General
Oral Folklore lights up 3rd Mak-NUFU Project seminar
The MAK-NUFU Folklore Project has since 2008 held an annual seminar/symposium on on-going research. These seminars have been instrumental in motivating researchers to publish their works. The outcome of the first workshop has already been published in a book, Performing Community that was launched early last year.
The MAK-NUFU Folklore Project has since 2008 held an annual seminar/symposium on on-going research. These seminars have been instrumental in motivating researchers to publish their works. The outcome of the first workshop has already been published in a book, Performing Community that was launched early last year.
As such, the Third Seminary that brought together folklore researchers and performers from the various genre of oral performance was held from 23rd – 24th January 2010 in the Women and Gender Studies 
Conference Hall, Makerere University. The Vice-Chancellor was represented by the newly-elected Dean, Faculty of Arts, Associate Prof. Byaruhanga Rukooko.
The first session kicked off with a paper presented by Dr. Okello-Ogwang; Popular Song: Reinventing Tradition versus Traditionalizing Modernity. This was shortly followed by presentation by Ms. Lillian Bukaayi titled The ogre in Soga folk narratives and its manifestations among human beings in today’s Soga society. This paper sought to examine the resemblance of the ogre in folk narratives to its manifestations through human monstrous acts in society today, especially those targeted at helpless women and children. Some of the issues raised during this session examined the role of Technology in the conservation of culture, which although admitted that modern technology was playing an active role in conserving culture, it was also as easily undermining efforts to protect Intellectual Property Rights of the authors and artists.
Ms. Namayanja Saidah in her paper Myth or Legend; an analysis of the Ganda and Gishu Origin stories, which seeks to classify these stories as either myths or legends depending on the strength in characteristic of genre in relation to the stories then kicked off the second session. The presenter couldn’t help but notice that the fantastical nature of these stories in addition to the mystical and supernatural events surrounding them would mostly make them myths. This is not helped by the fact that often, fantasy is more of a creative process of telling these stories.
Riddling as a popular form: The interplay between structure, audience and context was the next paper presented by Cornelius Wambi Gulere. He observes that with riddling as a popular form of art, social order is often reversed and ordinary people sometimes without social status, take centre stage to instruct and delight groups and communities. With riddling, audience members are motivated by being able to contribute freely to the unraveling without being shunned, as almost everyone is involved during the un-riddling.
Ms. Emily Drani from the Cross-Cultural Foundation of Uganda (CCFU) then made her presentation. CCFU is a non-governmental organization focused on practically appreciating Uganda’s heritage by examining how our presentations or findings during seminars such as this one apply to our daily lives. Areas that CCFU is engaged in include; Culture and Development, where research and documentation is carried out of cases, where culture has made a positive contribution to society; Managing Diversity, which tries to appreciate that we are unique as the different tribes of Uganda and examines how each of us can contribute to forge a common identity as Ugandans without discrimination, and Heritage, which takes note of how we appreciate and preserve our heritage of what we collectively own as Ugandans.
The afternoon played host to the third session of the seminar, where Dr. Okot Benge presented his paper on Justice and Confilict resolution in Acoli Oral Literature. He noted that as a musical people, the Acoli often expressed themselves in song, whatever the circumstance, be it war, merry making, celebrating childbirth, mourning, storytelling.
Sr. Dominic Dipio then presented her paper on Traditional Leadership Wisdons and their Contemporary Parallels: An Example of the Madi of Uganda, which is a follow-up of her earlier paper on morals of traditional leadership. The research intends to focus on a number of key paramount chiefs, who were popular leaders of their time and what made them popular. The Madi practiced leadership in a decentralized egalitarian community, where the Opi (Chief) was often referred to by reverent names such as Ajugo (Owner of the Spear), albeit approachable by any member of the society for purposes of mediation of conflicts.
Humanities for a Social Purpose: Reflections on the Potential Role of African Oral Literature in Fighting HIV/AIDS was the next paper presented by Mr. Danson Kahyana. The paper argues that the curriculum and pedagogy of humanities in African Universities need to be revisited so that these subjects serve a social purpose rather than being taught for the sake of merely passing on theoretical knowledge.
Dr. Susan Kiguli opened session four of day two with her paper on Exploring the Music: Audience Perspectives on the Music Festival Phenomenon in Buganda. This third phase of the research will examine audience perspectives on the Central Broadcasting Service (CBS) Music festivals which were held twice annually until the government closure of the radio station in September, 2009. This work is a continuation of previous research on musical festivals as major commemorative events that promote and celebrate cultural identity among the Baganda. The research will focus on how audiences perceive and respond to the festivals as cultural events and the impact of their responses to appreciation of song.
