Ugandan entrepreneur

Rodney Akongel Mukula

Rodney Akongel Mukula is a visionary Ugandan entrepreneur and academic whose career is distinguished by a steadfast commitment to developing African solutions for African challenges. 

With a rich tapestry of experience spanning over 15 years in top-tier management roles, Rodney has honed his expertise in Risk Management at the Board level and the application of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles. His academic journey in Law from the University of Kent, UK, complements his professional endeavors, adding a robust legal framework to his skills set.

Rodney’s entrepreneurial spirit thrives in sectors such as Waste Management, Renewable Energy, Agri-business, and Recycling & Manufacturing. He is particularly adept in Business Strategy, leveraging Technology and promoting Business Circularity, consistently seeking innovative, sustainable pathways for growth and development.

In addition to his entrepreneurial endeavors, Rodney serves with distinction on the Boards of the Uganda Aviation Academy and Asante Agro Ltd, shaping the future of aviation and agriculture in the region.

A staunch Pan-Africanist, Rodney is driven by a desire to forge impactful, home-grown innovations across the continent. His approach is deeply rooted in his Christian faith, which infuses a spiritual dimension into his professional pursuits, enabling him to harmonize his ambitious career goals with a profound dedication to family life. As a devoted husband and father of three, Rodney exemplifies the balance between personal integrity, academic achievement, and a passionate vision for Africa’s prosperous future.

This unique blend of personal values, spiritual depth, and professional acumen makes Rodney Akongel Mukula a standout figure in the quest for progressive and sustainable solutions within Africa.

Manager Business Relationship Management and IT Quality Assurance , UGANDA REVENUE AUTHORITY

Linda Namayanja

Manager Business Relationship Management and IT Quality Assurance , UGANDA REVENUE AUTHORITY

Linda is the Manager Business Relationship Management (BRM) and IT Quality Assurance at Uganda Revenue Authority(URA). She leverages her 10+ years of experience in Business Process Management, Business Relationship Management, Quality Management Systems and Data Analysis to deliver solutions that enhance business performance and customer satisfaction.

As a Manager Business Relationship Management (BRM) and IT Quality Assurance, her major role is to manage the relationship between IT as a service provider, with other departments & stakeholders to reduce IT barriers. She leads and manages an advanced technical team with a range of specializations in implementation of IT Operational Guidelines and Service Standards in line with the Client Value promise, establishing and nurturing the linkages between IT and its internal and external stakeholders at strategic and tactical levels and monitoring/ evaluating the IT Service Quality in line with the IT Strategy and the Client Value Promise. She also has the mandate for all IT quality initiatives to provide the appropriate assurance for availability, performance, integrity and confidentiality of all IT Systems that in the end provide quality services and products to our stakeholders. Through this digital transformation over the past 3 years, URA been able to bring a more simplified experience near to the tax payer through quality services like Instant Tin, prefilled returns, simplified ledgers etc. and this has in turn increased voluntary compliance hence led to increase in revenue.

EDUCATION AND QUALIFICATIONS

• Executive MBA in Business Continuity Management, PECB University (USA)
• Master of Science in Information Systems, Makerere University
• Bachelor of Library and Information Science-First Class Honors, Makerere University

CERTIFICATIONS

• PECB Certified ISO/IEC 2 7005 Lead Risk Manager (Information Security Risk Management)
• PECB Certified ISO 31000 Lead Risk Manager
• PECB Certified ISO 22301 Lead Auditor
• PECB Certified ISO 22301 Business Continuity Lead Implementer and Lead Auditor
• PECB Certified Lead Crisis Manager
• PECB Certified Trainer
• ISO 9001:2015 Quality Management System (QMS) Implementer & Lead Auditor
• Certified Business Process Associate(CBPA)
• ITIL 4 Foundation Certified
• TOGAF Combined (Level 1&2)
• Project Management Professional (PMP)

AWARDS /OUTSTANDING MOMENTS

• Most outstanding Mentee -Journey to The Boardroom 2024, first Cohort
• Led the Uganda National Swimming team to Burundi as the captain and won the trophy for the country, 2024 November
• Best Female Student with First Class in Bachelor of Library and Information Science 2009 at the East African School of Library and Information Science (EASLIS) Makerere University
• First President of the Association of Business Process Management Professionals [ABPMP] the Ugandan Chapter,2024
• Mentorship; Passionate about coaching and mentoring young people to become better people and make wise decisions about a brighter future. Linda has mentored over 70 young people in The Mentorship Class on different skills like self-leadership.

