HIV self-test kit factory launched in Uganda

Uganda has taken a major step towards strengthening its fight against HIV/AIDS with the launch of a local factory for manufacturing HIV self-testing kits, a move expected to improve access to testing services and reduce reliance on imported supplies.

The facility, operated by Zakayo Industries in Mukono District, is expected to strengthen local production, improve the availability of testing kits and support Uganda’s efforts to end AIDS as a public health threat.

Zakayo Industries in Mukono District.

Health experts say the introduction of HIV self-testing kits has encouraged more Ugandans to establish their HIV status, particularly those reluctant to visit health facilities because of stigma and other barriers.

Workers showcasing the production process of OraQuick HIV self-test kits.

Rose Okidi from the Uganda Virus Research Institute said the introduction of HIV self-testing kits by the Government in 2018 had encouraged more people to test, especially those who fear discrimination or stigma associated with seeking HIV testing services at health facilities.

Workers on duty inside the factory.

She noted that limited access to testing services in some health facilities had also made self-testing an important alternative for reaching people who might otherwise remain unaware of their HIV status.

Shamim Naggayi, plant manager at Zakayo Industries, leads guests on a tour of the factory following its launch on Thursday. Looking on from left, US Chief of Mission Michael Cleverly and Zakayo Industries Chief Executive Officer Ronald Wantanda Zakayo

Zakayo Industries Chief Executive Officer Ronald Wantanda Zakayo said the factory was established around three key objectives: contributing to the fight against HIV, creating employment opportunities and generating tax revenue for the country.

Zakayo Industries Chief Executive Officer Ronald Wantanda Zakayo addressing the guests.

Wantanda said expanding access to HIV testing was critical in helping people establish their status and make informed decisions about their health.

He warned that people who do not know their HIV status risk missing opportunities for early diagnosis and timely treatment, which are essential in controlling the spread of the virus.

Shamim Naggayi, the Zakayo Industries plant manager showcasing some of the already packaged Oraquick self-HIV testing kits.

Meanwhile, US Chief of Mission Michael Cleverly reaffirmed the importance of the longstanding health partnership between Uganda and the United States, which he said dates back approximately 90 years.

Cleverly pledged continued support for efforts to attract private-sector investment into Uganda, particularly in sectors that improve livelihoods and strengthen the country’s economy, education and health systems.

He said partnerships between the two countries and private investors could promote innovation, create opportunities and improve access to essential health services.

The US Chief of Mission Michael Cleverly shake hands with the proprietor of Zakayo Industries, Ronald Watanda Zakayo.

Ministry of Health Director General Dr Charles Olara welcomed the establishment of the factory, saying local production of HIV testing kits could reduce Uganda’s dependence on imported supplies and potentially lower procurement costs.

Olara said strengthening domestic manufacturing capacity was important in ensuring a reliable supply of testing products and building the country’s ability to respond to public health challenges.

He emphasised that early diagnosis and timely access to treatment remain critical in improving health outcomes and accelerating Uganda’s progress towards ending AIDS as a public health threat.

Zakayo Industries Chief Executive Officer Ronald Wantanda Zakayo, Ministry of Health Director General Dr Charles Olara, and US Chief of Mission Michael Cleverly pose for a photo.