U.S., Mbarara University strengthen technology and research collaboration
MBARARA CITY, March 11, 2026 — Mbarara University of Science and Technology [MUST] recently hosted the United States [U.S.] Ambassador to Uganda, William W. Popp, on a strategic visit aimed at strengthening the long-standing partnership between the university and the United States Government in technology, innovation and public health.
The visit included a tour of scientific exhibitions where the Ambassador inspected a range of cutting-edge projects and long-term research initiatives funded by U.S. agencies. Discussions focused on support for public health infrastructure, innovation grants, and the expansion of the university’s Kihumuro Main Campus, Mbarara City.
A legacy of strategic investment
The Vice-Chancellor of MUST, Prof. Pauline Byakika-Kibwika, praised Amb. Popp for reinforcing a partnership that has played a critical role in the institution’s growth.
“Today, we celebrate not only your presence, but also the enduring partnership between the United States and MUST,” Byakika-Kibwika said.
She revealed that out of the 93 active projects currently being implemented at the university, 65 are funded by the United States, representing a total investment of US$ 36.35 million.
“You have consistently reaffirmed the importance of strong, mutually respectful partnerships that build resilience and prosperity. At MUST, we share this conviction and have worked to translate research into real-world impact,” she noted.
The Vice-Chancellor added that major American institutions such as Harvard, Yale, and Columbia University remain key partners in strengthening HIV/AIDS care and interdisciplinary research across East Africa.
She also noted that more than half of the funding for ongoing projects comes from the National Institutes of Health [NIH], alongside significant support from the now crippled U.S. Agency for International Development [USAID] and the Massachusetts General Hospital.
US$ 2.3 billion commitment to global health
In his remarks, Amb. Popp pledged continued U.S. support to help Uganda address pressing demographic and health challenges, including drug resistance and the impacts of climate variability.
He revealed that a landmark US$ 2.3 billion health partnership agreement, signed in December 2025, will guide cooperation between the two countries over the next five years.
According to the Ambassador, the five-year health Memorandum of Understanding is one of the largest bilateral health commitments in the region and focuses on combating HIV, tuberculosis, malaria and strengthening global health security.
“It is a testament to the work that we are doing together. This agreement will help protect Americans and Ugandans alike by preventing disease outbreaks, strengthening surveillance, and building resilient health systems,” Ambassador Popp said.
He highlighted the persistent challenge of HIV in Western Uganda and emphasised the role of MUST in addressing the epidemic through research and improved treatment systems.
“We see MUST as a hub of excellence not just for Uganda, but for East Africa and beyond. Your graduates are the scientists, doctors and innovators who will shape the future,” he said.
Addressing students at the university, the Ambassador encouraged them to think beyond national boundaries.
“Your degree from MUST is a passport and a stepping stone to achieving great impact in the world. Dream big and do not limit yourselves to the challenges of today—create what we have not even imagined yet,” he added.
Bridging the innovation commercialisation gap
Despite the university’s strong research output, the Director of Innovation and Technology Transfer at MUST, Dr Medard Twinamatsiko Katonera, said limited funding for commercialising research innovations remains a major challenge.
“One of the critical hurdles is funding. We still have limited resources to take these innovations from the laboratory to the market so that they can benefit society,” Dr Twinamatsiko said.
He noted that the university has established MUST Holdings Company Limited as its commercial arm to help students and staff transform research prototypes into viable businesses.
To safeguard innovations, the university has also introduced strict non-disclosure agreements and intellectual property policies.
“We jointly file for these intellectual property rights to ensure our researchers are protected. Life after school should not mark the end of these innovations—they should reach communities and make a difference,” he added.
Promoting literacy among young learners
Beyond the university engagement, Ambassador Popp also visited St Theresa Mitala Maria Primary School to mark Uganda’s 12th National Drop Everything and Read [D.E.A.R] Day.
Accompanied by U.S. Peace Corps volunteers, he emphasised the importance of literacy in national development.
“As America celebrates 250 years of independence, one of the greatest lessons from our history is that education and reading empower people to build strong, free and prosperous nations,” he said.
A growing centre of excellence
Established in 1989 with just 43 medical students, MUST has grown into one of Uganda’s leading science and technology institutions. The university now hosts more than 6,697 students and 603 staff, and continues to expand its role as a regional hub for research, innovation and public health training.
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