Members of Parliament on the Health Committee have commended Dei Biopharma vaccines manufacturing plant for venturing into under-invested areas.
The MPs were on Tuesday touring the facility in Matugga.
The legislators urged the facility to boost research and innovation to combat emerging tropical diseases in Uganda and Africa after expressing concern about diseases like red eyes, maberg, and malaria.
Noah Mutebi Wanzala, MP for Nakasongola Constituency, emphasized the need for intense research and development in these areas, praising the facility as a vital regional asset.
"We ask you to really do intense research and development around that area," he said.
Mutebi also advocated for research on chronic diseases.
The MPs, guided by Chairman Dr. Patrick Wakida and Board Pharmacist Dr. Arthur Kayanya, recognized Dei Biopharm's ventures into under-invested areas, including vaccine manufacturing, oncology products for cancer treatment, nutraceuticals, and injectable medicines.
Dr. Samuel Opio, Deputy Chair of the Health Committee, noted these areas' potential for increasing access to affordable medicines, addressing a substantial burden in Uganda, East Africa, and the region.
"These areas have significant potential for increased access to affordable medicines, addressing a substantial burden in Uganda, East Africa, and the region," he said.
He also highlighted Uganda's reliance on imports, with 70% of consumed products imported and only 20-30% locally manufactured.
Dr. Opio urged Dei Biopharma to share information with the community, ensuring transparency due to government investment.
"Our goal is to promote local production, reducing reliance on imports and increasing access to essential medicines," he said.
Dr. Arthur Kayanja defended delays, citing drug manufacturing's meticulous nature.
"We're taking all necessary steps to ensure our products meet the highest standards," he said.
Dei BioPharma focuses on treating debilitating diseases like HIV and Alzheimer's using state-of-the-art messenger RNA (mRNA) facilities.
Dr. Kayanja attributed delays to miscommunication and misconceptions about drug manufacturing complexity.
"We're not making pastries, we're making medicine," he emphasized, highlighting rigorous processes. "We're committed to making a meaningful impact in the pharmaceutical industry."
Regarding production timelines, Kayanja assured, "We can't guarantee immediate market release, but patient safety is our top priority."
He also mentioned that Dei BioPharma is working on anti-malarial drugs, with full production expected next year.