Health: Uganda unveils state

_________________ Uganda has unveiled a state-of-the-art polio genomics facility at the Uganda Virus Research Institute (UVRI) to boost the country's capacity to rapidly detect, sequence and respond to poliovirus outbreaks while strengthening regional efforts to eradicate the disease. The new Regional Polio Laboratory, commissioned on Wednesday, July 22 during celebrations to mark UVRI's 90th anniversary, will enable scientists to carry out genomic sequencing of polioviruses, allowing health authorities to quickly identify virus strains, track transmission and guide outbreak response across Uganda and neighbouring countries. President Yoweri Museveni, who was represented by Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja, said the facility underscores Uganda's commitment to science-led solutions in safeguarding public health. (L-R) Peter Mark Tukei, First Director of Uganda Virus Research Institute (UVRI), Director of the Uganda Virus Research Institute (UVRI) Prof. Pontiano Kaleebu interacting with Rebecca Alitwala Kadaga First Deputy Prime Minister of Uganda, Chris Baryomunsi, Minister of Health and Robinah Nabbanja, Prime Minister of Uganda during Uganda Virus Research Institute celebration of 90 years at Uganda Virus Research Institute on July 22, 2026. (Photo by Mary Kansiime)