Makerere University Research and Innovation Fund Week: A Step Towards a Sustainable Future.
By Naome Namusoke/KMA Updates.
Makerere University, Kampala –
President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has urged Ugandan researchers and innovators to return to their roots and ground their innovations in African heritage. Speaking at the launch of the Makerere University Research and Innovation Fund (Mak-RIF) Week Agenda 2025, the President emphasized the need for a homegrown doctrine that applies indigenous knowledge to science, technology, and innovation.
This year’s event, running under the theme “Research and Innovation for a Sustainable Future,” marks a significant milestone in Uganda’s journey toward economic transformation and self-reliance.
The Research and Innovation Week jas officially opened with a vibrant showcase of cutting-edge products and ideas addressing critical areas such as agricultural transformation, food security, health and well-being, science and technology, climate change, natural resources management, urbanization, governance, heritage, and creative arts.
Each year, the Government of Uganda allocates UGX 30 billion through Mak-RIF to support research initiatives that align with national development priorities. President Museveni lauded this commitment, affirming the pivotal role research plays in propelling Uganda into a modern, money-driven economy.
Prof. Cryspus Kiyonga, Chancellor of Makerere University, echoed the importance of these investments. “Research and innovation have empowered our youth towards self-sustainability,” he said, applauding the growing impact of local ingenuity.
Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe also reaffirmed the university’s dedication to nurturing innovations that address real-world problems, in line with the President’s vision for economic transformation.
However, the road to innovation is not without challenges. Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation, Dr. Monica Musenero, raised concerns over the limited domestic market for locally developed products. She appealed to the President to revisit policies that hinder government procurement of homegrown innovations.
In response, President Museveni has promised to revise the necessary policies to facilitate government support and procurement of these research-based products. “Government will intervene not only in funding but also in buying these innovations to ensure their sustainability,” he assured.
Nonetheless, Museveni has also maintained a strong stance on preserving African identity. “Innovation must reflect our African heritage. Let us not abandon our roots as we seek modern solutions,” he emphasized.
By the close of the 2023/24 financial year, Mak-RIF had funded 666 projects, with half having completed their activities. Of these, 65 innovations have been identified as ready for commercialization. The ongoing 3-day exhibition is offering a platform to showcase these products, generate stakeholder dialogue, and present policy recommendations to further Uganda’s development agenda.
As Makerere University continues to champion sustainable development through research and innovation, this year’s exhibition not only reflects progress—it reinforces the call for African-led solutions to Africa’s challenges.