Uganda launches anti-tick vaccine to cut livestock losses and boost productivity

UGANDA – Uganda has unveiled its first locally developed anti-tick vaccine, targeting major livestock diseases and aiming to reduce losses estimated at over US$1.1 billion annually.

The vaccine, branded NAROVAC-ATV1, was commissioned by President Yoweri Museveni at the National Livestock Resources Research Institute (NaLIRRI) in Wakiso district. 

Developed by scientists under the National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO), the recombinant vaccine targets tick-borne diseases that have long constrained cattle production.

“The acaricides were a bad replacement because they are toxic, and eventually the ticks get used to them. Now the cow kills the tick. That is what the vaccine does,” Museveni said.

The UGX170 billion (US$46 million) government-funded initiative includes both the vaccine and a production facility, with plans to scale manufacturing and reduce reliance on imported veterinary products.

Tackling productivity losses in the livestock sector

Tick-borne diseases, particularly East Coast Fever, remain a major constraint in Uganda’s livestock systems, affecting both dairy and beef production. 

Officials say the new vaccine offers a more sustainable alternative to acaricides, which are increasingly ineffective due to resistance and pose environmental and health risks.

Frank Tumwebaze, Minister of Agriculture, said the breakthrough reflects years of investment in science-driven agriculture. 

“The government will continue investing in science-driven agriculture, which supports over 70 per cent of Uganda’s population,” he said.

According to NARO, the vaccine is administered in three initial doses at day 0, day 30, and day 180, protecting for up to 1 year, with booster doses required thereafter. 

Trials indicate no detectable residues in milk or beef, confirming food safety.

Production scale and regional potential

Yonah Baguma, Director General of NARO, said the facility has the capacity to produce up to 36 million doses annually, with current output at about three million doses per month.

“So far, 1.5 million doses have been produced, and demand is already emerging from neighbouring countries,” Baguma said.

He added that the project positions Uganda as a potential regional hub for veterinary vaccine production.

The vaccine is expected to retail at around UGX10,000 (US$2.70), making it accessible to smallholder farmers. 

Early field trials have shown reduced tick infestations and lower treatment costs, supporting improved herd productivity.

Bright Rwamirama, State Minister for Animal Industry, said continued investment in livestock is already driving growth in dairy production and herd numbers.

Museveni also pledged further support for research, including a proposed UGX600 billion (US$162 million) investment to establish a national vaccine research hub.

For the feed and livestock sector, the development signals a broader shift toward integrated animal health solutions, where disease control, nutrition and productivity are increasingly linked. 

By reducing disease burden, the vaccine is expected to improve feed conversion and overall efficiency, strengthening the economics of livestock production in Uganda and the wider region.

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