Health 31 March 2026
Soroti Regional Referral Hospital has established a dedicated emergency centre to improve coordination and rapid response to disease outbreaks across the Teso sub-region. The facility aims to bolster the region's capacity to manage public health crises effectively. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/soroti-hospital-sets-up-emergency-centre-to-strengthen-outbreak-response-5409312
news 31 March 2026
Uganda faces a deepening mental health crisis among students, with experts urging parents and schools to recognize and act on early suicide warning signs following recent learner deaths. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/student-suicides-rise-why-parents-and-schools-must-act-on-early-warning-signs--5409266
Health 30 March 2026
A confirmed measles outbreak in Kagadi district, mid-western Uganda, has killed five children under five in the sub-counties of Kyakabadima, Kyaterekera, and Ndaiga. Health authorities are ramping up vaccinations, sensitization efforts, and treatment with Vitamin A supplements to contain the spread. Source: https://observer.ug/news/five-children-dead-as-measles-outbreak-hits-kagadi-district
Health 30 March 2026
Leaders in Masindi District are warning about poor sanitation and hygiene practices that fuel preventable diseases, as a recent health report reveals WASH coverage at 74.8 percent, below the national 88 percent average. Kimengo Sub-County lags severely while Kijunjubwa leads with strong community efforts. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/masindi-leaders-sounds-alarm-over-poor-sanitation-hygiene-practices-5408444
Health 30 March 2026
The Global Fund has pledged $521 million (Shs1.9 trillion) to Uganda for combating HIV, TB, and malaria over the next three years, despite a dip from prior funding levels. Health officials are confident this will bolster systems, widen ART access, and curb new infections. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/global-fund-commits-shs1-9-trillion-to-fight-tb-malaria-and-hiv-5407432
Health 29 March 2026
Clinical psychologist Stephen Mpagi donated a kidney to his younger brother at Mulago Hospital after years of painful dialysis, spotlighting Uganda's urgent need for more organ donations amid rising kidney disease cases and limited treatment access. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/magazines/healthy-living/the-donor-who-refused-to-watch-his-brother-die-5405480
Health 29 March 2026
Parents often fret over spaces between their child's baby teeth, but these gaps typically signal healthy jaw growth to accommodate larger permanent teeth. Known as primate spaces near the canines, they prevent future crowding, though regular dental check-ups are key to monitor development. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/magazines/healthy-living/should-you-worry-about-gaps-in-your-child-s-baby-teeth--5405458
Health 29 March 2026
Many Ugandan cancer patients turn to herbal remedies due to their cultural trust and accessibility, but experts warn of serious risks when combining them with chemotherapy or delaying proven treatments. Safe use requires medical guidance, NDA approval, and ongoing research by institutions like the Uganda Cancer Institute. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/magazines/healthy-living/are-herbal-remedies-safe-for-cancer-patients--5405448
Health 29 March 2026
A Ugandan woman shares her struggle with chin hairs, fearing the label 'kyakulasajja' or masculine woman, and asks for permanent removal methods. Experts highlight hirsutism as a potential issue linked to genetics, hormones, PCOS, or other medical factors, urging medical consultation before cosmetic treatments. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/magazines/healthy-living/how-can-i-permanently-get-rid-of-beards-as-a-woman--5405428
Health 29 March 2026
A High Court in Jinja has ordered Shs190 million in compensation to John Wataka, who endured unnecessary HIV treatment for seven years after a false positive test at TASO. Experts affirm Uganda's HIV testing protocols are over 99% accurate but stress the need for confirmatory steps and vigilant follow-up. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/magazines/healthy-living/how-reliable-are-your-hiv-results--5405406
Health 29 March 2026
A new solar-powered water system at Kigwera Health Centre III in Buliisa district has ended the daily struggle of staff and patients trekking long distances for water. Supported by TotalEnergies and Engineers Without Borders East Africa, the initiative ensures steady supply for critical areas like maternity wards, boosting hygiene and patient care. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/solar-powered-water-system-rescues-stressed-kigwera-health-centre-iii-5407024
Health 29 March 2026