LEADERSHIP ROLES

Linda serves on the following boards;

• The International Council of Museums(ICOM)
• ASANTE Waste Management
• President of the Association of the Business Process Management
• Professional-The Uganda Chapter.
• Executive Member of the Gayaza Old Girl’s Association(GOGA) as the Secretary incharge of Membership
• Class Parent Representative at The North Green School

WHAT MAKES LINDA TICK IN OTHER WORDS, HOW DOES SHE EXECUTE HER DUTIES DIFFERENTLY?

Linda is passionate about improving business processes and operations through technology. Additionally, what drives her is when she identifies a problem and she is given the opportunity to help create meaningful, workable and productive solutions-ones that leave you with new insights, clarity, or even just a sense of excitement about the task that is being handled. She works at it till that solution is implemented and results are not only seen but felt by all those around her. She leaves no stone unturned, She doesn’t give up easily!

Head of Research Platforms, MRC/UVRI & LSHTM Uganda Research Unit

Albert Arnold Musinguzi

Head of Research Platforms | Digital Transformation & Cybersecurity Leader | Board Director | Health Tech Strategist

Albert Arnold Musinguzi is a distinguished technology and research infrastructure executive with over 15 years of leadership experience spanning digital transformation, IT governance, and platform modernization in healthcare, research, and nonprofit sectors.

Currently serving as Head of Research Platforms at the MRC/UVRI & LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Albert oversees the strategic management and advancement of six key platforms: Clinical Trials, Immunology, Sequencing, Clinical Diagnostics Lab, Bio-Bank, and the General Population Cohort. His focus is on strengthening scientific visibility, cross-platform functionality, and sustainable growth while building strategic partnerships with academia, industry, and public health agencies.

Albert brings a unique digital lens to this role, applying his background in cybersecurity, cloud systems, data governance, and enterprise architecture to modernize research infrastructure and advance cross-disciplinary collaboration. He ensures that platform capabilities remain mission-aligned, well-governed, compliant, and scientifically impactful.

Previously, Albert served as Chief Technology Officer at Makerere University Walter Reed Program (MUWRP), where he led enterprise IT modernization across 100+ research and clinical sites. His leadership in cloud migration, cybersecurity frameworks, and data-driven healthcare innovation significantly strengthened operational resilience and research capacity.

Albert is an active Board Director with a strong commitment to good governance, sustainability, and public health innovation. He serves on the boards of Conservation Through Public Health (CTPH) and Asante Waste Management Limited, and has contributed globally as a Committee Member of the HIMSS Global Cybersecurity Committee, shaping healthcare IT security policies.

He holds an Executive MBA from the Quantic School of Business and Technology, an MSc in Human-Centred Systems from the University of Birmingham, and a BSc in Information Technology from Charles Sturt University. His certifications include CISSP, HCISPP, and other governance-aligned qualifications.

Through every role, Albert remains dedicated to advancing scientific platforms, digital innovation, sustainability, and governance excellence for health research in Africa and beyond.

General Manager, Safe Way Right Way Uganda

Irene Namuyiga

General Manager, Safe Way Right Way Uganda

Namuyiga Irene is a seasoned Transport Planning and Road Safety Engineer with over 15 years of experience in civil engineering and urban mobility. Currently serving as the General Manager at Safe Way Right Way Uganda, she has a proven track record of pioneering road safety initiatives and enhancing transport infrastructure in Kampala. Irene is deeply committed to advancing road safety, reducing traffic fatalities, and improving mobility for all.

During her tenure at Kampala Capital City Authority, Irene served as the first Road Safety Engineer, spearheading transformative projects such as the Bloomberg Philanthropies Initiative for Road Safety, the Kampala Non-Motorized Transport Corridor, and the establishment of the city’s first Road Safety Strategy. Her contributions have been instrumental in reshaping urban transport systems, developing inclusive policies, and championing sustainability.

