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By Spy Uganda
Uganda has launched a new national initiative aimed at strengthening its capacity to develop homegrown medical technologies, marking a significant step toward self-reliance in healthcare innovation.
The National Biomedical Innovations Accelerator Program (BIOMIC) was unveiled during the ongoing National Science Week in Kololo, an annual event that showcases cutting-edge work by Ugandan scientists and innovators. The program was announced by Jessica Alupo, who officiated at the opening ceremony on behalf of Yoweri Museveni.
Speaking at the event, Alupo praised the Science, Technology and Innovation Secretariat under the Office of the President for advancing innovation-driven development and supporting locally engineered solutions that contribute to Uganda’s economic transformation.
Minister for Science, Technology and Innovation Monica Musenero said the government is focused on building systems that enable researchers and innovators to develop, test, and scale biomedical products. She noted that the BIOMIC program is designed to support innovators across the entire value chain, from early-stage research to commercialization.
“The program will provide technical guidance, financing opportunities, regulatory support, and strategic partnerships necessary to move ideas from the laboratory to the market,” Musenero said.
The initiative has been welcomed by stakeholders in the health and research sectors, who view it as a critical intervention to reduce reliance on imported medical technologies and improve the country’s responsiveness to emerging health challenges.
Bruce Kirenga, Executive Director of the Lung Institute and Principal of the College of Health Sciences at Makerere University, said the program would help bridge the longstanding gap between scientific research and practical healthcare solutions.
Meanwhile, BIOMIC team lead Misaki Wayengera emphasized that the initiative will promote collaboration across disciplines while accelerating innovation in diagnostics, treatment, and disease prevention. He added that priority will be placed on strengthening research infrastructure, mentoring scientific talent, and fostering partnerships that can scale impactful innovations.
The program is also expected to enhance collaboration among academic institutions, government agencies, and the private sector, creating a more robust ecosystem for biomedical innovation.
Experts say sustained investment in local innovation could significantly improve health outcomes while opening up new opportunities for industrial growth and scientific advancement.
As Uganda positions itself as a regional hub for science and technology, the BIOMIC program is seen as a strategic move to build resilience in the healthcare sector. The initiative is expected to be officially launched later this year.
, https://www.spyuganda.com/new-era-in-healthcare-uganda-rolls-out-national-biomedical-accelerator/
