26th August 2025
Mountains of the Moon University (MMU) witnessed a significant administrative transition today as the outgoing Contracts Committee officially handed over responsibilities to the newly appointed committee members.
The handover ceremony, held at the university’s main campus board room, marked the conclusion of the committee’s term and the beginning of a new chapter in the institution’s procurement and contract management processes.
The handover activity comes hardly two weeks after a 5 member contracts committee was sworn-in comprising of Dr. John Rwakihembo as Chairperson, with Wilson Kwikiriza – Secretary, Yusuf Karwani, Jane Nakajubi, and Ronald Kawalya serving as members.
The Deputy Vice Chancellor Prof. John M. Kasenene, who presided over the ceremony, appreciated the members of the first contracts committee for executing their duties diligently without any issues of administrative review. He commended their professionalism and adherence to proper governance standards throughout their tenure.
“The committee members served their term (3) years diligently and played a significant role in aiding the transition from the private University processes to a more rigorous public university processes, ensuring the principles of public procurement and disposal are adhered to,” Obita Godfrey Deputy Chief Procurement and Disposal noted, praising their commitment to transparency and accountability in all contractual matters.
Deputy Vice Chancellor Prof. Edmond Kagambe also addressed the gathering, congratulating the new committee members on their appointment and expressing confidence in their ability to serve the university effectively. He appreciated the outgoing members for doing their work satisfactorily and maintaining the integrity of the procurement process.
Prof. Kagambe emphasized the importance of continuity, advising that any pending works should be brought to the attention of the new members to ensure seamless operations. He also advised the incoming committee to adhere strictly to procurement plans and procedures to maintain the high standards set by their predecessors.
The transition is expected to ensure continuity in the university’s contract administration while bringing fresh perspectives to the committee’s oversight functions. The Contracts Committee plays a crucial role in managing the university’s procurement processes, vendor relationships, and contract negotiations.
The new committee will be responsible for overseeing all major contracts including infrastructure projects, academic partnerships, and service agreements that support the university’s operations and strategic objectives
Speaking after the handover, Dr. Rwakihembo expressed gratitude to the university’s top management for the confidence placed in him. “I thank the university management for entrusting me with this important responsibility,” he said. “I am honored to serve the institution in this capacity.”
Dr. Rwakihembo also acknowledged the contributions of his predecessors, particularly recognizing their dedication during the transition period. “I want to extend my sincere appreciation to the outgoing committee members who have served diligently, especially during this transition period. Their commitment has ensured continuity in our operations,” he noted.
“I congratulate the new members and implore them to embrace the core values of Mountains of the Moon University and the principles of procurement as stipulated in the Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Act (PPDA) in order to achieve value for money in the procurement process,” Dr. Rwakihembo stated.
Dr. Rwakihembo, a PhD holder in Accounting, brings a wealth of experience to his new role, having served in different capacities in both government and private sector organizations. His diverse background in financial management and public administration positions him well to lead the committee’s oversight functions and ensure compliance with procurement regulations.
MMU continues to strengthen its administrative structures as it works toward achieving its vision of becoming a leading institution of higher learning in the region.
The university community and stakeholders expect the new committee to build upon the solid foundation laid by the first committee while addressing emerging challenges in contract management and procurement.
Story by: Brens Willie Wambedde