Kapelebyong, Uganda: Kapelebyong District is set to benefit from a modern, containerized hybrid cold chain facility designed to strengthen vaccine storage and preservation — a major boost to the region’s healthcare and agricultural productivity.
The facility, provided by the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF), is part of a national programme aimed at improving cold chain capacity as Uganda pushes toward increased livestock vaccination and export readiness.
Senior Veterinary Officer Dr Isingoma Emmanuel, who recently visited the district to assess the installation site, said the initiative is timely and transformative.
“We are on the right track to export livestock products outside Uganda, but some challenges have previously hindered progress. This system will eliminate those barriers by ensuring widespread vaccination,” Dr. Isingoma noted.
Kapelebyong is among 53 pilot districts selected to host the innovative solar-powered cold chain system, which will ensure consistent refrigeration for vaccines even in areas with limited electricity access.
The hybrid facility consists of a 40-foot insulated container divided into three sections: An office space for the cold chain attendant, a room dedicated to vaccine storage and a power room housing key electrical components
The facility will be powered by 34 solar panels, supported by a compressor and high-capacity batteries that can sustain operations for up to 48 hours without sunlight.
Once installed, the system will be capable of storing 1.5 million vaccine doses, giving Kapelebyong the capacity to respond effectively to livestock and public health demands.
The installation is scheduled to be completed by December 15, 2025.
District leaders welcome facility project
Kapelebyong Deputy Chief Administrative Officer, Mr Shaineh Nelson, expressed gratitude to MAAIF for selecting Kapelebyong, assuring that district authorities are committed to protecting and maintaining the facility for long-term public benefit.
Vincent Ewalu, Secretary for Health and Education, representing District Chairperson Akorikin Francis, noted that the cold chain facility will significantly uplift the local economy. He said the district’s agriculture-dependent households will benefit from improved vaccine reliability, enhancing livestock productivity and market value.
Emmanuel Opio, the district communications officer, also welcomed the project, saying the system will greatly improve vaccine safety once received. He encouraged the community to take full ownership of the facility after installation. “We’re still waiting for the facility, and we believe we shall receive it soon. The community must own this project once it is in place,” Opio said.
Assistant Resident District Commissioner Mr Ojoomi Augustine handed over the installation site and urged MAAIF to provide a high-quality system, emphasizing that the community is eagerly anticipating this vital infrastructure.
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