Museveni Launches Uganda’s First Locally Made Anti-Tick Vaccine

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has commissioned Uganda’s first locally developed anti-tick vaccine at the National Livestock Resources Research Institute (NaLIRRI) in Namulonge, Nansana Municipality, describing it as a long-term solution to tick-borne diseases that have persistently affected livestock across the country.

The Shs170 billion government-funded initiative is aimed at tackling the widespread tick problem that continues to undermine livestock productivity.

Speaking at the launch of both the vaccine and its production facility, President Museveni noted that ticks have remained a major challenge in cattle-keeping areas such as Sheema, Kajara, and parts of Kashari. He explained that despite the absence of tsetse flies in these regions, farmers continue to incur heavy losses due to tick infestations.

He described ticks as a long-standing constraint to Uganda’s livestock sector and emphasized that the newly developed vaccine offers a safer and more sustainable alternative to acaricides, which he said are toxic and lose effectiveness over time.

“The cow now kills the tick,” the President remarked, highlighting the innovation behind the vaccine.

President Museveni also reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening Uganda’s science and innovation sector, proposing tax incentives for scientists similar to those granted to security personnel, in recognition of their contribution to national development. He further congratulated the research team and pledged continued government support.

He also confirmed the government’s commitment to provide the Shs600 billion requested by the National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO) to establish a vaccine research hub.

The Minister of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, Hon. Frank Tumwebaze, welcomed the milestone, noting that the project dates back to 2022 when scientists first presented the proposal. He commended the government’s support, which he said has enabled the successful development of the vaccine.

State Minister for Animal Industry, Hon. Bright Rwamirama, praised sustained government investment in the livestock sector, citing growth in dairy farming and an increase in livestock numbers.

The Director General of NARO, Dr. Yonah Baguma, described the development as both a scientific and economic breakthrough. He said the vaccine is expected to protect Uganda’s estimated 16 million cattle while reducing dependence on imported vaccines and acaricides.

Dr. Baguma added that the facility has the capacity to produce up to 36 million doses annually, with current production at approximately 3 million doses per month. So far, 1.5 million doses have been produced, with demand already emerging from neighbouring countries.

He further noted that the project has created hundreds of jobs and positions Uganda as a potential regional hub for veterinary vaccine production.

The vaccine, branded NAROVAC-ATV1, is a recombinant product developed using antigens (Subolesin) derived from local tick species. It is administered to cattle from one month of age, with three initial doses given on day 0, day 30, and day 180, providing protection for up to one year. Booster doses are administered annually thereafter.

The Executive Director of the National Drug Authority (NDA), Dr. David Nahamya, confirmed that the manufacturing plant meets required standards, noting that the authority provided technical oversight throughout the development process.

Farmers involved in early trials have reported positive outcomes, including reduced tick infestations and lower treatment costs. The vaccine is expected to retail at approximately Shs10,000, making it an affordable option for farmers.

The breakthrough is expected to significantly reduce the cost of tick control, lessen reliance on acaricides, and boost productivity in Uganda’s livestock sector.