Health 15 July 2026 The Observer (Uganda)
Museveni, Religious Leaders Back Ssenfuka's Herbal Medicine Research
Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni and a coalition of religious leaders have thrown their support behind herbal researcher David Ssenfuka's decade-long quest to develop indigenous medicines for cancer and diabetes. This backing marks a significant turning point for Ssenfuka's project, which has faced considerable skepticism. Source: https://observer.ug/news/ssenfukas-cancer-diabetes-drugs-win-museveni-clergy-support
For over a decade, herbal researcher David Ssenfuka has championed his indigenous plant-based medicine for cancer and diabetes, encountering numerous closed doors within government institutions. However, a recent intervention by President Yoweri Museveni appears to have shifted the landscape, garnering crucial support from Uganda’s prominent religious leaders.
The Inter-Religious Council of Uganda (IRCU), representing diverse faiths, has lauded the President’s initiative to advance research into Ssenfuka’s herbal concoctions. They believe that, if scientifically validated, this project could significantly contribute to public health, scientific advancement, and Uganda’s economic goals.
“Strengthening research programs on herbal medicine will build public trust in local remedies. Currently, scepticism persists because outcomes are uncertain,” stated IRCU Secretary General Joshua Kitakule in a statement, commending the President for fostering local innovation.
This endorsement follows a meeting where President Museveni introduced Ssenfuka and his research to religious leaders, including Archbishop Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu and Bishop Anthony Zziwa. Ssenfuka presented his extensive research and vision for accessible medicine.
Bishop Joshua Lwere of the Pentecostal churches urged the public to embrace local innovation, cautioning against a “colonial mind” that dismisses homegrown scientific efforts. He highlighted personal testimonies from individuals, including esteemed professionals, who claim to have benefited from Ssenfuka’s treatment, countering recent criticisms from journalist Andrew Mwenda.
Ssenfuka has refuted claims of fraud and is pursuing legal action against Mwenda for defamation. Despite past frustrations, including a lawsuit against the government and WHO for lack of support, Ssenfuka sees renewed hope as government agencies begin formal evaluation processes.
The Science, Technology and Innovation Secretariat has expressed commitment to supporting the drug’s systematic development through scientific and regulatory pathways, although concrete progress is still pending.
This development represents a potential breakthrough for Ssenfuka, whose journey has been marked by persistent lobbying and a steadfast belief in the potential of traditional knowledge when subjected to rigorous scientific scrutiny.
This article is based on reporting from The Observer (Uganda).