Health experts in Soroti recommend folic acid intake six months before conception and prompt antenatal care to lower Down Syndrome risks, amid calls for skilling centers to empower affected children. Community leaders highlight ongoing stigma and neglect, urging greater support during World Down Syndrome Day. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/how-to-minimize-risk-of-down-syndrome-5406968
lifestyle 28 March 2026
Discover three nutrient-packed smoothies that blend fruits, veggies, and superfoods into delicious, colorful drinks perfect for daily health boosts or meal replacements. From vibrant orange to refreshing green, these recipes are easy to make and crave-worthy. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/lifestyle/dining-recipes/blend-your-way-to-better-health-3-power-packed-smoothies-you-will-crave-daily-5404620
Health 28 March 2026
Stakeholders in Uganda's mental health sector are concerned that allocating just one psychiatric officer per district cannot cope with surging demand, as cases rose 71 percent from 2021 to 2024. Calls intensify for more training, jobs, and infrastructure to bolster services amid critical staffing shortages. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/one-psychiatric-officer-per-district-ratio-worries-mental-health-stakeholders--5406010
Health 27 March 2026
Uganda's Parliament has enacted the National Drug and Health Products Authority Bill, 2025, creating a new central authority to oversee drugs and health products while introducing tough penalties for illegal activities. The reforms replace outdated laws and permit controlled access to unapproved drugs in emergencies like life-threatening cases. Source: https://www.parliament.go.ug/news/4323/parliament-passes-sweeping-reforms-medicines
Health 27 March 2026
HIV prevalence among sex workers in Uganda has reached critical levels, topping 54 percent in Mbarara and exceeding 40 percent in several other regions, posing a major threat to national efforts to curb the epidemic. Experts call for targeted interventions to address behavioral risks, stigma, and limited healthcare access for these vulnerable groups. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/sex-workers-hiv-rates-soar-to-alarming-levels-5405546
Health 27 March 2026
Uganda is advancing a unified One Health approach integrating human, animal, and environmental health to counter rising zoonotic threats from increased wildlife contact. Officials highlighted community-led surveillance and local diagnostics after four years of research on diseases like Rift Valley Fever and Brucellosis. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/joint-human-animal-health-approach-targets-disease-outbreaks-5405244
Health 27 March 2026
The M-CARE project, funded by €4 million from the EU, was launched in Lira to train health workers in managing multi-morbidities like hypertension, diabetes, and mental health at primary centres. It aims to boost early detection, integrate care systems, and support Universal Health Coverage across Uganda, Kenya, and Ghana. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/new-shs17b-health-project-promises-to-revolutionise-uganda-s-healthcare-5404694
Health 26 March 2026
Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), the Ministry of Health, and the City Cancer Challenge Foundation have partnered on a five-year strategy to improve cancer detection, diagnosis, and treatment in Kampala. The initiative aims to address late diagnoses and preventable deaths by creating a coordinated, patient-centered system under KCCA's Healthy Cities framework. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/inside-kcca-health-ministry-s-five-year-anti-cancer-strategy-5404640
Health 26 March 2026
Uganda's President Museveni warned in 2018 that the mouth is for eating, not sex, dismissing oral sex as a Western import. Recent CDC data linking HPV from oral sex to 60-70% of US throat cancers has reignited debates, challenging young people's dismissal of his advice. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/lifestyle/entertainment/the-mouth-is-for-eating-okurya--5403382
Health 25 March 2026
HIV prevalence in Uganda's Ankole sub-region has surged well above the national average of 4.9 percent, reaching 11 percent in Kiruhura, 10 percent in Mbarara City, and 8 percent in Bushenyi. The Uganda Aids Commission is reviewing prevention efforts amid concerns over complacency, risky behaviors, and cultural practices fueling the increase. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/worry-as-hiv-prevalence-rate-in-ankole-surges-5403550
Health 25 March 2026
Residents in Uganda's remote island and mountainous areas struggle with timely medical care due to poor communication, unreliable transport, staff shortages, and missing facilities, as highlighted in a recent Equal Opportunities Commission report. Government officials acknowledge the issues and outline plans for upgrades including better ambulances and Health Centre IIIs. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/healthcare-challenges-of-island-mountain-dwellers-5403534
