Ugandan HIV self-test kit factory exports first exports consignment to Kenya

What the report says

Uganda has begun local production of OraQuick HIV self-test kits at a new facility run by Zakayo Industries Limited in Ntenjeru, Mukono District, with the plant also sending its first export consignment to Kenya. The commissioning was reported by The Independent Uganda and attended by local and international figures connected to the project, including representatives of the US mission and the Ministry of Health.

Health workers and officials said the factory could expand access to HIV testing by making self-tests more available and affordable. The kits use oral fluid, allowing people to test privately without drawing blood or visiting a clinic. According to the report, local pricing has already fallen from about Shs40,000 when the product entered the market in 2018 to around Shs25,000-Shs30,000 in pharmacies, while the company says it wants to reduce the cost further. The kits are also distributed free through government health facilities.

Plant manager Shamim Naggayi said the facility now produces about 50,000 to 60,000 kits a day and employs more than 120 workers. She said the site started with assembly operations in June and aims to move toward full manufacturing of diagnostic devices by 2028. The company’s chief executive, Ronald Wantanda Zakayo, said the project is intended to reduce HIV transmission, create jobs and generate tax revenue.

Ministry of Health officials said local manufacturing could reduce import dependence and help more Ugandans learn their HIV status earlier. The report also noted that the company and its US partner, OraSure Technologies, plan to explore other diagnostics in future, including tests for Ebola, hepatitis and sickle cell disease.