Prof Peter Waiswa with the gift plaque gifted to him in honour of his promotion as a professor
In life, those who have made a meaningful difference in the lives of others deserve to be celebrated, not only for what they have achieved, but also for the people they have inspired, the lives they have touched and the legacy they continue to build.
It was in this spirit that, on 8 October 2026, members of the maternal, newborn and child health (MNCH) community, academia, former students, mentees and research collaborators from Uganda and beyond gathered for a surprise celebration in honour of Prof. Peter Waiswa following his promotion to Full Professor at Makerere University.
Organised by the Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH) Centre of Excellence for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health Research at Central Park,Bukoto, the event brought together people whose academic and professional journeys have been shaped by Prof. Waiswa’s scholarship, leadership and mentorship.
Among those present were Prof. Lynn Atuyambe of Makerere University School of Public Health, Darius Kajjo, Grace Amoit, Dr. Elizabeth Namara, Ronald Kananura, Dr. Catherine Birabwa, Justine Inhensiko Kaudha and Winnie Kansiime, among others.
Prof Lynn Lynn Atuyambe ,Winnie Kansiime, Rornald Kananura Muhumuza handing a cake to Prof Peter Waiswa his cake during the suprise party
Speakers reflected on Prof. Waiswa’s contribution to research, education and public health, sharing appreciation for his influence on their careers and professional development. They celebrated his commitment to mentorship, collaboration and nurturing generations of researchers and public health leaders.
Beyond the academic milestone, the gathering highlighted the importance of investing in people, sharing knowledge and creating opportunities for others to grow. Through his work in maternal, newborn and child health, Prof. Waiswa has contributed to strengthening research capacity, fostering collaborations and advancing efforts to improve health outcomes for women and children.
The appreciation was immortalised in a commemorative plaque presented to Prof. Waiswa in recognition of his achievement and contribution to the MNCH community.
In his remarks, Prof. Waiswa expressed appreciation for the recognition and acknowledged the colleagues, students, mentors and research partners who have contributed to his journey.
