UVRI starts construction of research laboratory in Arua

HEALTH | UVRI

Uganda Virus Research Institute (UVRI) has launched the construction of a research laboratory at its station in Arua to help diagnose various diseases.

The 400 square meter laboratory's breaking of the ground ceremony was flagged by the Resident District Commissioner of Arua district, Peter Dibele, on Friday and is expected to be completed in a period of nine months.

Dibele said the project needs to be closely monitored. He tasked the municipal engineering department to take keen interest in monitoring the project.

The multi-million project is funded by the US government.

Currently, UVRI handles research on plague in the two district of Arua and Zombo. Since 2015 to date, there is not a single case of plague registered.

PIC: Ariaka (second-right) chatting with development partners during the construction launch. (Credit: Robert Ariaka)

Wright Jon, the construction manager from the US Army, said Uganda has global and regional security programme with the US government and this relationship has attracted more projects in the country.

He said once complete, the laboratory will help ease diagnostics of diseases like Leptospirosis, Typhoid and Brucellosis.

Established in 2004, UVRI Arua plague station has been conducting Epidemiologic, clinical and diagnostic research studies on plague and develop appropriate intervention for control of rats and fleas, responsible for spreading plague the region.

The laboratory is expected to improve the capacity of health workers in the region and enhance cross boarder disease surveillance initiative due to its strategic location with the Democratic republic of Congo and South Sudan to fit in the global health security agenda.