science 30 September 2026 Nile Post
Dr. Louis Mukwaya: A 61-Year Pillar of Mosquito Research in Uganda
Dr. Louis Godfrey Mukwaya, a pioneering Ugandan entomologist, dedicated over six decades to the study of mosquitoes and disease transmission at the Uganda Virus Research Institute (UVRI). His extensive research, particularly on mosquito feeding behavior and genetics, continues to shape scientific understanding and efforts against mosquito-borne illnesses. Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/374490/dr-louis-mukwaya-leaves-behind-61-year-legacy-in-mosquito-research
Dr. Louis Godfrey Mukwaya, a luminary in medical entomology, has passed away at the age of 87, leaving behind an unparalleled legacy of over 61 years of dedicated research on mosquitoes and the diseases they carry.
Dr. Mukwaya joined the East African Virus Research Institute (now UVRI) in 1965, shortly after earning his degree in Zoology from Makerere University. He later obtained his PhD in Medical Entomology in 1971, laying the foundation for a career that would profoundly impact vector-borne disease research in Uganda and beyond.
Throughout his illustrious career, Dr. Mukwaya was particularly renowned for his groundbreaking work on mosquito feeding behavior and genetics. His research illuminated the intricate factors influencing why certain mosquitoes target humans while others prefer animals, a crucial insight for disease control strategies. UVRI Director, Professor Pontiano Kaleebu, lauded Dr. Mukwaya as a cornerstone of the institution, emphasizing his significant contributions.
Beyond his research, Dr. Mukwaya played a vital role in navigating the institute through challenging times. During the 1970s, amidst political instability and the dissolution of the East African Community, he served as acting director from 1977 to 1979. In this capacity, he was instrumental in preserving valuable scientific specimens and maintaining research activities when the institute operated with a minimal staff.
His scientific achievements garnered international recognition, including the naming of a mosquito subgenus, Stegomyia (Mukwaya), in his honor in 2009. He was also awarded a medal by President Yoweri Museveni in 2018 for his contributions to the fight against malaria.
Colleagues and family remember Dr. Mukwaya not only for his scientific rigor and integrity but also for his profound compassion and commitment to education, often supporting disadvantaged children. His daughter, Josephine Birungi, noted that his passion for science inspired her own career, and that his research on mosquito behavior remains highly relevant for contemporary genetic technologies aimed at disease vector control.
Dr. Mukwaya’s enduring legacy will continue to guide researchers at UVRI and inspire future generations of scientists dedicated to understanding and controlling mosquito-borne diseases. He passed away on Sunday and will be laid to rest in Semuto, Luwero District.
This report is based on information from Nile Post.