CAMTech Uganda, a global network of academic, clinical, and corporate partners, is committed to accelerating high-quality, affordable medical technology innovation to address health challenges in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs).
Partnering with Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST), throw the centre for Innovation and Technology Transfer (CITT).CAMTech aims to foster a culture of innovation through a multidisciplinary approach. Over the years, CAMTech has proven its relevance to the MUST community and has extended its influence to other academic institutions and organizations in Uganda through its Innovation Ecosystem.
CAMTech Uganda’s mission aligns with MUST’s commitment to providing quality education and research focused on science and technology. To celebrate 12 years of impact and the future of medical technology, CAMTech Uganda hosted an event on October 25, 2024, with the following objectives:
- Highlight key achievements
- Showcase the impact on medical innovation
- Mobilize support for innovators and the innovation ecosystem
Panel discussions
The Event
The event attracted innovators, students, mentors, judges, and potential funders. It included a scientific writing workshop and a series of pitch competitions for innovators at various stages: idea, functional prototype, minimum viable product, and commercialization.
Key Highlights
- Pitch Competitions: A diverse range of innovative solutions were presented, with winners recognized in each category.
- Panel Discussions: Experts discussed topics such as the innovator’s journey, user-centered design, and regulatory frameworks.
- Exhibitions: Innovators showcased their projects, demonstrating the tangible impact of CAMTech’s support.
Leadership and Support
The event was graced by the presence of Mbarara University’s Vice Chancellor, Prof. Pauline Byakika Kibwika, and Deputy Vice Chancellor, Prof. Nixon Kamukama. Dr. Kisanja Hillary from State House also attended, expressing support for CAMTech’s initiatives and promising continued government backing.
Key Remarks
Deputy Vice Chancellor Prof. Nixon Kamukama expressed gratitude to the CAMTech team, led by Dr. Data Santorino, for their significant contributions to the university’s visibility and impact. He highlighted the positive influence of CAMTech’s 12-year journey on the university and the broader community.
Dr. Kisanja Hillary from State House commended CAMTech Uganda and Mbarara University of Science and Technology for their work in addressing health challenges.
He acknowledged the university’s instrumental role in Uganda’s socioeconomic transformation, particularly in technology and medicine. Dr. Hillary assured continued government support for CAMTech in the future
Teams that Qualified for the Showcase
The following teams qualified for the pitch competitions:
Some of the Teams pitching
Idea Stage:
- Grand Wave
- Mama Wear
- BP Monitor
- Pneumo AI Diagnostic Software
Functional Prototype:
- Kanga Care
- Dripsense Infusion Monitor
- Low-Cost Automated Slide Stainer
- Toto Safe Baby Carrier
- Smart Swine
- Zao Pulse
Minimum Viable Product:
- Mosqill
- Vein Locator
- Photokabada
- Autothermo
- Lift Relief
- e-VHT
Commercialized Products:
- Robotics
- Sandrop
- Hebs Organic Lip Balm
- AIR
- PRISMS
- SIM4 LIFE
Some of the Judges
The overall winners per category are summarized in a table as below
| Stage | Overall winner | First run up |
| Idea | Grand Wave | Mama wear |
| Functional prototype | Dripsense Infusion Monitor | Smart Swine |
| Minimum Viable Product | A-Lite as overall winner | Neosave |
| Commercialization | Hebs organic Lip Balm | Simulation for Life |
| People’s choice award | Zao Pulse |
A Bright Future
Dr. Stephen Asiimwe, Program Director of the Global Health Collaborative, acknowledged CAMTech’s significant contributions and encouraged the team to continue their excellent work. The event concluded with a sense of optimism and excitement for the future of medical technology innovation in Uganda.