Irene holds a Master of Science in Transport Planning and Engineering from Edinburgh Napier University, as well as a Postgraduate Diploma in Innovation in Public Transport from Lund University, Sweden. She also earned a Bachelor of Engineering in Civil and Building Engineering from Kyambogo University. Complementing her academic qualifications are professional certifications in road safety auditing, traffic safety, and air quality management from globally recognized institutions.

Throughout her career, Irene has been instrumental in advancing road safety and transport innovations in Kampala. She initiated and led the formulation of the city’s first Road Safety Strategy and Road Safety Unit, which introduced pioneering traffic management systems, including yellow box junctions and speed limit signage. She championed the development of the Kampala Non-Motorized Transport Corridor, integrating cycling lanes, pedestrian walkways, and public awareness campaigns to promote safe and sustainable urban mobility. Irene also played a key role in national policy updates, such as the Urban Roads Design Manual and Traffic and Road Safety Act. Her leadership extended to digital innovation as she led the development of the Aston Mobility App, enhancing transport planning and connectivity in Greater Kampala.

Irene is passionate about creating sustainable and inclusive mobility solutions. She is dedicated to improving road safety, reducing transport-related emissions, and fostering collaboration with global organizations to implement best practices in urban transport planning. Her work continues to positively impact Uganda’s road safety and transport systems, making her a vital contributor to the country’s development.

UK and Ugandan-trained lawyer

Ninsiima Agatha

Agatha is a UK and Ugandan-trained lawyer with over ten (10) years of work experience in corporate andCommercial transactions. She has advised and acted on mandates related to Projects and Infrastructure, Energy and Natural Resources, Corporate Advisory and Structuring, Trade and Project Finance, and commercial disputes, among others. In addition, Agatha provides Board support to several businesses as Company Secretary.

Presently, Agatha is a Partner at Byenkya Kihika &Co. Advocates. She is a member of the Uganda LawSociety, Young International Council for Commercial Arbitration and East African Law Society where sheserves a co-chair of the Young Lawyers Committee.

Entrepreneur/ Business Owner

Ms.Lilliane Bukirwa

Ms.Lilliane Bukirwa is a dedicated and self motivated business owner/entrepreneur known for strategic thinking, decisive leadership, and a passion for delivering exceptional customer experiences. Demonstrated success in growing businesses for 12 years,optimizing operations, and fostering high performing teams. Committed to innovation, integrity and creating value for both customers and stakeholders. 

A result oriented professional with a proven track record of achieving revenue targets and achieving sustainable growth. Ready to leverage expertise and entrepreneurial spirit to tackle new challenges and capitalize on emerging opportunities in the marketplace.

Lilliane holds a Bachelor ‘s Degree in Records and Archives Management from Makerere University. She is currently undertaking her MBA Qualification. 

From founding and scaling startups to leading teams through adversity, Lilliane brings a unique blend of creativity, adaptability and strategic thinking to every endeavor.

Human Rights Lawyer

Hope Bagota

Hope Bagota is a seasoned Human Rights Lawyer with over a decade of experience championing Human rights at the Uganda Human Rights Commission. Her commitment to justice and equality has shaped her impressive career trajectory.

Previously, she honed her legal skills in private practice with Masereka and Company Advocates. She holds an LLB from Uganda Christian University (UCU), a Diploma in Private Practice from the Law Development Centre (LDC), a Post Graduate Diploma in Public Administration and Management from Uganda Management Institute (UMI), Advanced Certificate on the Right to Development from  the University of Pretoria (SA) , LLM Human Rights Law Middlesex University Hendon (UK) and she is also a Chevening Scholar 2021-2022 Cohort.

Hope’s passion extends beyond legal expertise. She is an advocate for social protection, believing it to be a catalyst for positive change. Her commitment to Human rights education and environmental conservation underscores her dedication to a fairer more equitable world.

