Museveni commissions NAROVAC-ATV1, Uganda’s first anti-tick vaccine; hails Shs170 billion breakthrough for livestock sector

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni Thursday commissioned Uganda’s first locally developed anti-tick vaccine at the National Livestock Resources Research Institute in Namulonge, Nansana, describing the innovation as a lasting solution to tick-borne diseases that have long undermined livestock productivity in the country.

The Shs170 billion government-funded initiative is aimed at tackling the persistent tick threat, particularly in cattle-keeping such as Sheema, Kajara and parts of Kashari, where farmers continue to suffer heavy losses despite the absence of tsetse flies.

Speaking at the launch of both the vaccine and its production facility, the President emphasized that ticks have been a longstanding constraint to Uganda’s livestock sector, but the new solution offers a safer and more sustainable alternative to conventional acaricides.

“The cow now kills the tick,” President Museveni said, highlighting the scientific innovation behind the vaccine, which works by enabling the animal to develop immunity that disrupts tick survival.

The President also reiterated government’s commitment to strengthening the country’s science and innovation ecosystem, proposing tax incentives for scientists similar to those extended to security personnel.

He further pledged continued support to the National Agricultural Research Organisation, confirming that government will avail the requested Shs600 billion to establish a vaccine research hub.

The Minister of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries, Frank Tumwebaze, said the project dates back to 2022 when scientists first presented their proposal, commending the sustained government backing that has culminated in the vaccine’s successful development.

Meanwhile, State Minister for Animal Industry, Bright Rwamirama, noted that continued investment in livestock has contributed to growth in dairy farming and an increase in animal numbers nationwide.

According to the Director General of NARO, Yonah Baguma, the launch marks both a scientific and economic milestone. He said the vaccine is expected to protect Uganda’s estimated 16 million cattle while reducing reliance on imported veterinary products.

The production facility has the capacity to manufacture 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 neighboring countries.

Dr. Baguma added 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 derived from local tick species. It is administered to cattle starting at one month old, with an initial schedule of three doses—on day 0, day 30 and day 180—providing protection for up to one year, followed by booster doses in subsequent years.

The Executive Director of the National Drug Authority, 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 already reported reduced tick infestations and lower treatment costs. The vaccine is expected to retail at about Shs10,000, making it an affordable option for farmers.

Experts say the breakthrough could significantly cut the cost of tick control, reduce dependence on chemical acaricides and boost productivity across Uganda’s livestock sector, offering new hope to farmers long burdened by tick-borne diseases.