Dr Andrew Kiggundu: Renowned Agricultural Scientist and Ally to Journalists Passes Away at 57

Tragic Death of a Scientific Pioneer

Dr Andrew Kiggundu, a prominent figure in plant biotechnology, passed away on April 7, 2026, after falling from a ladder while fixing a water system at his home in Temangalo, Busiro, Wakiso District. He was 57 and had just returned from a meeting at the National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO) in Entebbe.

Born on April 10, 1969, he was buried in his home village on the same date in 2026, drawing thousands of mourners. The homestead was festively prepared with lights and a manicured lawn for his birthday celebration.

Stellar Career in Agricultural Science

Kiggundu earned a BSc in Botany and Zoology from Makerere University, followed by a Master’s in Agricultural Plant Breeding from the University of the Orange Free State, South Africa, and a PhD in Plant Biotechnology from the University of Pretoria.

He advanced through roles at NARO, leading biotechnology programs at NaRL in Kawanda. Key projects included managing the Virus Resistant and Nutrient Enhanced Cassava for Africa (VIRCA Plus) across multiple countries and the Virus Resistant Cassava Project with international partners.

At his death, he served as Production Manager for the Anti-Tick Vaccine at NaLRRI in Nakyesasa and chaired the Biotechnology and Biosafety Consortium (UBBC), fostering ties between scientists and journalists.

Tributes Highlight His Impact

NARO Director General Dr Yona Baguma, who joined with Kiggundu 33 years ago, praised his expertise in combating crop diseases through molecular biology. He had chaired a key committee to reposition NARO’s lab just before his passing.

Former MP Robert Sebunya lauded Kiggundu’s breakthroughs against banana bacterial wilt and cassava brown streak virus, criticizing delays in GMO legislation that hindered such innovations.

Rev Fr Joseph Mpagi, a childhood friend, remembered him as humble and God-fearing. His children, Jason Ssali and Catherine Nagawa, noted his passion for nature, turning their home into a botanical garden.

Champion of Science Journalism

Journalists valued Kiggundu’s accessibility. He led trainings with Scifode since around 2010, simplifying complex topics for reporters in Uganda and East Africa.

Tributes from UBC’s Sarah Mawerere, columnist Michael J. Ssali, and Ghana’s Linda Asante Agyei underscored the void left in agricultural reporting. He is survived by wife Margret and six children.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)