Corporate Legal Advisor (Energy and ESG)

Turyamubona Edythe Saskia

Edythe is an experienced corporate legal advisor, an Advocate with 14 years of expertise. She specializes in providing strategic counsel to organizations on legal advisory, corporate governance frameworks and ESG compliance as part of risk management particularly within the energy sector where she has experience in both downstream and upstream sectors.

Edythe is a OnePointFive Sustainability Fellow 2024 and has completed several advanced certifications in ESG and corporate governance, including the Best Practice in ESG and Risk Management program from The Corporate Governance Institute. Edythe is currently pursuing the Chartered Governance Qualifying Programme from The Chartered Governance Institute of UK and Ireland. She is a member of the Association of International Energy Negotiators, where she is part of several taskforces including the Operational Emissions, the ESG Model Clauses and the ESG Compliance Taskforce and participated in the 2022 mentorship program. Additionally, she is a member of the Uganda Law Society and East Africa Law Society.

CEO, The Mentorship Class

Denise Kyozira

Denise Kyozira is an accomplished CEO of The Mentorship Class, a proficient writer, and a dedicated blogger who has successfully merged her passion for writing with her expertise in digital marketing and mental health advocacy. Her blog, TheQueenAsks, focuses on wellness and mental health, emphasizing self-care for personal growth. With over 150 articles published in just two years, Denise has made significant strides in creating content that resonates and educates.

As a certified Social Media and Digital Marketing professional, Denise holds key positions, not only as CEO at The Mentorship Class but also as Social Media Manager for various entities. Her versatile portfolio spans across digital marketing, public relations, and humanitarian efforts, showcasing her broad skill set and commitment to diverse causes.

A proficient speaker on topics such as Online Personal Branding, Networking, and Mental Health, Denise continuously seeks to empower others through knowledge sharing and community building. Her work highlights her dedication to continuous personal and professional growth.

Professional Skills and Contributions

• CEO of The Mentorship Class
• Social Media and Digital Marketing Expert
• Advocate for Mental Health and Wellness

Trade/ Investment Advisor | Department for Business and Trade- British High Commission, Uganda

Ritah Nabukeera

Ritah Nabukeera is a highly skilled trade and investment professional known for her extensive experience in engaging both private and public sectors, and providing adept investment advisory across global markets. With a strong foundation in industrial engineering and management, she has successfully sourced, structured, and closed high-potential investment transactions that foster economic growth.

Ritah’s diverse expertise spans several key sectors, including agriculture, renewable energy, finance, healthcare, and infrastructure. Her strategic and commercial pragmatism has been instrumental in driving turnaround strategies and sustainable development within these industries.

Educationally, Ritah is well-prepared with an MBA from Edinburgh Business School and a Certificate in Global Business Management from the London School of Business and Finance. She also holds a BSc in Industrial Engineering and Management, coupled with an Associate Degree in Mechanical Engineering, providing a robust technical background to her financial and investment skills.

Education and Certifications

• MBA, Edinburgh Business School

• Certificate in Global Business Management, London School of Business and Finance

• BSc in Industrial Engineering and Management

• Associate Degree in Mechanical Engineering

Regional Regulatory Compliance Manager, MultiChoice

Rhonah Nuwakunda

Rhonah Nuwakunda is a highly accomplished and results-driven legal professional with extensive expertise in legal and regulatory frameworks, compliance management, and stakeholder engagement across Eastern Africa. As the Regional Regulatory Compliance Manager for MultiChoice, she oversees regulatory strategies and compliance operations across Eastern Africa.

Rhonah holds an LLB from Makerere University, a Postgraduate Diploma in Financial Management from the Uganda Management Institute, and a Diploma in Insurance. Her qualifications are further complemented by an Advanced Certification in Business Compliance from the International Compliance Association, UK. She is currently pursuing a Masters in Management Studies from the Uganda Management Institute.

Her career trajectory includes pivotal roles at ICEALion Uganda, Invesco Uganda Limited, and Tumusiime Kabega & Company Advocates, where she demonstrated her resilience, versatility, and strong interpersonal skills. Rhonah’s ability to navigate complex regulatory environments and foster a culture of effectiveness and excellence has been instrumental in her success across various markets in Africa.