Health 25 March 2026
Gulu Regional Referral Hospital authorities have promised disciplinary measures against staff for unprofessional behavior like phone use on duty and neglecting patients, following public outcry at a community meeting. Management highlighted new surveillance tools and urged digital reporting of misconduct. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/gulu-hospital-vows-action-against-errant-staff-amid-public-outcry-5403528
Health 25 March 2026
The unchecked sale of banned skin lightening products containing mercury and hydroquinone poses severe health risks to Ugandans, fueled by societal pressure for lighter skin. Authorities urge education campaigns and stricter measures to combat this growing crisis. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/editorial/use-of-banned-skin-creams-is-a-public-health-crisis-5403508
Health 25 March 2026
Proscovia Auma, a 41-year-old nursing officer at Mbale Regional Referral Hospital, has dedicated her career to maternal care despite personal hardships and resource challenges. Her leadership and mentorship have helped slash the hospital's maternal mortality rate by 47 percent. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/lifestyle/reviews-profiles/midwife-fighting-for-lives-of-mbale-mothers-5403238
Health 25 March 2026
While Uganda grapples with local healthcare challenges like staff shortages and distant facilities, global events such as Middle East conflicts and supply chain disruptions are driving up costs of essential medical items and food, severely impacting public health. These interconnected forces reveal how international politics directly affect hospital bills, nutrition, and care delivery in Ugandan communities. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/commentary/when-global-forces-affect-access-to-healthcare-5403502
Health 25 March 2026
A young girl's death after climbing into a parked car in Adjumani underscores the rapid heat buildup inside locked vehicles, which can lead to fatal heatstroke in minutes. Experts outline prevention tips and survival steps amid rising awareness of this hidden danger. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/business/auto/how-long-can-you-survive-in-a-locked-car--5403138
Health 25 March 2026
Residents of Kisiima Island in Jinja are at risk of health hazards after their sole remaining communal pit latrine developed cracks, forcing many into open defecation or unsafe practices. Local leaders and health officials urge urgent repairs and better hygiene to prevent disease outbreaks. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/jinja-islanders-face-health-risks-as-only-toilet-cracks-5403374
Health 25 March 2026
Health experts and advocacy groups in Uganda are pressing for a government ban on industrially produced trans fats due to their role in surging cardiovascular disease cases. They highlight the need for stricter regulations and affordable healthy alternatives to curb the epidemic. Source: https://observer.ug/news/nutritionists-push-for-ban-on-industrial-trans-fats-as-heart-disease-cases-soar
environment 25 March 2026
Millions of Ugandans rely on charcoal for cooking, fueling an informal economy but driving massive forest destruction and health hazards from indoor pollution. Recent policy efforts and a national dialogue seek a balanced shift to cleaner energy without harming livelihoods. Source: https://observer.ug/news/can-uganda-balance-energy-needs-health-and-forest-conservation
education 24 March 2026
Ecobank Uganda and the Uganda Red Cross Society are fundraising Shs200 million to provide sanitary pads for 10,000 vulnerable girls, helping them stay in school despite menstrual hygiene issues. The initiative, launched in 2019, has already aided 120,000 girls and includes plans for a reusable pads manufacturing plant. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/ecobank-uganda-red-cross-in-shs200m-drive-to-keep-10-000-girls-in-school-5402104
Health 24 March 2026
Social media platforms in Uganda are aggressively promoting harmful skin bleaching products, making it difficult for authorities to regulate their widespread sale and use. Despite health risks, the 'brown skin girl' beauty narrative is being overshadowed by a push for lighter skin tones. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/-brown-skin-girl-how-social-media-is-pushing-harmful-bleaching-products-in-uganda-5401590
Health 24 March 2026
Uganda has achieved a remarkable 65% reduction in leprosy cases over the past five years, yet stigma and limited access to services continue to impede eradication efforts. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/uganda-reports-65-drop-in-leprosy-cases-over-five-years-5402052
Health 24 March 2026
