Africa CDC Boosts Uganda’s Local Drug Manufacturing Ambitions
Kampala, Uganda — Uganda’s pharmaceutical sector is set for a major boost after the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) pledged billions of shillings to support local drug manufacturing. The investment, estimated at UGX 11 trillion, aims to help Ugandan firms meet World Health Organization prequalification standards, a key requirement for entering global supply chains.
Currently, Uganda imports the majority of its essential medicines, leaving the country vulnerable to price fluctuations and supply disruptions. Health experts say that building a self-sufficient industry could not only stabilize supply but also reduce the cost of drugs for ordinary Ugandans.
Dr. Moses Kamugisha, a pharmaceutical policy expert, noted that the investment could be transformative: “This will allow our manufacturers to modernize production facilities, train skilled staff, and meet global quality standards. Uganda can become a hub for affordable medicine in East Africa.”
The initiative aligns with the African Union’s broader goal of producing 60% of the continent’s vaccines and medicines locally by 2040. For Uganda, this could mean hundreds of new jobs, greater technology transfer, and stronger resilience against pandemics like COVID-19.
However, challenges remain. Energy costs, regulatory bottlenecks, and access to raw materials have historically slowed progress in the sector. Government officials say they are working on incentives, including tax breaks and industrial park infrastructure, to support investors.
If implemented effectively, the Africa CDC’s backing could position Uganda as a leader in Africa’s pharmaceutical revolution, while improving health outcomes for millions across the region.
