Makerere University College of Business and Management Sciences

Progression Of Infant Mortality Determinants In Uganda (1995-2016)
2023-11-26 08:00 - 17:00 UTC | KAMPALA
Dear all,
The Dean School of Statistics and Planning invites you to Mr. Odur Benard’s PhD Public Defense scheduled to take place on Wednesday, 29th November 2023 at 9:00 am in
Mathematics Building Room 105, College of Natural Sciences (CoNAS), Makerere University.

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Announcing Webinar Series on Applied Quantitative Analysis
2024-02-09 08:00 - 17:00 | KAMPALA
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Research Assistants (20 positions) for the FAMILEA project
2024-02-09 08:00 - 17:00 | KAMPALA
The Department of Population Studies (DPS) at the School of Statistics and Planning (SSP) is conducting a study on “The Remaking of the Family in East Africa (FamilEA)”. The main aim of the study is to map out the shifting family landscape of residents in Kampala Metropolitan (Kampala, Mukono, and Wakiso), including family networks based outside the study area, which is termed the family archipelago. This project will adopt a mixed method (quantitative-qualitative) approach that will extend beyond the household and conjugal family to the extended family and family-like relationships, such as friendships. The project seeks to recruit 20 research assistants.
Position: Research Assistant (20 positions)
Reports to: Field Supervisors / Research Coordinator
Duty Station: Kampala Metropolitan Area (Kampala, Mukono, and Wakiso)
Key duties and responsibilities

Participate in all training, pre-test activities, and pilot surveys.
Recruit research participants for the FamilEA survey.
Administer informed consent forms to all study participants.
Conduct interviews in line with the research project requirements and ethical considerations.
Review and submit data for completed interviews for daily cross-checking and verification.
Ensure completeness and accuracy of the data from the study participants.
Safe and responsible handling of all study tools and equipment provided for the interviews.
Submit daily field reports/timesheets.
Perform other duties related to data collection and management.

Relevant Education Qualifications
A bachelor’s degree in Demography, Population Studies, Statistics, Quantitative Economics, Business Statistics, Sociology, Social Sciences, Records and Archives Management, or any related discipline. Postgraduate training is an added advantage.
Required Experience & Skills

Minimum experience of at least one (1) year of electronic survey data collection using tablets (Redcap, KoboCollect, ODK or SurveyCTO)
Experience working in Kampala Metropolitan Area (Kampala, Mukono, Wakiso).
Fluency in the following languages: Luganda, and English (both written and oral).
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Ability to deliver outputs under minimal supervision.
Good teamwork attributes.
Ability to adhere to protocols and guidelines for data collection.

Desirable: Knowledge of other languages e.g. Lusoga, Runyakitara, and Luo
How to Apply
Submit one PDF of the following 4 documents (in the order below):

Cover letter (signed)
CV (Maximum 5 pages)
Copy of degree certificate/transcripts
Copy of National ID

Notes

The PDF must be named as follows: FirstName_LastName_Research Assistant Application
Submission email: famileauganda@gmail.com
Submit by midnight of the 18th February 2024.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview.

Download advert Advert Research Assistants FamiliEA Kampala Metropolitan 08022024

PhD Defence: Zaina Nakabuye
2024-06-20 08:00 - 17:00 | Conference Hall, Block B, CoBAMS, Conference Room, Block B, CoBAMS, Kampala, Uganda
The Dean, School of Business, College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), invites you to the public PhD defence of the following candidate.
Name: Zaina Nakabuye
Thesis Title: Technology Orientation, Knowledge Absorptive Capacity, Supply Chain Agility, and Export Performance of SMEs in Uganda.
Date and Time: Thursday 20th June, 2024 at 9:00 AM EAT.

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PhD Abstract (7.56 KB)

Public Investment Management Conference
2024-10-17 08:00 - 14:00 | School of Public Health Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
The College of Business and Management Sciences in collaboration with the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development are organizing a public investment management conference. The conference will take place on Thursday October 17th 2024 at the Public Health Auditorium (Eastern Gate) .
The minister, Hon. Matia Kasaija will be the guest of honour.

PHD Public Defence - SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES, STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT AND THE GROWTH OF SMALL AND MEDIUM AGRO-PROCESSING ENTERPRISES IN UGANDA
2024-11-14 08:30 - 17:00 | Conference Hall, Block B, CoBAMS, Conference Room, Block B, CoBAMS, Kampala, Uganda
ABSTRACT
Sustainable practices are globally recognised as growth drivers. However, there exist paucity of knowledge on their adoption in developing countries, especially in agro-processing small and medium enterprises (SME’s). This study is premised on triple bottom line (TBL) and stakeholder theories. The study sought to examine the relationship between sustainable practices, stakeholder engagement, and the growth of agro-processing SMEs in Uganda. The study objectives were; to assess the relationship between environmental, social, and economic sustainability practices and SME’s growth; to evaluate the mediating role of stakeholder engagement, and to explore lived experiences of SME owners’ in implementing sustainable practices. A cross-sectional descriptive design, integrating quantitative and qualitative approaches, was used. Data were collected from a stratified sample of 367 SMEs within the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area obtained from a population of 4,226 agro-processing SMEs. Data analysis was done using SmartPLS version 4, and NVIVO version 14 for quantitative and qualitative respectively. Findings show that environmentally, socially, and economically sustainable practices significantly enhance SME growth, with stakeholder engagement partially mediating these effects. In addition, the finding shows that SMEs should not only focus on sustainable practices but also on quality production, effective marketing and management practices. In conclusion, there is need to integrate sustainable practices, build strong relationships with stakeholders and improve marketing and management practices for agro-processing SMEs in Uganda to achieve long-term growth and contribute positively to their enterprises, communities, and the environment.This study fills a gap in understanding the connection between sustainable practices and SME growth in Uganda, and recommends the introduction of a sustainability growth model that underscores the importance of stakeholder engagement in the growth strategy of agro-processing SME’s.
SUPERVISORS

Anthony Tibaingana (PhD)

Department of Marketing and Management
School of Business, Makerere University.

Yusuf Kiwala (PhD)

Department of Accounting and Finance
School of Business, Makerere University.

