Kyambogo Graduate's Fire Suppression System Secures Government Protection

Timothy Obbo, a distinguished graduate from Kyambogo University, has seen his innovative solution for tackling cooking gas fires achieve a new level of recognition. The Uganda Registration Services Bureau (URSB) has granted a Utility Model Certificate for his Automated Cooking Gas Fire Suppression System, a device engineered to detect and automatically combat fires involving liquefied petroleum gas (LPG).

This certification, issued on June 18, 2026, following an application the previous day, legally secures Obbo and Kyambogo University’s intellectual property rights over the invention under Uganda’s Industrial Property Act. The protection offers a foundation for the system’s future development and potential commercialization.

Obbo, who graduated in 2024 with a First-Class Bachelor of Science in Process and Chemical Engineering, developed the system to address the inherent risks associated with cooking gas. The innovation integrates fire detection, automatic suppression, and remote monitoring capabilities. It utilizes infrared flame sensors to identify fire radiation, with a microcontroller then activating suppression mechanisms.

Before obtaining this official protection, Obbo’s fire suppression system garnered attention during his academic tenure. He showcased prototypes at various events, including the 2023 National Science Week and the 2024 National Council for Higher Education exhibition, where he presented the innovation to key figures like the then Deputy Prime Minister Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga.

His academic excellence was further recognized with a gold medal from the Engineers Registration Board (ERB) in March 2025. Support from his mentor, Eng. Mercy Kitimbo Asiku, was instrumental in guiding Obbo through the process of securing intellectual property protection.

The URSB grant provides a utility model, offering exclusive rights for up to 10 years. Kyambogo University views Obbo’s achievement as a prime example of how university research can translate into practical, real-world applications, potentially enhancing fire safety in homes and industries.

This development supports Obbo’s aspirations in Uganda’s growing oil and gas sector and opens avenues for his innovation to contribute to public safety.

Source: Nile Post