As one delves deeper into proverbs as the repository of indigenous knowledge, it becomes clear that in order for one to fully appreciate the wisdom behind proverbs, one needs to understand the contexts within which some of them come into existence, or within which they are embedded. In this part of his research, Dr. Khamalwa Wotsuna in his paper The “Embeddedness” of Proverbs in Folktales focused on the collection of these folktales as a sequel and a necessary nexus to the proverbs, and discussion of their deeper and remote meanings with key informants.
The screening of Folklore in Animation film consisted the fifth session of seminar day-two. In a title “IT IS THE LAW” written by Sr. Dominic Dipio based on an Acholi folktale, participants were left both mesmerized and appreciative that efforts to conserve folklore had now integrated the avenue of digital animation.
As the seminar drew to a finale, Dr Lene Johannessen led participants in a discussion on the way forward, which emphasized the need for a project website to showcase all the findings of the project along with all 
papers presented thus far. The project will conclude with an International Conference to be held at Makerere University.
In his remarks, the Chief Guest, Prof. Oswald Ndoleriire thanked The Department of Literature staff and Sr. Dipio in particular for their incessant efforts in producing and promoting oral literature, films, productions and papers aimed at promoting Ugandan folklore. He also thanked Dr. Lene, all her efforts towards the success of the project. He then proceeded to officially launch the book titled Performing Change: Identity, Ownership and Tradition in Ugandan Oral Culture, the second collection of essays produced by scholars from Makerere University, as part of a continuing research project with the University of Bergen.
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On April 15th and 16th 2025, leaders from various sectors, students, and distinguished guests converged at Makerere University for the Julius Nyerere Youth Festival 2025—a vibrant platform designed to inspire, educate, and empower the next generation of leaders.
Held under the theme, “Our Heritage, Our Voices: Culture, Innovation, and Servant Leadership,” the festival celebrated the enduring legacy of Mwalimu Julius Kambarage Nyerere, founding President and Father of the Nation of the United Republic of Tanzania. It also marked the commemoration of his 103rd birthday, celebrated in style through a dynamic, youth-driven programme.
Organized by the Julius Nyerere Leadership Centre (JNLC) at Makerere University in partnership with the Uganda Management Institute (UMI), the two-day event featured a rich blend of intellectual exchange, cultural expression, and leadership development activities. Highlights included:
- A powerful keynote address: “Shaping the Next Generation of Servant Leaders: Mwalimu Nyerere’s Legacy”
- Panel discussions on Servant Leadership for Societal Transformation and Youth Voices for Societal Change
- Cultural showcases, storytelling inspired by Nyerere’s teachings, and poetry sessions celebrating African unity and Pan-Africanism
- A Youth Innovation & Entrepreneurship Workshop, Innovation Pitch Challenge, Mentorship Walk (Walking in Nyerere’s Footsteps), and conversations on mental health and wellbeing
Honoring a Legacy of Servant Leadership
Mwalimu Julius Nyerere, born on 13th April 1922, is revered for his humility, deep sense of purpose, and unyielding commitment to African liberation and unity. As a young scholar, he studied at Makerere University—then the only tertiary institution in East Africa—where he earned a teaching diploma and began developing the ideas that would shape his Pan-African vision. Throughout his life, Nyerere championed equity, youth empowerment, gender equality, African culture, and education for sustainable development.
In her remarks, Dr. Nansozi Suzie Muwanga, Executive Director of JNLC, noted that the Centre was founded to advance Nyerere’s values by preparing a new generation of servant leaders. Established on 6th October 2018 through the initiative of H.E. President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, JNLC runs programs that empower youth to harness their potential, preserve cultural heritage, and develop innovative solutions to today’s societal challenges.
“Mwalimu Nyerere was a passionate believer in the role of young people in shaping Africa’s destiny,” Dr. Muwanga affirmed. “This festival reaffirms that belief.”
Reaffirming Regional Unity and Youth Potential
In his address, H.E. Maj. Gen. Paul Simuli Kisesa, High Commissioner of the United Republic of Tanzania to Uganda, highlighted the festival’s role in recognizing youth as active agents of change, capable of linking Nyerere’s timeless vision to contemporary progress. He encouraged young people to embrace their cultural identities while harnessing innovation to advance their communities.
H.E. Kisesa reminded students that Nyerere’s Pan-Africanist ideals took root while he was at Makerere and urged them to connect with the same spirit of purpose and service. He emphasized the strong ties between Uganda and Tanzania and cited infrastructure projects like the East African Crude Oil Pipeline as modern expressions of Nyerere’s Pan-African vision.
