President Yoweri Museveni has unveiled Uganda’s first locally developed anti-tick vaccine, marking a major milestone in the country’s livestock research and disease control efforts.
Speaking on Thursday at the National Livestock Resources Research Institute in Namulonge, Museveni commissioned the vaccine, named NAROVAC-ATV1, describing it as a breakthrough that will transform cattle farming and reduce long-standing losses caused by tick-borne diseases.
“Today at National Livestock Resources Research Institute in Namulonge, I commissioned Uganda’s first locally developed anti-tick vaccine, NAROVAC-ATV1,” Museveni said.
“This is a lasting solution to tick-borne diseases that have affected our cattle keepers for a long time. The cow now kills the tick.”
The President noted that the innovation will significantly reduce farmers’ dependence on chemical acaricides, which have been widely used to control ticks but are often costly and associated with environmental and animal health concerns.
He said the vaccine will lower the cost of livestock production and improve productivity in the sector.
“This innovation reduces reliance on toxic acaricides and lowers the cost of livestock production,” Museveni added. “It is part of Uganda’s movement into science-led transformation.”
Tick-borne diseases have for years remained one of the biggest threats to cattle farmers in Uganda and across the region, contributing to reduced milk yields, livestock deaths, and increased production costs.
Museveni commended the scientists behind the development, praising their role in advancing local solutions to national challenges.
He reaffirmed government commitment to strengthening research institutions and supporting scientific innovation aimed at boosting agricultural productivity and economic growth.
“I congratulate our scientists and reaffirm government support to strengthen research for national development,” he said.
The launch of NAROVAC-ATV1 is expected to be rolled out gradually, with authorities indicating it will form part of broader efforts to modernize Uganda’s livestock sector through science and innovation.