Uganda plans to increase its annual output of medical gloves to 210 million pairs, a significant jump from the current 80 million. According to Nile Post, this growth stems from the expansion of East African Medical Vitals (EAMV), a move intended to lessen reliance on foreign imports and position the nation as a key regional supplier of healthcare supplies.
David Bahati, the Minister of State for Industry, officially launched the second production line and broke ground on two more at the Namanve facility in Mukono District. AllAfrica noted that the Uganda Development Corporation (UDC) previously provided Shs21.4 billion in 2023 via equity and debt, which funded the second line and operational improvements. The UDC board has since cleared Shs31 billion for the upcoming phase, which carries an estimated total cost of Shs60 billion.
EAMV executives stated that government funding helped the firm reach profitability, having started with a capacity of just 36 million pairs. The new lines are projected to provide 328 jobs, enhancing local manufacturing employment. To ensure global competitiveness, the firm has adopted advanced technology and quality benchmarks. Additionally, 13 Ugandan engineers completed specialized training in Malaysia and now lead technical departments at the Namanve site, bolstering domestic expertise in industrial operations.
Patrick Birungi, UDC’s executive director, explained that the investment aims to build local capacity for essential medical items traditionally sourced abroad. He argued that supporting domestic industry is vital for lowering import costs and fostering a competitive manufacturing sector. EAMV’s executive director added that the products meet high global standards, allowing them to compete on international shelves.
The launch ceremony coincided with the UDC’s 10th anniversary and preceded the inaugural Uganda Industrialisation Conference 2026. Organized with the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Cooperatives, the event will gather officials, investors, and manufacturers to discuss strategies for industrial growth and investment opportunities in the sector.