Uganda News

Kampala. As Uganda faces an ongoing mpox outbreak, the response is prioritizing innovation and inclusivity, particularly given the disease's disproportionate impact on Key Populations (KPs) such as sex workers and their networks. These marginalized groups, often subjected to stigma, discrimination, and limited access to healthcare, are at greater risk during public health emergencies.

Kampala. On 20 September 2022, Uganda declared an outbreak of Ebola disease caused by the Sudan ebolavirus (SUDV), with the first confirmed case identified at Mubende Regional Referral Hospital. Over the course of the outbreak, 164 cases were reported, including 142 confirmed and 22 probable, resulting in 77 deaths and 87 recoveries. The outbreak, which spread across nine districts, posed one of Uganda’s greatest public health challenges in recent years. However, on 11 January 2023, Uganda declared the outbreak over – in record time of 69 days.

In the Busoga region of eastern Uganda, the fight for survival has long been a daunting challenge for mothers and their children. With one of the highest institutional maternal mortality rates in the country – 93 deaths per 100,000 institutional deliveries compared to a national average of 82.7 (Ministry of Health Annual Health Sector Performance Report 2023/2024)– the urgency to act is undeniable. For years, families have grappled with a broken emergency referral system, where the lack of resources and infrastructure has turned preventable complications into tragedies.

Twenty-eight-year-old Anna Akola smiles, a beautiful wide smile that lights up her whole face. She speaks very softly, and if you are not attentive, you can miss her words. It is hard to believe that this is the same person who, a fortnight ago, was writhing in pain and discomfort in the isolation unit at Pallisa General Hospital in Eastern Uganda.

Kampala – The Government of Uganda, through the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) and Ministry of Health, with support from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the broader community of health partners and stakeholders, has today launched the country’s second National Action Plan for Health Security (NAPHS II): 2024–2029.

Kampala – Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH) marked its 70th anniversary with a celebratory event in Kampala, bringing together dignitaries including State Minister for Primary Health Care Hon. Margaret Muhanga, Makerere University Vice Chancellor Professor Barnabas Nawangwe, MakSPH Dean Professor Rhoda Wanyenze, and Ministry of Health Officials. The World Health Organization (WHO) Uganda reaffirmed its commitment to supporting MakSPH’s work in advancing public health.

Kampala, Uganda– The Government of Uganda through Ministry of Health (MOH) has recognised Dr Annet Kisakye, the World Health Organization (WHO) National Professional Officer (Routine Immunization) for her outstanding contributions to improving immunization services in Uganda. 

Kampala, Uganda– The fifth edition of the Heroes in Health Awards (HIHA) recognized and celebrated individuals and institutions making exceptional contributions to Uganda’s health sector.

Kabale, Uganda– The World Health Organization (WHO) joined the Government of Uganda and partners to commemorate the 2024 World Diabetes Day in Kabale District under the theme, "Diabetes and Well-being" and the national slogan, "Empowering Individuals, Families, and Communities for Better Diabetes Management".  The event underscored the urgent need for collaborative action across sectors to address the growing diabetes burden in Uganda. 

Kampala, Uganda– The World Health Organization (WHO) Director of the Global Tuberculosis (TB) Programme, Dr Tereza Kasaeva, concluded a transformative four-day high-level mission to Uganda (25–28 November 2024). The mission underscored Uganda’s efforts in tackling TB and Leprosy. 
 
The visit included strategic engagements with Uganda’s Minister of Health, Dr Jane Ruth Aceng Ocero, Permanent Secretary Dr Diana Atwine, and WHO Uganda staff. Dr Kasaeva also visited Wakiso District to evaluate community-level TB interventions.