Residents in Uganda's remote island and mountainous areas face significant obstacles to healthcare, including poor communication, unreliable transport, and staff shortages, as outlined in a recent Equal Opportunities Commission report. Urgent interventions are needed to address these gaps and prevent avoidable deaths. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/five-major-barriers-to-healthcare-in-uganda-s-islands-highlands-5401618
Health 23 March 2026
Gulu Regional Referral Hospital has experienced a 300% increase in uptake of the monthly injectable HIV prevention drug cabotegravir, far exceeding allocated supplies due to effective peer outreach efforts. While demand for the vaginal ring remains low, the hospital bridges shortages with oral PrEP tablets amid growing interest in long-acting options. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/gulu-hospital-records-300-percent-uptake-of-hiv-prevention-drug-5400312
Health 23 March 2026
Six-month-old Safiat Musenze from Kampala needs urgent open-heart surgery to repair a hole in her heart, with doctors warning of severe risks like heart failure if delayed. Her family is appealing for public donations to cover the Shs50 million cost for treatment in India. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/safiat-musenze-needs-shs50m-for-open-heart-surgery-5400156
Health 23 March 2026
Parliament Speaker Anita Among has given Shs 50 million to support the Rajiv Ruparelia Memorial Free Eye Camp, a three-day event at Bukedea Teaching Hospital targeting patients from eastern and northern Uganda. The outreach, organized by the Ruparelia Foundation, provides screenings, surgeries, spectacles, and aid for complex cases. Source: https://observer.ug/news/among-donates-shs-50m-to-rajiv-ruparelia-memorial-eye-health-camp
Health 23 March 2026
Kawempe National Referral Hospital has dramatically reduced annual maternal deaths from 200 to 60 over the past three years, according to its Executive Director Dr. Emmanuel Byaruhanga. He shared this update during a parliamentary committee hearing amid questions on free services for patients. Source: https://www.parliament.go.ug/index.php/news/4307/kawempe-hospital-cuts-maternal-deaths-over-100
Health 23 March 2026
Masaka Regional Referral Hospital's ambulances are largely idle due to drastic fuel funding cuts from Shs5 million to Shs1 million quarterly, as revealed by Executive Director Dr. James Elima to Parliament's Public Accounts Committee. Lawmakers voiced strong concerns over patients footing fuel bills in emergencies and called for urgent fixes including better staffing and specialized vehicles. Source: https://www.parliament.go.ug/index.php/news/4305/masaka-hospital-ambulances-grounded-due-fuel-cuts
Health 23 March 2026
Butabika National Referral Mental Hospital is short of Shs102 billion to cover its wage, non-wage, and development needs, as revealed by Executive Director Dr. Juliet Nakku before Parliament's Public Accounts Committee. Staffing shortages and rising mental illness rates, including high depression and suicide figures, compound the challenges. Source: https://www.parliament.go.ug/index.php/news/4301/butabika-grappling-funding-gap-amid-rise-mental-illness
Health 23 March 2026
Newborns and premature babies at Mulago Specialised Women and Neonatal Hospital face health risks due to a shortage of specialists, forcing transfers to other facilities. Acting Executive Director Dr. Sam Ononge highlighted that over 45% of NICU admissions require care the hospital cannot provide. Source: https://www.parliament.go.ug/index.php/news/4302/no-specialised-care-new-borns-mulago-women-hospital
Health 23 March 2026
Parliament has adopted a motion calling for increased budget allocation to tackle Sickle Cell Disease, a major public health issue affecting many Ugandans. Presented by Hon. Asuman Basalirwa and supported by fellow MPs, the move seeks urgent government action on prevention, screening, and treatment. Source: https://www.parliament.go.ug/index.php/news/4299/mps-pass-motion-fight-sickle-cell-disease
Health 23 March 2026
A study across 59 health facilities in Uganda and Malawi achieved a 32% drop in infection-related maternal deaths and severe complications through improved handwashing, targeted antibiotics, and sepsis protocols. Researchers emphasize simple measures like hand hygiene as key to preventing over 1,000 annual maternal deaths in Uganda. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/handwashing-by-doctors-antibiotics-cut-infection-related-deaths-in-mothers-by-32--5399898
Health 23 March 2026
Mulago National Referral Hospital has rolled out a WhatsApp bot to let patients check cancer biopsy results remotely, cutting down on queues and travel expenses. Led by Dr. Sharif Musoke, the tool provides instant updates and helps spot delays in processing. Source: https://observer.ug/news/mulago-rolls-out-whatsapp-bot-to-access-cancer-results-remotely
Health 22 March 2026
