Uganda’s Health Ministry Aims to Regulate Fast Foods To Curb Rising Non-Communicable Diseases

By : Hason Mutunzi Bwambale 

Uganda’s Health ministry is taking steps to combat the increasing prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) by proposing a policy to regulate fast foods. With NCDs and injuries doubling in the last two decades and now accounting for 40 percent of deaths in the country, the ministry seeks to address the root causes linked to sedentary lifestyles and the consumption of fast foods.

Dr. James Ocakacon, a senior medical officer in the Department of NCDs Prevention and Control, highlighted the changing lifestyle patterns driven by industrialization as a major factor contributing to the rise of NCDs. He emphasized the prevalence of fast and processed foods in the market, which lack effective regulations. Echoing this concern during a recent engagement with Members of Parliament, Dr. Ocakacon stressed the urgent need for regulations to control the quantities of salt, fat, and added sugars in processed foods.

To tackle this issue, Uganda aims to adopt successful strategies from other countries while seeking support from the World Health Organization (WHO). The country intends to implement regulations on processed food imports, inspired by countries that have already implemented such measures. These regulations would not only ensure the control of potentially harmful nutrients but also protect public health.

Responding to the proposed policy, Ms. Noor Musisi, the deputy executive director of the Center for Health, Human Rights, and Development (Cehurd), suggested an alternative approach. Musisi emphasized the importance of promoting the consumption of locally-produced and organic foods to ensure the safety and health of the population. She urged the government to focus on restricting marketing strategies for processed foods while promoting the rich variety of organic food available in Uganda.

According to the Health ministry, NCDs such as diabetes, hypertension, and cancer are influenced by a combination of genetic, physiological, environmental, and behavioral factors. By regulating the importation of processed foods and limiting the quantities of potentially harmful ingredients, Uganda aims to mitigate the impact of NCDs and promote healthier dietary choices.

The proposed policy aligns with Uganda’s broader efforts to protect public health and reduce the burden of preventable diseases. By addressing the increasing prevalence of NCDs through regulation and promoting healthier lifestyle choices, the country is taking a proactive step towards building a healthier future for its citizens.