“This partnership reflects a dedication to regional unity—empowering young people to contribute to a prosperous East Africa,” he said, pledging continued support to JNLC to ensure Nyerere’s legacy endures.
Makerere University: A Century of Leadership and Excellence
Representing the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Dr. Julius Kikooma, Director of Graduate Training, celebrated Makerere’s 103-year legacy as a cradle of African leadership. Prof. Nawangwe reaffirmed the University’s commitment to nurturing the next generation through education that builds wisdom, purpose, and service.
“Since its founding in 1922, Makerere has grown into one of Africa’s most prestigious institutions,” he noted. “We are proud to have educated presidents, scholars, innovators, and change makers across the continent—including Mwalimu Nyerere himself.”
He added that the Julius Nyerere Leadership Centre continues to provide a nurturing environment for young leaders to grow in character, competence, and commitment to society.
A Call to Action
Mr. Andrew Tumusiime, a Board Member and representing the Chair of the Board of Directors – Julius Nyerere Leadership Centre Dr. Kasozi Mulindwa, emphasized the Centre’s dedication to amplifying youth voices and building their leadership capacity. “The Centre is committed to listening to young people’s aspirations and walking with them toward a better future,” Mr. Tumusiime said.
Acknowledging concerns about the future, he urged youth to take meaningful action now and shape a legacy they can be proud of. “The time to lead is now,” he stated. “Together, we can build the Africa that Nyerere envisioned—united, innovative, and just.”
Reigniting Nyerere’s Spirit Through Youthful Leadership and Collective Action
The Chairperson of the JNLC Board of Directors, Dr. Saturninus Kasozi-Mulindwa, set the tone for the second day of the Festival with a powerful message: “Today is about re-igniting Mwalimu Julius Nyerere’s spirit through your voices as young people—through our culture, our innovations, and your leadership.”
Dr. Kasozi-Mulindwa emphasized the richness and resilience of African heritage, rooted in unity, dignity, and communal responsibility. “Your voices matter. Young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow—they are the leaders of today,” he declared.
Drawing attention to the interactive nature of the festival, he encouraged participants to actively engage in the panel discussions, exhibitions, innovation showcases, and intergenerational dialogues. These platforms, he noted, are essential for amplifying youth voices, challenging injustices, and shaping narratives grounded in African identity and values.
“This is your moment,” he concluded, “to not only dream of change but to drive it—to question, to learn, to lead, and to inspire transformation.”
Building on this foundation, Dr. James Nkata, Director General of Uganda Management Institute, represented by Associate Professor Gerald Karyeija, echoed the ethos of servant leadership. He called on youth to prioritize critical pillars such as education, healthcare, African unity, and collective responsibility.
“Be the custodians of our heritage,” he urged. “Build strong, self-reliant communities grounded in education, family, and moral leadership.” He concluded with a rallying call: “Let us honour Nyerere’s legacy by working for a brighter future for ourselves, our communities, and our continent. Go and become servant leaders.”
The keynote address that followed served as a compass for the rest of the day’s discussions.
Keynote Address: Shaping the Next Generation of Servant Leaders
In a keynote address titled “Shaping the Next Generation of Servant Leaders: Mwalimu Nyerere’s Legacy,” Ms. Eva Mulema Matsiko, Chief of Party at RTI International, challenged young leaders to embrace excellence and purpose-driven leadership.
“Harness every opportunity to the best of your advantage,” she advised. “Like Mwalimu Nyerere, whose remarkable list of accomplishments and honorary doctorates show us that excellence is within reach if we are willing to pursue it.”
Ms. Matsiko reflected on Nyerere’s early days at Makerere University, where he nurtured his Pan-Africanist ideals. She called on the youth to define their values and ensure that their actions align with their words.
“Mwalimu Julius Nyerere did not just speak about unity and justice—he lived it. He sacrificed personal comfort to realize his ideals. That is the kind of selfless leadership we must emulate,” she said.
She highlighted Nyerere’s commitment to youth and women empowerment, African liberation movements, and indigenous culture—especially his promotion of Kiswahili as a unifying language.
Quoting African Development Bank President Akinwumi Adesina, she stressed the urgency of self-reliance: “Africa must chart its future relying not on the benevolence of others, but on its own determination.”
She concluded with a call to action for both current leaders and mentors: “Model the values you wish to see in the next generation. Provide real opportunities for youth to lead. Only then can we cultivate servant leaders in the true spirit of Mwalimu Nyerere.”
