Work Experience

• Associate Professor & Head, Department of Veterinary Pharmacy & Clinical Studies, Makerere University Veterinary, 2012 to date
• Senior Lecturer & Founding Head of Department (seconded), Veterinary Clinical Studies, National University of Rwanda, 2008-2012
• Senior Lecturer, Veterinary Surgery & Reproduction, Makerere University, 2010-2012
• Lecturer, Veterinary Surgery & Reproduction, Makerere University, 2008-2010
• Assistant Lecturer, Veterinary Surgery & Reproduction, Makerere University, 2004-2008
• Teaching Assistant, Veterinary Surgery & Reproduction, Makerere University, 2001-20004
• Veterinary Officer, Hoima District Local Government, 2000-2001
• Sales and Technical Advisor, Awebada Drugs Shop and Enterprises, Lira, 1999
• Secretary General, The Lango Development Forum, 2015 to date
• Chairman, Bursary Scheme, The Lango Development Forum, 2006-2015
• Consulting Senior Veterinary Surgeon and member Board of Trustees, The Big Fix, 2012 to date
• Secretary, National Task Force for Control of Ticks & Tick-borne diseases in Uganda, 2013/14
• Member/Secretary, Presidential Technical Advisory Committee for the cleansing of tick resistance and sustainable use of acaricides in Uganda, 2016/17
• Member, Makerere University, Senate, 2013 to date

Previous Previous/Grants Managed

• Field evaluation of novel acaricides for use in control of ticks & tick-borne diseases in Uganda: A controlled field trial, on-going, Principal Investigator
• An evaluation of efficacy and safety of pyrethyroid acaricide products for control of ticks and flies of veterinary importance in Uganda: A controlled field trial; 2017, Principal Investigator
• JICA-Uganda Follow-up cooperation; Animal Diseases Control Project: improving the control of animal disease for improved livelihoods in Uganda, 2016/17, Investigator
• JICA-Uganda Follow-up cooperation; Animal Diseases Control Project: Evidence based acaricide tick control (EBATIC), 2015/16, Co-Investigator & student supervisor
• SIDA-SAREC research grant: on-farm validation of Animal Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART), 2012-2014, Post-Doctoral Student
• Carnegie-Mak Competitive research grants; The potential of edible insects in Lango sub-region, Northern Uganda; 2011-2013, co-investigator
• Grand Challenge Explorations 2011/2012; Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation; Breeding and Rearing of edible grasshoppers (co-investigator)
• SIDA institutional support grant; improving dairy and beef economic cluster in Uganda, 2010-2014, Uganda Senior Scientist & student supervisor (2MSs & PhD)
• NORAD Institutional Development Grant: Food, Nutrition and Value Addition: Improvement of growth and carcass quality of indigenous goats using Assisted Reproductive Technologies, ART (2009/2010) (Co-investigator)
• NARO-CGS: Improvement of small-holder beekeeping in North-Western Uganda; 2007/09, CO-Investigator
• Consulting veterinarian, community wildlife conservation project (exotic animal health and welfare) Uganda Wildlife Authority, 2005-2006
• Consulting Veterinarian and MAK University team leader: Veterinary Civil Action Program (VET-CAP), The US Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA); Northern Uganda, 2006-2007
• Apiary value chain analysis and development in the west Nile region, AFARD, 2014/15

