Business & Management
Makerere Graduates Sixth Cohort of IGE Fellows to Drive CSA
Makerere University Environment for Development Initiative (EfD- Mak Centre) has graduated five senior government officials under the 2025 Inclusive Green Economy (IGE) Fellowship Programme, equipping them with advanced knowledge and skills to champion climate-smart agriculture (CSA) and sustainable development in Uganda.
The fellows graduated during a ceremony held on Thursday June 25, 2026 at the Makerere University Agricultural Research Institute, Kabanyolo (MUARIK), where university leaders, government representatives, development partners, researchers and policymakers gathered to celebrate the completion of the year-long training programme.
The graduates included Eng. Thomas Epeet from the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries; Ms. Getrude Basiima, a Commissioner in the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development; Mr. Nicholas Magara from the Ministry of Water and Environment; Ms. Irene Kemigisha from the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development; and Mr. Boaz Tumusiime Mboijana from the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities.
Representing the Vice Chancellor, Professor Robert Wamala congratulated the fellows for successfully completing what he described as a rigorous and impactful programme that lasted one year.
“Today’s graduation is more than a celebration of academic achievement. It is a testament to our collective commitment to building the knowledge, skills and partnerships required to address one of the defining challenges of our time — climate change and its effects on agriculture, livelihoods and sustainable development,” Wamala said.
He noted that the 2025 cohort undertook training under the theme, “Accelerating the Adoption of Climate-Smart Agriculture,” which aligns closely with Makerere University‘s research agenda on agricultural transformation, food security and livelihoods.
According to Wamala, climate variability and environmental degradation continue to threaten agricultural production, food security and rural livelihoods, making the need for innovative, evidence-based and scalable solutions increasingly urgent.
Through the fellowship, participants gained practical exposure to climate-smart irrigation technologies, resilient farming systems, soil and water conservation practices, and other innovations aimed at strengthening agricultural productivity and resilience.
“The experiences have equipped our fellows not only with technical competencies but also with the capacity to translate knowledge into practical solutions for communities and institutions,” he said.
The programme is implemented by the Environment for Development (EfD) Initiative through the EfD-Makerere Centre and is funded by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida). It seeks to strengthen evidence-based policymaking by bridging the gap between research and policy while promoting the use of economic policy instruments to support a just green transition.
Speaking at the ceremony, Professor Edward Bbaale, Director of the EfD-Makerere Centre and Principal of the College of Business and Management Sciences(CoBAMS), said the fellowship targets senior civil servants and policymakers from Eastern Africa to strengthen their capacity to formulate and implement green economy policies.
“The goal is to promote the use of economic policy instruments to achieve a just green transition. The programme bridges gaps between research and policy and between researchers and policymakers to strengthen evidence-based decision-making,” Bbaale said.
Since its inception, the programme has trained 30 senior policymakers drawn from ministries, departments and agencies across the region.
Bbaale said, one of the programme’s unique features is its regional approach, which enables fellows from Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda, Ethiopia, Tanzania and South Africa to share experiences and learn from one another’s policy interventions.
“We are able to learn from what other governments are doing in these Eastern African countries, compare with our policy environment and identify solutions that can work back home,” he said.
The 2025 cohort focused on accelerating climate-smart agriculture adoption, a priority area as governments seek to mitigate the impacts of climate change on food production and rural livelihoods.
Bbaale announced that the next cohort, to be recruited later this year, will focus on forestry and water management. The programme intends to recruit five additional senior government officials from institutions including the Ministry of Water and Environment, the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), the National Planning Authority (NPA), and the Ministry of Finance.
Host institution MUARIK also used the occasion to highlight its contribution to agricultural research and innovation.
Welcoming guests to the institute, MUARIK Director Dr. Peter Ebanyat described the facility as a leading centre for agricultural research, training and innovation whose history dates back to 1953.
He noted that the institute has played a significant role in developing agricultural technologies that have had national impact, including the development of soybean varieties grown across Uganda.
“Our vision is to be a thought leader in sustainable agricultural and environmental innovations. Our mission is to generate and disseminate knowledge, innovations and technologies through research, training and community engagement for improved agricultural productivity, environmental sustainability and rural livelihoods,” Ebanyat said.
He said hosting the graduation was particularly significant because MUARIK serves as a living laboratory where researchers, students, policymakers and development practitioners interact to generate solutions to challenges facing the agricultural sector.
The graduation ceremony underscored the growing importance of partnerships among universities, governments and development agencies in addressing climate change, promoting food security and advancing inclusive green growth across Uganda and the wider East African region.
