Museveni Pledges Support for Factory to Manufacture Animal Vaccines in Mpigi

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has backed the development of the HUVET Bio-Science Park in Mpigi District, calling it a major leap toward national vaccine sovereignty. Led by Iranian investor Eng. Hashem Azimi, the biotechnology hub will manufacture local animal vaccines, combat livestock diseases, and position Uganda as a regional center for veterinary biotechnology.

President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has welcomed the establishment of the HUVET Bio-Science Park in Mpigi District, describing the facility as a major step toward Uganda’s vaccine sovereignty.

President Museveni met on Wednesday at State House Entebbe with a delegation of medical doctors and engineers led by Iranian investor Eng. Hashem Azimi.

The proposed bio-science park will spearhead local vaccine manufacturing, advance veterinary biotechnology, and reduce Uganda's reliance on imported biological products.

President Museveni expressed full government backing for the initiative.

“I am very happy to receive this wonderful group of investors from Iran,” President Museveni said. “I welcome you, and I will support you.”

During the meeting, Eng. Azimi recalled meeting President Museveni in 2008 during the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation summit in Kampala, where the President challenged his company to venture into manufacturing.

Eng. Azimi stated that after nearly two decades in Uganda, his team developed the project to address the economic strain caused by rampant livestock diseases and imported vaccines.

“Your Excellency, today, 18 years later, I stand before you to fulfill that promise,” Eng. Azimi said. “This project is not simply the construction of another factory. It is the realization of a vision that has matured through years of experience, investment, scientific collaboration, and a deep belief in Uganda’s potential.”

Uganda Moves Toward Vaccine Independence with New Mpigi Biotech Park for Livestock Health — Photo: Courtesy of PPU

Eng. Azimi highlighted the broader goals of the facility beyond vaccine manufacturing.

“Our vision goes far beyond manufacturing vaccines,” Eng. Azimi said. “We seek to establish East Africa’s first fully integrated biotechnology hub dedicated to animal health, food security, epidemic preparedness, biotechnology research and high-value exports.”

The project team confirmed that land for the bio-science hub has been secured in Mpigi District.

Minister of State for Animal Industry Hon. Bright Rwamirama attended the State House meeting alongside key medical and engineering professionals driving the project.