Research Experience

1. Vudriko P, Okwee-Acai J, Byaruhanga J, Tayebwa DS, Omara R, Muhindo JB, Lagu C, Umemiya-Shirafuji R, Xuan X and Suzuki H (2017).  Evidence Based Tick Acaricide Resistance Intervention Strategy in Uganda: Concept and feedback of farmers and stakeholders. Ticks and Tick-Borne Diseases http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.ttbdis.2017.09.01
2. Dickson Tayebwa, Jeanne Muhindo, James Okwee-Acai et al., (2017). The actual condition of chemical tick control practices in southwest and northwestern Uganda. Veterinary Parasitology: Regional Studies and Reports (in press).
3. Joseph Byaruhanga , Dickson S. Tayebwa a, Wilfred Eneku, Mathias Afayoa , Francis Mutebi , Susan Ndyanabo, Steven Kakooza , James Okwee-Acai, Robert Tweyongyere, Eddie M. Wampande and Patrick Vudriko (2017). Retrospective study on cattle and poultry diseases in Uganda. International Journal of Veterinary Sciences and Medicine; http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.ijvm.2007.07.001
4. Patrick Vudriko, Rika Umemiya-Shirafuji, James Okwee-Acai, Dickson Stuart Tayebua et al., (2017).  Genetic mutations in sodium channel domain II and carboxylesterase genes associated with phenotypic resistance against synthetic pyrethroids by Boophilus decoloratus ticks in Uganda.  Pesticide Biochemistry and Physiology https://doi.org/10.1016/j.pestbp.2017.07.009
5. Weny G, Okwee-Acai J, Okech SG, Tumwine G, Ndyanabo S, Abigaba S, and Goldberg T (2017). Prevalence and risk factors associated with hemoparasites in cattle and goats at the edge of Kibale National Park, Western Uganda. Journal of Parasitology 103(1):69-74. doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.1645/16-33
6. Patrick Vudriko, James Okwee-Acai, Dickson Stuart Tayebwa et al., (2016). Emergence of multi-acaricide resistant Rhipicephalus ticks and its implication on chemical tick control in Uganda. Parasites and Vectors; 9:4. DOI 10.1186/s13071-015-1278-3
7. Mazimpaka E., Mbuza F., Tukei M., Gatari E.N., Bukenya E.M and Okwee-Acai J (2017). Current status of cattle production system in Nyagatare District-Rwanda. Tropical Animal Health and Production. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11250-017-1372-y
8. Akullo J, Obaa BB, Okwee-Acai J, Nakimbugwe D and Agea JG (2017). Knowledge, attitudes and practices on edible insects in Lango sub-region, Northern Uganda. Journal of Insects as Food and Feed: 0 (0): 1 – 10.DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.3920/JIFF2016.0033  
9. Akullo, J., Agea, J. G., Obaa, B. B., Okwee-Acai, J., and Nakimbugwe, D. (2017). Process development, sensory and nutritional evaluation of honey spread enriched with edible insects flour. African Journal of Food Science, 11(2), 30-39
10. Hyeroba D, Friant S, Acon J, Okwee-Acai J, and Goldberg TL (2017).  Health and demography of “village dogs” in rural Western Uganda.  Preventive Veterinary Medicine; 137: 24–27. doi:  10.1016/j.prevetmed.2016.12.009
11. Peter Oba, Denis Asizua, Godwin Komuntaro, Nasser Kasozi, Moses Kalenzi, Michael Apamaku, John Kateregga, James Okwee-Acai, Jimmy G. Ndukui, William Kabasa, Katali K. Benda (2016). In vivo Efficacy of Ethanolic Extract of Cassia nigricans (Vahl) Against Gastro-Intestinal Nematodes (GIN) of Goats in West Nile Region, Uganda. American Journal of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, 4: 43-49
12. Okwee-Acai J, G. Bigirwa, J. S. Onyait, B. Agwai, and J. Acon (2016). On-farm evaluation of pinhole castration as a novel alternative technique for mass castration of goats and cattle in pastoral committees of Central Uganda. Research Opinions in Animal and Veterinary Sciences; 6(1):13-18
13. Godfrey Nsereko, Patrick Emudong, Henry Mulindwa and James Okwee-Acai (2015). Prevalence of common gastro-intestinal nematode infections in commercial goat farms in Gomba District, Central Uganda. Uganda Journal of Agric. Sci. Vol 16 (1): 105-113.
14. Okello E., Amonya C., Okwee-Acai J., Erume J and DeGreve H (2015). Analysis of performance, management practices and challenges to intensive pig farming in peri-urban Kampala, Uganda.  International Journal of Animal Production; Vol. 6(1):1-7
15. Bigirwa G, Nassuna-Musoke MG, Okwee-Acai J, Owiny DO (2015). Seminal Characteristics of Boer and Native Ugandan Bucks and Doe Fertility Following Synchronization and Intra-cervical Insemination. Journal of Animal Science Advances. Online: doi:10.5455/jasa.20150118041244
16. Okwee-Acai J., Omara R., Onyait JS., Agwai B and Acon J (2013). An evaluation of pinhole castration as an alternative technique for dog population control in resource poor communities. Bulletin of Animal Health and Production in Africa;  Vol 61 (3): 337-345
17. Nsereko, G., Magona, JW, Odoch T and J. Okwee-Acai (2013). Anthelmintic efficacy of Albendazole, Levamisole and Ivermectin against gastro-intestinal nematode infections on goat farms in Gomba District, Uganda. Uganda Journal of Agric. Sci.; 14 (1): 75 – 85
18. Byaruhanga C and Okwee-Acai J (2013). Efficacy of albendazole, levamisole and ivermectin against gastro-intestinal nematodes in naturally infected goats, Uganda. Veterinary Parasitology.195(1-2):183-186
