Entebbe, Uganda–September 16, 2024. We are thrilled to announce that SynBio Africa has recently (June 2024) been allocated office and laboratory space at the Uganda National Health Research Organization (UNHRO) headquarters in Entebbe, Uganda. This allocation marks a significant milestone for our organization as we continue to push the boundaries of synthetic biology across Africa. The dedicated space will enable us to expand our research, foster innovation, and contribute to Africa’s bioeconomy in meaningful ways.
A Key Step in Advancing Synthetic Biology in Africa
This newly allocated space at UNHRO will serve as the heart of SynBio Africa’s groundbreaking projects, including our latest initiative on converting industrial, agricultural, and municipal solid wastes into biofuels and biochemicals through cutting-edge gas fermentation technology. This innovative project is a game-changer for waste management, reducing carbon emissions while promoting energy independence and environmental sustainability.
Acknowledging Dr. Sam Okware’s Support
We extend our deepest appreciation to Dr. Sam Okware, the Director General of UNHRO, whose support has been instrumental in securing this office and laboratory space for SynBio Africa. His vision for advancing health research and innovation in Uganda is well aligned with our mission, and we are grateful for his continued leadership and commitment.
Leadership at SynBio Africa
Geoffrey Otim, Founder and CEO of SynBio Africa, expressed his enthusiasm for the potential this space offers:
“This allocation is a pivotal step in realizing SynBio Africa’s vision of advancing Synthetic Biology solutions in Uganda and beyond. We are ready to bring innovative approaches to Agriculture, Health, waste management, sustainability, and bioeconomy to life, with the UNHRO lab space serving as our innovation headquarters.”
We are excited about the future and the impact this space will have on the success of our projects, and we look forward to collaborating with local and global partners to advance sustainable Synthetic Biology solutions.
Moving Forward: Renovation and Laboratory Upgrades
This marks an exciting new chapter for SynBio Africa as we move forward with plans to transform this space into a thriving hub for synthetic biology research and education in Africa. We remain committed to our goal of driving impactful scientific innovations that addresses Africa’s unique Health, environmental and economic challenges. The potential impact of this space is immense, not just for SynBio Africa but for the broader scientific community in Uganda and Africa as a whole.
However, while this allocation marks a significant milestone, the premises require substantial renovation and upgrades to be transformed into a fully operational laboratory and office space. To fully equip the facility for our cutting-edge projects, we need support from our community, partners, and stakeholders. We welcome financial contributions, material donations, and partnerships from both local and international stakeholders. Together, we can turn this space into a premier Synthetic Biology research hub, driving sustainable solutions that will benefit Uganda and the continent.
For more information on how you can contribute, please contact us at admin@synbioafrica.com
Thank you for your support and stay tuned for further updates as we embark on this transformative journey!
About UNHRO
The Uganda National Health Research Organization (UNHRO) is Uganda’s leading institution dedicated to advancing health research and innovation. Established under the Ministry of Health, UNHRO coordinates, promotes, and oversees health research activities in Uganda, ensuring that the country’s health research agenda aligns with national priorities and global standards. Through its various research programs and partnerships, UNHRO is at the forefront of improving healthcare delivery, public health outcomes, and scientific development in Uganda and the region. It serves as a vital hub for collaboration among national and international researchers, institutions, and stakeholders, driving forward research that impacts public health policy and practice.
About SynBio Africa
SynBio Africa is the very first and biggest synthetic biology platform in Africa that brings together scientists, researchers, policy makers, academicians, students, and the wider community to discuss and embrace the benefits of synthetic biology to the development of Africa’s bioeconomy, solve health problems and improve on agricultural products for a better food security. The platform is aimed at enabling synthetic biology propagation throughout Africa, along with all its potential benefits.
“Synthetic Biology is like programming a computer, but instead of writing code to create software, we use DNA to reprogram living cells. Imagine you could turn yeast into a factory that makes clean aviation fuel or transform waste gases into useful chemicals – that’s what synthetic biology allows us to do with this project. By ‘programming’ yeast to act as a biofactory, we can create valuable products from waste and develop sustainable fuel alternatives.”