As the fellows return to their respective institutions, university leaders challenged them to become ambassadors of climate-smart agriculture and champions of sustainable development, using the knowledge acquired through the programme to influence policies, strengthen resilience and improve livelihoods in their sectors.
The Inclusive Green Economy Fellowship Programme will continue until 2027 under Sida funding, with Makerere University remaining one of the key regional centres driving research, policy engagement and capacity building for sustainable development.
Graduating Fellows Call for Stronger Climate-Smart Agriculture Policies
Senior government officials who completed Makerere University‘s IGE Fellowship Programme called for stronger policy interventions, increased investment and wider public awareness to accelerate the adoption of climate-smart agriculture in Uganda.
The senior civil servants highlighted climate change as a growing threat to agriculture, food security and rural livelihoods.
Speaking on the sidelines of the graduation ceremony, Makerere University‘s Policy Engagement Specialist and coordinator of the programme, Dr. Peter Babyenda, said the 2025 cohort focused on developing policy instruments that can accelerate the adoption of climate-smart agricultural practices across the country.
“This cohort has been looking at accelerating the adoption of climate-smart agriculture because agriculture remains the backbone of Uganda’s economy and one of the sectors most affected by climate change,” Babyenda said.
He explained that the year-long fellowship trains senior civil servants and policymakers to design economic and policy incentives that promote environmentally sustainable development.
According to Babyenda, previous cohorts focused on issues such as clean cooking energy, biomass reduction and electric mobility, while the latest group examined how government can encourage farmers to adopt climate-smart technologies such as solar-powered irrigation systems and sustainable farming practices.
“We have trained them on how to design policy packages and interventions that encourage adoption of climate-smart agriculture and improve resilience among farming communities,” he said.
The graduation brought the number of fellows trained under the Sida-funded programme to 30 since its inception. The initiative is implemented by Makerere University‘s Environment for Development (EfD) Centre in partnership with the University of Gothenburg in Sweden.
Babyenda revealed that the next cohort, expected to be recruited later this year, will focus on forestry and water management as part of efforts to reduce emissions and strengthen climate resilience.
He also disclosed that Makerere University is considering upgrading the fellowship into an academic programme offering diploma and master’s qualifications in green economy studies.
“We are already developing a curriculum. The idea is to transform this capacity-building programme into an academic award programme that could eventually offer both diploma and master’s degrees in green economy,” he said.
Representing the graduating fellows, Engineer Thomas Epeet from the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries said climate-smart agriculture is critical to safeguarding Uganda’s agricultural sector against the effects of climate variability.
“Agriculture contributes significantly to employment, rural livelihoods and the country’s GDP. However, prolonged droughts and erratic rainfall patterns are threatening production, making climate-smart agriculture more important than ever,” Epeet said.
The fellows identified weak extension services, limited awareness, counterfeit agricultural inputs and inadequate access to modern technologies as some of the major barriers to the adoption of climate-smart agriculture.
Epeet said the cohort’s research found that women farmers face particular challenges, including limited access to land ownership and agricultural resources, which affects their ability to adopt climate-smart practices.
He called for stronger involvement of the private sector in supplying quality agricultural technologies and inputs needed to support sustainable farming.
“The private sector has a critical role in providing irrigation equipment, improved seeds and other technologies that farmers need. Without a strong private sector, government interventions alone may not achieve the desired impact,” he said.
Nicholas Magara, Acting Assistant Commissioner in the Ministry of Water and Environment, said the training had equipped him with practical knowledge on how economic incentives can be used to address climate-related challenges.
He noted that environmental degradation, including forest and wetland destruction, continues to affect rainfall patterns and agricultural productivity.
“As policymakers, we must encourage farmers not to depend solely on natural weather patterns. Technologies such as irrigation, mulching and minimum tillage are becoming increasingly important in ensuring year-round production,” Magara said.
He recommended expanding the programme to accommodate more participants and upgrading it from a certificate programme to a diploma-level qualification.
“The content is extensive and highly professional. It deserves a higher academic recognition,” he added.
Irene Kemigisha, an economist from the Ministry of Lands, Housing and Urban Development, emphasized the need to strengthen land tenure security, particularly for women, to improve access to credit and increase investment in climate-smart agriculture.
She said many women are unable to access agricultural financing because they lack land ownership documents that financial institutions require as collateral.
“We need to ensure that women have secure land rights and access to affordable agricultural credit if we are serious about increasing adoption of climate-smart agriculture,” Kemigisha said.
