MBL has a history that dates bact to 1995 when Dr Thomas Egwang and other Ugandan Scientists started it with research funds from WHO. It was conceived with the conviction that the private sector in Africa can play a critical role in biomedical research and training alongside the traditional government institutions (universities, ministries, etc). Specifically, the aim was to serve as a role model for private sector involvement in the business of health research. During the first year of operation (1995/1996), the setting up of the infrastructure (recruitment of personnel, a functional laboratory with equipment and a library) was completed. An administrative body was put in place.

Over the years, MBL scope has widened from malaria to cover other fields of research which include HIV, Cassava Research and Environmental Biotechnology. In addition, the Number of staff has also grown with many attaining PhDs and MSc Degrees. In terms of infrastructure, MBL has grown to have two laboratories, one in Central and one in Northern Uganda. The latter is in the process of being equiped with modern research equipments.