In a historic stride for Ugandan science and medicine, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has lauded Dr. Mathias Magoola, a local biotech trailblazer, for achieving what few African scientists have—securing a United States patent for a revolutionary cancer treatment.
The announcement came during a meeting at State House, Entebbe, where Dr. Magoola, founder of Dei BioPharma Ltd, presented the details of his patented innovation and shared his ambitious plans to produce life-saving drugs and vaccines from Ugandan soil.
According to the scientist, the United States Patent and Trademark Office officially granted and published his patent on February 6, 2025. The treatment, developed through years of rigorous research, uses a guided RNA-Cas9 protein complex to zero in on and destroy mutated genes responsible for cancer—without harming healthy cells.
“This invention presents the first treatment of cancer using a guided RNA-Cas9 complex that disrupts mutated genes and prevents them from repairing, thereby killing the cancerous cells,” Dr. Magoola explained. Unlike traditional cancer therapies, his method promises precision, minimal side effects, and affordability.
President Museveni described the innovation as a “major milestone for Uganda’s scientific advancement,” noting that it represents more than just a national achievement—it’s a global contribution. “Dr. Magoola has developed medical solutions that not only target cancer but also offer treatment for HIV, and sickle cell disease,” the President added.
Dr. Magoola revealed that the product is ready for clinical trials, with all manufacturing details finalized. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has requested an approval plan, which he plans to submit soon. Clinical trials are expected to commence before year-end.
But the vision doesn’t stop there. The patented drug will be manufactured at a state-of-the-art pharmaceutical facility in Matugga, near Kampala, poised to be one of Africa’s largest.
With the global cancer burden projected to hit 35 million cases annually by 2030, Magoola’s treatment could be a game-changer—especially for underserved regions. “This is not just a scientific breakthrough, it is a humanitarian contribution aimed at eradicating cancer globally,” he declared.
Joining the President in commending Dr. Magoola were top government officials, including Dr. Monica Musenero, Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Attorney General Hon. Kiryowa Kiwanuka, and Finance Ministry Permanent Secretary Ramathan Ggoobi.
From Matugga to the world, Uganda’s scientific star is rising—and so is hope for millions battling cancer.