She also called for stronger agricultural extension services and improved market access for farmers to ensure that increased productivity translates into higher incomes.
Meanwhile, Boaz Tumusiime from the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities said the programme had highlighted the strong links between climate change, agriculture and tourism.
He said participants discovered that many climate-smart solutions already exist, but limited dissemination of information continues to slow adoption.
“Our transformative initiative focused on improving access to information and climate-smart solutions because the biggest challenge is often the gap between researchers, policymakers and the public,” Tumusiime said.
He praised the programme’s regional approach, which allows participants from Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania and Ethiopia to share experiences and learn from successful policies implemented across East Africa.
The fellows urged government, development partners and academic institutions to expand climate-smart agriculture training beyond senior civil servants to include private sector actors and grassroots agricultural practitioners.
They argued that broader participation would help accelerate the adoption of sustainable farming practices needed to strengthen food security, improve rural livelihoods and support Uganda’s climate adaptation efforts.
Panelists Call for Climate-Smart Agriculture Integration
The graduation ceremony was also marked by a roundtable discussion moderated by Prof. Edward Bbaale.and focused on how Uganda can integrate climate-smart agriculture into its national development agenda. The dialogue brought together leading academics, policymakers and development practitioners to explore strategies for sustainable agricultural transformation.
Key discussants included Prof. Robert Wamala, Director of Research, Innovations and Partnerships at Makerere University; Michael Ahimbisibwe from the National Planning Authority (NPA), representing Dr. Ronald Kaggwa; Victor Olejje from SunCulture Uganda; Wilson Asiimwe from the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, representing Dr. Sam Koojo; and Robert Turyakira from AGHNET.
The discussions highlighted Makerere University‘s commitment to research translation and intellectual property protection, the National Planning Authority’s emphasis on climate-smart agriculture as a key driver of economic growth, and the Ministry of Finance’s focus on integrated financing and market alignment. The panel also underscored the importance of ensuring that climate-smart interventions are properly costed, financed and implemented.
Responding to a question on how Makerere University is strengthening the translation of research into climate-smart solutions, Prof. Robert Wamala, Director of Research, Innovations and Partnerships at Makerere University, explained that the institution coordinates research across its nine colleges under strategic themes, including agricultural transformation. He noted that Makerere has established an Innovation and Technology Support Centre to help researchers protect intellectual property, build industry partnerships, and commercialize innovations.
“We are developing a Research Impact Framework so that every project considers its long-term effect on policy and community livelihoods right from the design stage,” Prof. Wamala said.
He added, “An idea is not truly yours until it is protected,” emphasizing the importance of patents and copyrights in transforming research into sustainable livelihoods.
Addressing the role of climate-smart agriculture in advancing Uganda’s Tenfold Growth Strategy, Michael Ahimbisibwe, representing the National Planning Authority, emphasized that climate-smart agriculture is central to both the strategy and Uganda’s Vision 2040. He outlined its contribution to ensuring sustainable raw material supplies, building resilience to climate change, enhancing export competitiveness, supporting inclusive livelihoods and unlocking access to green financing.
“By embedding these approaches, agriculture becomes the backbone of our growth strategy,” Ahimbisibwe said, pointing to drought-tolerant crop varieties, water harvesting technologies, and compliance with international trade standards as critical interventions.
Responding to a question on how public investment and financing mechanisms can support climate-smart agriculture, Wilson Asiimwe from the Ministry of Finance argued that climate-smart agriculture must be approached holistically, with policies integrated across sectors. He explained that government investments, such as valley dams for livestock production, should be aligned with existing development programmes, while additional financing can be mobilized through carbon credit schemes, climate funds, and international grants.
“Productivity must be matched with markets; otherwise, we risk food mountains with no buyers,” Asiimwe cautioned.
He further noted that emerging export regulations, such as the European Union’s deforestation requirements, make climate-smart agricultural practices essential not only for environmental sustainability but also for maintaining trade competitiveness.
Explaining how planning processes ensure that interventions are properly costed and implemented, Ahimbisibwe further noted that planning serves as the bridge between policy and financing. Under Uganda’s National Development Plan IV, the government employs a programme-based approach, with agro-industrialization identified as a key programme. Each programme includes costed interventions that are monitored annually through compliance assessment mechanisms.
“This way, climate-smart agriculture is not just a policy idea but a funded and monitored reality,” he said, stressing that planning ensures government allocations, releases, and expenditures remain aligned with national development priorities.
