Resource Centre Committee | PIBID/BIRDC Scientific Research Centre

Rev. Prof. Florence Muranga is the Director General of the Presidential Initiative on Banana Industrial Development (PIBID)

Rev. Prof. Florence 1. Muranga, (PhD)

Director General PIBID/BIRDC, Principle Investigator

Rev. Prof. Florence 1. Muranga, (PhD)

Director General PIBID/BIRDC, Principle Investigator

Rev. Prof. Florence Muranga is the Director General of the Presidential Initiative on Banana Industrial Development (PIBID). She graduated from Makerere University, Uganda’s largest and oldest public university, with a Bachelor of Science degree and a Diploma in Education. In 1990, she was awarded a Master of Science in Food Science by the University of Reading in the United Kingdom. Later in 2000, she graduated with a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Biochemistry, from Makerere University. Florence Isabirye Muranga was a Professor of Nutrition and Biochemistry in the Department of Food Technology and Nutrition at Makerere University. She has special interest in the nutritional value of the banana fruit, particularity the variety called matooke. She has published widely and extensively regarding her research on the subject.

Dr. Kembabazi Stella Maris

Asst. Manager R&D

Dr. Kembabazi Stella Maris

Asst. Manager R&D

Supports the R&D Manager in implementing research projects, monitoring field trials, and analyzing data. Facilitates collaboration between researchers and farmers, assists in patent documentation, and helps translate scientific findings into practical applications for banana industry stakeholders.

Arthur Asirike

Asst. DCAO / Manager strategy & planning

Arthur Asirike

Asst. DCAO / Manager strategy & planning

Develops and monitors implementation of PIBID’s 5-year strategic plan. Conducts policy analysis, prepares progress reports for stakeholders, and coordinates inter-departmental initiatives to achieve organizational KPIs in banana industrial development.

Peter Bamuhigire

IT manager

Peter Bamuhigire

IT manager

Oversees the organization’s technology infrastructure including the institutional repository, KOHA library system, and research databases. Implements digital solutions to enhance research collaboration, data security, and knowledge management across PIBID facilities.

Dr. Sonko Umaru Male

Manager Laboratory operations

Dr. Sonko Umaru Male

Manager Laboratory operations

Ensures smooth functioning of all laboratory activities including equipment maintenance, safety protocols, and quality control procedures. Manages sample testing schedules, supervises technical staff, and maintains ISO-compliant documentation for research processes.

Diana Kulabako

Personal Assistant to DG

Diana Kulabako

Personal Assistant to DG

Provides high-level administrative support to the Director General including schedule management, correspondence handling, and meeting coordination. Serves as liaison between DG’s office and government/private sector partners, ensuring efficient workflow and information flow.

Babra Agoete

Officer Resource Centre/ Research Assistant

Babra Agoete

Officer Resource Centre/ Research Assistant

A researcher staff member plays a critical role in advancing knowledge, driving innovation, and supporting evidence-based decision-making within an organization or academic institution. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for inquiry, they engage in the design, implementation, and analysis of research projects across various disciplines. Their responsibilities often include data collection, literature reviews, report writing, and collaboration with academic and field experts to ensure rigorous and ethical research practices.

Rosemary Gwokyalya

Publication & Conference

Rosemary Gwokyalya

Publication & Conference

Coordinates the dissemination of research findings through peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations, and policy briefs. Manages the editorial process for technical reports and organizes knowledge-sharing events to showcase PIBID’s innovations.