Ugandan scientist and entrepreneur Dr. Matthias Magoola, founder of Dei Biopharma Ltd, has revealed that his company is in advanced discussions with the Uganda Cancer Institute (UCI) to explore a partnership aimed at making cancer drugs and advanced therapies more affordable and accessible to Ugandans.
Speaking at the 5th Uganda Conference on Cancer and Palliative Care held at Speke Resort Munyonyo, Dr. Magoola emphasised the urgent need for local, cost-effective solutions to address the rising burden of cancer across Africa.
“Cancer drugs are extremely expensive and inaccessible to the majority. More than 90% of the global population cannot afford biological cancer therapies. This is why we are leveraging advanced technology to produce these drugs locally at significantly lower costs,” said Dr. Magoola.
Dei Biopharma recently announced a major scientific milestone with the formal acceptance of two of its therapeutic platform patent applications by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO). The first is a universal messenger RNA (mRNA) cancer vaccine platform, designed to activate the immune system to fight otherwise "invisible" tumors.
This cutting-edge vaccine uses non-tumor-specific antigens encapsulated in lipid nanoparticles to induce a strong type-I interferon response.
According to preclinical trials, the vaccine demonstrated complete tumor regression and up to 90% protection against recurrence. It also shows strong synergy with checkpoint inhibitors such as anti-PD-1 therapies.
The second patented innovation is a next-generation single-chain variable fragment (scFv) biologic targeting IL-23p19—a cytokine commonly associated with autoimmune diseases. Current therapies targeting IL-23p19, such as Skyrizi and Tremfya, are costly monoclonal antibodies.
Dei Biopharma's alternative offers a compact, more cost-effective solution that can be delivered via inhalers, nasal sprays, patches, and other non-invasive methods.
Dr. Magoola noted that the partnership with UCI would focus on introducing gene and cell therapies—including CAR-T and T-cell therapies—that are currently only accessible to Ugandans seeking treatment abroad, especially in countries like India.
“We have initiated talks with the Uganda Cancer Institute to set up advanced treatment technologies right at Mulago. The idea is to decentralise access—rather than having everything at our Matugga facility—and bring these innovations closer to the patients who need them,” he explained.
He added that while the proposal is subject to government approval, he is optimistic about its success, noting the potential impact it could have not only in Uganda but across Africa.
“This is a global health need. I don’t foresee any reason the government would not support such a transformative initiative,” Dr. Magoola said.
The proposed collaboration could mark a significant step in Uganda’s healthcare innovation landscape, promising to enhance the availability of life-saving treatments and position the country as a hub for biotech innovation in the region.