For nearly three decates, Dr. Francis Muhumuza has been a familiar name in Bushenyi District’s animal health circles.
A retired veterinary officer turned entrepreneur, he now runs a thriving veterinary drug shop and general practice. Behind his success story is a long-standing partnership with ERAM Uganda, one that be- gan almost at the company’s inception in 1995.
“When ERAM started, I saw an opportunity,” Dr Muhumuza recalls. “ They became my main source of acaricides, anthelminthics and injectable drugs — products that were essential for my daily veterinary work.”
At the time, Uganda’s veterinary supply landscape was changing. The government had stepped back from livestock drug distribution in the early 1990s, creating space for private players. ERAM emerged as one of the first indigenous veterinary drug companies to fill that gap — a move that, for professionals like Dr Muhumuza, made all the difference.
Through ERAM, he found reliable access to quality products, including a wide range of drugs and equipment that met the demands of his clients.
“ Their continuous and timely supply was a game changer,” he says. “ They even began manufacturing some products locally, which ensured consistency and reduced costs.”
What stands out most to Dr Muhumuza, however, is ERAM’s commitment to service. Beyond supplying efficacious drugs, the company has earned a reputation for its technical expertise and after-sale support.
“Their staff are always available to guide us on new products,” he explains. “ They maintain excellent cold chain systems for vaccines and handle delicate operations such as ECF immunisation with impressive professionalism.”
Over the years, Dr Muhumuza has witnessed tangible progress. “ There’s now a wider range of drugs, vaccines and equipment available, and in good condition,” he notes. “ This has also opened up more opportunities for professional veterinarians to work in the private sector.”
His partnership with ERAM has directly contributed to the growth of his own business. “ They’ve helped me access high-quality products, which I can confidently sell to my clients at fair prices,” he says.
Reflecting on his journey, Dr Muhumuza recalls his best and worst moments with ERAM. “My best moment was when they introduced amidines for tick control. Farmers were finally relieved of the tick menace,” he smiles. “ But my worst moment was when the price of Supena Extra rose sharply — it was highly effective, but many farmers simply couldn’t afford it.”
Looking ahead, Dr Muhumuza believes ERAM can continue to improve by strengthening its distribution network and refining its packaging, especially with smallholder farmers in mind. Still, he is quick to commend what they have done right. “ They must keep their focus on quality,” he emphasises. “ That’s what has kept me, and many others, loyal all these years.”
ERAM’s impact goes beyond supplying veterinary drugs — it’s about building relationships, supporting professionals, and empowering farmers. N early 30 years on, that partnership continues to shape a stronger, more resilient animal health sector in Uganda.
