In a groundbreaking ceremony held today 27th Feb 2025 at Katuugo village, Nakasongola District, Uganda marked a major milestone in its journey towards self-reliance in pharmaceuticals and health innovations. The event was presided over by the Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja, who was the chief guest, alongside the Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation, Hon. Dr. Monica Musenero. Other dignitaries in attendance included Lt. Gen. James Mugira, Executive Director of the National Enterprises Corporation (NEC), political leaders such as the area Member of Parliament, the Nakasongola District Chairman LC5, Rtd. Lt. Col. Sam Kibula, and the District Speaker, Mr. Sande Rogers.
The project, dubbed the Pathogen Economy Biosciences Park, will sit on a 152-acre piece of land provided by the National Enterprises Corporation (NEC). This facility aims to revolutionize Uganda’s capacity in vaccine production, medical diagnostics, and pharmaceutical manufacturing, directly aligning with the country’s National Development Plan IV (NDP IV) and Vision 2040.
In her speech, Minister Dr. Monica Musenero emphasized that Uganda’s reliance on imported medical supplies currently accounting for 99% of the country’s pharmaceutical needs at an annual cost of USD 521 million poses a serious economic and health security challenge. She stated that the Pathogen Economy Biosciences Park is a direct response to this problem, ensuring that Uganda reduces dependency on foreign drugs and strengthens its local pharmaceutical industry.
Dr. Musenero expressed gratitude to President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for his visionary leadership, which she credited for recognizing the importance of investing in the country’s biotech industry. She further thanked Lt. Gen. James Mugira and the NEC for providing the land needed to set up the project, noting that finding a suitable location had been a major challenge.
“This Park will serve as a hub for research, innovation, and commercial production of vaccines, diagnostics, and therapeutics. It will be a game-changer in our quest for self-sufficiency in medical production,” Dr. Musenero added.
She also highlighted the economic benefits of the project, stating that it will create thousands of jobs for locals during and after construction, while also attracting investment and expertise from global biotech players.
Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja lauded the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation for promptly implementing the presidential directive to establish this project. She noted that the Biosciences Park will not only benefit Uganda but the entire East African region, as it positions the country as a leader in health innovations.
She further emphasized that the project is part of the government’s broader efforts to develop industrial zones and enhance scientific research to address national and regional health challenges.
“The development of this Park is a demonstration of how far Uganda has come under President Museveni’s leadership,” she said. “We are now moving towards self-sufficiency in pharmaceuticals and medical research, something that will reduce the costs of medicines and ensure faster access to life-saving treatments for our people.” She said
She reassured the locals that the government is fully committed to supporting the project’s success and that additional infrastructural developments, including electricity and water supply, would soon reach the area to improve the livelihoods of residents.
“I urge the people of Nakasongola to take advantage of this project to transform their lives,” she added.
The Managing Director of the National Enterprises Corporation (NEC), Lt. Gen. James Mugira, expressed appreciation to the government for entrusting NEC as the project contractor. He assured the gathering that the construction would begin immediately since all necessary funds and resources were in place.
“The NEC has built a reputation through successful projects such as the rehabilitation of Namboole Stadium, Entebbe Airport, and major roads. We are committed to delivering this project efficiently and within the expected time frame,” he said.
The event also featured an exhibition of scientific innovations from various Ugandan institutions and biotech companies. Some of the participating organizations included:
Ndiyo Bioservices, AFROHUN (Africa One Health University Network), MAPRONANO ACE, Central Laboratory Animal Facility (CLARF), Gulu University, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Lira University, TAZVOC and Natural Chemotherapeutics Research Institute. These institutions showcased advancements in biotechnology, diagnostics, and natural medicine, reinforcing Uganda’s growing capacity in scientific research and innovatio
The function was not just about science and development; it also featured entertainment performances from local schools, including Ekitangala High School, which added a celebratory atmosphere to the occasion.
The launch of the Pathogen Economy Biosciences Park marks a significant step towards Uganda’s independence in pharmaceutical production and health innovation. With the government’s commitment and support from institutions like NEC, this project has the potential to transform Uganda into a regional hub for vaccine and drug manufacturing.
As construction begins, stakeholders remain hopeful that this initiative will reduce medical costs, create jobs, attract investments, and strengthen Uganda’s position in the global health sector.
