Health
The Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Health, Dr Diana Atwine, has emphasized the critical role of Village Health Teams (VHTs) in improving healthcare delivery.
Dr Atwine highlighted how the adoption of a new health information system has strengthened service management, tracking, and planning, particularly in the 17 districts where it has already been implemented.
Speaking during the 50th-anniversary celebration of Uganda’s Expanded Programme on Immunization at Katoogo Health Center III in Mukono District, Dr Atwiine praised the transformative impact of VHTs in rural communities.
She noted their efforts in encouraging vaccinations and immunizations, which have significantly contributed to public health.
“These teams have been instrumental in encouraging rural communities to get vaccinated and ensure their children are immunized, contributing significantly to public health,” Dr Atwiine said.
Dr. Atwiine expressed optimism about the nationwide rollout of the health information system, stressing its potential to enhance healthcare outcomes, streamline operations, and provide vital data for informed decision-making.
She also addressed the challenge of misinformation surrounding immunization programs, urging Ugandans to reject conspiracy theories that claim vaccination efforts aim to harm Africans or reduce their population.
“Such unfounded claims undermine public health initiatives and put the lives of children and communities at risk. Trust in science and the government’s commitment to protecting your health,” she implored.
Challenges in Mukono’s Healthcare System
Mukono District Health Officer (DHO), Dr. Stephen Mulindwa, expressed gratitude to the government and development partner GAVI for their support, particularly the provision of an ambulance boat, which has significantly improved healthcare access on Koome Island.
Dr Mulindwa, however, pointed out several challenges undermining effective healthcare delivery in the district, including understaffing, the absence of Health Center IIs in some sub-counties, and a lack of reliable transport for monitoring health units.
He called for increased investment to address these gaps, ensuring equitable access to quality healthcare services for all communities, especially those in remote areas.
Community Sensitization and Accountability
Mukono District President’s Representative, Fatumah Ndisaba, raised concerns about the resurgence of previously controlled diseases due to some parents’ reluctance to immunize their children.
She urged grassroots leaders to intensify community sensitization about the importance of childhood vaccination.
“A disease-free Uganda fosters national development by enabling families to save money otherwise spent on treating preventable diseases,” Ndisaba said.
She also warned that legal action would be taken against parents who deliberately avoid immunizing their children, emphasizing that public health must take precedence.
Global Support for Immunization
Dr Sania Nishtar, CEO of the Global Vaccine Alliance (GAVI), commended Uganda’s strides in strengthening immunization programs through innovation and technology.
She acknowledged the government’s commitment to combating deadly diseases and integrating technology into healthcare delivery to save young lives.
“Uganda’s efforts to safeguard its younger population’s health are commendable. GAVI remains committed to supporting the country’s mission to achieve a healthier, disease-free society,” Dr Nishtar said.
The event underscored the need for collective action to enhance immunization programs and tackle healthcare challenges, paving the way for a more robust and equitable health system across Uganda.
