Dr Matthias Magoola stood under the bright lights in Kigali, not as a guest but as a leader—one of Africa’s 100 most influential people. The Ugandan scientist and founder of Dei BioPharma was honored at a gala ceremony at M Hotel, recognized not for fame, but for building something far more lasting: a future where Africa makes its own medicines.
Africa imports over 80% of the medicines it uses—a vulnerability laid bare during the Covid-19 pandemic when global supply chains faltered. Now, leaders like Dr Magoola are changing that story. He was named in the 100 Africa Most Influential Persons list for his work in biotechnology and efforts to end the continent’s dependence on foreign drugs. The award, now in its third year, is run by the Accra-based Business Executive Media Group with partners including the African Chamber for Trade. This year’s theme? "Recognising the People Determining Africa's Socio-Economic Direction."
The jury—made up of 12 experts in economics, politics, and diplomacy—reviewed candidates based on their impact across Africa, within their regions, and globally. Dr Magoola stood out for his vision: a 250-acre manufacturing campus in Matugga, just north of Kampala. When complete, the Dei BioPharma site will host around 30 factories producing vaccines, insulin, antibiotics, and other critical medicines. It’s one of the largest such projects in East Africa.
Founded in 2014, Dei BioPharma is more than a company—it’s a mission. Dr Magoola’s goal aligns with the African Union’s target for the continent to produce at least 60% of its health products by 2040. Right now, local production sits far below that. But with facilities like the one in Matugga coming online, that balance can shift. The project could create thousands of jobs and train a new generation of African scientists and technicians.
At the ceremony, University of Rwanda Vice-Chancellor Prof Didas Muganga Kayihura urged African institutions to innovate boldly. "We must build our own solutions," he said. Dr Magoola’s recognition is not just personal—it reflects a growing movement across the continent. From Ghana to Zimbabwe, this year’s honorees include doctors, entrepreneurs, judges, and community leaders—all shaping Africa’s path forward.
As applause filled the M Hotel ballroom, the moment wasn’t about celebration alone. It was a signal: Africa is rising in science, in industry, in self-reliance. And Dr Magoola’s work in a quiet district outside Kampala could one day help millions never go without life-saving medicine again.