Uganda is on the brink of a breakthrough in the pharmaceutical industry, with Dei BioPharma, the country’s largest drug manufacturer, set to begin exporting medicines by the end of this year.
This news comes after Dr Monica Musenero, the Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation, revealed that the National Drug Authority (NDA) has given the green light for exports to start.
Speaking before Parliament’s Committee on Government Assurances, Dr. Musenero also shared about the progress her Ministry is making. She highlighted the government’s massive investment in Dei BioPharma over Shs723 billion and the key role the company is set to play in both Uganda’s healthcare system and its economy.
“We’ve partnered with Dei BioPharma, and the government holds shares in this company. It’s the largest pharmaceutical facility in Africa, and we’re proud to say we’ll start exporting drugs before the year ends. The National Drug Authority has approved us, and that’s a huge step forward,” Musenero said during the meeting.
Dei BioPharma has been a work in progress for several years, and according to Dr Musenero it’s clear that this isn’t just another project it’s a game changer. “The facility is designed to produce top quality medicines that meet international standards, giving Uganda a real shot at becoming a major player in the pharmaceutical world.”
Dr Musenero emphasized how the NDA’s approval means they’re ready to start exporting to international markets, a move that could significantly boost Uganda’s economy. “This milestone is the result of heavy government backing and is set to turn Uganda into a pharmaceutical manufacturing hub for Africa.”
In addition to the news of exporting drugs, Dr. Musenero also shed light on a remarkable achievement closer to home. Uganda’s scientists, working under her Ministry, developed diagnostic kits during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. These kits have not only been crucial for testing at Mulago National Referral Hospital but have also generated significant revenue.
“When you visit Mulago Hospital now, the diagnostic kit used to test you is made by our scientists. We’ve started making a real impact, not just locally, but across the continent,” Musenero proudly stated. “The kits, along with other medical innovations, have brought in about US$2 million (Shs7.3 billion) since 2020.”
“These kits, now in use across multiple countries, show how Uganda is already making strides in medical technology. The revenue they’ve generated is helping the country reinvest in more research and innovation,” she said.
Although her scientific projects have often been ridiculed by many Ugandans, including some politicians, her results demonstrate resilience and prove that determination speaks louder than words.
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