Min. of Sci, Tech & Innovation Committes Self on Delivering Uganda’s Technological Transformation

During the Manifesto Week conference, Dr. Cosmas Mwikinze, Superintendent of Industrial Value Chain in the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation, reaffirmed the ministry’s unwavering commitment to fulfilling its promises. Representing the Minister, Dr. Mwikinze showcased a series of transformative achievements and outlined the roadmap for future milestones aimed at advancing Uganda’s technological, scientific, and industrial progress.

Achievements

Electrification of Transport

1. Electrification of Public Transport

The ministry is advancing the electrification of public transportation alongside the development of a robust charging infrastructure.

Key achievements include:

150 battery swapping stations established.

Deployment of fast chargers and public charging points to support electric vehicles (EVs).

2. Electrification of Government Fleet

A commitment to fully electrify all government vehicles is well underway.

3. Full Transition to Electric Public Transport by 2030

Plans are in place to ensure the complete electrification of Uganda’s public transport system within the next decade.

Healthcare and Pharmaceutical Innovations

1. Natural Therapeutic Platforms

Trials have been initiated to explore Uganda’s potential in natural therapeutic solutions.

2. Pharmaceutical Manufacturing

Uganda’s largest pharmaceutical plant is under construction, with the government securing equity ownership.

The plant will begin manufacturing generic drugs by the end of 2024.

3. Laboratory Animal Research Facility

A state-of-the-art facility at Makerere University (COVAB) has been established to support research using lab animals, including mice.

4. Biobanks

Two biobanks, including one at the Uganda Cancer Institute, are operational for storing biological samples critical for research.

5. Human Vaccine Development

The ministry has developed three vaccines targeting acute respiratory diseases, showcasing Uganda’s growing capacity in vaccine innovation.

6. PCR Diagnostic Kits

Locally manufactured PCR kits have saved Uganda over $37 million annually by reducing imports.

Climate Action and Agricultural Value Addition

1. First Climate Technology Summit

Uganda hosted its inaugural summit focused on climate-related technology and innovation.

2. Value Addition in Banana and Coffee

The PIBID plant for banana flour production now generates UGX 3.4 billion annually, targeting UGX 12 billion in the coming years.

A coffee processing plant in Ntungamo enhances the value chain for Uganda’s coffee exports.

Engineering and Technological Advancements

1. Engineering Development and Innovation Centre

This center will train 12,000 Ugandans annually in seven key sectors, including construction, automotive engineering, and metallurgy.

2. Space Program Development

The Mpoma Ground Station has been refurbished, advancing Uganda’s space exploration efforts.

3. Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectrometry

Funding has been committed to acquiring this advanced spectrometer for research and diagnostics.

4. Leather Tanning Plant

The ministry has developed a modern leather tanning facility to boost value addition in the leather industry.

Industrial Parks and Vehicle Manufacturing

1. Agricultural Industrial Park

Construction is ongoing for an agriculture-based industrial park in partnership with Busitema University.

2. Kira Vehicle Plant

The plant, ready for commissioning by the President, currently produces 2,500 buses annually, with plans to scale up production to 5,000 buses.

Preparations are underway for a pilot electric bus mass transit system (e-MASS) to enhance urban mobility.

Improved Compensation for Scientists

To retain talent and drive innovation, the ministry has implemented measures for better pay for scientists.

Challenges

Skepticism Toward Ugandan Products: There is lingering doubt among the public about the quality of locally made products, which the ministry is addressing through awareness and quality assurance initiatives.

Next Steps

By 2026 The ministry is steadfast in its resolve to fully deliver on its promises by 2026.

Future Plans

1. Increased Funding for Research Institutions

Scaling up financial support to drive innovation and foster groundbreaking research.

2. Expansion of Biobanks

Establishing additional biobanks to support medical and scientific research.

3. Scaling Up Pharmaceutical Manufacturing

Ensuring the pharmaceutical plant achieves full operational capacity.

4. Enhanced Value Addition

Strengthening outputs from PIBID and other initiatives to generate more revenue and jobs.

5. Operationalizing the e-MASS System

Rolling out the electric mass transit system to modernize Uganda’s urban transport.

The Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation remains committed to delivering Uganda’s scientific and industrial transformation. By addressing challenges, leveraging local resources, and implementing strategic innovations, the ministry is paving the way for a more sustainable, prosperous, and self-reliant Uganda. Its initiatives underscore the government’s dedication to fostering economic growth, improving livelihoods, and positioning Uganda as a regional leader in technological advancement.