Mathias Magoola commends President Museveni for Transforming Uganda’s Health Sector.

As the CEO of DEI-BIO PHARMA, I have had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the transformative impact of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni’s leadership on Uganda’s health sector. Over the years, his visionary leadership has revolutionized healthcare delivery, making significant strides in improving the lives of Ugandans. In this article, I will highlight some of the remarkable achievements that demonstrate President Museveni’s commitment to transforming the health sector. Iam humbled that I was recognised by Public Opinions on the list of the top100 Uganda Development Champions, and rated on the list of the Uganda top21 Uganda Health Sector Transformation Champions to be inducted in the Uganda Development Champions Journal.On behalf of Dei Group, we are humbled.

One of the most notable achievements of President Museveni’s leadership is the expansion of access to healthcare. Today, an impressive 86% of the population lives within 5km of reach of either public or private health facilities, up from 75% in 2010. This increase in access has been made possible by the construction of new health facilities, including 181 hospitals, 222 Health Centre IVs, 1,510 Health Centre IIIs, and 3,364 Health Centre IIs. These facilities have not only increased access to healthcare but also improved the quality of services, bringing hope and healing to millions of Ugandans.

President Museveni’s government has also invested heavily in strengthening health systems, including the procurement and installation of 1,514 Immunization Program solar fridges to ensure quality cold chain and safe vaccines for the Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI). Additionally, the government has scaled up the Results-Based Financing program, focusing on Reproductive, Maternal, Neonatal, Child, and Adolescent Health Services. This program has improved efficiency, equity, and quality of health services, ensuring that vulnerable populations receive the care they need.

The Uganda Cancer Institute (UCI) is a testament to President Museveni’s commitment to cancer care and treatment. The modern facility, approved as a Centre of Excellence for training, research, and treatment of cancer in East Africa, has expanded cancer care services, including funding 183 students to pursue cancer-related courses. The UCI has also established Regional Cancer Centres in Gulu and Mbarara, increasing access to care for cancer patients across the country.

President Museveni’s leadership has also been instrumental in promoting Comprehensive HIV Prevention, Care, and Treatment. ART coverage among HIV-infected adults and children has increased to 86%, with the country on track to achieve the second of the triple 90-90-90 targets by 2020. The government’s efforts have also led to a decline in mother-to-child transmission of HIV, with fewer than 3,000 babies infected annually.

The government, under President Museveni’s leadership, has spearheaded nationwide campaigns to prevent, control, and treat malaria. National malaria prevalence in children under five years has declined from 55% in 2009 to 17% in 2017. The government has also distributed millions of long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs) and implemented Indoor Residual Spraying (IRS) and Larviciding programs, further reducing malaria transmission.

The government under the visionary leadership of H.E Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has strengthened disease surveillance and response systems, enabling early detection and control of epidemic outbreaks, including COVID-19. The Uganda Virus Research Institute (UVRI) and National Public Health Laboratory at Butabika have been equipped to diagnose and confirm outbreaks, ensuring a rapid response to public health threats.

The government has also invested in human resources, increasing the number of qualified health professionals from 90,412 in 2017 to 101,350. Salary enhancement for medical personnel has been effected, and 721 scholarships have been awarded to health workers, improving motivation, retention, and attraction of health workers.

The government has promoted availability of Essential Medicines and Health Supplies, increasing allocation General allocation. The National Medical Stores (NMS) has also been strengthened, with a new Central Vaccine Store under construction, enhancing traceability and accountability.

The government has invested heavily in infrastructure development, renovating and expanding hospitals, including Kawolo, Kayunga, and Yumbe Hospitals. The construction of a Regional Specialized Paediatric Surgical Hospital in Entebbe and a 450-bed Specialized Women and Neonatal hospital at Mulago are testaments to President Museveni’s commitment to improving healthcare infrastructure.

In conclusion, President Museveni’s leadership has transformed Uganda’s health sector, expanding access to healthcare, strengthening health systems, and improving the quality of services. His commitment to cancer care and treatment, HIV prevention, malaria control, and disease surveillance has saved countless lives. As the CEO of DEI-BIO PHARMA, I commend President Museveni’s visionary leadership and look forward to continued collaboration in improving the health and wellbeing of Ugandans.

Nomination for Great 21 personalities who have made tremendous contributions towards transformation of the health sector is ongoing. Nominate by sending sms or whatsapp to +256774992426,and follow public Opinions on www.publicopinions.net. Public Opinions is working on the 2025/2026 Uganda Development Champions Journal to feature Great 63 personalities as Uganda is set to celebrate 63 years of its independence.