Museveni Declares Uganda 'Unstoppable' with Launch of Home-Grown Anti-Tick Vaccine

President Yoweri Museveni officially unveiled NAROVAC-ATV1, Uganda’s pioneering indigenously developed anti-tick vaccine, on April 30, 2026. This groundbreaking vaccine was engineered by scientists from the National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO) at the National Livestock Resources Research Institute (NaLIRRI).

The development is a significant stride towards mitigating the substantial financial losses and ecological damage associated with chemical acaricides. Tick-borne diseases have historically hampered livestock productivity in Uganda and across Africa, leading to reduced milk yields, poor weight gain, and significant animal mortality.

The creation of NAROVAC-ATV1 was fueled by a substantial government investment of approximately UGX170 billion, supporting crucial research, extensive trials, infrastructure development, and the cultivation of a skilled scientific workforce. The newly inaugurated production facility, situated just north of Kampala, boasts an impressive annual capacity of 36 million doses, capable of serving 16 million head of cattle.

Dr. Swidiq Mugerwa, Deputy Director General of NARO, explained that the vaccine employs recombinant technology, utilizing Subolesin protein derived from indigenous tick species. This technology stimulates the cow’s immune system to produce antibodies that are lethal to ticks upon feeding.

“When this protein is formulated into a vaccine and injected into the cow, the animal’s immune system recognizes it as foreign and produces antibodies against it. When a tick feeds on the cow’s blood, it ingests these antibodies, which then act to kill it,” Dr. Mugerwa elaborated.

The vaccine requires three initial doses for cattle from one month old, with subsequent boosters every six months to ensure sustained protection for up to a year. Importantly, trials have confirmed its efficacy with no detectable residues in milk or beef.

Economically, NAROVAC-ATV1 is set to offer considerable savings for farmers, with an estimated retail price of 10,000 shillings (approximately $2.50), a stark contrast to the current average annual expenditure of 60,000 shillings ($15) per cow on chemical treatments. This innovation positions Uganda as a leader in scientific advancements in agriculture and aims to curb the estimated $1.1 billion in annual livestock losses.

President Museveni emphasized that the vaccine signifies Uganda’s progression into its “fifth phase of development,” characterized by a strong focus on science, technology, and innovation. He declared Uganda “unstoppable” in its economic transformation, reaffirming the government’s commitment to investing in cutting-edge research and development, and proposing enhanced incentives for scientists.

This initiative marks a decisive shift away from chemical acaricides, which have faced increasing resistance from ticks and growing concerns regarding their toxicity and environmental impact. The successful development of NAROVAC-ATV1, particularly its potential to reduce massive livestock losses and establish Uganda as a regional hub for veterinary vaccines, underscores the nation’s growing scientific prowess.

The vaccine’s development was supported by the Government of Uganda through the Uganda Investment Authority.

Source: Uganda Investment Authority