The Uganda Virus Research Institute and the National Drug Authority have conducted studies.
Thus producing positive results regarding the efficacy and acceptability of HIV and Malaria kits.
Dr. Henry Mwebesa, the Director General of Health Services, strongly recommended that companies currently importing test kits switch to purchasing locally manufactured kits.
The CEO of Microheam Scientifics and Medical Supplies, announced the inauguration of their production facility in Ntinda.
To commence the production of HIV/AIDS and Malaria Rapid Diagnostic Kits next month.
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During the launch of the Wondfo HIV/AIDS self-testing kits in Kampala, Health Minister Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng highlighted the significance of local kit production in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
She emphasized that it’s an additional tool for routine testing and increased accessibility to services.
Dr. Aceng pointed out, “Uganda has been collaborating with partners to enhance HIV prevention and treatment.
This has been through biomedical interventions, the ABC strategy, ARV treatment services, and safe male circumcision.”
She further cited the 2022 global update report, which documented significant reductions in new HIV infections and deaths.
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Making the launch of these kits a vital step towards offering high-quality results.
Eradicating HIV/AIDS
She also stressed the alignment of local kit production.
Moreover, World Health Organization and African Union policies aimed at promoting the manufacturing of medical supplies within Africa.
She urged the company to secure the necessary funding to meet demand, not only in Uganda but also for neighboring countries.
Dr. Henry Mwebesa reiterated his advice to companies that have been importing test kits, urging them to transition to locally manufactured ones.
Supporting local factories
The tests have undergone evaluations conducted by the Uganda Virus Research Institute and the National Drug Authority to eliminate substandard alternatives.
Cedric Akwesigye, the CEO of Microheam Scientifics and Medical Supplies, stated that their World Health Organization-certified company would produce 80 million HIV/AIDS test kits annually and an additional 50 million for Malaria.
This local production will replace expensive imported kits and help ensure the accessibility and reliability of these critical diagnostic tools.
