CONDOLENCE MESSAGE: Dr. Andrew Kiggundu
DR. ANDREW KIGGUNDU: 1969-2026
Honouring a Legacy
The African Genetic Biocontrol Consortium (AGBC) is deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. Andrew Kiggundu, a distinguished research scientist and Molecular Biology and Plant Specialist based in Kampala, Uganda.
Until his demise, Dr. Kiggundu served as a Biotechnology Consultant and Head of the Biodiversity and Biotechnology Programme at the National Agricultural Research Laboratories, Kawanda, Uganda. He earlier served as Project Manager in the Virus Resistant and Nutrient Enhanced Cassava for Africa (VIRCA Plus) Project, coordinating project collaborators based in Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda, Uganda and USA.
In March 2026, Dr. Kiggundu joined the Advisory Board of the Nairobi based African Genetic Biocontrol Consortium (AGBC). He was a dedicated member of the Consortium and was always available to offer his expertise in plant biotechnology, biosafety, risk assessment and science communication when needed. He was a great asset in the past two Biennial Global Congresses on Genetic Biocontrol and served as a trainer during the two events held in Nairobi and Accra respectively.
Dr Kiggundu was instrumental in enhancing biotechnology awareness across Africa, particularly with regard to the application of genetic tools for controlling infectious diseases and understanding emerging biotechnologies. In his capacity as patron, he facilitated the establishment of the Science Communication Forum (SCICOM Forum), an initiative that fosters collaboration between journalists and scientists to advance knowledge exchange on genetic biocontrol technologies. He also acted as an international representative for the Consortium concerning these matters. As a result of his efforts, a broader spectrum of individuals is now equipped to participate in informed discussions about genetic biocontrol both within Africa and globally.
His commitment to excellence and professionalism as well as calm demeanour and sense of humour earned him a lot of respect and admiration from colleagues and friends across the globe.
The AGBC extends heartfelt condolences to Dr. Kiggundu’s family, friends, and colleagues. While reflecting on his numerous achievements, we also acknowledge the lasting and positive influence he brought to our lives.
The Consortium will continue to respect and remember his commitment and friendship. His legacy and contributions remain highly valued.
May he rest in peace.
Willy Tonui, PhD, EBS
Founder and Chairman, African Genetic Biocontrol Consortium
ABOUT THE AFRICAN GENETIC BIOCONTROL CONSORTIUM
The African Genetic Biocontrol Consortium www.genbioconsortium.africa provides a platform for interaction among African experts and institutions to enhance opportunities for technical capacity strengthening, knowledge exchange and deliberation about the challenges and opportunities of genetic biocontrol technologies.
The Consortium was officially launched on November 30, 2020 by inaugural not-for-profit member organizations based in Africa. The member organizations include the Africa One Health Network (AfOHNet), the Africa Biological Safety Association (AfBSA), The Multilateral Initiative on Malaria ( MIM) , Network of African Science Academies (NASAC) , Pan-African Mosquito Control Association (PAMCA) and the GeneConvene Global Collaborative (GeneConvene)