A reader puzzled by genital sores after a decade without sex learns that herpes, a common incurable viral STD, can lie dormant and reactivate due to triggers like stress or illness. Experts stress the importance of medical consultation to distinguish it from similar conditions. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/magazines/healthy-living/can-i-really-have-an-std-without-being-intimate--5397974
Health 22 March 2026
Asthma impacts 6-11% of Ugandans, yet misconceptions lead to delayed diagnoses and poor management. Pulmonologist Dr. Kanishka Salunkhe highlights 10 dangerous myths that hinder effective treatment and allow unnecessary suffering. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/magazines/healthy-living/10-dangerous-myths-ugandans-believe-about-asthma-5397922
Business 22 March 2026
Promoters of regenerative medicine under Norland Uganda are encouraging locals to join a new franchise business model, blending health recovery with income opportunities through herbal Chinese products and premium outlets. Beneficiaries like former patients highlight how it lowers entry barriers for entrepreneurship amid the company's 7th anniversary celebrations. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/regenerative-medicine-promoters-rally-ugandans-for-franchise-business-model-5398978
Politics 21 March 2026
President Museveni pledged Shs5 billion to content creators and bloggers at his Kisozi farm, drawing sharp criticism for overlooking dire healthcare needs like Mulago Hospital's inability to afford basic running water. Critics argue this highlights misplaced government priorities when essential public services remain underfunded. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/commentary/shs5b-for-bloggers-while-mulago-can-t-afford-water-5398494
Health 21 March 2026
Uganda's Ministry of Health has initiated a Shs19 billion ($5.4 million) door-to-door screening drive, funded by UNICEF and UNHCR, to detect and treat at least 20,000 children with acute malnutrition in 13 refugee-hosting districts. The effort addresses surging cases amid food insecurity, using community health teams for early intervention. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/13-refugee-hosting-districts-targeted-in-shs19b-child-malnutrition-screening-5398644
Health 21 March 2026
Mulago National Referral Hospital is battling a network of fake medical staff who pose as doctors and charge desperate patients for free services. Recent arrests highlight involvement of security guards in allowing hawkers to operate through bribery schemes. Source: https://observer.ug/news/how-mulago-hospitals-fake-doctors-are-preying-on-the-vulnerable-patients
Health 20 March 2026
A new Emergency Operations Centre at Kabale Regional Referral Hospital in Uganda's Kigezi sub-region has been launched to boost surveillance, coordination, and rapid response to public health emergencies. The facility addresses past delays in outbreak management, especially in border areas prone to cross-border disease transmission. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/kigezi-gets-hub-to-manage-disease-outbreaks-5397332
Health 20 March 2026
Schoolchildren in Uganda's Acholi sub-region are facing anxiety, depression, and suicide risks due to poverty and domestic issues, impacting their academic performance. The Youth Mental Health Project is empowering youth with skills and support through school programs to address these problems. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/how-experts-are-managing-mental-health-among-schoolchildren-5397320
Health 20 March 2026
Nutrition experts in Uganda are calling on companies to hire nutritionists to oversee employee diets amid surging non-communicable diseases linked to sedentary office lifestyles and poor eating habits. They highlight the need for better food choices at work and personal steps like walking to improve health. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/employ-nutritionists-to-monitor-diets-at-workplaces-experts-urge-5397278
Health 19 March 2026
Ugandan nurses endure daily emotional strain, blame for systemic failures, and burnout from overwork, yet receive little recognition or support. Caring for these carers is essential to fortify the healthcare system. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/commentary/nurse-tales-who-cares-for-the-carers--5397156
lifestyle 19 March 2026
Several Ugandans opened up about seeking therapy to tackle grief, burnout, depression, and trauma, highlighting how professional support helped them heal and grow despite widespread stigma. Their stories challenge the notion that emotional struggles should be silently endured. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/lifestyle/entertainment/they-spoke-out-and-healed-within-candid-journey-through-therapy-5395898
Health 19 March 2026