Jude Thaddeo Mugarura (PhD)

Department of Marketing and Management
School of Business, Makerere University

PHD Defense - Entrepreneurial Effectiveness of women-owned Agribusinesses in Uganda
2024-11-19 09:00 - 17:00 | Conference Hall, Block B, CoBAMS, Conference Room, Block B, CoBAMS, Kampala, Uganda
The Dean, School of Business, invites you to the PhD public defense for Ms. Marion Nanyanzi on the 19th of November 2024, CoBAMS Conference Room (Block B). The defense will start at exactly 9:00am.
Title: Entrepreneurial Effectiveness of Women-Owned Agribusiness in Uganda
Candidate: Marion Nanyanzi
Supervisors:
Dr. Proscovia Katumba
Dr. Anthony Tibaingana

PhD Public Defense PhD in Economics - The Technical Efficiency and Total Factor Productivity Growth of Health Systems in African Least Developed Countries 2008 -2018
2024-11-22 14:00 - 17:00 | Conference Hall, Block B, CoBAMS, Conference Room, Block B, CoBAMS, Kampala, Uganda
Abstract
Although 20–40% of health spending globally is wasted, the magnitude of this wastage in African Least Developed Countries (African LDCs) is unknown. The objective of this study is to examine the technical efficiency and total factor productivity growth of health systems in 29 African LDCs over the 2008-2018 period. Using data from the WHO, World Bank, and UNESCO, the non- parametric Data Envelopment Analysis is used to assess the technical efficiency of health systems; the random effects Tobit model is adopted to ascertain the determinants of the technical efficiency of health systems; and the Data Envelopment Analysis-based Malmquist productivity index is used to establish the total factor productivity growth of the health systems. The results indicate variations in the technical efficiency of health systems of African LDCs. The reduction in technical efficiency is attributed to political stability, voice and accountability, gross secondary school enrollment, unemployment and the prevalence of HIV/AIDS. However, the improvement in technical efficiency is attributed to regulatory quality, gross national income, and the adult literacy rate. There is also progress in the total factor productivity growth of health systems in African LDCs, which is mainly due to an increase in technical efficiency rather than technological change. Thus, African LDCs that have technically inefficient health systems and are demonstrating regress in the total factor productivity growth of their health systems need to benchmark on the African LDCs that have technically efficient health systems and those whose health systems are demonstrating progress in the total factor productivity growth. African LDCs need to improve political stability, voice, and accountability; improve the quality of education; create employment and strengthen measures to fight HIV/AIDS. They also need to improve their level of technology to witness adequate progress in the total factor productivity growth of their health systems.

The Dean School of School of Economics invites you the PhD Public defense for Mr. Musoke Edward (PhD in Economics).
Supervisors:
Supervisors: Prof. John Ddumba Ssentamu and Prof. Yawe Bruno.

PhD Public Defense - EMPLOYMENT, TRANSITION AND EDUCATION RETURNS IN UGANDA
2024-11-29 09:00 - 17:00 | Conference Hall, Block B, CoBAMS, Conference Room, Block B, CoBAMS, Kampala, Uganda
PhD Public Defense for Mr.Ssebulime Kurayish (PhD in Economics).
ABSTRACT
Creating adequate and sustainable employment opportunities as well as enabling a successful transition to work are critical goals of a functional and effective labour market. While education is recognized as a potential equalizer in employment and earnings distribution, evidence from Uganda remains limited. This study addresses this gap by: (i) examining Uganda’s employment dynamics at national, sectoral, and sub-sector levels; (ii) identifying the drivers of school-to-work transition lengths, and (iii) analyzing education returns at national and sub-national levels. The study employs a mixed-methods econometric approach. First, multivariate regression and autoregressive distributed lag models are used to assess the employment intensity of growth and sectoral employment shifts. Second, standard hazard models identify the factors influencing school-to-work transition lengths. Finally, Mincerian and pooled regression models, augmented with the Instrumental Variable techniques, estimate the returns to education. The findings highlight persistent jobless growth at both national and sectoral levels, weak employment intensity, and limited sectoral employment shifts in Uganda. At the sector level, Agriculture demonstrated the lowest employment intensity, while sub-sectors like trade, construction, and manufacturing exhibited higher job creation potential. Prolonged school-to-work transitions were attributed to Uganda’s constrained job creation capacity, with technicians experiencing shorter unemployment spells compared to professionals. Education was found to significantly enhance earnings, with wages increasing by 15% for each additional year of schooling and rising to 20.7% after accounting for endogeneity. However, regional disparities in education returns highlighted economic inequalities in the country. The study concludes that the challenges faced by Uganda’s labour market necessitate urgent action and recommends the need for: targeted investment in employment-intensive sub-sectors to drive job creation; developing and launching a national campaign to promote technical and vocational education and training to align skills with market demands, and improving education policies to reduce regional disparities.
Key words: Employment; Transition; Education Returns; Mincerian, Hazard Models.

Supervisors: Prof. Bbaale Edward and Assoc. Prof Okumu M. Ibrahim.

PhD Public Defense - INTERSECTORAL LINKAGES, UNEMPLOYMENT AND ECONOMIC GROWTH IN UGANDA
2024-11-29 09:00 - 17:00 | Conference Hall, Block B, CoBAMS, Conference Room, Block B, CoBAMS, Kampala, Uganda
The Dean School of School of Economics invites you the PhD Public defense for Mr. Mukoki James (PhD in Economics).
Abstract
This study investigated inter-sectoral linkages, the drivers of rapid services sector growth, and the impact of sectoral growth patterns on the unemployment rate in Uganda. Based on the analysis multiplier model of the Social Accounting Matrices (SAMs) 2009/10 and 2016/17, the study finds that at an aggregate level, the services sector had the highest multiplier effects (i.e., in terms of output, GDP, income, and consumption) across both periods, followed by agriculture and services sectors. That is to say that a 1 million income injection in the services sector led to a 3.13 million and 2.71 million shillings increase in output in 2009/10 and 2016/17, respectively, compared to only 1.61 and 1.87 million in the industrial sector. Investing in the services sector was more beneficial compared to other sectors. Also, the services sector had the largest forward production linkages (1.32 points). Agriculture expansion was self-benefitting, led to excess demand in the industrial sector, and benefited more households in the central region and urban areas. Finally, production technology was time dependent. Secondly, the increasing role of the services sector warranted an investigation; we found that population expansion, human capital index, gross national expenditure, and foreign direct investment are the major drivers of rapid services sector growth. In contrast, GDP inflation hurts services sector growth. In addition, producer and household services had the highest impact on economic growth. However, household services drain the economy, while business and producer services improve growth ceteris paribus. Lastly, a positive shock in the agriculture and services sectors significantly reduced unemployment by 1% and 5.07%, respectively. While a negative shock in the services sector significantly increases unemployment by 3.78%. Also, a positive industrial sector shock lowered unemployment by 12.48%. The labor intensity analysis results showed that both the size and composition of sectoral growth affect unemployment level.

