Dei BioPharma, Uganda’s pioneering research-based biotechnology and pharmaceuticals firm, has been honoured with the title of Best Pharma Company at this year’s African Excellence Awards, organized by MEA Markets in London, UK.
This prestigious recognition highlights Dei BioPharma’s leading role in advancing the pharmaceutical sector in Africa. In addition to Dei BioPharma, several other notable winners were announced. Adeptal Limited from Nigeria was recognized as the Best Water & Wastewater Treatment Solutions Provider. The International Center for Humanitarian Affairs (ICHA) from East Africa received the award for the Most Dedicated Humanitarian Affairs Research Organization.
QuaLabels Manufacturers PLC from Ethiopia was named the Best Beer Labels & Flexible Packaging Manufacturer 2024, among other accolades. Awards coordinator Kaven Cooper announced the winners on Friday, August 9, emphasizing the inspiration derived from the exceptional achievements across Africa.
“I’m always inspired by the excellence we uncover throughout Africa – an ever-evolving continent full to the brim with innovation and client-focused services,” Cooper remarked. He added that the awards celebrate the highest achievements in various sectors, highlighting businesses that have significantly contributed to the continent’s development and prosperity.
Dei BioPharma Ltd, a Uganda-based firm specializing in the research and manufacturing of drugs and vaccines, has been recognized for its significant advancements in the pharmaceutical industry. The company’s flagship facility in Matugga, Wakiso District, Uganda, represents a major development in biological drug and vaccine production.
This facility, set to become operational in October, is expected to create thousands of professional jobs and is the largest pharmaceutical manufacturing plant in Uganda. It will also be the first biotechnology products company in the country to employ cutting-edge technologies such as mRNA, gene therapy, novel vaccines, and recombinant drugs, alongside other essential medicines. The facility adheres to stringent good manufacturing practices (GMP) standards.
Dei BioPharma has already submitted its research products for review and approval by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), marking a significant step toward international validation. In response to receiving the award, Dr Matthias Magoola, founder and chief executive officer of Dei Group of Companies, expressed gratitude for the support of President Museveni.
“Without his resilient support and belief in such need, these achievements in Uganda would not have been possible,” Dr Magoola said. He highlighted that the assistance from President Museveni has been crucial in overcoming the challenges faced by Ugandan scientists in fostering innovation.
Dr Magoola further noted that the support has enabled Dei BioPharma to establish Africa’s first independent full-scale biotech facility in Matugga. “These achievements are for Uganda and specifically for our beloved president, for he has always stood up for the scientists in this country,” he added.
Dei BioPharma Ltd, led by Dr Magoola, was honoured for its groundbreaking achievements in advanced therapies at the African Excellence Awards. The company has made significant strides with innovative discoveries, including the first US-patented chemical drug using N-Isobutyl-3,4-methylenedioxy-trans- cinnamide compositions for treating malaria.
Additionally, Dei BioPharma developed the first mRNA universal vaccine against malaria and other mRNA vaccines targeting neurodegenerative disorders, diabetes, and HIV/HPV. The mRNA-based vaccine composition for inducing an immune response against HIV and HPV is patented under certificate number 63921929 in the USA, alongside ten more patents for treatments of untreatable diseases.
Dei BioPharma is also constructing a drug and vaccine manufacturing plant in Matugga, Uganda. This $1 billion facility, built at a fraction of the cost of similar ventures in the West, aims to provide essential therapies and vaccines for African diseases, including anticancer drugs.
The plant will address critical health needs in Africa by producing affordable treatments and vaccines tailored to the region’s specific challenges. These achievements not only demonstrate Uganda’s growing role in global health innovation but also serve as an inspiration for other African scientists. By leading research and development efforts, Dei BioPharma is helping shift Africa from being a passive recipient of outdated technology to a proactive contributor to cutting-edge medical advancements.
About the awards: The African Excellence Awards, now in their seventh year, are organized by MEA Markets Magazine to celebrate businesses and individuals for their outstanding accomplishments, innovative approaches, and influence in their industries.
Published quarterly by AI Global Media since 2010, MEA Markets provides the latest business and investment news across the Middle East and Africa. The awards recognize businesses from small and medium enterprises to large multinational corporations, highlighting their dedication to Africa’s economic and social progress, resilience and adaptability in a global context.