Uganda has achieved a historic medical breakthrough by successfully treating its first patient with advanced stem cell therapy. This milestone positions the country at the forefront of regenerative medicine in East Africa.

The groundbreaking procedure was conducted at the newly launched JCRC-Asea BioTherapeutics (ABT) Regenerative Medicine Centre, a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to pioneering stem cell therapies. 

The centre, a collaboration between the Joint Clinical Research Centre (JCRC) and Asea BioTherapeutics (ABT), aims to revolutionize healthcare by providing cutting-edge treatments for chronic conditions.

The first patient to receive this transformative therapy was Dr. Hon. Elly Karuhanga, who underwent a successful procedure on Wednesday, February 12, 2025. His treatment marks a new chapter in personalized medicine, showcasing the potential of regenerative therapies to restore health and enhance well-being.

Dr. Cissy Kityo, Executive Director of JCRC, emphasized the significance of this achievement:

“At JCRC-ABT, we are committed to advancing healthcare solutions that improve lives. Our regenerative medicine program is built on decades of research, ensuring safe and effective therapies for our patients. This milestone is just the beginning of a new era in personalized medicine.”

Stem cell therapy, also known as regenerative medicine, harnesses the power of stem cells to repair, replace, or regenerate damaged tissues. This innovative approach offers hope for patients with chronic conditions, such as neurodegenerative diseases, orthopedic injuries, and autoimmune disorders.

Officials at JCRC and ABT reaffirmed their dedication to pushing the boundaries of medical science, making world-class treatments more accessible to patients in the region. With this successful procedure, Uganda is now poised to become a hub for regenerative medicine, offering new possibilities for healthcare across Africa.