Veterinary & Biosecurity
An Interdisciplinary approach addressing Ticks and Tick-borne Diseases of cattle in Uganda
By Joseph Odoi
Globally, Ticks are the most important vectors of disease-causing pathogens in domestic and wild animals and tick-borne diseases (TBDs) are a major threat to both cattle and human health. Understanding the complex interactions within the microbiome is of great importance for understanding how tick-borne pathogens spread and cause disease.
Inspired by the need to generate evidence to inform policy around Tick borne Diseases, a team of researchers from Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Biomedical Sciences and Veterinary Public Health, Sweden, Makerere University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity, conducted a study to assess diversity of ticks and their Tick Borne Diseases (TBDs) in Uganda from 2017 to 2021.
The researchers organised a dissemination of the project results workshop to stakeholders from various sectors on 27th February, 2023 held at the Centre for Biosecurity and Global Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity, Makerere University.
Associate Professor Lawrence Mugisha, Co-principal investigator explained that the purpose of the workshop was to share the results of the different research outputs and discuss various ways to re-package the results for different target audiences and to influence policies for tick control strategies in Uganda.
Having set the scene for the workshop, Associate Professor Maja Malmberg, Principal investigator from Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Biomedical Sciences and Veterinary Public Health, Sweden provided a virtual overview of the Project tilted; Ticks and Tick Borne Diseases (TBDs) in Africa. She noted that the overall purpose of the project was to improve cattle health through increased understanding of the microbial community in cattle and ticks, by investigation of the microbial composition (microbiota) of ticks and how this affects transmission and disease development in cattle in Uganda. As part of the study, she noted that the research team were able to generate new knowledge on diversity of tick species, new viruses and highlighted public health implications of the findings. The project had a capacity building component through supporting masters and PhD students and several technical workshop during the project period.
Various presentations of the results from different studies under the project were made by the project investigators and the PhD student Dr. Steven Balinadi who successfully graduated in 2022.
Below are brief project results from the presentations made at the Workshop;
- A total of 15 different tick species were identified in the five study districts of Kasese, Hoima, Soroti, Gulu and Moroto representing different ecological zones. They also reported high tick burden on cattle from all the study districts. They found out the tick species R. appendiculatus (the brown ear tick), the vector for the causative agent for East Coast Fever (“Amashuwo”, “Amakebe”) was most common tick on cattle in all districts (51.79%) followed by A. variegatum (14.33%) and R. evertsi (8.23%) and continue to dominate tick distribution in Uganda. The team also found ticks that were not known to be in Uganda including Rhipicephalus afranicus that was recently described in South Africa and Rhipicephalus microplus, expanding its geographical zones found ion cattle in Gulu and Soroti districts.
- The team further identified 8 viruses from the blood of cattle suspected to be transmitted by ticks and mosquitoes belonging to 4 viral families (Flaviviridae, Peribunyaviridae, Reoviridae and Rhabdoviridae) and 6 genera (Hepacivirus, Pestivirus, Orthobunyavirus, Coltivirus, Dinovernavirus and Ephemerovirus) among 175 studied cattle. Four of the viruses were new and were tentatively named Zikole virus (Family: Flaviviridae), Zeboroti virus (Family: Reoviridae), Zebtine virus (Family: Rhabdoviridae) and Kokolu virus (Family:Rhabdoviridae). This contributes to the body of the new knowledge in the field of virology. However, they were quick to mention the public implications of all viruses and new viruses remains to be understood through more studies.
- Part of the research assessed cattle exposure to Crimean Congo Haemorrhagic Fever (CCHF) Virus a zoonotic disease of public health importance transmitted by ticks. The study found that 74% (500) of the studied cattle from five districts were exposed to the virus. This raises a big concern a potential source of infections to humans. This concern is verified by the results of investigating 32 CCHF confirmed human cases of the recorded outbreaks between 2013 and 2019. Of the 32 hospitalised human CCHF cases, 32% of them died. Most cases presented with fever (93.8%), followed by hemorrhage (81.3%), headache (78.1%), fatigue (68.8%), vomiting (68.8%) and myalgia (65.6%) and other symptoms. The researchers were able to characterise the CCHF viruses circulating in Uganda, a break through that can inform vaccine and diagnostic tool development.
- Further, looking at the ticks themselves using advanced technologies, ticks were found to carry several viruses most of the unknown and new. The team has at least found 20 new viruses in the ticks and the team will be conducting further studies to understand the implications of the so many viruses in relation to animal and human health.