Education and Professional Development

• Master’s in Management Studies (in progress), Uganda Management Institute
• Post Graduate Diploma in Financial Management, Uganda Management Institute
• Advanced Certification in Business Compliance, International Compliance Association, UK
• LLB, Makerere University

Commercial Lawyer

Priscilla Mutebi

Priscilla Mutebi is an esteemed Commercial Lawyer with 16 years of post-qualification experience, demonstrating profound expertise in technology, data protection, and infrastructure projects. Her career includes 13 years as Company Secretary for notable companies such as Eaton Towers Uganda Limited and Huawei Technologies (Uganda) Co. Ltd. She is an active advocate with a nuanced understanding of organizational dynamics and stakeholder management.

Priscilla serves as a Board Advisor to several organizations, including the Data Privacy Association of Uganda and the Prison Gates Chaplaincy Mission, as part of her pro bono service. Her legal acumen extends across telecommunications and ICT infrastructure projects in Uganda, Rwanda, and Burundi, advising on various commercial agreements including co-location and network infrastructure.

Her approach to compliance and risk management has notably reduced litigation cases by applying thorough risk assessments and promoting knowledge sharing within organizations. As a leader in change management, she has guided Huawei Technologies through significant challenges, including trade restrictions and the pandemic, ensuring business continuity and compliance with legal obligations.

Education and Certifications

• Advocate of the High Court of Uganda
• LLB, Makerere University
• MBA, Edinburgh Business School
• CIPP/E Certification

Community Engagement

• Advisor to community schools, prison services, and family businesses
• Contributor to the review of Uganda’s Domestic Violence Act through FAWE

Head of Customer Experience and Care, MultiChoice Uganda Limited

Patricia Kiconco

Patricia Kiconco is an accomplished and dynamic business leader with over 25 years of extensive experience in the banking and media industries. Currently, she serves as the Head of Customer Experience and Care at MultiChoice Uganda Limited, Africa’s leading Pay-TV service. Her profound expertise spans strategy development, tactical sales and marketing, distribution channel building, project management, business development, operations, and customer experience.

Her career began in the banking sector with Stanbic Bank Uganda, where she developed a keen insight into financial services and customer engagement strategies. Patricia’s transformative approach and strategic acumen have enabled her to manage diverse projects, re-engineering processes, and foster strategic partnerships that have significantly enhanced business performance and customer satisfaction.

Patricia is also a certified Life Coach as of 2022, with a focus on Self Discovery, Organizational Coaching, and Transition Coaching for Women Executives, further enhancing her leadership capabilities and dedication to empowering other professionals.

Education and Credentials

• Certified Life Coach, 2022
• Extensive background in banking and media management

Patricia’s leadership at MultiChoice Uganda is marked by her innovative strategies and commitment to delivering exceptional customer service, ensuring that the company remains at the forefront of the digital and media landscape in Uganda and beyond.

Chief Operating Officer, Kanzu Code Limited

Nakiguli Gloria Priscilla

Nakiguli Gloria Priscilla is an accomplished executive with over 13 years of experience in financial services, fintech, and business operations. As the Chief Operations Officer at Kanzu Code Limited, she successfully led cross-functional teams, streamlined processes, and drove customer satisfaction.

With a strong background in corporate relationship management from Former Orient( now I&M), NCBA and KCB Banks, Gloria has consistently achieved impressive business portfolio growth and profitability. Currently as Chief Executive her leadership of the fintech business at Kanzu has been instrumental in driving business growth through innovative approaches and strategic oversight.
Gloria’s remarkable journey is characterized by her meticulous leadership, strategic planning and unwavering focus on customer centric management which have deeply motivated and developed the Kanzu team. Notably Gloria, was named by Hi-pipo as one of the “Top 40 women leaders under 40
pioneering change in the fintech space in Africa”. Gloria was also a nominee under the “women in technology” category for the East Africa Global Startup Awards.

Gloria holds a Bachelor’s degree in Development Economics Makerere University: Post-graduate certificate and an MBA at Edinburgh Business School, Heriot Watt University. She is currently pursuing Business Analytics at Harvard Business School Online.

