Project Update: Uganda Biosciences Park – Katuugo, Nakasongola District

As Makerere University releases its admissions list for this year, it is an opportune moment to reflect on the growing opportunities within Uganda’s biosciences sector. A major development in this space is the construction of the Uganda Biosciences Park in Katuugo, Nakasongola District—a project set to become a national hub for biotechnology, diagnostics, and life sciences innovation. This initiative marks a transformative step forward for Uganda’s scientific and economic landscape.

The Uganda Biosciences Park brings together key players committed to advancing the country’s scientific capacity. Ndiyo Biosciences Limited leads the project as the employer of the National Enterprise Corporation (NEC), which is responsible for on-ground construction and implementation. The project is sponsored by the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation – Office of the President (STI-OP), and enjoys strong support from the Local Government of Nakasongola, particularly the office of the LC5 Chairperson, which has played an instrumental role in facilitating the relocation and establishment of the park. Central to this development is the construction of a PCR and Antibody Diagnostics Kit Factory, which will produce diagnostic kits in compliance with international Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP)—a significant boost to Uganda’s diagnostic and biomedical research capabilities.

Progress Since Site Handover
The first site visit marked the official handover of the site to NEC. During the second site visit held yesterday, the following progress was observed:
– Excavation activities are actively ongoing
– Foundation works have commenced and are advancing steadily
– Structural components are beginning to take shape
This steady progress reflects the project team’s commitment to execution and timely delivery.

Workforce and Sector Alignment
The emergence of the Uganda Biosciences Park is expected to significantly increase demand for professionals skilled in biosciences disciplines. Institutions such as Makerere University, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Busitema University, and Gulu University are well-positioned to produce graduates in fields including biotechnology, molecular biology, microbiology, biomedical sciences, agriculture, and environmental science—ensuring a pipeline of talent ready to support the sector’s growth.

In addition, technical and vocational institutions across the country—and particularly those in Nakasongola District—stand to benefit substantially from this initiative. These schools can align their training programs with the practical skills needed to support the

park’s activities, including laboratory technology, equipment maintenance, production processes, and facility management. This opens up new employment and apprenticeship opportunities for students and local communities.

The Uganda Biosciences Park stands as a milestone in national infrastructure and an exciting step toward a more self-reliant and innovation-driven scientific future for Uganda.

Here are some photos from the site: