Namulonge, Uganda: President Yoweri Museveni Thursday commissioned Uganda’s first locally developed anti-tick vaccine, marking a major scientific breakthrough aimed at ending decades of livestock losses caused by tick-borne diseases.
The vaccine, launched at the National Livestock Resources Research Institute (NaLIRRI) in Namulonge, Nansana Municipality, is part of a government-funded Shs170 billion initiative designed to tackle one of the most persistent challenges in Uganda’s cattle sector.
Mr Museveni described ticks as a long-standing threat to farmers, particularly in cattle-keeping regions such as Sheema, Kajara, and Kashari, where infestations have continued to cause heavy economic losses.
“The cow now kills the tick,” he said, highlighting the innovation behind the new vaccine, which enables cattle to develop immunity against ticks.
The President said the new vaccine offers a safer and more sustainable alternative to acaricides, which he noted are toxic and gradually lose effectiveness due to resistance. He emphasized that the breakthrough represents a turning point in Uganda’s livestock management, reducing dependence on chemicals while improving animal health and productivity.
Museveni also reiterated government’s commitment to investing in science and innovation, proposing tax incentives for scientists similar to those extended to security personnel.
NARO Targets Regional Vaccine Hub
The Director General of National Agricultural Research Organisation, Dr. Yonah Baguma, described the development as both a scientific and economic milestone.
He revealed that the vaccine, branded NAROVAC-ATV1, is designed to protect Uganda’s estimated 16 million cattle and reduce reliance on imported veterinary solutions.
The facility has the capacity to produce up to 36 million doses annually, with current output standing at about 3 million doses per month.
So far, 1.5 million doses have already been produced, with demand emerging from neighbouring countries, positioning Uganda as a potential regional hub for veterinary vaccine production.
The vaccine is administered in three initial doses, at day 0, day 30, and day 180, and provides protection for up to one year, with booster doses required thereafter.
Museveni Backs Shs600bn Expansion plan
Museveni confirmed government plans to inject Shs600 billion into the research programme to establish a fully-fledged vaccine development hub under National Agricultural Research Organisation.
The Minister of Agriculture, Hon. Frank Tumwebaze, said the project dates back to 2022 when scientists first presented the proposal, commending sustained government support that has now delivered results.
State Minister for Animal Industry Bright Rwamirama noted that continued investment in livestock has already driven growth in dairy farming and increased herd sizes across the country.
The Executive Director of National Drug Authority, Dr. David Nahamya, confirmed that the vaccine production facility meets regulatory standards, with the authority providing technical oversight during development.
Farmers involved in early trials have reported reduced tick infestations and lower treatment costs.
The vaccine is expected to retail at approximately Shs10,000, making it accessible to smallholder farmers.
The innovation is expected to significantly cut costs associated with tick control, reduce chemical use, and boost productivity in Uganda’s livestock sector. It will also create hundreds of jobs and strengthen Uganda’s position in agricultural research and biotechnology.
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