Africa CDC Awards Uganda Shs102 Billion Grant and Elevates Health Officials

The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has announced a substantial $25 million (approximately Shs102 billion) grant to bolster Uganda’s health sector. The funding, sourced from the Pandemic Fund, aims to support ongoing public health initiatives across the country.

Vice President Jessica Alupo made the announcement following a high-level meeting. Alongside the financial boost, the continental health agency has elevated key Ugandan health figures to prestigious leadership roles. Minister of Health Dr. Chris Baryomunsi is set to join the Africa CDC Board as a member and chair, while seasoned epidemiologist Lt. Col. Dr. Henry Kyobe has been appointed to head the Africa CDC Uganda chapter.

Dr. Kyobe is widely recognized for his stellar work as a government medical doctor, having previously served as Uganda’s COVID-19 Incident Commander and coordinating responses against regional disease threats like Ebola. Meanwhile, Dr. Baryomunsi brings a wealth of public health and international experience to the Africa CDC Board, having previously held technical leadership roles with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and other international bodies.

This latest development comes on the heels of international praise for Uganda’s effective containment strategies against recent health crises. While Uganda successfully declared itself Ebola-free earlier, the nation has remained proactive—establishing treatment and testing centers in neighboring Democratic Republic of Congo to contain potential outbreaks at the source and reinforce cross-border surveillance.

As the Ministry of Health continues to heighten vigilance at border points, these new appointments and financial resources are expected to significantly strengthen Uganda’s capacity to detect, prevent, and respond to public health emergencies.

Read the original story on the Daily Monitor.