Biotechnology developments in Uganda and associated challenges

Abstract

Biotechnology is an important tool whose application Ugandan scientists are exploring in crop, fish and livestock improvement, value addition, waste management, and in medicine. However, the continuing growth of biotechnology or more broadly, biosciences as an enterprise in Uganda will depend on the support given to science and technology generally. To accelerate this growth, Government must ensure supportive science and technology structures such as: a national science funding facility for research and technology development; institutional governance systems which promote innovativeness, and high quality education at all levels to maintain a constant supply of a skilled bioscience workforce. Specific measures at institutional level could include: establishing more synergies between biotechnology programmes and strengthening interactions among the actors both locally and internationally; integrating biotechnology into institutional programmes and regulatory instruments; putting in place technology management policies and developing capacities for their implementation; encouraging private sector participation in commercialization of bioscience innovations, supporting spin-off bioscience-based companies through a national innovation and commercialization fund; and eliminating administrative bottlenecks in procurement and financial management through early and more coordinated planning. This paper gives highlights of biotechnology developments and the associated challenges in Uganda.