Prof. Kiremire raises alarm over exploitation of intellectual property

Renowned scientist, Professor Enos Kiremire, has expressed concerns over the exploitation of intellectual property, highlighting the global theft of local discoveries.

In an interview with the Nile Post, Kiremire discussed the international sales of his groundbreaking books on natural chemistry, which have been marketed in countries including Indonesia, Malaysia, Egypt, and Singapore.

Despite the millions of copies sold, Kiremire claims to have received nothing from the profits, accusing companies like Amazon of withholding earnings.

Kiremire pointed out that his knowledge, particularly in material science and high-speed computing, has the potential to revolutionize industries, from computing to transportation, yet remains undervalued in Uganda.

He expressed frustration over the lack of recognition and support for intellectual property in Uganda, despite its immense financial potential.

He argued that the government and local institutions should collaborate with him to publish and distribute his work within the country.

“We are not just talking about natural materials, we are talking about intellectual property worth billions. The knowledge should benefit Ugandans,” Kiremire stated.

He stressed the importance of local investment in scientific research and development, likening the global recognition of intellectual property to the fame given to athletes, suggesting that scientists deserve similar recognition for their contributions.

With over 10 million copies of his books sold internationally, Kiremire believes he should have earned a share of the profits but has received nothing.

“If this discovery were a sport, I would be celebrated, but here the intellectual property is being ignored,” he lamented.

Kiremire urged the government to invest in education, research, and the publishing of such works to ensure that future generations can benefit from his discoveries.

He also emphasised that if properly managed, intellectual property could unlock enormous financial and technological potential for Uganda.

He called for a greater recognition of intellectual property rights in Uganda and for policies that can protect valuable local scientific knowledge.

Kiremire’s illustrious career is marked by several achievements, including pioneering work in nitrogen fixation, spin levels, and a notable discovery of what he calls “skeleton numbers” in chemistry.

These numbers, discovered in 2015, allow scientists to categorize and better understand compounds, an innovation that has far-reaching implications for industries such as agriculture, medicine, and technology.

“God has been gracious to me,” Kiremire said, reflecting on his eight decades.

“Many of my peers are no longer with us. To be here, to have contributed to science, and to share this knowledge, is a gift I cherish deeply.”

Kiremire's career has taken him across the globe.

After earning his degree from Makerere University, he pursued advanced studies in Canada and worked in prestigious institutions such as the University of Michigan, the University of Sussex, and the University of Namibia, where he served as a faculty member for 17 years.

In 2018, after 47 years abroad, Kiremire returned to Uganda and was appointed to the National Planning Authority, contributing his scientific expertise to national development.

Notably, he holds seven patents for compounds used in malaria treatment, showcasing his direct impact on public health.

Kiremire's contributions to chemistry extend beyond his patents.

His discovery of the dual nature of chemical formulas that every compound exists in two distinct groups is a breakthrough that could revolutionise the way scientists approach research.

His work has been translated into seven languages, with his books selling millions worldwide.

Despite the global acclaim, Kiremire expressed disappointment with the local reception of his work.

“Foreigners are eager to embrace my discoveries, but here in Uganda, the response has been lukewarm. We need to value our own scientists and their contributions,” he said.

He stressed the importance of pursuing knowledge and contributing to global progress, despite challenges.

“Science is not about random trial and error,” Kiremire added.

“It is about understanding and applying knowledge in a structured way. With this understanding, we can change the world,"he added.

Kiremire also shared insights into his groundbreaking work in chemistry, particularly his natural dose of chemistry theory, which he believes is revolutionising the understanding of chemical formulas.

According to Kiremire, this theory enables a deeper comprehension of how atoms are arranged and provides essential details such as the number of electrons in a chemical formula.

He emphasised that this knowledge is the first of its kind in the world and is already gaining recognition globally, particularly in the fields of chemistry and physics.

“Understanding this knowledge gives you depth, and it helps you explain and understand complex chemical reactions, such as the formation of ammonia,” Kiremire explained.

He further noted that, despite its significance, universities around the world have yet to fully grasp the implications of his work, which he believes sets Uganda apart in the scientific community.

Kiremire highlighted the unique achievement of marketing his knowledge internationally.

He expressed pride in the fact that Ugandans are now contributing to global scientific advancements.

“This is a major achievement, and Uganda should be proud,” he said.

He underscored that his work is not just being recognised by countries like Russia and the United States, but is gaining traction worldwide.

In addition to discussing his scientific discoveries, Kiremire addressed the topic of gender equality in education.

He challenged common misconceptions about the intellectual abilities of women, particularly in subjects like mathematics and science.

Drawing from personal experience, Kiremire shared that his daughter excelled academically, achieving eight distinctions in subjects like math, physics, and chemistry, despite societal expectations.

“The mindset is what matters. A girl’s brain is not any different from a man's brain. Women can excel just as much as men in any field, including science and technology,” he said.

He called for a shift in societal attitudes, urging that girls be supported to realize their full potential, just as boys are.

Kiremire's books include Natural Laws of Chemistry, Natural Chemistry, Investing in Natural Laws of Chemistry, Compounds and Chemical Properties, among others.

He was born in the village of Bwanga, Nyarushanje Sub-County, Rukiga in Kigezi District.