Makerere University has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the International Development Association (IDA), the financing arm of the World Bank Group, to strengthen environmental and social sustainability systems in Uganda and the wider East African region.
The agreement was signed on March 5, 2026, and establishes a three-year partnership focused on training, research and policy advisory to improve how development projects manage environmental and social risks.
The collaboration brings together Makerere University’s College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences and the College of Humanities and Social Sciences with the World Bank. The partnership aims to build national capacity to manage risks linked to large development investments.
The initiative will operate through the Environment and Social Sustainability Centre at Makerere University. The centre serves as a national platform for research, professional training and policy engagement in environmental and social governance.
World Bank Country Manager for Uganda Francisca Ayodeji Akala said the partnership reflects a shared commitment to sustainable development.
“This partnership with Makerere University is an important step in strengthening Uganda’s systems for environmental and social sustainability. By working through the Environment and Social Sustainability Centre, we aim to build the capacity of professionals across government, the private sector, and development institutions to better manage environmental and social risks and deliver investments that promote sustainable growth while protecting people and the environment,” Akala said.
Uganda’s Fourth National Development Plan prioritises major investments in infrastructure, agro-industrialisation, energy and science and technology. However, these projects require strong systems to manage environmental and social risks.
Under the agreement, Makerere University will offer specialised short courses for government officials, development practitioners, financial institutions, civil society organisations and private sector players involved in major projects.
Seven certificate-level courses have already been developed. They focus on areas such as environmental and social risk management, climate risk assessment, construction health and safety, and integrating environmental considerations into investment planning.
Makerere University Vice Chancellor Prof Barnabas Nawangwe said the partnership will strengthen Uganda’s ability to manage development projects responsibly.
“Makerere University is proud to partner with the World Bank in strengthening Uganda’s capacity to manage environmental and social risks in development investments. Through the Environment and Social Sustainability Centre, we have already developed and approved seven certificate-level short courses across multiple colleges, designed to equip professionals in government, the private sector, and development institutions with practical skills to plan and implement sustainable projects. This collaboration reflects Makerere’s commitment to providing knowledge-driven solutions that support Uganda’s development while safeguarding communities and the environment,” Nawangwe said.
The World Bank will support training activities and conduct Training of Trainers programmes on its environmental and social standards. It will also help mobilise participation from development partners and government institutions.
The partnership will also promote policy dialogue, knowledge exchange and the creation of databases and tools for professionals working in environmental and social governance.
Officials say the initiative will position Makerere University as a leading knowledge hub for environmental and social sustainability in Africa while supporting Uganda’s efforts to deliver responsible and climate-resilient development.