The team presented potential Public Health Implications of their study results as:
• High diversity and burden of ticks infesting cattle in Uganda has potential for a high pathogen load
• Evidence for range expansion of some tick species; risk for disease emergence in naïve animal and human populations around the country
• Cattle in Uganda are harbouring numerous viruses including novel ones
• CCHF is widespread in Uganda, including where human cases have not been detected. And its endemicity does not overlap with the spatial distribution of Hyalomma ticks
Participants of the stakeholder’s dissemination workshop discussed the results and provided feedback. Out of the discussion, it was generally agreed and proposed that deliberate actions need to be undertaken if we are to address the current challenges posed by ticks and their tick-borne diseases. Participants emphasised the following areas that require immediate attention;
- The need for improved surveillance and diagnostic tools for emerging viruses in animals to prevent their transmission to humans.
- The need for the Government investment in advanced technologies and equipment for improved surveillance, detection, and rapid response to any emerging virus outbreak from ticks and their pathogens.
- There is need to understand the cultural and social context: Therefore, any policy or intervention aimed at preventing disease transmission should take into account the cultural and social practices of the communities involved.
- The government should engage with local communities, listen to their concerns, and incorporate their knowledge and perspectives in developing disease control policies.
- The government should prioritize research and development of strategies to control ticks and prevent tick-borne diseases in both humans and animals. This includes conducting awareness campaigns, developing policies, and providing resources to prevent tick infestation and tick-borne diseases.
- Employ One Health approach: that considers the interactions between human, animal, and environmental health.
- More funding and support for tick-borne disease research and control programs in Uganda and other high-risk areas.
- Integration of livestock and human health surveillance and control measures to prevent the transmission of tick-borne diseases.
- Development of community-based tick control strategies that incorporate local knowledge and practices to increase their relevance and effectiveness.
- Collaboration between government agencies, researchers, and communities to implement effective tick-borne disease control strategies.
In his remarks at the engagement, Dr. Kenneth Mugabi, a Senior Veterinary Officer at Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries congratulated the team of researchers for undertaking the value based research adding that it will help inform policy to address ticks and tick borne diseases in the country. He equally noted the urgent need for more innovation to discover and develop vaccines, therapeutics and diagnostics options to respond to the increasing challenges of ticks and tick-borne diseases. Additionally he equally thanked the study funders for partnering with Makerere University to undertake the study.
Dr. Ekwaro Obuku from Makerere University College of Health Sciences in his emphasized the importance of researchers tailoring research in a way that it speaks to policy makers adding that researchers should use all avenue to influence policy initiatives for public good. He equally proposed for the need for researchers to have a data bank around Ticks and Tick-Borne Diseases.
The stakeholders’ workshop attracted over 70 participants ranging from government officials, academia, media, farmers and one- health officials among others.
Key issues discussed by participants include; Policy brief to address Tick and Tick-Borne diseases, Development of community-based tick control strategies that incorporate local knowledge and practices,one-health approach in addressing ticks and Tick-Borne diseases ,Importance of engagement with local communities affected by ticks and Tick-Borne ,the need for effective communication by researchers to influence policy, need to develop diagnostic tools and model based surveillance for early detection and early warning about Vector borne diseases among others
PROJECT TEAM
Principal investigator: Dr. Maja Malmberg – Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Biomedical Sciences and Veterinary Public Health, Sweden
Co-PI in Uganda: Assoc. Professor Lawrence Mugisha – Makerere University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity, Uganda and Ecohealth Research Group, Conservation & Ecosystem Health Alliance, Uganda
PhD student: Mr. Stephen Balinandi – Uganda Virus Research Institute, Uganda and Makerere University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity, Uganda
Professor Erik Bongcam Rudloff – Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Animal Breeding and Genetics, Sweden
Dr. Erika Chenais – National Veterinary Institute, Sweden
Assoc. Professor Klara Fischer – Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Rural and Urban Development, Sweden
Dr. Lidia Chitimia-Dobler – Bundeswehr Institute of Microbiology and University of Hohenheim, Department of Parasitology, Germany
Dr. John Pettersson – Uppsala University, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Microbiology, Sweden
Dr. Juliette Hayer – Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Department of Animal Breeding and Genetics, Sweden
Professor Mikael Berg – Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Biomedical Sciences and Veterinary Public Health, Sweden
Dr. Giulio Grandi – Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Biomedical Sciences and Veterinary Public Health, Sweden
Assoc. Professor Ingrid Hansson – Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Biomedical Sciences and Veterinary Public Health, Sweden
Veterinary & Biosecurity
Uganda Advances Bacteriophage Research in Fight against Antimicrobial Resistance
Makerere University convened a symposium to explore bacteriophage applications in combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and addressing health, agricultural, and environmental challenges. Organized by The Alliance for Phage Research and Development Uganda Ltd (PhageTeam Uganda), the event brought together researchers from Makerere University, Kyambogo University, Kampala International University, and Ian Clarke International University, and other players, highlighting a collaborative approach to tackling global and local issues.
Day two of the symposium saw researchers and policy makers together with partners from the UK and USA hold a discourse on the best way forward in the promotion of bacteriophage research and production in the country to support efforts against anti-microbial resistance.
Speaking at the event held at Hilton Garden Inn, Dr. Jesca Nakavuma, the lead phage researcher from the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB), Makerere University, stressed the urgent need for alternative antimicrobial agents due to the rise in drug resistance and limited discovery of new antibiotics. Bacteriophages, natural viruses that target bacteria, she said, were identified as a promising solution to revolutionize disease control, treatment, and food security. She said research in this area was key because humankind was at risk of the impending calamity of life-threatening treatment failure.
Prof. Robert Wamala, Makerere University‘s Director for Research, Innovations, and Partnerships, who spoke on behalf of the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, underscored the importance of building local capacity in phage research. He noted that such efforts could enhance Uganda’s resilience against AMR and yield homegrown solutions for human, animal, and crop health.
As the world grapples with the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), bacteriophage research offers a promising alternative. Phages, which are natural enemies of bacteria, have the potential to revolutionize the approach to treatment, disease control, and food security, he noted. He said building local expertise in phage application can enhance Uganda’s resilience against AMR and produce sustainable homegrown solutions to health and environmental challenges.
Prof. Robert Wamala said Makerere University was committed to supporting cutting-edge research and innovation that addresses national and global challenges in line with the university’s role in knowledge generation, technology advancement, and policy influence. The importance of regulatory institutions, he said, cannot be overemphasized in this endeavor, since they enforce compliance, uphold ethical standards, and foster an enabling environment for impactful research and innovation. He said the engagement presented an opportunity to strengthen collaboration between researchers, institutions, and regulatory bodies to ensure that the outcomes are scientifically sound and are aligned to the national development priorities and global best practices.
Dr. Claire M. Mugasa, the Dean of the School of Biosecurity, Biotechnical and Laboratory Sciences (SBLS), CoVAB reiterated the fact that antimicrobial resistance was on the rise in Uganda and Africa, more than elsewhere in the world. She said it was time now that efforts be intensified in looking for sustainable options to curb the dangerous trends. She said this cuts across the human and the animals. She said it was an opportune time for players to come together to find ways of getting the required alternative. She said by coming together, the different ideas developed individually would in a concerted effort, pulling resources together for a way forward.
During the discourse, several subjects were addressed, including an introduction to antimicrobial resistance, phage biology, phage application, and lessons learnt from the establishment of a phage research centre in the UK, which was presented by Prof. Martha Clokie from the University of Leicester. This initiative reflects a commitment to fostering innovation, collaboration, and regulatory compliance, positioning Uganda as a leader in sustainable solutions for global challenges.
The symposium was sponsored by Global AMR Innovation Fund (GAMRIF), through a grant to the UK Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) in partnership with Phages for Global Health.
Veterinary & Biosecurity
First Symposium on Bacteriophage Research & Applications in Uganda Highlights Remarkable Milestones & Future Prospects
Bacteriophage research and its applications were the focal point of the 1st Symposium on Bacteriophage Research and Applications, convened by Makerere University‘s College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources and Biosecurity (CoVAB) on Thursday, March 27, 2025. This landmark event showcased Uganda’s strides in harnessing bacteriophages as innovative solutions to antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and other pressing health and agricultural challenges.
Key speakers included Dr. Jesca Nakavuma, CoVAB (Makerere University), who showcased Uganda’s pioneering phage research initiatives and vision. Tobi Elaine Nagel, the President of Phages for Global Health (USA), discussed the global significance of phage research. Prof. Martha Clokie, from the University of Leicester’s Centre for Phage Research (UK), shared insights into the latest advancements in phage therapy. Dr. Robert Blasdel, representing VASALE (Belgium), presented innovative solutions using bacteriophages. Ms. Abigail Riggs, from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (UK), emphasized international partnerships and policy development.
Speaking at the event, Prof. Edward Wamala, Makerere University’s Director of Research, Innovation and Partnerships, who represented the Vice Chancellor Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe at the event, highlighted the critical role of bacteriophage research in addressing the global threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). He explained how the misuse and overuse of antibiotics in human health, agriculture, and aquaculture have accelerated the emergence of drug-resistant bacterial strains, rendering standard treatments ineffective. Citing statistics from the World Health Organization, he pointed out that AMR claims over 1.3 million lives annually, a number expected to rise without urgent action. He lamented the stagnation of new antibiotic development due to high research costs and rapid bacterial resistance, making bacteriophage therapy a powerful and promising alternative.
Prof. Wamala expressed Makerere University’s commitment to advancing research that addresses critical societal challenges, aligning with its mission of generating transformative knowledge and fostering sustainable development. He emphasized Uganda’s potential to lead in bacteriophage research, driven by multi-disciplinary partnerships and capacity building. He also highlighted ongoing studies into aquaculture-specific bacteriophages at CoVAB as an example of how phage technology can revolutionize sectors like agriculture while addressing AMR. Through such efforts, the university aims to position Uganda as a global leader in innovative solutions to combat antimicrobial resistance and enhance public health.
Dr. Jesca Nakavuma, widely regarded as the mother of phages in Uganda, delivered a compelling presentation at the Symposium, where she detailed the impressive progress of phage research in Uganda since its inception in 2017. She highlighted Makerere University’s pioneering efforts, starting with a cohort of five undergraduate students, which have since expanded into groundbreaking research addressing challenges in agriculture, clinical health, food safety, and environmental safety. Key achievements include advancements in E. coli and Salmonella detection, tackling avian colibacillosis, and innovations in decontamination methods, underscoring the transformative potential of phage technology in combating antimicrobial resistance and enhancing public health.
The symposium honored collaborative efforts, including the establishment and accomplishments of Phage Team Uganda, which developed a repository of 125 characterized phage isolates and trained over 20 PhDs, MScs, and BSc students. Partnerships with international organizations such as IDRC InnoVet AMR and AU Safe Fish have significantly contributed to advancements in antimicrobial resistance and aquaculture.
Despite these achievements, Dr. Nakavuma noted challenges such as insufficient facilities for large-scale phage production, regulatory limitations, and financial constraints. She affirmed that despite the challenges, the team remained ambitious, envisioning the creation of a fully equipped Phage Research and Development Center, the commercialization of phage products, and the establishment of policy frameworks to support the use of phages in Uganda.
The Deputy Principal of CoVAB, Prof. James Acai Okwee, warmly welcomed the partners to the conference and acknowledged their invaluable contributions to the college’s research efforts. He emphasized the importance of collaboration in driving innovation and achieving impactful results, highlighting the pivotal role that partnerships play in fostering academic and scientific growth. Prof. Okwee’s remarks set an encouraging tone for the conference, reinforcing the college’s commitment to advancing research initiatives and creating opportunities for shared learning and development.
The event that attracted the participation of various stakeholders including academia, civil society, and policy makers, concluded with acknowledgments of the efforts of Phage Team Uganda, collaborators, and funders, setting the stage for an exciting future in Uganda’s journey to combat antimicrobial resistance and ensure food and environmental safety.
The Makerere University Biomedical Laboratory Technology Students Association (MUBLISA) recently organized a transformative mentorship meeting at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources, and Biosecurity (CoVAB) at Makerere University, inspiring students to excel in biomedical laboratory technology. The mentorship session aimed to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and real-world application while promoting diversity, inclusion, and professional development.
Two accomplished alumni were present at the event and they shared invaluable insights into thriving in the professional landscape beyond academic lectures. Their stories resonated with attendees, providing practical advice and motivation to navigate the challenges of building successful careers. It was also attended by the Dean, of the School of Biosecurity, Biotechnology and Laboratory Sciences (SBLS), Dr. Claire M. Mugasa.
Dr. Kiyemba Stephen Kaggwa, the distinguished director of Ebenezer Laboratories, delivered an uplifting keynote address that left a lasting impression on students and professionals alike. Known for his groundbreaking contributions to biomedical laboratory technology, Dr. Kaggwa encouraged aspiring professionals to explore their field’s untapped potential and underscored the transformative role of mentorship in fostering personal and professional growth.
Dr. Kaggwa, who leads Ebenezer Laboratories, an institution celebrated for its dedication to accurate diagnostics and advancing medical science in the region as a prominent clinical laboratory based in Kampala, further demonstrated his commitment to healthcare innovation and patient-centered care. The inspiring event served as a powerful reminder of the importance of leadership, mentorship, and innovation in shaping the next generation of professionals. It left students motivated to not only succeed but also to make a meaningful impact in their chosen fields.
The other speaker, Ms. Eunice Ainomugisha, the Vice Chair of the Allied Health Professionals Council where she represents the medical laboratory reiterated the value of building meaningful relationships and staying organized to seize opportunities. Ainomugisha who illustrated her points by using her own experience as a struggling young girl to seize the available opportunities in the field, encourages the students to dream big and seek out the best for themselves despite the circumstances.
Dr. Gabriel Tumwine, representing the head of the Biomedical Laboratory Technology Department, Dr. Kato Drago highlighted the need for mentorship alongside academic training. He commended MUBLISA for taking the lead in empowering students to develop connections and skills essential for their careers. Students were inspired by the event’s message of perseverance, hard work, and the “power of right connections.” This pioneering mentorship program set the stage for many more initiatives aimed at equipping biomedical laboratory technology students with tools for success in academia, research, and industry.
The mentorship meeting not only celebrated the achievements of the department but also served as a powerful reminder of the impact Makerere University‘s graduates continue to make in advancing health and scientific research.
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