Kisoro District, Uganda – The Natural Chemotherapeutics Research Institute, in collaboration with local Batwa communities, local leaders, and other stakeholders, has developed four herbal medicines from Kisoro District to treat three common diseases.
The tentatively named medicines include Vula-Derm powder for treating wounds, Kalit powder and Bricof syrup for cough, and Venol syrup for malaria.
This development was announced during a two-day workshop held earlier this week at Mubano Hotel in Kisoro Municipality. The workshop brought together members of the Batwa community, local leaders, and other stakeholders as part of the Access to Genetic Resources and Benefit Sharing (ABS) project.
Dr. Francis Omujal, a senior researcher at the institute, explained that the herbal formulations were derived from plant materials provided by the Batwa and other communities with traditional knowledge. These include Vernonia amygdalina, Aloe vera, Eucalyptus, Buricoti, and Solanum nigrum L, among others.
Dr. Omujal emphasized the institute’s role in validating the medicinal claims of these herbs through scientific research, with the goal of enhancing their commercial viability and life-saving potential.
Harriet Ityang, Assistant Commissioner at the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs, encouraged the Batwa to establish mutually agreed terms and prior informed consent regarding the use of their traditional knowledge. She also urged the formation of organized groups, with district support, to ensure fair benefit-sharing in accordance with the Nagoya Protocol.
Kisoro District Principal Chief Administrative Officer, Rukundo Manase, commended all stakeholders for their collaborative efforts in transforming local herbs into medicines. He also urged the community to protect the environment for sustainable use of its natural resources.
Kisoro District LCV Chairperson, Abel Bizimana, praised the commitment shown by participants and emphasized the district’s readiness to benefit from the project.
Meanwhile, members of the Batwa community who attended the training expressed joy and pledged their continued support for the development of herbal medicine.
Currently, the institute is in the testing phase to assess the effectiveness and accessibility of the formulated medicines. Upon completion, expected within the next 3 to 6 months, the medicines will be submitted for approval to the National Drug Authority and registered with the Uganda Registration Services Bureau to safeguard the Batwa’s indigenous knowledge.
