Makerere University has landed UGX 980 million to build a student hostel at Buyana Stock Farm in Mpigi District, finally tackling the long-running headache of inadequate housing for veterinary students and staff.
The new accommodation block, to be constructed by the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF), is expected to ease pressure on the 3,900-acre farm which doubles as a research hub and training ground under the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB).
The announcement came during a milestone handover ceremony on August 28, where Dr. Mathias Wasswa bowed out after 19 years as Farm Manager, passing the baton to Ms. Nansubuga Frances. Dr. Wasswa was praised for steering the farm through years of resource scarcity and ensuring its relevance in veterinary training.
“Dr. Wasswa’s resilience has kept Buyana alive despite the odds. With fresh leadership and new investment, we’re charting a stronger future for Uganda’s veterinary education,” said Prof. Frank Norbert Mwiine, CoVAB Principal.
But while the hostel news brought relief, an inspection by Makerere’s University Council Audit Committee painted a stark picture of Buyana’s troubles. Committee chair Mr. Amon Muteganda flagged collapsing buildings, dilapidated animal units, poor water systems, staff shortages and animal welfare concerns ranging from outbreaks of disease to neglected pastures.
The audit further revealed governance loopholes, with many farm workers not formally employed by the university and rigid recruitment rules leaving crucial posts vacant.
The leadership shift to Ms. Nansubuga comes at a critical moment. Stakeholders are pushing for urgent reforms: infrastructure upgrades, stronger animal welfare policies, and modernized management.
The handover, attended by senior figures including Prof. James Acai Okwee (Deputy Principal), Prof. Robert Tweyongyere (Dean of Veterinary Medicine), and Ms. Nyakato Barbara (HR Officer), was described as the start of a “revitalization drive” for the once-prestigious facility.
For now, all eyes are on Ms. Nansubuga to deliver. With a fresh hostel on the way and promises of reform, Buyana Stock Farm may yet reclaim its place as Uganda’s premier veterinary training institution.