The panel underscored a shared vision in which Makerere University drives research translation and intellectual property protection, the National Planning Authority positions climate-smart agriculture as a pillar of economic growth, the Ministry of Finance ensures integrated financing and market alignment, and planning frameworks guarantee effective implementation of costed interventions. Together, these efforts aim to embed climate-smart agriculture at the heart of Uganda’s long-term development strategy.
Compiled and written by Jane Anyango, Communication Officer
Photo Credits: Peninah Nalubega
(Fourth-Year Journalism and Communication Student)
“I have enjoyed working with educated and brilliant people,” remarked Mr. Peter Mubiru at the handover of the office of the College Bursar held on 31st August 2026 at the College of Business and Management Sciences.
Reflecting on his career journey at Makerere University, which commenced in 1998, Mr. Mubiru who has served with dedication and distinction said: “Professionalism is key in management success.”
Mr. Mubiru reached the mandatory retirement age on 25th August 2026, marking the end of a career spanning nearly three decades in Makerere University’s audit and financial management functions. In his 28 years of service, which he described as a rich and rewarding experience, Mr. Mubiru held the following positions: Assistant Internal Auditor, Head of Revenue and Expenditure Office, Principal Accountant, and College Bursar.
Addressing the College leadership and staff as well as University officials from the Directorate of Internal Audit, and the Directorate of Finance who convened to witness the colourful handover ceremony to Mr. George Lusiba, Mr. Mubiru appreciated the different offices at the University for their cooperation throughout his years of service.
In a very special way, he was delighted to note that Mr. George Lusiba who was taking over the mantle as the new College Bursar has worked with him closely in the execution of several tasks and activities within the Directorate of Finance. “To Mr. Lusiba, I wish you the best of luck in the position of the College Bursar,” said Mr. Mubiru.
From Internal Audit to Financial Management
Mr. Mubiru joined the University service in 1998 as Assistant Internal Auditor, a position that he held for one year. During this period, Mr. Mubiru prepared a report examining the collection and management of revenue at Makerere University.
According to Mr. Mubiru, the recommendations in the report impressed the University Management and Council. Consequently, he was transferred from Internal Audit to the Finance Department, where he served as Head of Revenue and Expenditure, presenting to him an opportunity to contribute directly to implementing some of the recommendations. He was later promoted to Principal Accountant, which positioned him to serve the College of Business and Management Sciences, and a key specialist in financial management and implementation within the University and beyond.
At the College level, Mr. Mubiru has been responsible of overseeing the financial functions within the college, management of the college annual budgeting processes, preparing financial reports at the university and college level, and ensuring compliance with financial guidelines of the university.
He acknowledged the tremendous support received from the following members of staff whom he has been supervising at the College level: Mr. Charles Ssuna, Ms. Florence Amoding, and Ms. Mary Taaka.
Recognition of impactful service
The Principal of the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), Prof. Edward Bbaale, applauded Mr. Peter Mubiru, for his dedicated service and contribution to the College over the years.
He welcomed the incoming College Bursar, Mr. George Lusiba, and expressed the readiness of the College leadership and staff to work with him to ensure an efficient and effective financial management function. “Through his service, Mr. Lusiba will contribute to the continued growth and effective administration of the College,” said the Principal.
A Legacy of Leadership and Mentorship
The Dean, School of Business, Associate Professor Godfrey Akileng praised Mr. Peter Mubiru for the outstanding service, leadership, and mentorship.
“Mr. Mubiru is a straightforward and dedicated professional whose contributions had left a lasting impact on the School of Business and the wider university community,” he added.
He encouraged Mr. Mubiru to embrace retirement as an opportunity to pursue new ventures, wishing him good health, fulfillment, and God’s abundant blessings.
Compliance and Continuity in Office Transitions
Mr. Patrick Akonyet, the Head of the Internal Audit Directorate at Makerere University, highlighted the Public Service Standing Orders that govern the handover of office. He noted that these guidelines provide the minimum standards for conducting a lawful and transparent handover, accountability and safeguarding of public resources, as well as promoting continuity in institutional operations.
Collaboration, Accountability and Financial Stewardship
Delivering his acceptance remarks, Mr. Lusiba pledged to work with the College leadership, staff and stakeholders in the execution of the financial management function.
“I am deeply honoured to take on the responsibility of the College Bursar. I thank the College leadership and staff for the warm welcome and I pledge to collaborate with everyone to strengthen financial stewardship, accountability and service to excellence.”