The tragic suicide of a top-scoring UACE student in Uganda underscores the deadly impact of academic pressure and taunting, with new data revealing over 272,000 cases of suicidal thoughts among youth. Experts urge widespread mental health initiatives, counseling in schools, and community awareness to prevent such losses. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/editorial/let-s-have-more-mental-health-campaigns-for-our-young-people-5397152
Health 19 March 2026
Masaka Regional Referral Hospital's ambulances are largely non-operational due to severe funding cuts that slashed fuel allocation from Shs5 million to Shs1 million quarterly. Hospital Executive Director Dr. James Elima told Parliament's Public Accounts Committee that the limited funds also cover generator fuel and other travel, exacerbating service gaps in the Greater Masaka region. Source: https://www.parliament.go.ug/news/4305/masaka-hospital-ambulances-grounded-due-fuel-cuts
Health 19 March 2026
Kawempe National Referral Hospital has dramatically lowered its annual maternal deaths from 200 to 60 over the past three years, according to Executive Director Dr. Emmanuel Byaruhanga. He shared this update during a session with Parliament's Public Accounts Committee amid questions on service fees. Source: https://www.parliament.go.ug/news/4307/kawempe-hospital-cuts-maternal-deaths-over-100
Health 19 March 2026
An ongoing anthrax outbreak in Lyantonde District has claimed six human lives and 137 animals since January, with cultural practices like avoiding carcass disposal and favoring herbal treatments fueling the spread. Officials urge vaccination and community cooperation amid limited vaccine supplies. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/cultural-beliefs-deter-fight-against-anthrax-5396524
Health 19 March 2026
Kisiima Health Centre III on Lake Victoria's Kisiima Island has been without electricity for a year, halting lab operations and nighttime care for 600 monthly patients from Jinja and Buikwe areas. Officials promise a sustainable power fix soon. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/kisiima-health-centre-iii-the-facility-operating-in-darkness-5396384
Health 19 March 2026
Jinja Regional Referral Hospital's neurosurgery services, launched in January 2025, have dramatically cut mortality from brain injuries, saving lives previously lost to referral delays. Despite progress, staffing shortages and equipment gaps persist for the facility serving 4.5 million people. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/neurological-services-open-new-doors-for-patients-in-busoga-5396314
Health 19 March 2026
Uganda grapples with severe shortages in eye care, including just 40 ophthalmologists for over 45 million people, leading to high blindness rates from cataracts and glaucoma. Rural areas suffer from poor diagnostics, limited awareness, and exorbitant surgery costs up to Shs2.5 million. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/special-reports/price-of-sight-the-pain-in-accessing-eye-care-services-5396138
Health 18 March 2026
Prof Mansoor Saleh, head of Haematology Oncology at Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH), has called on African governments to prioritize funding for cancer research amid rising cases. He highlighted the urgent need for investment to tackle the growing burden of the disease across the continent. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/african-govts-tasked-to-fund-cancer-research-5396018
Health 18 March 2026
Masindi Hospital has received a $35,000 (Shs131.3 million) project from Rotary Clubs to equip it with maternal and child health tools, train staff and Village Health Teams, and improve access to quality care for thousands in the region. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/masindi-hospital-gets-shs130m-project-to-boost-maternal-child-health-5395868
Health 18 March 2026
Kyotera District's HIV prevalence has reached 12.6 percent, over twice Uganda's national average of 5.2 percent, fueled by risky behaviors in bars and lodges along the busy Kampala-Mutukula highway. Truck drivers, fishermen, and locals engaging in unprotected sex after heavy drinking are key contributors to the rising cases. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/how-nightlife-is-fueling-rise-in-kyotera-hiv-cases-5395598
Entertainment News 18 March 2026
The annual Holi musical festival at Kampala Parents School combined cultural celebration with a strong push for cancer awareness, highlighting the need for early detection in Uganda. Organized by the East Indian Cultural Association, the event drew families and partners committed to community health initiatives. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/lifestyle/entertainment/holi-musical-festival-in-champions-cancer-awareness-5395424
Health 18 March 2026
Doctors in China have successfully reversed Type 1 diabetes in a 25-year-old woman using an experimental stem cell transplant, allowing her to produce insulin naturally without injections for over a year. This development offers cautious optimism for Uganda, where around 18,200 people live with the condition amid limited treatment access. Source: https://observer.ug/news/doctors-reverse-type-1-diabetes-what-next
