Health 28 September 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Makerere University Secures Shs56 Billion EU Grant for Epidemic Preparedness
Makerere University is spearheading a new five-year initiative, ACT-PREP, funded by the European Union and Global Health EDCTP3, aimed at bolstering Africa's capacity for clinical trials and rapid epidemic response with a Shs56 billion grant. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/uganda-takes-lead-as-makerere-secures-shs56b-european-union-grant-for-epidemic-preparedness-5612678
Uganda is set to play a pivotal role in enhancing Africa’s ability to combat disease outbreaks, thanks to a significant grant secured by Makerere University. The university has been appointed as the scientific project leader for the Advancing Clinical Trials and Epidemic Preparedness Research Capacity in Africa (ACT-PREP) initiative.
This ambitious five-year project, running from 2026 to 2031, is backed by a substantial €12.7 million (approximately Shs56 billion) from the European Union and Global Health EDCTP3. The ACT-PREP initiative unites a collaborative network of 11 institutions from both African and European nations. Its core mission is to establish a strong framework for research and prompt responses to public health emergencies across the continent.
The project aims to build critical infrastructure and expertise, enabling African countries to conduct essential clinical trials and swiftly react to emerging epidemics. This proactive approach is crucial, as highlighted by health officials, who emphasize that African nations cannot afford to be reactive and must develop local solutions before crises fully emerge.
Over the lifespan of the project, it is anticipated that more than 10,000 scientists, researchers, and students will benefit from specialized training. This capacity building is expected to foster a more resilient and prepared continent, capable of independently managing and mitigating the impact of future health threats.