Dr Diana Atwine, launching the Sikurea Hydroxyurea 500mg capsules, a drug expected to strengthen the fight against sickle cell disease. PHOTO | GEOFFREY MUTUMBA
Uganda has taken a major step in the fight against sickle cell disease following the launch of locally manufactured Hydroxyurea, a key drug used in managing the condition.
Quality Chemical Industries Limited unveiled the production at its Luzira facility, marking a significant boost in access to affordable treatment for thousands of patients across the country.
The drug, branded Sikurea, is expected to ease the burden on families and the health system by reducing painful episodes, hospital admissions, and complications associated with sickle cell disease.
Speaking at the launch, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Health, Diana Atwine, described the development as a turning point in Uganda’s healthcare journey.
“This is not just the introduction of another medicine on the market—it is a transformation in the lives of our people,” she said, emphasizing the importance of local solutions to national health challenges.
Uganda continues to face a high burden of sickle cell disease, with prevalence estimated between 13% and 15% in some regions. Each year, about 20,000 babies are born with the condition, many of whom are only diagnosed after developing severe complications.
Health experts say early screening and consistent use of Hydroxyurea can significantly improve survival rates and allow patients to live more productive lives.
Dr. Atwine noted that beyond the health impact, the disease places a heavy economic strain on families due to repeated hospital visits and long-term care costs. She stressed that improving access to treatment will help reduce this burden and strengthen household resilience.
The initiative is also aligned with Uganda’s broader strategy to integrate sickle cell management into primary healthcare, while promoting awareness, screening, and community engagement.
Chief Executive Officer of the company, Ajay Kumar Pal, said the move reflects a commitment to tackling some of Africa’s most pressing health challenges.
“Local production of Hydroxyurea ensures that patients can access reliable, high-quality, and affordable treatment without depending on imports,” he said.
Co-founder and Chairman Emmanuel Katongole added that Africa bears the largest share of the global sickle cell burden, making local manufacturing essential.
He noted that lessons from the fight against diseases like malaria and HIV have shown that investing in local pharmaceutical production can significantly improve access to treatment and save lives.
With the launch of Sikurea, Uganda is now better positioned to reduce the impact of sickle cell disease, offering new hope to thousands of families and strengthening the country’s healthcare system.
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