Supervisors: Prof. Hisali Eria & Dr. Mukisa Ibrahim

PHD Public Defence : FOREIGN AID INFLOW, DOMESTIC SAVINGS, FUNGIBILITY AND ECONOMIC GROWTH IN UGANDA
2024-11-29 14:00 - 17:00 | Conference Hall, Block B, CoBAMS, Conference Room, Block B, CoBAMS, Kampala, Uganda
The Dean School of School of Economics invites you the PhD Public defense for Ssemanda Patrick (PhD in Economics).
ABSTRACT

Uganda set an ambitious economic growth target of 8.2% per annum in order to achieve middle income status by 2040. Domestic Savings target was set at 35% but it has stagnated at 16.7%, and revenue to GDP has remained below 12.5% compared to the target of 25%. These economic targets require very high economic growth to be achieved. Uganda has been receiving substantial foreign aid inflow, but its contribution to achieve these economic targets remain unclear. This study examines the effects of the increased foreign aid inflow on economic growth, gross domestic savings and assess whether fungibility occurred in Uganda. The empirical models are estimated using time series data for the period 1970- 2020 using the Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) approach to cointegration. Cointegration and error-correction modelling catered for the short run and the long-run effects, consistent with growth models. The three empirical chapters focused on; investigating the relationship between foreign aid inflow and economic growth, foreign aid inflow and domestic savings, foreign aid inflow and fungibility in Uganda between 1970 and 2020.

Results show that foreign aid inflow significantly reduced economic growth in Uganda in the short run and long run. The domestic investment had positive and significant effect on growth in the short run, while exports increased growth in the short and long run. The democracy index for previous periods, and effective labour had a negatively effect on output in the short run. In the long-run, however, effective Labour force, exports, and democratic index was found to increase output in the long run. An increase in foreign aid inflow leads to a drop in domestic savings and crowds out domestic savings in the long run. This is evidence suggests that foreign aid displaced gross domestic savings in the long-run but did not crowd out private investment in Uganda. Aid fungibility results showed that private investment was not crowded out. There was a reduction in tax revenue which could be attributed to weaknesses in the institution capacity and high poverty levels, low tax base and weaknesses in the fiscal regulatory framework in Uganda to ensure the efficiency of tax collection.
These findings suggest that Uganda should promote strategies to increase foreign direct investment (FDI) since it was found to be the most important in complementing domestic savings to generate growth in the longrun. Interruption in aid flows resulted in economic volatility, which in turn reduced investment and led to a slowdown in economic growth.
Supervisors:
Prof. John Ddumba Ssentamu and
Prof. Matovu Fred.

INVITATION: NEAR-ER Early Career Researchers and Graduate Students Dialogue
2025-06-16 | Makerere University Main Hall, Makerere University, KAMPALA, KAMPALA, +2560414, Uganda
INVITATION: NEAR-ER Early Career Researchers and Graduate Students Dialogue
DATE: Monday 16th June 2025, 2:00pm to 5:00pm, Makerere University Main Hall
PARTNERS: 20 Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) from Europe (7) and Africa (13)
TARGET PARTICIPANTS: The Dialogue is open to Early Career Researchers, Academics, Graduate Students and Members of Staff interested in EU-Africa partnerships
NEAR-ER is a Jean Monnet Policy Network that brings together 20 Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) from Europe (7) and Africa (13). The network operates with the shared goal of advancing a broad and well-informed conversation on EU-Africa relations through collecting, reviewing, debating, and disseminating innovative research and education materials. NEAR-ER benefits from a multi-layer and integrated approach for data collection and peer review, a multi-disciplinary group of scholars with expertise in critical thematic areas, and mutual capacity building with a long-term legacy for higher education in both continents.
INVITATION: Dear member of staff, Early Career Researcher/Academics, Graduate Students, you are cordially invited to the NEAR-ER dialogue on 16th June 2025 starting at 2:00pm at Makerere University to:
i. Engage with leading scholars in Europe-Africa relations
ii. Network with academics from 20 institutions across two continents
iii. Explore research and career opportunities in EU-Africa partnerships
iv. Contribute to meaningful discussions on contemporary challenges affecting both continents
v. Gain insights into current trends and future directions in Europe-Africa cooperation
Your participation in this dialogue will significantly benefit the discourse by enhancing their understanding of international relations, providing networking opportunities, and potentially opening doors for future collaborations and research partnerships.
CONTACT PERSON: Dr. John A. Mushomi, Consortium Coordinator/Lecturer, Makerere University Network on Europe-Africa Relations-Education and Research (NEAR-ER), +256772047326.
WE BUILD FOR THE FUTURE
—
Ritah Namisango
Principal Communication Officer
Makerere University
E-mail: pr.bams@mak.ac.ug
Website: www.bams.mak.ac.ug

PhD Public Defense by Mr. Musa Sennanda
2025-08-20 09:00 - 17:00 | Conference Hall, Block B, CoBAMS, Conference Room, Block B, CoBAMS, Kampala, Uganda
The Dean, School of Business, College of Business and Management Sciences cordially invites you to a PhD Defense.
PhD Candidate: Mr. Musa Sennanda
Thesis Title: Islamic Finance, Transparency, Access to Finance and Poverty Mitigation in Countries Financed by Islam Development Bank
Date and Time: 20th August 2025, starting at 9:00 am
Venue: College of Business and Management Sciences Conference Hall
Dean: Associate Professor Godfrey Akileng
Supervisors:

Dr. Ahmed Mutunzi Kitunzi
Dr. Gerald Kasigwa
Dr. Ismail Kintu

PhD Public Defense by Mr. Maxwell Clovice Kamanyire
2025-08-25 09:00 - 13:00 | Conference Hall, Block B, CoBAMS, Conference Room, Block B, CoBAMS, Kampala, Uganda
The Dean, School of Economics, College of Business and Management Sciences cordially invites you to a PhD Defense.
PhD Candidate: Mr. Maxwell Clovice Kamanyire
Thesis Title: Rural Electrification and Household Socio-Economic
Date and Time: 25th August 2025, starting at 9:00 am
Venue: College of Business and Management Sciences Conference Hall
Dean: Associate Professor Ibrahim Mike Okumu
Supervisors:

Prof. Associate Professor Fred Matovu
Dr. Paul Wabiga

Abstract:
Access to electricity is vital for a country’s socioeconomic transformation and social well-being. However, evidence on this topic is limited, especially in developing economies, hindering effective policy and investment. Uganda has increased electricity access from 10% in 2010 to 47.1% in 2022, but connections remain low at 24%, far below the Vision 2040 target of 80%. This raises questions about the factors influencing household demand for electricity connections. Even in rural areas that were once marginalised but are now connected, the transformative effects are not well-documented.
This study aimed to achieve three specific objectives:

Identify the determinants of demand for rural grid electricity connections;
Examine the impact of rural electrification on household business startups;
Assess the impact of rural electrification on women’s economic empowerment.

To address the first objective, a logit model was estimated using cross-sectional survey data from 932 households in central Uganda (Kalungu, Kayunga, Mukono, Mityana, and Wakiso) collected in February and March 2023. Findings show that the likelihood of obtaining an electricity connection increases with shorter distances to the grid, higher economic status of wives, village access to electricity, higher household income, bigger houses, knowledge of electrification, SACCO membership and ownership of electric appliances. Policy recommendations include enhancing household income and expanding the rural electrification program.
The second objective examines the impact of electrification on business startups through three channels: rural electrification, power access from any source, and grid connection using the inverse probability weighted regression adjustment estimation. Results indicate that rural electrification significantly enhances household business startups across all channels and promotes entertainment and other service-related business than manufacturing and processing at household level.Therefore, expanding electrification in villages can promote business creation but, redesigning rural electrification for manufacturing and processing would yield more benefits to the rural economy.
For the third objective propensity score matching is employed on experimental data, revealing that rural electrification significantly boosts women’s economic empowerment by enhancing their bargaining power and control over resources. Policies aimed at empowering women could strategically leverage electrification as a pivotal factor in enhancing household welfare and promoting inclusivity in Uganda.
Your presence and participation will be highly appreciated as we support the student in this important academic milestone.
Assoc. Prof. Ibrahim Mike Okumu

CoBAMS PhD Scholars' Meeting 2025
2025-09-24 08:00 - 17:00 | KAMPALA
Overview
The College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS) is pleased to announce the upcoming PhD Scholars’ Meeting. This event, convened by the Principal, is a dedicated forum for all doctoral scholars within the College to engage, share experiences, and discuss initiatives aimed at enhancing the PhD journey.
This meeting underscores our commitment to fostering a supportive academic community and transforming doctoral training into a more seamless and enriching experience for all our candidates.
Date & Time
Wednesday, 24th September 2025
Starting at 8:00 AM
Venue
CoBAMS Conference Hall, Block B, Room 2.2B8
Makerere University
Eligible Participants
All PhD Scholars from the following schools under CoBAMS:
* School of Business
* School of Economics
* School of Statistics and Planning
Contact Information
For further details or inquiries, please contact:
Dr. Sendawula Kasimu
Phone: 0702 073972
Note:
This meeting is a valuable opportunity to contribute to the development of our PhD programs. Your attendance is highly encouraged.

PhD Public Defense by Ms. Tuhaise Betty Tumuhirwe
2025-10-08 09:00 - 13:00 | Conference Hall, Block B, CoBAMS, Conference Room, Block B, CoBAMS, Kampala, Uganda
The Dean, School of Business, College of Business and Management Sciences cordially invites you to a PhD Defense.
PhD Candidate: Ms. Tuhaise Betty Tumuhirwe

Thesis Title: Bond market Development, Government Effectiveness, Private Sector Participation, and Infrastructure Development in Africa.

Date and Time: 8th October 2025, starting at 9:00 am

Venue: College of Business and Management Sciences Conference Hall

Dean: Associate Professor Godfrey Akileng

Supervisors:

Dr. Eric Nzibonera
Dr. Yusuf Kiwala
Dr. Jude Thaddeo Mugarura

PhD Public Defense by Ms. Apon Linda Ismene
2025-10-14 09:00 - 13:00 | Conference Hall, Block B, CoBAMS, Conference Room, Block B, CoBAMS, Kampala, Uganda
The Dean, School of Business, College of Business and Management Sciences cordially invites you to a PhD Defense.
PhD Candidate: Ms. Apon Linda Ismene
Thesis Title: Internal Control Systems, Leadership Style, Cash flow Management Behaviour and Sustainability of Small and Medium Enterprises in Uganda

Date and Time: 14th October 2025, starting at 9:00 am

Venue: College of Business and Management Sciences Conference Hall

Dean: Associate Professor Godfrey Akileng

Supervisors:

Dr. Ismail Kintu
Dr. Geofrey Nuwagaba

3rd Uganda Entrepreneurship Congress and 9th Annual Students’ Expo 2025
2025-10-16 08:00 - 2025-10-17 17:00 | CTF2, Makerere University, Makerere University, Kampala, 256, Uganda
The 3rd Uganda Entrepreneurship Congress and 9th Annual Students’ Expo 2025, themed “Brewing Prosperity: Youth Entrepreneurship in Uganda’s Coffee Value Chain,” aims to empower youth to become innovators and entrepreneurs in the coffee sector.
Its objectives are to:

Equip young people with practical agritech, entrepreneurship, and market-readiness skills.
Strengthen collaboration among youth, cooperatives, government, and investors to create new opportunities.
Showcase youth-led coffee innovations and connect them to partners and investors.
Influence policy to address barriers like access to finance, land, and technology.
Celebrate outstanding youth-led coffee brands that can inspire replication across Africa.

