KAMPALA —Makerere University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, Animal Resources, and Biosecurity (COVAB) and the Uganda Virus Research Institute (UVRI) have joined forces to launch a pioneering cyberbiosecurity project. The project aims to safeguard laboratory facilities handling high-risk biological materials from the growing threat of cyberattacks.
Led by Associate Professor Lawrence Mugisha from COVAB and Dr. Stephen Balinandi from UVRI, the project will conduct a comprehensive ICT risk assessment, develop robust cybersecurity standard operating procedures, and establish a cyberbiosecurity policy. This initiative is crucial in protecting sensitive biological materials and preventing potential bioterrorism threats.
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“Cyber threats and attacks have become a serious threat to many establishments, including government institutions, business enterprises, and critical facilities like financial and health facilities, across the globe,” said Associate Professor Mugisha. “More recently, these attacks have extended and targeted laboratories handling biological materials, including high-risk and highly pathogenic organisms like anthrax, Ebola, and SARS-CoV2 viruses, with potential for bioterrorism.”
CoVAB Principal Prof. Frank Norbert Mwiine emphasized the reality of cyberbiosecurity threats, sharing his personal experience of being a victim of a cybersecurity breach involving his ATM. He urged the team to consider developing training projects focused on cyberbiosecurity and building a strong cybersecurity research team within CoVAB and UVRI.
Sandra Matinyi, Co-founder and Executive Director of Nuo Bioscience, shared critical insights on the global guidance framework for the responsible use of life sciences. “With the emergence of new technologies and rapid advancements in life sciences research, there was previously no global guidance for identifying or mitigating risks related to dual-use research of concern until the WHO introduced this framework in 2022,” she noted.
Dr. Monica Namayanja highlighted the importance of establishing a Bio-Risk Management Committee, the role of dedicated biosafety officers, and the need for specialized laboratory managers. “The involvement of top management is crucial for effective bio-risk management, and continuous improvement in this area is essential for maintaining best practices,” she emphasized.
The project, supported by CRDF Global, is the first of its kind in Uganda, positioning the country at the forefront of adopting international standards for biosecurity. The initiative is expected to contribute significantly to data-driven interventions aimed at securing and protecting laboratory facilities handling high-consequence pathogens from cyber-attacks.
During the workshop, participants shared lessons and best practices for safeguarding digital and biological infrastructures, highlighting the importance of establishing a Bio-Risk Management Committee and specialized laboratory managers.
The project, which started in April 2024 and is set to conclude in September 2024, aims to develop a comprehensive cyberbiosecurity policy and procedures for COVAB and UVRI laboratories. This will include conducting a thorough ICT risk assessment, developing cybersecurity standard operating procedures, and establishing a cyberbiosecurity inventory.
Associate Professor Mugisha expressed his gratitude to CRDF Global for supporting the project, noting that it is a crucial step towards protecting Uganda’s laboratory facilities from cyber threats.
Prof. Mwiine reiterated Makerere University’s commitment to cyberbiosecurity and biosecurity, highlighting the ongoing research collaboration between CoVAB and UVRI.
The launch of this project marks a significant milestone in Uganda’s efforts to enhance biosecurity and prevent bioterrorism. With the growing threat of cyberattacks on laboratory facilities, this initiative is timely and crucial in protecting sensitive biological materials.
The project team is expected to share their findings and recommendations with relevant stakeholders, including government agencies, laboratory managers, and researchers, to ensure a coordinated approach to cyberbiosecurity in Uganda.
