The commissioning of the newly constructed Diagnostic Laboratory at Uganda Virus Research Institute (UVRI), Arua Field Station has begun.
The permanent secretary in the Ministry of Health Dr Diana Atwine is officiating at the event.
The new laboratory was constructed with support from the United States of America Defence Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA) through its Cooperative Biological Engagement Program (CBEP), Uganda Biosafety and Biosecurity (BS&S) Laboratory Facility upgrades and Building Renovations.
Uganda Virus Research Institute has been applauded for its outstanding research on viral diseases and engagement of communities in addressing health challenges in the West Nile Region.
Speaking during the commissioning of the newly constructed diagnostic laboratory at UVRI Arua Field Station, the permanent secretary in the Ministry of Health Dr Diana Atwine said despite the numerous challenges the institute faced, it has played a significant role in disease surveillance, engaging and improving the capacity of health workers, local communities and traditional leaders to prevent and fight plague and other diseases in the West Nile region.
Dr Atwine noted that the new laboratory would enhance the institute capacity to detect diseases early and prevent outbreaks in the region.
Addressing a press conference in the new facility meeting room, several officials including district leaders expressed concern over the cross boarder movement of people and animals from the Democratic republic of Congo and South Sudan and called for combined efforts among stakeholders to avert the transmission of diseases in the Wes Nile region.