Health 18 March 2026
Kiryandongo district, home to 365,000 Ugandans and 165,000 refugees from over 82 tribes, faces severe food insecurity worsened by U.S. aid reductions under Trump. Local authorities are empowering 400 Village Health Teams and care groups to screen children, promote nutritious local meals, and drive down malnutrition rates through community-led initiatives. Source: https://observer.ug/news/after-trump-aid-cuts-kiryandongo-turns-to-communities-to-fight-malnutrition
Health 18 March 2026
A recent survey indicates that 16% of Ugandans are not using insecticide-treated nets (ITNs), heightening malaria risks despite high ownership rates. The 2025 Uganda Malaria Indicator Survey highlights regional gaps in usage, particularly in areas like Tooro. Source: https://observer.ug/news/over-16-of-ugandans-still-not-sleeping-under-mosquito-nets-survey
crime 17 March 2026
An unidentified woman disguised as a medical officer stole a three-day-old baby girl from Kiganda Health Centre IV in Kassanda District on March 15, 2026. Police are investigating and urging the public to report suspicious cases of women with newborns. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/impostor-steals-3-day-old-baby-from-kiganda-health-centre-iv-5394828
consumer 17 March 2026
Ugandan consumers face risks from substandard and fake products like juices, sugars, and cosmetics, often sold by unaware traders duped by manufacturers. UNBS campaigns urge vigilance, checking for Q-marks and proper labels to ensure safety and compliance. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/magazines/homes-and-property/what-to-watch-out-for-when-shopping-5394066
Health 17 March 2026
Newborns and premature babies at Mulago Specialised Women and Neonatal Hospital are being transferred to other facilities due to a shortage of specialists, exposing them to health risks like infections and blindness. Acting Executive Director Dr. Sam Ononge highlighted that over 45% of NICU admissions require eye checks unavailable on-site, amid staffing shortages. Source: https://www.parliament.go.ug/news/4302/no-specialised-care-new-borns-mulago-women-hospital
Health 16 March 2026
Butabika National Referral Mental Hospital is short of Shs102 billion to cover its wage, non-wage, and capital needs, as revealed by Executive Director Dr. Juliet Nakku before Parliament's Public Accounts Committee. Staffing shortages and rising mental illness rates, including high depression and suicide figures, compound the challenges at the facility. Source: https://www.parliament.go.ug/news/4301/butabika-grappling-funding-gap-amid-rise-mental-illness
Politics 14 March 2026
Uganda signed a five-year, $1.7 billion health cooperation deal with the US on December 10, 2025, but critical issues like data sovereignty, benefit-sharing, and exit clauses remain unaddressed amid concerns from other African nations. Critics question if the agreement safeguards national rights under international frameworks or cedes control through regulatory alignment and long-term data sharing. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/insight/questions-no-one-is-asking-in-uganda-us-health-deal-5390568
Health 14 March 2026
The National Drug Authority shut down over 65 unlicensed drug outlets in Lira, Amolatar, Oyam, and Lira City during a week-long operation, seizing medicines worth Shs37 million. Officials highlighted risks to public health from substandard storage and unlicensed sales, vowing to expand crackdowns. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/nda-shuts-65-illegal-drug-outlets-in-northern-uganda-crackdown-5390594
Health 13 March 2026
Parliament has adopted a motion urging the government to recognize Sickle Cell Disease as a critical public health issue warranting increased budgetary support for prevention, screening, and treatment. Presented by Hon. Asuman Basalirwa and supported by fellow MPs, the move highlights the disease's heavy toll on Uganda's population. Source: https://www.parliament.go.ug/news/4299/mps-pass-motion-fight-sickle-cell-disease
Health 12 March 2026
Uganda's malaria prevalence among children under five has climbed to 13 percent in 2025 from 10 percent in 2018, according to the latest Uganda Malaria Indicator Survey, with the Lango sub-region hit hardest at 32 percent. Officials urge intensified action amid ongoing investments and a long-term push to eradicate the disease by 2030. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/new-epicenters-govt-reports-surge-in-malaria-prevalence-5389462
Health 12 March 2026
