Welcome to the Department of Zoology, Entomology and Fisheries Sciences (ZEFS) at Makerere University, a leading centre of excellence in biological sciences, research innovation, and community transformation.

As Head of Department, I am proud to welcome you to one of the most dynamic and impactful academic units in the College of Natural Sciences (CoNaS), where we have spent decades building knowledge that transforms lives, protects biodiversity, and empowers communities.

At ZEFS, our work is deeply rooted in the realities of today’s world, from food insecurity, climate change, and environmental degradation to public health and job creation. We explore life in all its diversity; from microscopic parasites to magnificent Mountain Gorillas, from pollinating bees to the shimmering tilapia, from rare birds like the Shoebill to cryptic reptiles and amphibians; and seek answers that connect science to society.

Our department is home to a rich array of disciplines including Zoology, Entomology, Fisheries and Aquaculture Sciences, supported by dedicated scholars and professionals working at the cutting edge of biodiversity conservation, vector ecology, public health, nutrition, and climate resilience.

We train students at undergraduate, masters, and PhD levels, equipping them with both scientific knowledge and hands-on skills in areas such as:

• Aquaculture and Fisheries Science to combat malnutrition, improve food security, and support sustainable livelihoods;
• Entomology for pollination, pest control, edible insect farming, and fighting disease vectors;
• Wildlife Ecology for conservation of Uganda’s rich fauna including primates, birds, herpetofauna, and large mammals;
• Public Health Zoology for understanding and controlling zoonotic diseases;
• Climate Change Adaptation and Biodiversity science for a sustainable, resilient future.

Our academic training is enhanced through partnerships with communities, government agencies, research institutes, NGOs, and global universities, ensuring our graduates are job-ready, entrepreneurial, and responsive to the complex challenges of our time.

Personally, my own journey, from the wetlands of Mukono to global partnerships in aquaculture research has shown me the transformative power of education and science. I have witnessed firsthand how innovations in fish nutrition, aquafeeds, and sustainable production systems can empower farmers, improve health, and contribute to national development. At ZEFS, we are committed to passing on these lessons, skills, and opportunities to the next generation.

Our department’s work does not stop at the laboratory or lecture hall. We reach out to the grassroots, supporting farmers, guiding students, and creating technologies that work for everyday Ugandans. We value community-based learning, and our field attachments, internships, and research projects place students in real-world environments, from fish farms and wildlife reserves to schools and health programs.

As you explore this website, I invite you to discover the programs, projects, and people that make ZEFS an extraordinary place to learn, grow, and make a difference.

Whether you are a student seeking a purposeful career, a researcher in search of collaboration, or a community partner ready to solve problems together; you are welcome at ZEFS. Together, let’s use science to build a healthier planet, a stronger Uganda, and a more sustainable future for all.

Welcome to ZEFS – Where Curiosity Inspires Discovery, and Knowledge Leads to Impact.

Warm regards,

Dr. Godfrey Kawooya Kubiriza
Head of Department
zoology@cns.mak.ac.ug
Makerere University, Uganda