The handover ceremony was witnessed by following university staff: Prof. Edward Bbaale-Principal, Associate Professor James Wokadala-Deputy Principal, Dean, School of Business-Associate Professor Godfrey Akileng, Dean, School of Economics-Associate Professor Ibrahim Mike Okumu, Dean, School of Statistics and Planning-Dr. Margaret Banga, Mr. Patrick Akonyet-Head of Internal Audit, Mr. George Turyamureeba-Deputy University Bursar, Ms Racheal Ikiriza-College Human Resource, Mr. David Ikoma-College Procurement Officer, Ms. Ritah Namisango-Principal Communication Officer, Ms. Stella Butamanya-School Registrar, Mr. Joseph Ikarokok-Chief Custodian, Mr. Julius Muhwezi-Planning Officer and among other members of staff at the College level.
Pleased with Mr. Peter Mubiru’s record of a service, Dr John Bosco Oryema, a member of faculty at the College of Business and Management Sciences said: “Congratulations upon reaching the mandatory retirement. You served with a smile and dedication. I remember when you were the Chief Cashier in the Main Building, you supported many of us in processing the Staff Development Fund. Enjoy the fruits of the hard work.”
Goodwill messages from staff and colleagues
Dr Jude Mugarura: It was a great service coupled with commitment and professionalism. Well done my dear brother, Mr. Peter Mubiru.
Dr Faisal Buyinza: Dear Peter Mubiru, congratulations upon your dedicated service to Makerere University.
Dr Zaina Nakabuye: Congratulations Mr. Peter Mubiru upon reaching this milestone.
Dr Aisha Nanyiti: Congratulations Mr. Peter Mubiru on your dedicated service.
Dr Susan Namirembe Kavuma: Well done Mr. Peter Mubiru, we wish you the best in your new chapter of your life.
Dr Issa Sekatawa: My brother, you have served. We enjoyed our brotherhood before I joined Makerere University
Dr Christopher Muganga: Mr. Peter Mubiru, for your great service to Makerere University and humanity at large, and all the best in your upcoming engagements.
Agnes Ssempebwa: Congratulations Mr. Peter Mubiru on your dedicated service, I wish you od’s blessings in your new chapter of life
Geoffrey Nuwagaba: Thank you Mr. Peter Mubiru for serving us diligently and retire with flowers. I pray that more gates open for you in the next endeavours.
Dr. Patricia Ndugga: Congratulations Mr. Peter Mubiru on your diligent service. Best wishes ahead.
Emmanuel Ssemuyaga: Congratulations on your retirement. It has been a pleasure and privilege working with you. I truly enjoyed the time we interacted, and your contribution, warmth, and collegiality made the experience both exciting and memorable.
Peter Kisaakye: Congratulations Mr. Peter Mubiru. Wishing you well.
Dr Sarah Bimbona: Congratulations. Wishing you all the best in the new Chapter.
Dr Godfrey Akileng: Congratulations. Thank you for completing your tour of duty in building for the future. Your diligent contribution and professionalism leaves a mark. You have been a brother. May the good Lord bless you abundantly.
Dr Kasim Sendawula: Well done Mr. Peter Mubiru. We have indeed enjoyed your dedicated service. May the Almighty God bless you as you embark on a new chapter of life.
Dr Marion Nanyanzi: Congratulations Mr. Peter Mubiru. May the Almighty God bless and guide you as you begin a new chapter.
Dr John Mushomi: Well done Mr. Peter Mubiru. Thanks for keeping young and cool. I am sure work has just started at yours as you retire. The world needs your service more than ever before.
Tadeo Masimengo: May you be blessed as you retire from Makerere University
Dr Peter Babyenda: Thank you for the work well done. Best wishes.
Chris Alioni: Congratulations Mr. Peter Mubiru. You have served well.
Dr Stephen Wandera: Congratulations Mr. Peter Mubiru. You have served us well. I will miss this great partnership and collegial work ethic.
Dr Lillian Tukahirwa: You have served Makerere University with dedication. To God be the glory for the accomplishments and good work.
Jude Sebuliba: Congratulations Mr. Peter Mubiru. I wish you a successful and fruitful re-engagement.
Patience R. Mushengyezi: Congratulations Mr. Peter Mubiru. May God guide you in your next phase.
Paneah Asiimwe: You are a good man. Mr. Peter Mubiru, enjoy your retirement.
Dan Kiganda: Congratulations Mr. Peter Mubiru. Thank you for the dedicated service.