Social Scientist

Matildah Nakanwagi

Matildah Nakanwagi is a dedicated Social Scientist with a profound focus on improving the livelihoods of individuals and communities. With over 8 years of experience in social work, community engagement, and social impact initiatives, she has demonstrated a commendable ability to foster positive change and development.

Currently, she excels as an Operations Manager at Groundbreaker Talents, where she leads teams in operations coordination, team leadership, program and resource management. Matildah holds a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work and Social Administration, an accreditation in Horticultural Production from Wageningen University, and several project management certifications.

Her expertise extends to compliance, quality assurance, communication, and collaboration, underscoring her all-rounded capabilities in managing and enhancing organizational processes. Matildah is passionate about youth empowerment, providing soft skills coaching and mentoring, agribusiness training, and robust community organizing and support.

Areas of Expertise

• Community Engagement and Social Impact
• Operations Coordination and Team Leadership
• Program and Resource Management
• Compliance and Quality Assurance

Senior Architect, Entebbe International Airport Upgrade and Expansion

Arch. Martha Okweyo Agaba

Architect Martha Okweyo Agaba is an esteemed architect with nearly 15 years of professional experience in design and construction management, particularly in developing environments. As the Senior Architect for the upgrade and expansion of Entebbe International Airport, she plays a pivotal role in shaping critical infrastructure projects that enhance Uganda’s global connectivity and economic development.

Martha is a Corporate Member of the Uganda Society of Architects and a Board Registered Member of the Architect’s Registration Board, showcasing her recognized expertise and commitment to professional standards in architecture. She has designed and supervised various projects ranging from residential to commercial and institutional buildings.

In addition to her architectural endeavors, for the past seven years, Martha has served as the executive director of Imani Academy Limited, a low-cost school aimed at providing quality, affordable education to children from underprivileged backgrounds. Her passion for community service is evident in her commitment to enhancing educational opportunities for all.

Martha is also an author, having published “A Queen in Rags,” a work that reflects her diverse talents and interests beyond architecture.

Education and Professional Associations

• Corporate Member of the Uganda Society of Architects
• Board Registered Member of the Architect’s Registration Board

Senior Marketing Officer

Juliet Namuddu Kiggundu

Senior Marketing Officer, Women’s Hospital International and Fertility Centre

Juliet Namuddu Kiggundu is an accomplished, proactive, and performance-driven individual with strong organizational and leadership skills. With 19 years of relevant work experience, 15 of which have been in the healthcare industry, she has a proven ability to effectively manage multiple projects and coordinate teams to ensure consistently high levels of customer satisfaction.

She is currently working as a Senior Marketing officer at Women’s Hospital International and fertility Centre. She has consulted for other health facilities in Marketing and Business Development especially in the areas of using data to make informed decisions, customer experience market penetration and developing sales and marketing strategies. 

As a key contributor at organizations like AAR Health Services Uganda Limited, Case Hospital, The Medical Concierge Group (TMCG) – Rocket Health, and Jubilee Life Insurance and Women’s Hospital International and Fertility Centre Juliet has garnered extensive knowledge of Uganda’s healthcare landscape. Her expertise lies in business development, healthcare provider and ancillary services management, client acquisition, and customer care. Juliet’s meticulous analysis and attention to detail enable her to follow through on assignments and accomplish them successfully.

Education

• Bachelor of Social Work and Social Administration, Makerere University
• Post Graduate Diploma in Marketing Management, Uganda Management Institute
• Post Graduate Diploma in Project Planning and Management, Uganda Management Institute

Certifications

Team leaders training at Jubilee Life Insurance head office from 10th to 11th January in 2024.

Public speaking and presentation mastery by Inspired Leaders Training Center from 23rd September to 2nd October in 2019.

Sales Performance Management, Daniel Choudry Sales Institute from 14th October to 29th October in 2019.

Certificate of Proficiency, Insurance Training College (ITC) from March 2018 to May in 2018.

Customer Service / Experience, AAR Health Services Uganda Limited on 3rd November, 2012.

Basic First Aid Training on 29th September,2016.

