open Researcher and Contributor ID (ORCID) to improve visibility of their publications and research output.
Training Program Lauded
Addressing student interns during the 15th July guided tour, the DVCAA who was accompanied by the 92nd Guild Speaker Rt. Hon. Trevis Mutatiina Muhwezi urged beneficiaries to harness all the technical and social opportunities accorded by the Program. “Not all students in your respective academic programmes had the benefit of being exposed to this kind of training so please make the most of it and utilize skills gained here beyond the classroom setting”.
The 2026 Industrial Trainee Program is equipping students with skills on how to diagnose and repair ICT equipment based on old and disused stock.
Prof Ssali was also toured the makerspace where solar-powered routers are manufactured and deployed to extend internet connectivity to both rural and urban locations. In 2023, RENU partnered with Mesh++, a Chicago-based connectivity solutions manufacturer, to manufacture solar-powered internet routers in Uganda. Since inception, over 200 units have been manufactured and deployed across various sites in Uganda, while over 80 units have been shipped to various African countries such as Malawi, Rwanda and South Sudan under the RENUMESH Technologies joint venture.
Partnerships Inspiring New Prototypes
The RENU CEO nevertheless pointed to a long turnaround time for shipping parts from the U.S. as one of the drawbacks hindering the product’s rapid deployment. As a result, RENU, in response to the Ugandan Government’s call for import substitution and local capacity development is developing a solar-powered internet router with some of the components sourced from Ugandan companies Innovex and Chloride Excide.
“Innovex will supply the Internet of Things (IoT) component to help RENU remotely monitor and control the router while Chloride Excide will provide the batteries” Mr. Mbonimpa explained. He added that some of the current lot of trainees were already running simulations on the prototype and proposing how the device can be further refined so as to increase its portability and reduce its price.
A call for Expansion
At the conclusion of the tour, Prof. Ssali who commended the use of modular Ugandan components for the prototype thanked the RENU team to exposing students to real-world technological deployments. She nevertheless urged the CEO and his team to expand the program’s intake beyond ten trainees and duration beyond the current two months so as to give students a richer experience.
The CEO RENUMESH Technologies Mr. Brian Masiga thanked the DVCAA for following up their 24th June meeting with the visit, which demonstrates that the University Management values students’ development of practical skills. He equally thanked Prof. Ssali for Management’s support to RENU activities and pledged to further refine the prototype to produce a cheaper and more portable proudly Ugandan product.
General
Makerere University Launches First Writing Summer School to Strengthen Professional Writing Skills.
KAMPALA, UGANDA, EAST AFRICA| July 6, 2026.
Makerere University has officially launched its inaugural writing summer school, a week long professional development program aimed at equipping students, graduates, researchers and staff with practical writing skills required for academic excellence and success in today’s competitive job market. The program jointly organized by the Makerere University Writing Centre and Makerere University Press (MakPress), reflects the University’s commitment to nurturing graduates with not only academic knowledge but also the communication skills needed to thrive professionally.
Held virtually, the launch attracted more than 280 participants from Makerere University and other higher education institutions, demonstrating the growing demand for structured writing support beyond the classroom.
Building the Next Generation of Writers.
Speaking at the launch, the Director of Makerere Writing Press, Prof. William Tayeebwa, said the summer school represents an important investment in developing writers before their work reaches publication.
“The press has traditionally focused on publishing books, journals and scholarly work. Today, we are expanding that mission by helping and develop the writers who will produce tomorrow’s publication.
He noted that MakPress continues to support the publication of books and scholarly works produced by members of the Makerere Community. Using recently published books authored by a member of staff and a student as examples, he encouraged participants to submit manuscripts for publishing support rather than relying solely on self publication.
Writing as a Foundation for Academic and Professional Success.
Chairperson of the Makerere University Writing Centre, Prof. Frederick Muyodi, said the center was established to strengthen the writing competences among students, researchers and university staff.
” The Writers Center is here to support every stage of the writing process from CVs and application letters to research manuscripts, grant proposals, reports and responsible use of Artificial Intelligence in writing.”
He explained that the Centre supports writing across multiple disciplines and professional contexts, adding that its long term vision is to extend writing support beyond Makerere University to institutions across Uganda and the East African region.
Equipping Graduates for the Labour Market.
Officially launching the summer school, the First Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs, Prof. Sarah Ssali, described the initiative as a strategic investment in preparing graduates for an increasingly competitive labour market.
She observed that while universities successfully impart disciplinary knowledge, many graduates leave campus without the practical writing skills required to secure employment and other professional opportunities.
“We teach content very, but many students are never taught how to write an effective CV, application letter, motivation statement or scholarly essay. Yet these are the documents that often determine whether someone secures an opportunity.”
Prof. Ssali said the writing summer school would bridge the gap between classroom learning and professional practice by equipping participants with market ready communication skills.
Reaffirming her office’s commitment to the initiative, she added:
“My office is pleased to support this initiative as we institutionalize the Writing Summer School to ensure that Makerere graduates leave not only with degrees but also with practical competencies needed to thrive professionally,”
She officially declared the inaugural Writing Summer School open and expressed optimism that future editions would attract even more participants and resources.
Participants Gain Practical CV Writing Skills.
