Uganda has expressed keen interest in acquiring more animal vaccines produced by the Botswana Vaccine Institute (BVI) to safeguard its beef industry.
With a sizable livestock population comprising over 14.5 million cattle, 17 million goats, and five million sheep, Ugandas Minister of State for Animal Industry, Mr. Bright Rwamirama, affirmed the Eastern African nation's readiness to receive additional vaccine doses from BVI.
During a recent tour of BVI facilities, Mr. Rwamirama extended Uganda's welcome to increased collaboration, acknowledging the persistent threat of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreaks to Ugandas beef sector. Despite challenges encountered since the inception of vaccine trade relations in 2010, Mr. Rwamirama emphasized the need for sustainable cooperation between the two countries.
Highlighting the strengthened cooperation between both nations' heads of state, Mr. Rwamirama underscored the importance of swift implementation in fostering mutual benefits.
BVI's General Manager, Mr. Andrew Madeswi, welcomed the revival of relations between Botswana and Uganda, citing BVI's significant role in providing animal health solutions not only to Botswana but also to Africa and beyond.
Mr. Madeswi emphasized BVI's commitment to supporting Uganda, leveraging over four decades of experience in animal vaccine production. He noted BVI's pivotal role in facilitating Botswana's access to and supply of beef to the stringent European Union market.
With a focus on technology and science, BVI stands as a leading provider of disease control solutions in Africa, particularly in combating FMD. Mr. Madeswi assured the visiting Ugandan delegation of BVI's adherence to global standards in vaccine production, emphasizing ongoing investments to address future challenges in animal health.
Beyond governmental clients, BVI serves a diverse clientele spanning over 20 countries, underscoring its commitment to expanding its product range to address prevalent challenges across the African continent.
Mr. Madeswi outlined BVI's aspirations to become Africa's premier antigen bank, enabling swift vaccine production to combat emerging diseases. Currently, BVI produces six vaccines aimed at addressing various animal health issues, including Aftovax, Aftovaxpur, Asymptol, Carbovax-c, Peribov, and PPR-VAC.
