Eronda
JF-Expert Member
- Dec 16, 2025
- 230
- 190
In a landmark move to strengthen domestic capacity and reduce reliance on imports, Uganda has officially launched locally manufactured diagnostic test kits for HIV, malaria, and sickle cell disease.
The initiative, unveiled by Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja, also includes a locally developed HIV testing algorithm for Rapid Diagnostic Test kits, marking a significant milestone in the country’s health sector.
Speaking at the launch, the Prime Minister emphasized that the development represents more than just medical innovation—it is a turning point for Uganda’s resilience. “We are not just celebrating the medical kits; we are making a turning point from vulnerability to resilience,” she remarked.
Nabbanja highlighted the importance of investing locally, noting that global financing and foreign aid are no longer sustainable. She urged Ugandans to prioritize locally made products while assuring manufacturers of government support to ensure high-quality production, reduce imports, and boost exports.
The Minister of Health, Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng Ocero, highlighted the broader impact of the initiative. She explained that locally manufactured kits will improve access and affordability of diagnostic testing, particularly in rural areas, while also stimulating local industries and innovation.
“This marks a significant and historic step forward,” Dr. Aceng said, adding that the effort is firmly rooted in the Buy Uganda, Build Uganda (BUBU) framework, which promotes local procurement, job creation, and supply chain strengthening.
Dr. Cedric Akwesigye, Managing Director of Micro-Haem Scientifics—the company behind the kits—praised the government’s commitment to local industry. He described BUBU as more than a policy, calling it “a bold national call to action to build value locally and to support the products, innovations, and services created on our soil.”
The launch event brought together key figures including State Minister for Trade General Wilson Mbadi, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health Dr. Diana Atwine, Director General of Health Services Dr. Charles Olaro, and other senior officials, consultants, and development partners.
By shortening supply chains, enhancing epidemic preparedness, and positioning Uganda as a regional leader in health manufacturing, this initiative is expected to transform the country’s public health response systems. It represents a strategic step toward self-reliance, resilience, and sustainable growth in Uganda’s healthcare sector.
Courtesy:
The initiative, unveiled by Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja, also includes a locally developed HIV testing algorithm for Rapid Diagnostic Test kits, marking a significant milestone in the country’s health sector.
Speaking at the launch, the Prime Minister emphasized that the development represents more than just medical innovation—it is a turning point for Uganda’s resilience. “We are not just celebrating the medical kits; we are making a turning point from vulnerability to resilience,” she remarked.
Nabbanja highlighted the importance of investing locally, noting that global financing and foreign aid are no longer sustainable. She urged Ugandans to prioritize locally made products while assuring manufacturers of government support to ensure high-quality production, reduce imports, and boost exports.
The Minister of Health, Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng Ocero, highlighted the broader impact of the initiative. She explained that locally manufactured kits will improve access and affordability of diagnostic testing, particularly in rural areas, while also stimulating local industries and innovation.
“This marks a significant and historic step forward,” Dr. Aceng said, adding that the effort is firmly rooted in the Buy Uganda, Build Uganda (BUBU) framework, which promotes local procurement, job creation, and supply chain strengthening.
Dr. Cedric Akwesigye, Managing Director of Micro-Haem Scientifics—the company behind the kits—praised the government’s commitment to local industry. He described BUBU as more than a policy, calling it “a bold national call to action to build value locally and to support the products, innovations, and services created on our soil.”
The launch event brought together key figures including State Minister for Trade General Wilson Mbadi, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health Dr. Diana Atwine, Director General of Health Services Dr. Charles Olaro, and other senior officials, consultants, and development partners.
By shortening supply chains, enhancing epidemic preparedness, and positioning Uganda as a regional leader in health manufacturing, this initiative is expected to transform the country’s public health response systems. It represents a strategic step toward self-reliance, resilience, and sustainable growth in Uganda’s healthcare sector.
Courtesy:
