The Uganda Virus Research Institute (UVRI) has officially marked its 90th anniversary, celebrating a remarkable legacy of scientific discoveries that have shaped global public health while looking ahead to the next generation of disease surveillance and outbreak response.
The celebrations in Entebbe featured scientific panel discussions, exhibitions, guided laboratory tours and historical displays tracing the institute's journey from its founding in 1936 as the Yellow Fever Research Institute to becoming one of Africa's leading centres for virology research.
Scientists, policymakers and international partners reflected on UVRI's contributions to the discovery and study of several major viruses, including work linked to Zika, West Nile, Chikungunya and other emerging pathogens that have influenced global infectious disease research for decades. The institute has also played a central role in Uganda's response to recurring outbreaks such as Ebola and other viral threats.
During the anniversary events, representatives from the World Health Organization, the United Kingdom and other international partners praised UVRI's leadership in disease surveillance, laboratory science and outbreak preparedness. Speakers emphasized that sustained investment in research infrastructure, diagnostics and vaccine development will be critical as countries continue to confront diseases such as Ebola, HIV and newly emerging viruses.
The milestone also highlighted Uganda's expanding role in regional health security. As part of the celebrations, UVRI is being launched as the East African Community's Regional Centre of Excellence in Virology, strengthening collaboration in research, laboratory training and pandemic preparedness across the region.
The anniversary comes as international partners continue supporting Uganda's public health response, including ongoing efforts to strengthen Ebola surveillance, laboratory capacity and emergency preparedness through longstanding collaborations with the United States and other global health agencies.
With the theme of celebrating 90 years of discoveries and global impact, the institute said the commemorations are not only a tribute to its scientific achievements but also a call to prepare for future health emergencies through innovation, collaboration and sustained investment in research.