Professional Achievements

• She played a key role in driving business growth, managing healthcare providers, and delivering exceptional customer care at leading healthcare organizations in Uganda such as AAR Insurance, Case MedInsurance, Women’s Hospital International and Fertility Centre and HealingWay Diagnostic and Fertility Hospital.
• She has demonstrated exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills, ensuring projects are completed to the highest standards.
• Juliet is committed to continuous learning and development, completing various professional certifications and training sessions such as a customer experience training with 75 staff of Ernest Cook Ultrasound Research Institute from 11th to 13th July 2023 in preparation for establishment of Ernest Cook University.
• Juliet is actively volunteers and participates in Rotary clubs and church ministry programs
• She is passionate about coaching and mentoring women to help them find innovative solutions to challenges
• Juliet enjoys swimming, travelling, and contributing to her community.

Juliet’s extensive experience, expertise, and commitment to transformative leadership make her a valuable asset in the healthcare and insurance industries and beyond. She aspires to continue making a positive impact in her community and empowering others to achieve their goals.

Company Secretary, Excel Insurance Company Limited

Flavia Nalwanga

Flavia Nalwanga is a results-oriented and driven Company Secretary at Excel Insurance Company Limited, well-recognized for her readiness to embrace challenges. With over 6 years of experience working within the boardroom, Flavia has honed her expertise in compliance, risk management, cybersecurity, administration, and operations management.

Her proactive approach has significantly contributed to fostering a culture of compliance and accountability at Excel Insurance Company. Flavia’s strong belief in service and mentorship led her to coordinate the Oakwood Intern’s Program, a non-profit initiative designed to prepare students for the job market, demonstrating her commitment to developing future professionals.

Flavia holds a Bachelor’s degree in Development Economics and a Master’s degree in Institutional Management and Leadership. She is also a distinguished member of the Institute of Corporate Governance Uganda (ICGU).

Educational and Professional Affiliations

• Master’s degree in Institutional Management and Leadership
• Bachelor’s degree in Development Economics
• Member of the Institute of Corporate Governance Uganda (ICGU)

Project Management Specialist

Elvis Mwesigwa

Project Management Specialist – Nature Climate Energy and Resilience – United Nations Development Programme.

Elvis Mwesigwa is a project management specialist at UNDP and co chairs the Results Group 3 which brings together over 29 UN Agencies under the United Nations Country Team within Uganda to generate joint work plans, implement and report as one UN on the aspects of Natural Resources, Environment and Climate Change under the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework.

Elvis has over Six years of Experience in Engineering Consultancy, Project Management and WASH. He has led and coordinated multiple teams of multidisciplinary experts in the Engineering Design and Implementation of several infrastructure development and Climate related projects in the East African Region.

Elvis has served on several boards and executive committees in various capacities such as Chevening Alumni Association of Uganda (UG), Silsoe Aid for Appropriate Development (UK), Uganda Association of Consulting Engineers (UG), International Federation of Consulting Engineers Africa (FIDIC) (SA) and the Rotaract Club of Kololo.

Education and Certifications

• Master of Science Water and Sanitation for Development, Cranfield University, UK
• Post graduate Diploma. Project Planning and Management, Uganda Management Institute, Kampala
• Bachelor of Science. Civil and Environmental Engineering, Uganda Christian University, Mukono

Certifications

• Nature-based Solutions for Disaster and Climate Resilience, SDG Academy
• The Drilling Course – Developing Groundwater, RedR UK and Cranfield University UK

Achievements

• Nominated and Elected to the Executive Committee of the Chevening Alumni Association of Uganda (CAAU) as Secretary General.
• Won the Unilever Cranfield Innovation Accelerator challenge proposing a sustainable carbon-negative ice cream cabinet that provided access to safe drinking water for the locals in the peri-urban areas of Indonesia.
• Appointed as vice-president of the Silsoe Aid For Appropriate Development (SAFAD) a UK charity organisation run by Cranfield students with the aim of alleviating poverty through WASH.
• Awarded the Chevening Scholarship with a 2% acceptance rating to Cranfield MSc Water and Sanitation for Development 2021- 2022.
• Elected vice president to the Uganda Association for Consulting Engineers (UACE) Future Leaders executive committee.
• Selected to the International Federation of Consulting Engineers (FIDIC) in Africa Future Leaders executive committee.
• Short-listed as a presenter and panellist for the FIDIC annual conference 2021 in Botswana, Africa.