The key focus areas include sustainable and climate-smart coffee farming, technology-driven value addition, branding and marketing of Uganda’s coffee, financial access for youth ventures, and strengthening youth cooperatives.
The target audience spans university students, young coffee entrepreneurs, cooperatives, Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF), agritech startups, policymakers, private sector leaders, and researchers.
In conclusion, the Congress and Expo seek to drive systemic transformation in Uganda’s coffee economy by positioning youth as owners, innovators, and exporters — unlocking prosperity for the nation and future generations.

PhD Public Defense by Mr. Bashir Rajab Kagere
2025-11-20 09:00 - 12:00 | Conference Hall, Block B, CoBAMS, Conference Room, Block B, CoBAMS, Kampala, Uganda
INVITATION: PhD Public Defense
The Dean, School of Economics under the College of Business and
Management Sciences (CoBAMS), cordially invites you to the PhD Public
Defense of the following candidate:
Name of the Candidate: Bashir Rajab Kagere
Title of Thesis: Firm Innovation Behaviour and Performance
Date: Wednesday 20th November 2025.
Time: 9:00am-12:00pm
Venue: CoBAMS Conference Hall at Makerere University

Supervisors:
1.Dr. Thomas Mwebaze
2.Dr. Nicholas Kilimani
TITLE: FIRM INNOVATION BEHAVIOUR AND PERFORMANCE
Abstract
Manufacturing firms in developing countries operate under structurally weak conditions, characterized by limited regulatory enforcement, pervasive informality, shallow financial markets, inadequate intellectual property protection, and minimal Research and Development (R&D) investment, all of which constrain innovation and firm performance. In Uganda, the scarcity of locally developed innovations reinforces dependence on imported goods, eroding domestic initiative, undermining value addition, employment creation, and long-term competitiveness. This dissertation examines how Ugandan manufacturing firms address these innovation challenges and whether their innovation behavior translates into performance gains. Specifically, it (1) examines the effects of competition from the informal sector (CIS) and access to finance on firm innovation behaviour, (2) identifies the product innovation strategies employed by manufacturing firms, and (3) analyses the impact of these strategies on firm performance. To guide the analysis, the study draws on five interrelated theoretical frameworks: dual economy, pecking order, institutional theory, and both the resource-based and knowledge-based views. The first objective employs World Bank Enterprise Survey data and a multivariate probit model, revealing that exposure to CIS stimulates product innovation, with financing sources shaping firm innovation choices. The second objective categorizes product innovation strategy into four groups: product innovation is internally developed (Make), sourced externally (Buy), created through collaboration (Ally), or developed by modifying original innovations (Imitate). It utilizes the Uganda National Innovation Survey (NIS) dataset, indicating that product innovation strategies differ according to firm innovation expenditures, obstacles, information sources, and objectives. Firms investing in external R&D and machinery acquisition are more likely to innovate. The third analysis, based on PLS-SEM and using the NIS dataset, reveals that product innovation strategy has no direct effect on firm performance, suggesting mediation by other firm capabilities, including product novelty and, to a lesser extent, internationalization. The study suggests improvements in regulatory enforcement, encouraging formalization of informal businesses, and expanding affordable long-term financing. Additionally, there is need to enhance firm R&D capacity and external technology acquisition, strengthen existing policies such as “Buy Uganda Build Uganda” (BUBU) to promote locally manufactured goods’ consumption, and strengthen the intellectual property rights (IPR) framework to incentivize firms to develop new products. Finally, prioritizing novelty is vital for fostering firm performance.
Keywords: innovation, finance, informality, manufacturing, strategy, & firm performance
Your presence and participation will be highly appreciated as we support the student in this important academic milestone.

PhD Public Defense by Mr. Faustino Byanyima
2025-11-20 09:00 - 12:00 | Conference Hall, Block B, CoBAMS, Conference Room, Block B, CoBAMS, Kampala, Uganda
INVITATION: PhD Public Defense
The Dean, School of Economics under the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), cordially invites you to the PhD Public Defense of the following candidate:
Name of the Candidate: Faustino Byanyima
Title of Thesis:
THE EFFECT OF INTERNET USE ON DEVELOPMENT INDICATORS IN SELECTED SUB-SAHARAN AFRICAN COUNTRIES
Date: Wednesday, 20th November 2025.
Time: 9:00am-12:00pm
Venue: CoBAMS Conference Hall at Makerere University
Supervisors:

Associate Professor John Bosco Nyanzi
Professor Bruno Lule Yawe

ABSTRACT
Sub-Saharan Africa has long faced persistently low educational attainment, poor health outcomes, and limited incomes, reflecting a significant development gap. This dissertation examines whether greater internet use can help improve these outcomes. It aims to evaluate the effect of internet use on development indicators by (i) assessing its effect on education attainment, (ii) analyzing its effect on life expectancy, and (iii) examining its effect on income per capita. The dissertation uses panel data from international sources such as UNESCO for literacy rates, ITU for internet use, and World Bank Development indicators for control variables. The first objective utilizes a common correlated effects mean group (CCEMG). The results show significant negative link between internet use and educational attainment, likely due to high disruptive potential. The control variables of institutional quality, pupil-teacher ratio, and the GDP share of agriculture have positive effects. The second objective employs full information maximum likelihood (FIML) and results indicate that internet use has a clear positive effect on life expectancy, likely because better connectivity expands access to health information, telemedicine, and knowledge of healthy practices. Education, institutional quality, and urbanization also have significant positive effects, whereas disease incidence has a significant negative effect. The third objective also adopts FIML and its results reveal that internet use affects income growth indirectly via internet-driven improvements in health. These findings lead to important policy recommendations: governments should promote digital inclusion while investing in complementary sectors like education and healthcare to ensure connectivity translates into higher literacy, longer lives, and economic growth. Initiatives to bridge digital disparities and strengthen institutions are vital so that all communities can share in the benefits of internet-enabled development.