Panel I: Servant Leadership for Societal Transformation
The first panel discussion, “Servant Leadership for Societal Transformation”, chaired by Ms. Marion Kirabo, former Guild Minister for Gender at Makerere University, featured passionate insights from Ms. Josephine Aanyu, Mr. Gracious Kadondi, and Mr. Kenny Ronnie Rubanga.
Mr. Kenny Ronnie Rubanga, Guild President at UMI, emphasized the urgency of unity and ethical leadership. “We must unite or perish,” he said, quoting Nyerere. He called on the youth to rise above tribalism, uphold integrity, and advocate for policies that are people-centered.
“Uganda has excellent policies, but they are undermined by poor implementation—often by us,” he noted. “Before blaming others, assess yourself and your peers.”
Ms. Josephine Aanyu, former Guild Speaker at Uganda Christian University, emphasized the importance of accountability and modesty in leadership. She urged young leaders to avoid extravagance and instead focus on transparent management of entrusted resources.
Addressing unemployment, she encouraged youth to form collaborative teams and generate impactful, community-based solutions. “We are brilliant and creative. Let’s use our collective energy to create jobs and opportunities,” she said.
Ms. Gracious Kadondi, the 91st Vice Guild President of Makerere University, highlighted ethical leadership as a combination of empathy, transparency, and public service. She advocated for mentorship programs to nurture a new generation of ethical leaders and emphasized the need to connect leadership to real societal needs.
Panel II: Youth Voices for Social Change
The second panel discussion, “Youth Voices for Social Change”, moderated by Dr. Gardner Rwakiseta Herbert, Programme Manager at JNLC, featured Mr. Robert Maseruka, Ms. Charity Nduhura, and Ms. Rose Nabwire.
Mr. Robert Maseruka, 89th Guild President of Makerere University, emphasized equity and inclusion in leadership, citing the Makerere Guild Constitution’s provisions for women and persons with disabilities.
He urged young people to reflect on their life’s purpose: “Great leaders—whether Jesus Christ, Napoleon, or President Museveni—discovered their purpose early. What is yours? What are you willing to stand—or even die—for?”
The panel continued with more reflections on grassroots activism, the importance of youth representation in governance, and using creativity to challenge the status quo.
Conclusion: Celebrating Legacy, Inspiring Action
In her compelling remarks, Ms. Rose Nabwire, Guild President of Makerere University Business School (MUBS), challenged fellow youth to be bold and intentional about engaging in politics. She urged young leaders to be active listeners and to participate in community empowerment initiatives, such as volunteering and giving back to their communities. Stressing the importance of humility and empathy in leadership, she reminded her peers that true service is rooted in understanding and compassion.
On a more somber note, Ms. Nabwire raised concerns over the increasing commercialization of student politics across universities. She encouraged upcoming leaders to resist this trend and strive for integrity, transparency, and purpose-driven leadership.
Ms. Charity Nduhura, Guild Speaker at UMI, inspired the audience by sharing her personal journey of balancing student life, politics, employment, marriage, and family. As a living testament to the power of resilience and time management, she encouraged young people to understand their priorities and plan their schedules effectively.
In advocating for greater inclusion, Ms. Nduhura appealed to the festival organizers to ensure representation of young women from rural and distant universities in future panel discussions. “We must ensure every voice is heard, especially those from areas often left behind,” she said.
Addressing a persistent societal stereotype, Ms. Nduhura advised women not to be discouraged by those who claim that empowered women intimidate potential partners. “Class attracts class,” she affirmed. “Those who value greatness will always find their way to it.”
Reflections from Butiama: Learning from Mwalimu’s Roots
A moving storytelling session, moderated by Mr. Lawrence Alionzi, the 88th Guild President of Makerere University, brought the spirit of Mwalimu Nyerere closer to home.
Mr. Bruce Mwebaze, a student at Makerere University and a beneficiary of the JNLC’s Butiama learning visit, shared his reflections from the birthplace of Mwalimu Nyerere. He spoke of Nyerere’s deep belief in the power and promise of young people, his humility, and his devotion to servant leadership. Mwebaze recounted how leaders from across Africa would visit Tanzania to learn from Nyerere’s model of transformation—a testament to his enduring influence.
Another visitor to Butiama, Ms. Constance Ichumar, spoke of how the trip provoked deep introspection. “If I died today, what would I be remembered for?” she asked. She praised Nyerere’s vision for a united Africa and his historic efforts to unite Tanzanians under one language—Kiswahili. In his honor, she called upon Ugandans to embrace and learn Kiswahili as a step toward deeper African unity.
