The Vice Chancellor of Kabale University, Prof. Joy Constance Kwesiga, has called for stronger regulation and benefit-sharing mechanisms in the exploitation of iron ore deposits in the Kigezi sub-region.
Speaking through the Dean of the School of Medicine, Prof. James Tumwiine, at the opening of a Multidisciplinary Dissemination Workshop at Kabale University on Wednesday, Prof. Kwesiga noted that while private investors are taking the lead in mining activities, there are no clear frameworks to ensure that local communities benefit.
She further observed that waste products from mining are not being processed into usable materials such as paints and building blocks, adding that this points to a missed opportunity for innovation and community development.
Prof. Kwesiga stressed the need for multidisciplinary research and innovation to help communities secure tangible benefits from natural resources.
The two-day workshop, organized by the university’s Directorate of Research and Grants, is being held under the theme “Harnessing the Power of Research for Inclusive Growth,” which aligns with Uganda’s Fourth National Development Plan (NDP IV).
She explained that the selected topics, ranging from sustainable infrastructure and energy to ICT, artificial intelligence, environment, climate change, and food production, reflect national priorities.
Prof. Kwesiga also highlighted challenges facing the Kigezi region, where poor farming practices and encroachment on fragile ecosystems such as steep slopes and wetlands have led to soil erosion, land degradation, and declining yields.
She warned that indiscriminate use of pesticides and fertilizers has further reduced productivity, trapping farmers in a cycle of poverty.
She said Kabale University is well placed to study these challenges from multiple perspectives, including biodiversity, agriculture, governance, sociology, and economics and to provide practical and policy solutions that tackle the root causes in a holistic way.
CUE IN PROF. KWESIGA…..ON THE MATTER…..ENG//