Your presence and participation will be highly appreciated as we support the student in this important academic milestone.

PhD Public Defense by Ms. Christine Kim Atuhairwe
2025-12-04 14:00 - 17:00 | Conference Hall, Block B, CoBAMS, Conference Room, Block B, CoBAMS, Kampala, Uganda
INVITATION:
The Dean, School of Statistics and Planning under the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), cordially invites you to the PhD Public Defense of the following candidate:
Name of the Candidate: Christine Kim Atuhairwe
Title of Thesis:
HEALTH-RELATED QUALITY OF LIFE, VIRAL LOAD SUPPRESSION AND SURVIVAL AMONG OLDER PERSONS LIVING WITH HIV IN UGANDA
Date: Wednesday 4th December 2025.
Time: 2:00pm-5:00pm
Venue: CoBAMS Conference Hall at Makerere University

Abstract

Older persons living with HIV (aged ≥50 years) have increased, a noteworthy public health challenge in low-and middle-income countries. Access to Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) innovations are improving health-related quality of life, viral suppression and survival of persons living with HIV enrolled and retained on ART. The study aimed to determine Health-Related Quality of Life, viral suppression and survival of older persons living with HIV in Uganda.
A cross-sectional survey was carried out to determine the HR-QoL and viral suppression using a semi structured questionnaire. Overall, 439 older persons living with HIV were interviewed about their socio-demographic characteristics, lifestyle, clinical and no-clinical factors and analyzed using the binary logistic regression model. OPLHIV quality of life was studied using the domains of general health perception, physical functioning, role functioning, social functioning, energy/fatigue, health distress and mental health and analyzed using the ordinal regression model. Also, a retrospective longitudinal study analysis of electronic medical records of OPLHIV from TASO centres of excellence was done using the Cox Hazard Regression Model.

The mean age of the participants was 58.0 years (±SD 7.4 years). About 42% of OPLHIV had a good HRQoL. General health perception was associated with multiple sexual partners (p=0.038), advanced HIV disease (p=0.011), and a viral load >200 copies/ml (p=0.003). Physical functioning correlated with tertiary education (p=0.049), being separated (p=0.004), 11-15 years on ART (p=0.027), and WHO clinical stage II (p=0.050). Factors for role functioning included age 60+ (p=0.002), secondary education (p=0.021), unemployment (p=0.001), WHO clinical stage II (p=0.002), and TB history (p=0.037). Social functioning linked to secondary education (p=0.004), being widowed (p<0.001), viral load >200 copies/ml (p=0.008), and WHO clinical stage II (p=0.011). Pain was associated with age 60+ (p=0.014), tertiary education (p=0.004), and unemployment (p=0.005). Energy correlated with secondary education (p=0.062), being separated (p=0.021), viral load >200 copies/ml (p=0.003), and WHO clinical stage II (p=0.028). Health distress was tied to secondary education (p<0.001), tertiary education (p<0.001), unemployment (p=0.033), and WHO stage II (p<0.001). Finally,

mental health was associated with secondary education (p=0.017), being widowed (p=0.043), multiple sexual partners (p=0.015), and WHO stage II (p=0.001). Overall HRQoL specifically correlated with age 60+ (p<0.001), secondary education (p<0.001), and WHO stage II (p=0.008).

About 88% had a viral load of less than 200 copies/µL. The factors associated with viral load less than 200 copies/µL were: being unemployed (aOR=4.1; 95% CI 1.73-9.84), WHO stage II (aOR 0.14; 95% CI 0.04-0.53), good adherence (aOR=16.6; 95% CI 1.91-145.60), having
no recent history of opportunistic infections (aOR=0.28; 95% CI 0.07-1.09), receiving spousal/family support (aOR=2.6; 95% CI 0.98-7.19), and receiving food supplies (aOR=6.0; 95% CI 1.17-31.58). No significant difference could be established with other variables.

A total of 30,758 medical records of OPLHIV from 1987-2023 were identified from TASO medical records. Of these 73% were active on ART, 6% had dead, 15% lost to follow up and 6% had transferred to other health facilities or regions. The survival of OPLHIV was significantly associated with being female (aHR=1.19; 95% CI 1.15-1.22), being married (aHR=0.99; 95% CI 0.77-0.80), separated/divorced persons (aHR=0.85; 95% CI 0.80-0.90), WHO clinical stage II (aHR=1.66; 95% CI 1.62-1.73), viral load >200 copies/µL (aHR=1.49; 95% CI 1.44-0.154) and fair adherence (aHR=0.94; 95% CI 0.74-1.19).
To improve the health-related quality of life, viral suppression and survival of OPLHIV; there is need to increase routine clinical screening of WHO clinical stage, viral load, CD4 count, blood plasma viremia, disease status, tuberculosis and adherence to improve health care providers’ treatment practices.
Supervisors:

Associate Professor L. K Atuhaire
Cyprian Misinde

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PhD Public Defense by Mr. Hillary Muhanguzi
2025-12-18 14:00 - 17:00 | School of Statistics BoardRoom, Makerere University
INVITATION:
The Dean, School of Statistics and Planning under the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), cordially invites you to the PhD Public Defense of the following candidate:
Name of the Candidate: Mr. Hillary Muhanguzi
Title of Thesis:
Methodological aspects in the construction of a composite indicator of service delivery in Uganda
Date: Thursday 18th December 2025.
Time: 2:00pm – 5:00pm
Venue: School of Statistics Board Room A16