The first technical session was facilitated by Mr. Abdul Noor Luttamaguzi, a PhD student in the Department of Zoology, Entomology and Fisheries Sciences within the School of Bio sciences at Makerere University, a Senior Fisheries Officer with Luweero District Local Government, and the founder and director of the ANL Foundation, an organization that supports youth employment and capacity building.
During the session, he guided participants on developing competitive CVs tailored to specific professionals and employer expectations. He emphasized that applicants should customize their CVs to suit each opportunity instead of submitting the same document for every application. Participants also learned how effectively present their education, work experience, leadership roles technical competencies and professional achievements, while avoiding unnecessary personal information. Practical demonstrations using professional specific CVs provided participants with hands on examples of preparing competitive job application documents.
Looking Ahead.
The Writing Summer School continues throughout the week sessions on application letter writing, responsible use of artificial intelligence, professional communication and other essential writing skills aimed at improving academic productivity and employablity.
Through initiatives such as the Writing Summer School, Makerere University continues to strengthen its commitment to producing graduates who are not academically accomplished but also equipped with practical communication skills that enable them to compete and lead in today’s global workplace.
General
Makerere Launches Strategic Plan 2025-2030 to Drive Research, Innovation and National Development.
Kampala, Uganda East Africa.
Makerere University has officially launched its Strategic Plan 2025-2030, reaffirming its commitment to advancing research, innovation, academic excellence and human capital development in support of Uganda’s national transformation agenda.
The Strategic Plan, unveiled by the Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Hon. Henry Musasizi, provides a road map for strengthening the University’s contribution to Uganda’s Tenfold Growth Strategy through research, innovation, entrepreneurship and the production of highly skilled graduates.
The launch, held at the University’s Main Hall, brought together government officials, members of the University Council, management, development partners, staff and students to witness what leaders described as the beginning of Makerere University’s next phase of institutional transformation.
Positioning Makerere for National Transformation.
Delivering his remarks, Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe said the Strategic Plan reflects Makerere University’s ambition to become an even stronger research led institution that responds directly to Uganda’s development priorities.
He noted that the University intends to restore student enrollment to pre COVID levels while significantly increasing postgraduate training to produce more researchers, innovators and professionals capable of addressing national challenges.
Prof. Nawangwe also highlighted the University’s growing research portfolio, commending researchers and research centers that continue to attract substantial international funding.
“when you combine the grants won by all our researchers through competitive international funding, the total exceeds US$200 million,” He said.
The Vice Chancellor also pointed to the need to strengthen the University’s academic workforce, noting that although progress has been made, more investment is required to fill approved academic positions, particularly at professor and associate professor levels.
Strategic Plan Sets Ambitious Institutional Targets.
Chairperson of the University Council, Dr. Lorna Magara, described the Strategic Plan as more than an institutional document, calling it “a public covenant with the people of Uganda.”
She said the Plan outlines measurable commitments that will guide the University’s performance over the next five years, including expanding postgraduate enrolment, increasing STEM participation, improving doctoral completion rates and strengthening research productivity.
“Ambition is precisely what this moment demands. A strategic plan is not measured by the elegance of its language, but by the lives it transforms,” she said.
Dr. Magara emphasized that every investment in Makerere University should translate into tangible benefits for society through research, innovation, leadership and skilled graduates.
She also called for reforms to Uganda’s Universities and Other Tertiary Institutions Act to strengthen university governance and create an enabling environment for innovation and knowledge production.
Government Reaffirms Support.
Launching the Strategic Plan, Hon. Henry Musasizi commended Makerere University for aligning its institutional priorities with Uganda’s Vision 2040, the Fourth National Development Plan (NDP IV) and the country’s Tenfold Growth Strategy.
He observed that universities remain central actors in national development because they produce the knowledge, innovation and skilled workforce required to transform Uganda’s economy.
“Universities are central actors in national transformation. they are engines of knowledge creation, innovation and human capital development,” he said.
The Minister emphasized government’s commitment to supporting research, innovation and stronger collaboration between universities and industry to ensure that knowledge generated within higher education institutions contributes directly to economic growth.
Universities Critical to Uganda’s Tenfold Growth Strategy.
Presenting the national development perspective, Samuel Kasule, Senior Planner at the National Planning Authority, explained that the Strategic Plan aligns closely with the Uganda’s long term development framework.
He noted that achieving the country’s ambitious economic growth targets will depend heavily on universities producing competent graduates, expanding research and strengthening innovation ecosystems that support priority sectors including agriculture, tourism, ICT, minerals, manufacturing, and oil and gas.
Kasule further underscored the importance of competency based education and post graduate training in building the human capital required for sustainable national development.
A Shared Vision for the Future.
Throughout the launch, speakers emphasized that Makerere University’s future lies in becoming an increasingly research intensive, innovation driven institution that responds to national and global development challenges.
The Strategic Plan 2025-2030 outlines priorities that include strengthening research excellence, promoting innovation and commercialization, expanding digital transformation, enhancing partnerships with industry, and producing graduates equipped to drive socioeconomic transformation.
Its launch marks a renewed commitment by Makerere University to remain at the forefront of knowledge generation and to contribute meaningfully to Uganda’s long term development aspirations.
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