IRCU: Protect Local Innovators Like Mr. Ssenfuka To Make Healthcare Affordable

By Swift Reporter 

The Inter-Religious Council of Uganda (IRCU) has called on government to strengthen support and regulation for indigenous medical innovation, saying Uganda’s herbal knowledge could reduce reliance on imported drugs and expand access to affordable healthcare.

In a press release issued on 8th July 2026, IRCU said its Council of Presidents met with H.E. the President of the Republic of Uganda on Tuesday, 30th June 2026. After the meeting, IRCU leaders joined the President in a side discussion with Mr. David Ssenfuka, a Ugandan herbalist who has researched and developed herbal medicines for the treatment of diabetes and cancer.

During the meeting, IRCU received a presentation on Mr. Ssenfuka’s research journey, the development of his herbal formulations, and his vision of making affordable treatment available to Ugandans and the wider African continent.

IRCU noted that it has received testimonies from individuals who say they benefited from Mr. Ssenfuka’s interventions. These include well-known Ugandans, among them Mr. Joshua Kitakule, Secretary General of IRCU.

The Council also recalled that it first engaged Mr. Ssenfuka seven years ago through Bishop Joshua Lwere, a member of the IRCU Council of Presidents, and made recommendations at the time. “We are happy that his efforts are paying off now,” IRCU stated.

IRCU said Uganda should encourage and protect local innovation, citing the country’s abundant medicinal plants, talented researchers, and indigenous knowledge. The Council argued that if properly researched and developed, this knowledge can make a significant contribution to healthcare, economic development, and scientific advancement.

“Strengthening research programs on herbal medicine will build public trust in local remedies,” the statement reads. “Currently, skepticism persists because outcomes are uncertain. By investing in credible research, Uganda can unlock the full potential of its indigenous knowledge, reduce reliance on imported pharmaceuticals, and contribute to global medical innovation.”

The Council also urged government to tighten regulation of herbal medicines to weed out fraudulent practitioners exploiting vulnerable patients for financial gain. This, IRCU said, will ensure genuine practitioners thrive and the public is protected.

At the same time, IRCU asked the public to remain patient and responsible by avoiding misinformation, speculation, or premature conclusions while scientific and regulatory processes continue.

As faith leaders, IRCU affirmed that “faith, science, and innovation are partners in advancing human well-being.” The Council prayed for wisdom for scientists, innovators, healthcare professionals, policymakers, and regulators as they work to discover safe, effective, and affordable solutions for the nation’s health challenges.

IRCU commended the President for providing a platform for innovators such as Mr. Ssenfuka to engage with relevant government institutions, and reiterated its commitment to “promoting life, supporting responsible innovation, encouraging scientific excellence, and safeguarding the health and dignity of every Ugandan.”