Uganda's anti-tobacco coalition is urging Parliament to raise excise taxes on tobacco products by 200% for the 2026/2027 financial year, citing low current rates and strong public support. The push aims to deter consumption, cut tobacco-related deaths, and generate revenue for public health. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/health-groups-push-for-200-increase-in-tobacco-taxes-5389510
Health 12 March 2026
A new digital community centre at Butabika National Referral Mental Hospital provides free computer training to patients, staff, and locals, aiding recovery and societal reintegration amid rising mental health cases. Launched with partner support, it has trained over 466 people since 2024. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/digital-hub-offers-lifeline-to-butabika-hospital-patients-5389482
education 12 March 2026
In Uganda's West Nile region, girls face high absenteeism and dropouts due to poor school sanitation, menstrual stigma, and cultural pressures. Recent government projects with German funding are building facilities to help girls stay in school during periods. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/menstrual-stigma-poor-facilities-affect-girls-education-in-west-nile-5389660
Health 12 March 2026
Uganda's government officials have criticized the lack of improved service delivery despite substantial salary hikes for doctors, pointing to widespread dual employment and absenteeism among senior specialists. New health service standards and a client charter aim to enforce accountability and better performance in public hospitals. Source: https://observer.ug/news/no-value-for-money-from-enhanced-doctors-pay-govt
Health 11 March 2026
Unemployment and stress are some of the factors reported to be fuelling mental health. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/west-nile-youth-grapple-with-mental-disorders-5387306
Health 10 March 2026
PS Dr Atwine calls for tough action on health workers. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/govt-to-dismiss-medics-over-low-output-absenteeism-5386910
Health 10 March 2026
Mr Ivan Oweka, the Omoro District agricultural officer, acknowledged the outbreak but blamed. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/omoro-farmers-grapple-with-coffee-diseases-5386452
Health 9 March 2026
Dr Paul Pope Okwera, a medical officer at Kitgum General Hospital, was netted on Friday. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/kitgum-doctor-ran-theatre-at-his-home-for-five-months-before-arrest-sources-5385098
Health 9 March 2026
One of the suspects is a repeat offender, according to authorities. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/police-arrest-two-allied-health-council-staff-masqueraders-over-extortion-5385030
Health 9 March 2026
Mulago Hospital is currently the only public health facility with this level of certification. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/mulago-gets-iso-certifications-after-decade-long-quality-improvement-5384928
Health 8 March 2026
I see young girls forced into adult responsibilities when they become pregnant, instead of. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/oped/commentary/uganda-must-invest-in-sexual-and-reproductive-health-rights-5384692
Health 8 March 2026
Unlicensed clinics and drug shops are operating across Uganda, selling unauthorised medicines. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/magazines/healthy-living/who-is-really-treating-you-the-truth-about-illegal-clinics-5381202
Health 8 March 2026
Each year on March 3, the world observes World Hearing Day, led by the World Health. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/magazines/healthy-living/the-high-price-children-pay-for-untreated-ear-infections-5381268
Health 8 March 2026
According to the Uganda Cancer Institute (UCI), several factors contribute to the high burden. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/magazines/healthy-living/uganda-s-struggle-with-late-stage-disease-5381224
Health 8 March 2026
The new policy, advanced by the Ministries of Health and Education, would delay graduation for. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/medics-list-six-grounds-for-rejecting-new-medical-education-internship-policy-5384192
Health 6 March 2026
Residents say poor access exposes families to disease and economic hardship. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/water-crisis-hits-kagadi-kakumiro-and-kibaale-5381838
Health 5 March 2026
Dr Martina Kia is part of a growing but still rare community of female veterinarians in Uganda. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/lifestyle/reviews-profiles/dr-kia-s-bold-path-in-wildlife-medicine-5379982
Health 3 March 2026
Hospitals in Busoga need about 4,000 blood units on a monthly basis. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/busoga-hospitals-face-severe-blood-shortage-5378466
Health 3 March 2026
Zoonotic diseases include; Marburg, Ebola, Rabies, Covid-19, Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/kigezi-leaders-push-for-one-health-approach-to-curb-zoonotic-diseases-5377834