President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has appointed Dr. Crispus Kiyonga as the new Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, one of Uganda’s most prestigious institutions of higher learning. The announcement has been met with warm congratulations from the university’s leadership.
On behalf of the Makerere University Council, Vice Chancellor Barnabas Nawangwe extended his heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Kiyonga, stating, “We warmly welcome him to the service of Makerere University.” Dr. Kiyonga’s appointment is seen as a significant milestone for the university.
Born on January 1, 1952, Dr. Kiyonga brings a wealth of experience to his new role, having held numerous high-profile positions in the Ugandan government. Most recently, he served as Uganda’s Ambassador to China, based in Beijing. His career also includes a decade-long tenure as the Minister of Defense in Uganda’s Cabinet from 2006 to 2016.
Dr. Kiyonga’s extensive experience in government includes serving as Minister Without Portfolio in the Office of the President from 2005 to 2006, where he retained his position through multiple cabinet reshuffles. He has also held the following positions:
- 1986-1986: Minister for Cooperatives & Marketing
- 1986-1992: Minister of Finance, where he is credited with establishing the Uganda Revenue Authority
- 1994-1996: Minister of Internal Affairs
- 1996-2001: Minister of Health, where he efficiently managed the Ebola outbreak in Gulu in 2000 and served as Chairman of the Global Fund
- 2001-2006: Minister Without Portfolio and National Political Commissar
- 2006-2016: Minister of Defense
Dr. Kiyonga’s appointment as Vice Chancellor is expected to bring strong leadership and a wealth of experience to Makerere University as it continues to navigate the challenges and opportunities of higher education in Uganda.