Eric Tumwesigye: Enjoy your next deployments because definitely, you are going for fresh and awesome deployments.
Pictorial:
The Gambia is looking to deepen its public investment management (PIM) systems by drawing lessons from Uganda, with a high-level delegation from the West African country visiting Makerere University’s Public Investment Management (PIM) Centre of Excellence to benchmark Uganda’s experience.
The delegation, led by Mr Baboucarr Jobe, Permanent Secretary in The Gambia’s Ministry of Finance, visited Makerere University’s Public Investment Management (PIM) Centre of Excellence to learn from Uganda’s approach to project conceptualisation, appraisal, implementation, monitoring and evaluation.
The visit is part of wider reforms being undertaken by The Gambia to strengthen its economic, judicial and institutional systems, with public investment management identified as a critical area for improvement.
Speaking during the visit, Mr Jobe said The Gambia had embarked on PIM reforms in collaboration with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), which advised the country to benchmark its systems against countries with relevant experience.
“Several countries were recommended, but we ultimately chose Uganda. I am happy to say that we are glad we selected Uganda for this assignment,” he said.
He noted that although the delegation initially intended to focus specifically on public investment management, the visit had exposed them to broader areas with potential for cooperation between Uganda and The Gambia.
The delegation also visited Makerere University’s Innovation Centre, where it explored initiatives that could support collaboration between the two countries in advancing economic development.
Mr Jobe said institutions in The Gambia, including the University of The Gambia and the Civil Service University, could potentially collaborate with Makerere University and its Innovation Centre.
Closing gaps in public investment
Mr Jobe identified project conceptualisation, project evaluation, project implementation, monitoring and evaluation as some of the major gaps in The Gambia’s public investment management system.
He said the delegation was particularly impressed by Uganda’s systematic approach to managing public investments and the collaboration among institutions involved in the process.
“What has impressed us in Uganda is the manner in which the public investment management process is carried out step by step,” he said.
The Gambian delegation also observed collaboration among key government institutions, including the Ministry of Finance, Office of the Prime Minister, Office of the President and other stakeholders.
Mr Jobe said such institutional collaboration was an important lesson that The Gambia would seek to replicate.
The delegation had an opportunity to participate in a Development Committee meeting, where they observed how different government offices work together to advance Uganda’s development priorities.
Makerere Centre plays key role
The visit was hosted by the Public Investment Management Centre of Excellence, which is integrated into Uganda’s broader public investment management system.
Prof. Edward Bbaale welcomed the Gambian delegation and said the visit provided an opportunity for peer learning and exchange of practical experiences between the two countries.
He said countries were at different stages of strengthening their public investment systems, making peer learning an important avenue for identifying approaches that could be adapted to different institutional contexts.
“We hope to share not only what has worked well, but also some of the challenges we have encountered and the lessons we have drawn from them,” Prof. Bbaale said.
He encouraged the delegation to engage openly with the Makerere team, ask questions and share their own experiences to ensure that the benchmarking exercise was practical and mutually beneficial.
Building capacity for better investments
Prof. Eria Hisali, who presented an overview of the Centre, emphasised the importance of strengthening public investment systems to ensure that limited public resources are used effectively.
He explained that capital investments remain a key driver of economic growth, but governments often face resource constraints that make it impossible to implement every proposed project.
A strong public investment management system, he said, enables governments to assess and select projects based on their potential returns and development impact.
The Centre aims to support this process by building a pool of well-prepared projects at different stages of development, enabling government to make informed decisions about which projects to finance and implement.
The PIM Centre of Excellence was established with support from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO), the UK Trust Fund and the Government of Uganda. It initially operated as a project before being mainstreamed into the Government of Uganda, with its resources now coming directly from government.
Since its establishment, the Centre has trained 526 public-sector officials in areas related to public investment management.
Its training programmes cover key stages of the PIM cycle, including project conceptualisation, integrated analysis, feasibility studies, financial and economic appraisal, risk analysis, project execution, procurement and evaluation.
Strengthening South–South cooperation
For Mr Jobe, the visit was also an opportunity to challenge the tendency of African countries to look outside the continent for solutions to development challenges.
He argued that African countries operate in broadly similar environments and face many common challenges, making the continent an important source of knowledge and practical solutions.
“We need to move away from always looking outside Africa for solutions. There are many valuable initiatives being undertaken by our African brothers and sisters, and it is important that we learn from one another,” he said.
He proposed stronger partnerships between institutions in Uganda and The Gambia, including possible collaboration between universities and civil service training institutions.
