As part of the events to mark 25 years of existence, the MRC/UVRI Uganda Research Unit on AIDS opened their forth field station on 7th November, 2014.

Based in Mengo- Kampala, the £900,000 facility which houses a clinic that targets disadvantaged women as well as laboratories for research was constructed with funding from the UK Medical Research Council (MRC UK) and the UK Department for International Development (DFID) under the MRC/DFID concordat agreement and was commissioned by the Hon. Dr. Elioda Tumwesigye the Minister Of State for Health & General Duties.

While officiating at the opening event, the Minister commended the MRC/UVRI Uganda Research Unit on AIDS for their fight against HIV/AIDS through investing in research and called for increased research in non-communicable diseases. Dr. Tony. Peatfield who represented the MRC CEO, Sir John Savill, noted that the new clinic would provide the Uganda Unit with a key physical presence in Kampala, closer to an expanding range of partners involved in both infectious and non-communicable disease research as well as offer opportunities potentially to expand the scientific epidemiological and social science activities beyond HIV infection alone.

The event was attended by partners including the community advisory board members, clinic clients and representatives from our collaborators and partner institutions like KCCA, CDC, JCRC and the Uganda Police. Some members of the Scientific Advisory Committee were also present. At the end of the various speakers and the edutainment from SAIL Uganda, the take home message for our clients, partners and staff was clear; the fight against HIV/AIDS still continues.