Uganda Begins Local Production of Sickle Cell Drug in Major Pharmaceutical Milestone

Kampala, May 21, 2026 - Quality Chemical Industries Limited has launched the local production of Hydroxyurea, a key medication used in the treatment of Sickle Cell Disease, marking a significant step in Uganda’s pharmaceutical manufacturing capacity and efforts to improve access to essential medicines.

The drug, locally branded as Sikurea, is produced at the company’s Luzira facility and is expected to reduce painful crises, lower hospital admissions, and improve the quality of life for patients living with sickle cell disease.

The production line was officially commissioned by the Ministry of Health Permanent Secretary, Dr Diana Atwine, who described the initiative as a breakthrough in strengthening Uganda’s healthcare system and expanding access to affordable treatment.

“By launching this local manufacturing capacity, Uganda has crossed yet another threshold. What we are launching today is not just medicine on the market, but a transformation in the lives of our people,” she said.