“This visit is one step in that direction. South–South cooperation needs to be further strengthened,” he said.
Investing limited resources for greater impact
The Gambian delegation’s interest in public investment management is closely linked to the country’s development challenges.
According to Mr Jobe, The Gambia’s GDP is currently just under US$3 billion, with annual economic growth estimated at between five and six per cent. Inflation has declined significantly from double-digit levels to approximately seven per cent, although poverty remains high at more than 50 per cent.
He said strengthening public investment management was therefore essential to ensuring that the country’s limited public resources generate tangible benefits for citizens.
“This visit will help us ensure that public investment and the limited public resources available to us are utilised efficiently and provide benefits to the average Gambian,” he said.
He added that achieving value for money from public resources would enable citizens to experience greater benefits from government investments and contribute to poverty reduction. The visit marked an important step towards strengthening institutional cooperation between Uganda and The Gambia, while positioning Makerere University and its PIM Centre of Excellence as a potential partner in building public-sector capacity beyond Uganda.
Business & Management
Makerere University Inaugural Conference on Noonomy Paves way for Centre of Excellence in Africa
Makerere University on 20th August 2026, hosted the historic inaugural conference on the Theory of Noonomy, bringing together scholars, policymakers, international partners and students to explore a bold new paradigm for addressing modernity’s deepest crises. Organised by the School of Economics, College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) in collaboration with the S.Y. Witte Institute for New Industrial Development, St. Petersburg Polytechnic University, Russia and supported by the Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund (Mak-RIF), the conference was held under the theme “The Theory of Noonomy and Its Role in Resolving Modernity Issues: Pathways to Sustainable Social and Economic Transformation.”
The event held in the Senior Common Room, Main Building underscored Makerere’s strategic commitment to thought leadership in Africa’s transformation, positioning the University as a continental hub for alternative development thinking.
Bold Thinking Amid Global Crises
Representing Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academic Affairs (DVCAA), Prof. Sarah Ssali described the gathering as both timely and historic.
“Across the globe, we continue to witness systemic crises rooted in market fundamentalism, unchecked resource depletion, and the ideology of growth for the sake of growth. These contradictions are not abstract, but they manifest in climate change, widening inequality, and the erosion of social cohesion” Prof. Ssali stated.
On this note, she lauded the Theory of Noonomy, developed by Prof. Sergey Bodrunov, as a transformative lens. She noted that Prof. Sergey Bodrunov’s Theory of Noonomy that prioritizes reason, humanistic values and solidarism, offers a sustainable path forward in the midst of global crises driven by market fundamentalism, resource depletion and endless growth, exacerbated by climate change, inequality, and social erosion. The Theory envisions a shift to a New Industrial Society of the Second Generation (NIS.2) where knowledge, technology, and human potential drive progress.
“Hosting this conference is not accidental,” Prof. Ssali affirmed, adding that it “Reflects our commitment to shaping debates that matter for Africa’s future.” She outlined the conference’s five core objectives: to introduce and contextualise Noonomy within Africa’s socio-economic realities; to explore solutions to systemic challenges such as inequality, resource scarcity and climate change; to identify pathways for integrating Noonomy principles into policy, education and institutional frameworks; to foster collaboration among scholars, policymakers and practitioners; and to lay the groundwork for establishing a Noonomy Centre at the School of Economics, CoBAMS.
She added that once established, the Centre will serve as a hub for continental dialogue, research, and innovation, hence positioning Makerere and her partners to “transform the theory of Noonomy into a living agenda for Africa, that prioritizes knowledge, human potential, and sustainable transformation”.
Noonomy’s Emphasis of Knowledge as the Primary Productive Force
Prof. Sergey Bodrunov, Director of the S.Y. Witte Institute and author of the theory, addressed the conference virtually and underscored Noonomy’s relevance in an era of technological power that can either destroy or elevate humanity. He argued that neoliberal models have entrenched inequality and ecological crises, while the gradual removal of humans from direct material processes open a path to a non-economic mode of satisfying rational human needs.
Additionally, Prof. Nikolay Dmitriev, Director of the S.Y. Witte Institute expanded on the practical implications for Africa. He stressed that technological sovereignty must be pursued without repeating the dependency traps of earlier industrialisation. Cognitive technologies, he noted, can either subordinate humans to the technosphere or place technology in service of human potential. On the other hand, he noted that Africa’s rapid demographic growth and cultural diversity make it a critical laboratory for Noonomy’s application.