ABSTRACT
This study elaborates methodological aspects encountered in the building of composite indicators with application to service delivery in Uganda. This study amplified the three main stages, the selection of quality data, the building of the composite indicator itself and statistical approaches that may be utilized to model service delivery composite indicator (CI). This study formulated a data quality assessment framework (DQAF) to enhance the construction of a composite indicator. The DQAF was formulated with a dual orientation that prioritizes two user-oriented data quality components (DQCs) namely; relevance, and interpretability, and three producer-oriented DQCs of methodological soundness, accuracy, and statistical adequacy. The application of the DQAF to service delivery data resulted in the selection of 51 from a pool of 103 potential indicators, reflecting a 48.6% acceptability percentage. The composite indicator for statistical regions, which included five dimensions—education, health, water, agriculture, and roads—was developed utilizing official data from the 2021 National Service Delivery Survey conducted by the Uganda Bureau of Statistics, along with various sector performance reports from the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Water and Environment. Additionally, the study developed an alternative composite indicator for district local governments, concentrating on the education, health, and water dimensions, which was modeled against potential covariates. The composite indicator for statistical regions indicated that Uganda achieved a score of 0.49 (0 ≤ composite indicator score ≤ 1) utilizing equal weighting, minimax transformation, and additive aggregation, whereas the score was 0.45 with equal weighting, distance-to-reference point transformation, and geometric aggregation. Min-max transformation yields higher scores compared to distance-to-reference point, attributable to the exogenously determined goalposts. Weights that are participatory determined were comparable with data-derived weights. Robustness tests demonstrated that the constructed composite indicator exhibited stability and can therefore be utilized. The absolute differences in ranks by region were observed, with Kampala and Lango exhibiting the lowest differences and Karamoja and Kigezi the highest, attributable to the presence of outliers and inequitable performance in the examined variables. The aggregation stage was the most sensitive accounting for nearly 60% of the total variance, primarily due to interaction with mainly the transformation stage; this underscores the necessity to cautiously select an aggregation method, as it greatly influences the robustness of the results.
The absolute rank differences were highest in the education dimension at 2.00 and lowest in the roads and health dimension at 1.33, indicating the varying impact of excluding aspects from the composite index. In assessing the differentials of service delivery at local government level, the composite indicator scores ranged from 0.25 to 0.60, with a substantial portion of the density plot situated below 0.50, indicating inadequate service delivery levels. The scores were negatively influenced by the number of sub-counties and land area, and positively influenced by central government funding, funding from other agencies, number of town councils, and age of the district. While beta regression adeptly models bounded data, random forest regression highlights the relative importance of predictors, and generalized additive model captures non-linear covariate effects. The comparable predictive accuracy of these methods, as evaluated using root mean square error, suggests their applicability to this investigation in accordance with the analytical objectives. A dual orientation of data quality components should be developed collaboratively, ensuring that redundancies and overlaps are recognized and resolved to clarify the intrinsic qualities of data and elementary indicators. Furthermore, it is recommended to investigate penalization methods to manage the substitutability of variables during aggregation due to unequal performance, as well as to employ both parametric and non-parametric techniques to assess differentials in service delivery.
Supervisors:

Yeko Mwanga
James.Wokadala
Francesca Bassi
Muuela Scioni

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PhD Public Defense for Ms. Lillian Ayebale
2026-02-11 10:00 - 13:00 | School of Statistics Board Room, Makerere University, KAMPALA, KAMPALA, +2560414, Uganda
INVITATION:
The Dean, School of Statistic and Population Studies under the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), cordially invites you to the PhD Public Defense of the following candidate:
Name of the Candidate: Ms. Lillian Ayebale
Title of Thesis:
Risky Sexual Behaviours, fertility and coping responses among adolescents in South- central Uganda
Date: Wednesday 11th Februrary 2026.
Time: 10:00am – 1:00pm
Venue:
School of Statistics Board Room
ABSTRACT
Adolescents in Uganda face multiple vulnerabilities and exposures to risks. Approximately 25% of Ugandan teenagers become pregnant by the age of 19 years. This study explored and examined risky sexual behaviors, fertility, and coping responses among adolescents in South-Central Uganda.
This was a mixed-methods study. It involved a systematic review of studies on correlates of fertility among adolescents in SSA, statistical analysis of risky sexual behaviors among adolescents, and qualitative interviews with adolescents and parents from the Rakai Community Cohort Study (RCCS), a population-based HIV surveillance cohort. A systematic review protocol was developed and published in PROSPERO to guide the systematic synthesis of determinants of adolescent fertility in SSA. A negative binomial regression model was used to determine the risky sexual behaviours among adolescents, while the qualitative data analysis adopted an interpretivist approach to understand risky sexual behaviors and how parents influence these adolescent behaviors.
Cultural practices and taboos, child marriages, lack of parent-child communication on sexual matters, socioeconomic factors, and adolescent individual factors were consistently cited as key correlates of adolescent fertility according to the systematic synthesis. Adolescents aged 18-19 exhibited a significantly higher incidence of risky sexual behaviours compared to those aged 15-17 (aIRR = 2.01, 95% CI: 1.77-2.28). Living in a single-mother family structure (aIRR = 1.36, 95% CI: 1.15-1.60), with other relatives (aIRR = 1.34, 95% CI: 1.12-1.60), with non-relatives (aIRR = 1.53, 95% CI: 1.21-1.94), or alone (adolescent-headed) (aIRR = 1.68, 95% CI: 1.34-2.10) were all associated with higher incidence rates compared to living with both biological parents. Parents acknowledged that talking with adolescents could help reduce risky sexual behaviour. Parental talks on sexual matters were usually unplanned and happened when triggered by specific incidents.
Evidence from the results suggest that adolescents engage in risky sexual behaviours including non-marital sexual partnerships, multiple sexual partners, unprotected sex with a non-marital partner, and transactional sex. Parent-adolescent communication on sexual matters is essential/pertinent approach is needed to reduce/avert the associated risks. There is need for continuous engagement of all different stakeholders involved in adolescents work to have targeted interventions to prevent the risky sexual behaviours among the young people.
Supervisors:

Allen Kabagenyi
Stephen Ojiambo Wandera

Critical Reader:
Dr. John Ssekamate – Ssebuliba
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PhD Public Defense by Mr. Jordan Paul Semwanga
2026-04-07 08:00 - 17:00 | KAMPALA
INVITATION: The Dean of the School of Economics, College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), Makerere University invites you to a Viva Voce examination for Mr. Jordan Paul Semwanga on Wednesday, 23rd of April 2025, at 2PM in the College Conference Hall, Makerere University.
Date: Tuesday 23rd April 2025.
Time: 2:00 pm
Venue: The Conference Room, Level 2, Block B, College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), Makerere University.
Title: “Crop production and welfare effects of using sludge manure among rural households in selected districts of central Uganda.”
ABSTRACT
The quality of arable soils has continuously deteriorated in Uganda. This has resulted into reduced crop production and constrained household welfare especially among the poor and agro-based households. Many farm households have tried to adapt to the losses in soil fertility through the use of inorganic and organic supplements. Although, a vast body of literature exists that demonstrates the positive impact of either inorganic or organic supplements but one can argue that little evidence exists about the impact of sludge manure on household crop production, household welfare, and the economic viability of its use. Thus, this dissertation examines the impact of sludge manure on rural farm households’ economic outcomes. To elaborate, the dissertation address three key specific objectives which include; (1) examined the impact of sludge manure adoption on household crop production, (2) investigated the welfare effect of sludge manure adoption among rural farm households and (3) evaluated the economic viability of using sludge manure in maize production.
The study employed a quasi-experimental design. Specifically, Propensity score matching, Endogenous switching regression and a partial budgeting analysis framework were employed as tools of analysis. The key results from this dissertation include; (1) sludge manure adoption leads to increased crop yields of say green bananas, maize, coffee and cassava crops (2) the results shows that using sludge manure improve per capita household food expenditure and per capita total household expenditure for adopters compared to non- adopters, (3) applying sludge manure in the production of maize, yields a higher marginal rate of return and this means that it is economically viable for household farmers to use sludge manure other than using inorganic fertilizers. In terms of recommendations, the study recommends promotion of sludge manure as a pathway of increasing crop yields and eventually crop income which facilitates household welfare. Still, since majority of smallholder farmers are financially constrained, the use of sludge manure is recommended because it is cost effective in the production of crops like maize.
Supervisors
Dr Aggrey Niringiye (PhD)
Senior Lecturer, Makerere University, School of Economics.
Dr. John Sseruyange (PhD)
Lecturer, Makerere University, School of Economics
Venue

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PhD Public Defense for Mr.Isabirye Swaliki Kisige
2026-08-04 14:00 - 17:00 | Conference Hall, Block B, CoBAMS, Conference Room, Block B, CoBAMS, Kampala, Uganda
INVITATION:
The Dean, School of Economics under the College of Business and Management Sciences (CoBAMS), cordially invites you to the PhD Public Defense of the following candidate:
Name of the Candidate: Mr. Isabirye Swaliki Kisige
Title of Thesis:
External debt, public and private investment, and economic growth in Heavily Indebted Poor Countries in Sub Saharan Africa
Date: Tuesday 4th August 2026.
Time: 2:00pm – 5:00pm
Venue:
Conference Room, College of Business and Management Sciences
(CoBAMS), Makerere University
ABSTRACT
This study examined how external public debt affects public investment,
private investment, and economic growth in Highly Indebted Poor
Countries within Sub-Saharan Africa over the period 2000 to 2024. The
analysis was guided by three objectives: to identify the determinants of
public investment with emphasis on external debt; to assess the effect
of public investment on private investment and determine whether the
relationship is linear or nonlinear; and to examine the direct and
indirect effects of external public debt on economic growth.
To address these objectives, the study employed two complementary
econometric approaches. The first objective was estimated using the
two-step System Generalized Method of Moments estimator to account for
endogeneity and dynamic fiscal behavior. The second and third objectives
were analyzed using the Pooled Mean Group estimator under the
Autoregressive Distributed Lag framework, given the evidence of long-run
relationships among the variables.
The results showed that public investment is influenced by its previous
levels, meaning that once countries commit to infrastructure programmes,
they tend to continue investing over time due to ongoing project and
policy commitments. Public investment was also shaped by external public
debt, economic growth, domestic revenue mobilization, and political
stability. External public debt exhibited a nonlinear effect: moderate
borrowing supported public investment, but once debt exceeded
approximately 56 percent of GDP, additional borrowing reduced the
capacity to finance new capital projects.
Public investment was found to stimulate private investment in the long
run, confirming a complementary relationship. However, this effect
weakens once public investment surpasses an estimated threshold of about
16 percent of GDP, particularly where fiscal pressures are pronounced.
Furthermore, external public debt contributed positively to economic
growth at low to moderate levels but demonstrated an inverted U-shaped
relationship at higher levels, with the turning point occurring around
23 to 24 percent of GDP. The results also revealed that debt contributes
to growth only when it is directed toward productive investment rather
than consumption or debt servicing.
Overall, the findings underscore that public investment, private
investment, and economic growth in HIPCs can benefit from external
borrowing when debt levels remain within economically sustainable bounds
and when borrowed resources are allocated to productive capital
formation. The study recommends that governments in Sub-Saharan African
HIPCs maintain public investment within the range of 10-12 percent of
GDP, where the crowding-in effect on private investment is strongest,
and avoid scaling investment beyond absorptive capacity. External public
debt should be kept below approximately 55 percent of GDP to preserve
its supportive role in private investment, and below 23-24 percent of
GDP to avoid debt overhang effects on economic growth. Strengthening
public investment efficiency, improving debt management frameworks,
expanding domestic revenue mobilization, and deepening domestic credit
markets are therefore essential to ensure that external borrowing
translates into productive capital formation and sustainable long-term
development.
Supervisors:
Dr. John Mutenyo
Dr. John Bosco Oryema
Your presence and participation will be highly appreciated as we support the student in this important academic milestone.

Conference on the theory of Noonomy
2026-08-20 08:30 - 13:00 | Makerere University Main Hall, Makerere University, KAMPALA, KAMPALA, +2560414, Uganda
Makerere University will host the Conference on the Theory of Noonomy on 20 August 2026 under the theme, “The Theory of Noonomy and its Role in Resolving Modernity Issues: Pathways to Sustainable Social and Economic Transformation.” The conference will bring together scholars, researchers and experts to explore the role of noonomy in addressing contemporary challenges and advancing sustainable social and economic transformation. The event will feature a Special Address by Prof. Sergey D. Bodrunov and a Keynote Address by Prof. Nikolay D. Dmitriev, and will be hosted by Makerere University Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe. The conference will be held at the SCR, Main Building, Makerere University, from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., with online participation available via Zoom and YouTube.
