Makerere University Endowment Fund
Overview
Established in the 1930s, Makerere University Endowment Fund (MakEF) originated from donations aimed at creating an investment portfolio to support Makerere University. These contributions came from church leaders, former colonial officials, educators, and lecturers, who entrusted the funds to Crown Agents Investment Management (CAIM) in the United Kingdom for investment purposes. In 1986, six endowment funds were amalgamated to form the 'Makerere University Investment Fund' under CAIM. MakEF's primary objectives include receiving and mobilizing funds for the benefit of Makerere University, investing these funds in line with the Board of Trustees' Investment Policy, and funding scholarships, research, infrastructure, teaching and learning materials, staff remuneration, and activities that align with the University's mission. The Fund has grown from UGX 8.66 billion in 2021 to UGX 14.54 billion in 2025, reflecting a 68% increase despite global economic challenges. This growth is attributed to strategic investments in treasury bonds and unit trusts, which have yielded returns supporting university activities. To enhance engagement and transparency, MakEF introduced the MakAdvance digital platform, enabling alumni and friends to register, update personal information, and contribute funds towards various university initiatives. The platform also hosts 'The Legacy' newsletter, providing real-time updates on university events and bridging the gap between stakeholders and the university community. Additionally, the Fund organizes the annual MAK Run in Kampala, with proceeds earmarked for the construction of a comprehensive university student center, aiming to significantly enhance student life through services such as an innovation hub, co-working space, disability support center, and business/trade center.
Investment Focus
- Alignment with Makerere University's mission and objectives
- Compliance with the Fund's Investment Policy
- Focus on sectors contributing to Uganda's development agenda
- Potential for sustainable financial returns to support university initiatives
Portfolio Companies
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Unlock full contacts →Frequently asked questions about Makerere University Endowment Fund
What sectors does Makerere University Endowment Fund invest in?
Makerere University Endowment Fund invests in Financial Services, Technology, Healthcare, Energy, Infrastructure and Telecommunications, and is based in Kampala, Uganda. Makerere University Endowment Fund is listed as a endowment in the ConnectSafely investor database.
What stage does Makerere University Endowment Fund invest at?
Makerere University Endowment Fund backs companies at Seed, Early Stage, Growth, Late Stage, Pre-IPO and Buyout, writing cheques of 100K - 5M.
Which regions does Makerere University Endowment Fund invest in?
Makerere University Endowment Fund invests across Uganda.
What companies has Makerere University Endowment Fund invested in?
Makerere University Endowment Fund's portfolio includes Makerere University Research and Innovations Fund (Mak-RIF), College of Business and Management Sciences Endowment Fund and College of Computing and Information Sciences Endowment Fund.
Last updated · Source: ConnectSafely investor database