19. Okwee-Acai J, Akunu B, Agwai B and Acon J (2012). Pinhole technique: a noble alternative technique for male dog sterilization. Research Opinions in Animal and Veterinary Sciences, 2(1), 55-59.
20. Majalija S, Mugisha D, Izale W, Vudriko P and Okwee-Acai J (2011). Aetiology and antimicrobial drug resistance of bacterial pathogens associated with cases of septicemia in children from Mulago Hospital, Kampala Uganda. Africa Journal of Animal and Biomedical Science; 6(1): 34-41.
21. Okwee-Acai J, Mutebi F, Okuni JB, Nayiga J and Acon J (2011). A benign exudative cornifying intradermal tumour (keratoacanthoma) in a seven-year old Golden Retriever: A Clinical Case Report. Africa Journal of Animal and Biomedical Science; 6(1): 82-85.
22. D. Amulen, P. Milavi, A. Tamale, L. Nyakarahuka and J. Okwee-Acai* (2011). Chemicophysical Characteristics and Quality of Locally Processed Honey in Uganda: Implications for Local and International Honey Trade. Livestock Research for Rural Development.Volume24,Article #139,  http://www.lrrd.org/lrrd24/8/amul24139.htm
23. Okwee-Acai J, SSajakambwe P, S.G Okech, Agwai B, Ekakoro E and Acon J (2010). Haemonchosis associated mortalities and treatment of severe anemia by syringe infusion of blood in Boer goats in a model breeding farm in Lyantonde District, Uganda. Africa Journal of Animal and Biomedical Sciences. Vol 5 (1): 80-84.
24. Kungu Joseph, Okwee-Acai J, Okech SG, Ayebazibwe C and Erume J (2010). Prevalence and risk factors associated with bovine brucellosis in Amuru and Gulu Districts, northern Uganda. Africa Journal of Animal and Biomedical Sciences Vol 5 (3): 19-26
25. Okwee-Acai J, Agwai B, Ekakoro E, Nabukenya I, Eleku S and Acon J (2010). Zoonotic diseases risks and control: Perceptions of Veterinary and Medical workers in selected Districts of Uganda.  Africa Journal of Animal and Biomedical Sciences Vol 5 (2): 29-31
26. Okwee-Acai J, Anyanzo T A, Aroba J, Vuchiri J K, Onzivua T and Okullo P (2010).  Effects of apiary management on colonisation and colony performance of African honey bee (Apis mellifera) in the North-Western Agro-ecological zone of Uganda. Livestock Research for Rural Development. Volume 22, Article # 085. available online: http://www.lrrd.org/lrrd22/5/okwe22085.htm
27. Sajjakambwe P, Okwee-Acai J and Ojok L (2011). Prevalence of African Swine Fever (ASF) viral antigens in slaughter pigs at Nalukolongo abattoir, Kampala. Research Opinions in Animal and Veterinary Sciences; 1(5): 313-317
28. Eckhart, L., H. Fischer, M. Ghannadan, M. Buchberger, M. Wallis, R. Deaville, J. Okwee-Acai, J. B. Okello, and E. Tschachler (2008). Caspase-14: Natural gene knockout during the land-to-water transition of the evolutionary ancestor of dolphins and whales. Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 128: 106-S106.
29. Okwee-Acai J, Okech Samuel.G, Majalija Samuel and Wasswa Mathias (2008). Umbilical herniation accompanied by intestinal Evisceration and Fistulation in a three-day old female Friesian calf: A case report. Africa Journal of Animal and Biomedical Sciences. Vol 3 (1): 36-38
30. Okwee-Acai J, Wampande E, Hyeroba D, Okech S.G and Acon J (2008). Small intestinal obstruction and perforation by undigested straw and cortical bone in a lion cub: Acase report. Animal Production Research Advances. 3(2): 151-153.
31. Okwee-Acai J, L.Ojok and J. Acon (2008). Testicular morphologic and hormonal responses to an intratesticular injection of lactic acid for induction of chemosterilisation in adult Mubende goats. Africa Journal of Animal and Biomedical Sciences. Vol 3 (2): 5-11
32. Okwee-Acai J, Olet S, Ojok L and Acon J (2008). An evaluation of non-surgical castration using lactic acid in adult Mubende goats. Bull. Anim. Hlth. Prod. Afr. 56: 116-124
33. Okwee-Acai J, Acon J, Okello-Owiny D, AgwaI B and Oloya J (2008). Evaluation of Pinhole castration as an alternative technique for goat sterilization. Bull. Anim. Hlth. Prod. Afr., 56, 299-306
34. Okwee-Acai J, Majalija S, Okech SG, Kisaka MBS and Acon J (2006). Preliminary studies of antibiotic-resistant E-coli isolated from children and cattle in pastoral community of Nyabushozi, Uganda. Bull. Anim. Hlth. Prod. Afr. 54: 79-81
35. Majalija S, Okwee-Acai J, Okech SG, Nanyunja S and Kajumbula H (2006). Prevalence and antibiotic susceptibility patterns of bacteria associated with otitis externa in patients at Mulago Hospital. Africa Journal of Animal and Biomedical Sciences Vol 1 (2): 19-26
36. Okwee-Acai J, Okech SG, Driciru M, Atimnedi P and Dranzoa C (2006). Welfare and health of captive African grey parrots in Kampala, Uganda. Animal Production Research Advances. 2(3): 139-143.
37. Okwee-Acai J and Acon J (2005). Claw lesions and lameness in zero-grazed cattle fed on brewre’s grain in Uganda. Bull. Anim. Hlth. Prod. Afr. 53: 24-35
38. Okwee-Acai J, Kabagambe EK and Acon J (2004). Prevalence and risk factors associated with lameness in zero-grazed cattle in Uganda. Bull. Anim. Hlth. Prod. Afr. 52: 63-70