President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni recently commissioned Uganda’s first locally developed anti-tick vaccine at the National Livestock Resources Research Institute (NaLIRRI) in Namulonge, Nansana Municipality, marking a major scientific breakthrough in the fight against tick-borne livestock diseases.
The UShs 170 billion government-funded initiative is aimed at addressing one of the most persistent threats to Uganda’s livestock sector.
Speaking during the launch of both the vaccine and its production facility, President Museveni described ticks as a long-standing challenge in key cattle-keeping regions such as Sheema, Kajara and parts of Kashari, where farmers continue to suffer major livestock losses despite the absence of tsetse flies.
He said the vaccine offers a safer and more sustainable solution compared to conventional acaricides, which he noted are toxic and lose effectiveness over time.
“The cow now kills the tick,” he said.
President Museveni also reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening Uganda’s scientific sector, proposing tax incentives for scientists similar to those granted to security personnel in recognition of their contribution to national development.
He congratulated the scientists behind the innovation and pledged continued government backing, including confirmation of the government’s commitment to provide the UShs600 billion requested by the National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO) for the establishment of a vaccine research hub.
Minister of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, Hon. Frank Tumwebaze, hailed the achievement, noting that the project began in 2022 when scientists first presented the proposal. He commended both the President and the government for supporting the process that has now led to the successful development of the vaccine.
State Minister for Animal Industry, Hon. Bright Rwamirama, praised sustained government investment in the livestock sector, highlighting significant growth in dairy farming and rising livestock populations.
NARO Director General Dr. Yonah Baguma described the vaccine launch as both a scientific and economic milestone. He said the vaccine is expected to protect Uganda’s estimated 16 million cattle while significantly reducing dependence on imported vaccines and acaricides.
According to Dr. Baguma, the production facility has the capacity to manufacture up to 36 million doses annually, with current production standing at approximately 3 million doses per month. He added that 1.5 million doses have already been produced, with demand emerging from neighbouring countries, with the initiative generating hundreds of jobs and positioning 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 an initial three-dose schedule at day 0, day 30 and day 180, protecting for one year. Booster doses are required in subsequent years.
National Drug Authority (NDA) Executive Director Dr. David Nahamya confirmed that the manufacturing plant meets required standards, noting that the authority provided technical oversight throughout the vaccine’s development. He added that farmers who participated in early trials have reported encouraging results, including reduced tick infestations and lower treatment costs. The vaccine is expected to retail at approximately UShs10,000, making it an affordable option for livestock farmers.
The development is expected to significantly lower the cost of tick control, reduce dependence on acaricides and improve productivity in Uganda’s livestock industry.
