Uganda Pushes for Commercialisation of Home-Grown Infrastructure Innovations

KAMPALA, July 9, 2026 - Uganda is seeking to accelerate the transition of scientific research from laboratories into communities and industries, with the government emphasising the commercialisation of locally developed technologies to address infrastructure challenges. The Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation Jonard Asiimwe said research and innovation must deliver practical solutions that improve public services, increase productivity and support industrial development. He said the government is working to strengthen partnerships between researchers, universities, industry players and the private sector to ensure locally developed technologies move from concept stages into real-world applications. Asiimwe stressed that innovation should not remain limited to academic institutions but should be deployed in communities, industries and public systems where it can directly improve livelihoods. The government is also increasing focus on research and development investment as part of efforts to build a competitive, resilient and self-reliant economy driven by science, technology and innovation. The initiative forms part of a broader strategy to promote home-grown solutions and reduce dependence on imported technologies while supporting Uganda’s industrial transformation agenda.