Oxitec, a prominent biotechnology company specializing in safe biological vector control solutions, is set to collaborate with the Uganda Virus Research Institute (UVRI) to combat malaria in Uganda.
The partnership was disclosed during a meeting between President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni and Oxitec CEO, Grey Frandsen, in Rwakitura, Kiruhura District, on Tuesday.
President Museveni welcomed Oxitec to Uganda, expressing support for their collaboration with UVRI to jointly tackle malaria.
Museveni assured the institution of his commitment to providing all necessary support in finding a solution to combat the life-threatening disease.
Mr. Grey highlighted the significance of the Anopheles funestus as a major malaria vector in Sub-Saharan Africa. Emphasizing the urgent need for attention due to its continuous year-round transmission, he conveyed that there is currently no static solution for this vector.
Furthermore, Mr. Grey revealed Oxitec’s intent to engage in a unique public-private partnership with the Government of Uganda, marking a pioneering initiative in Africa.
The meeting also saw the presence of key figures such as the Minister of Health, Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng, Prof. Pontiano Kaleebu (Director-UVRI), and Dr. Joseph Okware (Director Health Services in the Ministry of Health), among others.