The Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (STI-OP) has recognised Uganda’s most outstanding innovators during the 2025 National Science Week, held under the theme “Made in Uganda: Innovation to Market.” The event celebrated the country’s growing ability to transform homegrown ideas and scientific research into market-ready products and technologies.
At the heart of the celebrations was the prestigious “Faces of Science” Award, presented to Dr. Matthias Magoola, Founder and Managing Director of Dei Biopharma Ltd. Dr. Magoola was honoured for his groundbreaking work in biotechnology and pharmaceutical innovation—achievements that have positioned Uganda on the global map for advanced drug and vaccine development.
The award was officially handed to Dr. Magoola by Deputy Speaker of Parliament Thomas Tayebwa, who represented President Yoweri Museveni during the ceremony held at Kololo Independence Grounds.
A leading Ugandan scientist, Dr. Magoola has filed over 100 patents with the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) and has published extensively in peer-reviewed scientific journals.
STI Minister Dr. Monica Musenero hailed Dr. Magoola as one of Uganda’s most impactful innovators, noting that his selection followed a thorough and competitive vetting process.
“He was chosen for his significant contributions in biotechnology and pharmaceutical development, which have helped establish Uganda’s capacity for advanced drug and vaccine manufacturing,” Dr. Musenero said.
She added that the award not only honours individual excellence but also reflects the country’s broader vision of becoming a knowledge-based, innovation-driven economy.
“By celebrating these scientists, we hope to inspire the next generation and highlight science as a key driver of our socioeconomic transformation,” she noted. “This contributes to building a strong national identity rooted in innovation.”
Other notable recipients of the Faces of Science Award included Dr. Edward Kazaire, Dr. Godfrey Asea, Dr. Grace Nambatya, and Paul Isaac Musasizi, CEO of Kiira Motors Corporation, among others.
The Faces of Science Award is part of Uganda’s long-term development vision, which aims to expand the country’s economy tenfold by 2040 through targeted investment in science, technology, and innovation.