Senior ICT Officer and Intellectual Property Specialist

Shirley Gladys Nakyejwe

Shirley Gladys Nakyejwe is a Senior ICT Officer and Intellectual Property (IP) Specialist at the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance under the Department of Research and Development. Leveraging her expertise in IP management, ICT, and computer science, Shirley navigates the complexities of IP in the digital age and is pivotal in fostering a thriving innovation ecosystem in Uganda. Her unwavering commitment to gender equality and diversity in STEM fields is evident in her active participation in programs like the Young African Leadership Initiative (YALI) and the World Learning Alumni Thematic International Exchange Seminar (TIES), where she champions inclusive growth in the IP and tech sector.

One of Shirley’s most significant achievements is leading a nationwide program that empowered over 2000 innovators by equipping them with the knowledge and tools to safeguard their ideas and inventions. She additionally developed a practical IP toolkit that over 5000 innovators and researchers have utilized while navigating the IP landscape.

Shirley guides innovators through the IP ownership process, registration procedures, and commercialization strategies. With a Master’s degree in Intellectual Property and another in ICT Management, Policy, and Architectural Design, alongside a Bachelor’s in Computer Science, Shirley possesses a well-rounded understanding of the intricate interplay between technology, policy, and intellectual property.

Deputy Executive Director, Makerere University Walter Reed Program

Dr. Betty Nanzigu Mwesigwa

Dr. Betty Nanzigu Mwesigwa is the Deputy Executive Director at the Makerere University Walter Reed Program, a prominent biomedical research organization in Uganda. She plays a critical role in overseeing and advancing research initiatives focused on infectious diseases, particularly HIV prevention, care, and treatment.

With over 12 years of experience in the field, Dr. Mwesigwa has been instrumental in leading cutting-edge research projects, including the development and testing of vaccines against HIV, Ebola, Marburg, and Bilharzia. Her work is pivotal in shaping health outcomes not only in Uganda but across the region.

Dr. Betty holds a prestigious research award from the United States National Institutes of Health, which supports her ongoing research aimed at improving cervical cancer prevention and treatment among women living with HIV in Uganda. She is also a valued ex- officio member of the Board of Directors for her organization, contributing her extensive knowledge and experience to guide strategic decisions and policy formulations.

Achievements

Has extensive clinical research and leadership and management training including corporate governance training.

Holder of a research award from the United States National Institutes of Health

Over 12 years of experience in infectious disease research

Dr. Betty’s commitment to medical research and her impactful leadership at the Makerere University Walter Reed Program demonstrates her dedication to improving healthcare through scientific excellence and innovation.

Deputy Head of Legal & Commercial at CNOOC

Sandra Mwesigye Mago

Sandra Mwesigye Mago is an enrolled advocate with a Master’s in oil & gas law from the University of Aberdeen, UK, a Diploma in legal practice, and a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Kent, UK. She is currently undertaking her ICSA qualification.

Sandra has over 14 years of legal practice in both private sector as a lawyer and in-house counsel and in the public sector. She has experience in oil and gas law, corporate governance, legal and tax advisory, arbitration and litigation, commercial contract drafting and negotiations, and transaction advisory. Sandra began her legal career in private practice at Tumusiime Kabega & Co Advocates, then joined Uganda public service as a State Attorney in the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs for 6 years, following which she joined CNOOC Uganda Limited where she currently manages the legal team in handling the company’s legal affairs. She has participated in negotiation of key upstream project agreements that unlocked the Final Investment Decision for the nascent Ugandan oil industry and provides key legal support towards achieving first oil.

Education and Professional Engagement

• Master’s in Oil & Gas Law, University of Aberdeen, UK
• Diploma in Legal Practice
• Bachelor of Laws, University of Kent, UK
• Pursuing ICSA qualification
• Enrolled Advocate, Uganda Law Society