Kampala, Uganda — The Government of Uganda has welcomed the establishment of the China–Uganda Belt & Road Joint Laboratory on Natural Disaster Monitoring and Early Warning at Makerere University, a major milestone in strengthening national capacity to prevent and manage natural disasters.

The laboratory, developed through a strategic partnership between Makerere University, Tsinghua University, and Gsafety of the People’s Republic of China, will support advanced monitoring and early warning systems for disasters such as floods, landslides, earthquakes, and other related hazards.

The launch ceremony was officiated by the Minister of State for Higher Education, Hon. John Chrysostom Muyingo, and attended by Makerere University Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, senior government officials, and representatives from the Chinese partner institutions.

Speaking at the event, Prof. Nawangwe highlighted the critical role the new laboratory will play in research, innovation, and community protection. He expressed appreciation to the Government of Uganda for its support and to the Government of China for partnering with Makerere University to establish a facility that will enhance disaster preparedness and resilience.

In his remarks, Hon. Muyingo commended the strong and growing cooperation between Uganda and China, noting that the laboratory reflects the shared commitment to sustainable development, knowledge exchange, and protection of citizens’ lives and livelihoods. He emphasized that the facility will contribute significantly to reducing disaster-related risks and promoting the well-being of Ugandans.
Representatives from Tsinghua University and Gsafety, including Dr. Henry Zhang and Mr. Zhang Xiaole, observed that Uganda is among the countries frequently affected by various natural disasters. They underscored that the new laboratory will enable early detection and scientific forecasting, allowing preventive measures to be taken before disasters occur.

The China–Uganda Belt & Road Joint Laboratory stands as a symbol of the strong bilateral relations between Uganda and China, the Government’s commitment to science-led development, and Makerere University’s leadership as a center of excellence in research and innovation for national and regional transformation.
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