Cultural Expression and the Power of Art
As the sun set, participants were treated to an evening of traditional music and dance performances celebrating African heritage—a fitting tribute to Mwalimu Nyerere, who held African culture in high esteem.
The celebrations reached a heartfelt crescendo with “Voices in the Night”, an evocative social event featuring poetry and spoken word inspired by Mwalimu Nyerere’s teachings. Distinguished voices including Dr. Susan Kiguli, Associate Professor at Makerere University, renowned poet Kagayi Ngobi, and creative writing students, performed poems that celebrated African unity, Pan-Africanism, and servant leadership.
Through rhythm, verse, and song, the evening became a living testament to Nyerere’s spirit—a reminder that leadership is not confined to political office, but is lived daily through action, voice, and legacy.
A Festival of Reflection, Action, and Hope
Day One of the Ignite Youth Voices 2025 Festival did more than commemorate the birth of Mwalimu Julius Kambarage Nyerere. It sparked renewed dialogue, inspired bold ideas, and summoned a new generation to action. In every voice that spoke, every story shared, and every dance performed, Nyerere’s vision lived on.
As the youth continue to carry the torch of servant leadership, African unity, and ethical transformation, one message rang clear: the future is not something to wait for—it is something to shape, starting now.
The Ag. Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic Affairs), Prof. Buyinza Mukadasi on Tuesday 29th April 2025 met with a delegation whose vision is to transform Uganda into East Africa’s premier digital skills hub through equipping 200,000 youth and professionals with digital and cybersecurity skills by 2027. The ambitious programme is a strategic collaboration between Deborah’s Impact Projects Africa-Uganda (DIPA-U), Africa World Train Center (AWTC) and the Office of the First Lady of Uganda (OFLU), with Ugandan Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) as partners.
The delegation included; Ms. Elinor Wanyama Chemonges-Head DIPA-U, Ms. Betty Byanyima-Emerging Leaders Program (ELP)/DIPA-U, and Ms. Beat Bisangwa-OFLU. In attendance were Prof. Tonny Oyana-Principal College of Computing and Information Sciences (CoCIS), Dr. Rodney Rugyema-Deputy Dean of Students, Mr. Awel Uwihanganye-Head Advancement and other officials.
The presentation by the delegation noted that the proposed programme creates a dual benefit of addressing digital opportunities and creating sustainable employment in high-growth digital sectors. The programme will begin with foundational IT and cybersecurity training before branching off into specialized career tracks in technical cybersecurity, compliance, IT Helpdesk, tech sales and marketing.
The training will be implemented in three phases commencing in May 2025 with IT fundamentals before delving into specialized career tracks and industry certifications in December 2025, and thereafter, workplace integration, business partnerships and freelancing skills in the third phase slated to commence in 2026. 20,000 participants are anticipated to be trained during the first phase, while the second and third phases envision training 80,000 and 100,000 participants respectively, bringing the total to 200,000.
The Uganda Digital Pathways Initiative was officially launched by the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Mrs. Janet Kataaha Museveni on 22nd March 2025, where the first student, Miss Precious Keza pre-registered for the initiative. The event held at the Freedom Square, Makerere University was part of the Mantle of Deborah National Conference, an apostolic and prophetic movement aimed at equipping women for leadership, purpose and national transformation.
In his remarks, Prof. Buyinza welcomed and thanked the delegation for choosing Makerere University as partner for the initiative, adding “Our business is training; anything to do with digital skills improvement is welcome and we are excited and committed to transform the mindset of our graduates so as to make them more marketable.”
He further lauded the delegation for including the Private Sector Foundation Uganda (PSFU) in the deliberations, noting that Makerere is always appreciative of inroads made in linking industry with academia for skills enhancement of graduates.
Contributing to the discussion, Prof. Tonny Oyana reassured the delegation that CoCIS is will be happy to co-create and co-design curricula with the initiative, which he opined can be offered as a short course. “We look forward to designing an experience that gives measurable outcomes.”
Furthermore, Dr. Rodney Rugyema underlined the Office of the Dean of Students willingness to mobilise students to pre-register for the initiative. He nevertheless requested the delegation to share more information on what will inform enrolment for the specialized career tracks so as to enable participants envision how their skills will contribute to the greater goal of transforming Uganda into East Africa’s premier digital skills.
Today’s meeting will be followed by a virtual meeting with the Africa World Train Center (AWTC) to further thresh out finer details on curricula and implementation.
Participants are encouraged to pre-register using the link: https://www.africaworldtraincenter.org/digital-pathways
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