Panel Scrutinizes Noonomy under the lens of Ugandan Realities
Moderating the high-level panel, the Principal CoBAMS, Prof. Edward Bbaale, set the stage with a question on the Ugandan context: Can the country move from a technology-consuming economy to a knowledge-producing one while remaining human-centred and inclusive? He outlined three tests any technology adoption should pass under a Noonomy lens; productivity, human development, and inclusion.
“The first test is the productivity test. Does it improve what society can produce? The second test is the human development test. Does it expand skills, creativity, capabilities, and quality of life? And then number three, the inclusion test. Are its benefits widely spread, or does it deepen exclusion?” Prof. Bbale pondered, as he equally thought to interrogate how the theory aligns with Uganda’s tenfold growth strategy and National Development Plan IV.
Panellists included Prof. Robert Wamala-Director of Research, Innovations and Partnerships (DRIP), Makerere University, Dr. Robert Ngobi-Director Policy Research, National Planning Authority (NPA), Mr. Davis Vuningoma who represented Dr. Albert Musisi-Commissioner Macroeconomic Department, Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development (MoFPED) and Prof. Nikolay D. Dmitriev. Discussions centred on mainstreaming knowledge as a productive force in national planning, financing long-term knowledge-intensive capabilities, and ensuring industrialisation expands rather than displaces human potential.
Prof. Wamala emphasised the need to Africanise the theory, “We should not simply import the concept… Our role should be to interrogate, Africanise and generate evidence on what a knowledge and intelligence-driven economy means in the African context.” He proposed an interdisciplinary research programme, curriculum transformation from knowledge transmission to intelligence development, and the creation of an African Noonomy network led by Makerere.
Dr. Ngobi in his submission noted that although the principles of Noonomy are already addressed by aspects of developing planning, he pointed to the need to address a series of “missing middles” attributed to: reliable and well-costed electricity supply to support hi-tech industries; infrastructure in form of roads, digital infrastructure; seamless interconnectivity in the form of mass rapid transport systems for people and goods; mass education systems; mass health systems that are not only sensitive to local diseases but also viable for medical tourism; as well as knowledge research and innovation informed by national priorities.
Addressing financing of national development priorities, Mr. Vuningoma emphasised the Government appreciation of the need to fund Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) as a pillar for economic transformation. As such he shared that over UGX 1 Trillion had been allocated to the STI sector to support innovations particularly in health.
Prof. Dmitriev on his part addressed the research topics that should become priorities for the first stage of cooperation between Makerere University and the World Association of Noonomy and the S.Y. Witte Institute of Noonomy and New Industrial Development.
Questions from the floor and online participants focused on inclusivity of youth and women, reconciliation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) with African cultural values and indigenous knowledge, and mechanisms to prevent elite capture of automated production. Panelists stressed that Noonomy’s emphasis on solidarity and human-centred development provides the ethical foundation for addressing these concerns through joint research.
Courtesy Call on the Vice Chancellor
Key on the agenda of the visiting delegation was a courtesy call on the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe. In his remarks, Prof. Nawangwe thanked Prof. Sergey D. Bodrunov, author of the Theory of Noonomy and Prof. Dmitriev for choosing Makerere out of all African Universities as partner in advancement of future collaborations and research. He added that setting up a Centre of Excellence in Noonomy at the School of Economics would bolster the University’s aspirations to become Africa’s thought leader in knowledge generation for societal transformation and development.
Transitioning from Dialogue to Institutional Action
In his closing remarks, Dean of the School of Economics, Prof. Ibrahim Mike Okumu described the conference as the start of a sustained institutional relationship rather than a one-off event. He committed the School to developing a concrete research agenda with named outputs and timelines, including joint studies on automation and labour markets in African economies, doctoral exchanges, and empirical testing of Noonomy claims against Ugandan and East African data.
“Let us treat Noonomy as a diagnostic, not a blueprint,” Prof. Okumu urged. “Its greatest value to us is not a policy program awaiting adoption, but a lens sharpening the questions our own planners must answer directly. How do we build human and creative capacity alongside industrial capacity rather than after it? How does this school develop a research agenda that studies Uganda’s own transition rather than import a finished framework wholesale?” he pondered.
He announced Makerere’s forthcoming participation in the World Association of Noonomy Congress in Italy and reiterated the University’s determination to establish the proposed Noonomy Centre as a hub for continental dialogue, research and innovation.
The conference concluded with exchanges of gifts, group photographs and expressions of gratitude to partners including the Government of Uganda through Mak-RIF, the Russian Embassy, and the S.Y. Witte Institute.
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