By Julius Mugaga Tukacungurwa, Umoja Standard.
Makerere University: The College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity Friday hosted a Founders Convention for the Consortium for Integrated Management of Transboundary Diseases and Zoonoses (CIMTRADZ). Established in 2013, it has made significant strides in managing animal diseases and zoonoses in Eastern and Central Africa. It is evolving into the Multidisciplinary Alliance for Global Biosecurity and Bioeconomy Advancement (MAGBBA), aiming to drive economic growth, improve biosecurity, and promote sustainable development in Africa through collaboration and innovation.
On behalf of the Minister for Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI), Brenda Nakazibwe commissioned the Multidisciplinary Alliance for Global Biosecurity and Bioeconomy (MAGBBA), stressing that collaboration is crucial for driving innovation and addressing real-world challenges.
She revealed the government’s vision to leverage science and technology to propel progress and prosperity, with a strong emphasis on innovation, research, and development to achieve ambitious economic targets.
The government aims to grow the economy to $550 billion, with science and technology contributing $405 billion, underscoring the importance of innovation in unlocking the country’s potential. The pathogen economy is expected to contribute $142 billion to the country’s GDP.
In his address, Professor Buyinza Mukadasi, representing the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, stressed the aspiration for advanced capabilities in a globalized world where information is readily accessible.
However, he noted a striking paradox: despite being in the fourth industrial revolution, many districts in Uganda still lack access to basic infrastructure like electricity, a relic of the second industrial revolution.
This disparity, he emphasized, imposes a moral obligation on us to bridge this gap. Prof. Buyinza underscored the crucial role of scientific inquiry in enhancing products and services, stressing that sustainable progress relies on effective coordination, cooperation, and collaboration.
Accordingly Prof. J.D. Kabasa emphasized harnessing bioassets to drive Uganda’s economic growth and development.
He advocated for an alliance among scientists to focus on global productivity and bioeconomy, highlighting its potential to create jobs and wealth.
Kabasa stressed that safeguarding bioassets is insufficient; Uganda needs to harness them to meet economic needs through value amplification. He proposed a shift from commodity-based models to value amplification and called for intentional collaboration and capacity building.
To achieve this, Kabasa suggested developing joint PhD and master’s programs to build capacity and drive innovation in the bioeconomy sector, fostering economic growth.
For Dr. Clare Mugasa, Dean of the School of Biomedical Laboratory Sciences (SBLS) at CoVAB, outlined the school’s mandate in research, training, and outreach in biosecurity and biomedical technology.
With over 50 academics, including 32 PhD holders, SBLS addresses national and global needs through evolving programs and multidisciplinary approaches. The school features advanced research facilities, including the Center for Biosecurity and Global Health.
SBLS collaborates with institutions like Michigan State University and the University of Minnesota, and industries to transition prototypes to market and provide training. Its mission is to build human capacity and impact health and development.
Professor Enock Matovu, Director of CEBIGH at Makerere University, highlighted the urgent need to protect humans, livestock, and the environment from escalating bio-threats. He noted a significant void in national preparedness for pandemics and epidemics, particularly those of animal origin.
CEBIGH was established to drive innovative research and development in biosecurity, with a focus on strategic research and advanced training.
The centre features state-of-the-art laboratories and facilities, including a Central Laboratory Animal Research Facility for pre-clinical studies. STIOP is recognized as a major funder for the centre’s projects, supporting its mission to address biosecurity threats.
Dr. Majalija from NARO Uganda shared his experience in practical program management, highlighting its importance in leadership during crises. As the leader of the National Livestock Resources Research Institute (NaLIRRI), he discussed the institute’s extensive research in the livestock sector, including breakthroughs in vaccine development.
Notably, NaLIRRI has developed a product targeting three specific pathogens, which has completed lab trials and is set for commercial rollout. The institute is also working on a single-antigen Foot-and-Mouth Disease vaccine and other innovative projects.
Dr. Majalija observed the need for stronger, formalized collaborations between universities and research institutes to enhance capacity and impact, ultimately driving progress in the field. His experience and research showcase the potential for innovative solutions to address pressing challenges.
Leveraging biosecurity and bioeconomy Uganda will harness science and technology for economic growth and development.
