Biotech Company Oxitec Collaborates With UVRI To Tackle Malaria In Uganda

Oxitec is poised to form a collaboration with the Uganda Virus Research Institute (UVRI) to combat malaria within the country.

Renowned as a leading biotechnology company specializing in the development of secure and sustainable biological vector control solutions, Oxitec disclosed this strategic partnership during a meeting held yesterday at Rwakitura, Kiruhura District between President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and Oxitec’s Chief Executive Officer, Grey Frandsen.

Welcoming Oxitec to Uganda, President Museveni expressed his support for the collaboration with UVRI, emphasizing the significance of unified efforts in the fight against malaria.

He assured the company of his commitment to provide all necessary support to UVRI to develop an effective solution to combat this life-threatening disease.

During the discussion, Mr. Grey informed President Museveni that Anopheles funestus plays a crucial role as a major malaria vector in Sub-Saharan Africa. Highlighting the urgency of addressing this vector which is involved in cyclic transmission throughout the year Mr. Grey emphasized the absence of a static solution.

Notably, Oxitec aims to establish a distinctive public-private partnership with the Government of Uganda, marking a pioneering initiative of its kind in Africa.

The meeting witnessed the presence of key figures, including the Minister of Health, Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng, Prof. Pontiano Kaleebu, the Director of UVRI, and Dr. Joseph Okware, the Director of Health Services in the Ministry of Health, among others.