In Uganda, where diabetes and high blood pressure (hypertension) continue to rise, many rural health centers have struggled without the basic equipment needed to diagnose and manage these life-threatening conditions. But that is beginning to change.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially handed over life-saving diagnostic equipment to Uganda’s Ministry of Health under the Diabetes and Cardiovascular Diseases (D-CARD) Africa Project — a major step in strengthening the country’s ability to fight noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension.
Strengthening Uganda’s Fight Against Diabetes and Heart Disease
For years, health workers in districts like Sembabule, Kabale, Lira, and Koboko have faced heartbreaking situations where they could only suspect diabetes or hypertension but lacked the right tools to confirm or treat patients early.
Now, thanks to the WHO’s donation, 40 primary health centers across these districts will receive:
- Blood pressure machines for detecting hypertension early
- Glucometers and HbA1c analyzers for diabetes screening and monitoring
- ECG machines for checking heart health
- Pulse oximeters and other essential diagnostic accessories
This donation will make it easier for health workers to screen, diagnose, and treat patients early, preventing serious complications such as kidney failure, stroke, or heart attack.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, Dr. Olaro Charles, Director General of Health Services, highlighted the need to make these tools part of every Ugandan’s health journey:
“These devices should be standard in all our health centers. Early detection saves lives. We must also continue educating people about prevention and healthy lifestyles.”
D-CARD Africa Project: Bringing Noncommunicable Disease Care Closer to Communities
The D-CARD Africa Project aims to improve early detection and management of diabetes and hypertension at the primary health care level. It promotes integrating NCD screening into everyday health services such as HIV, TB, and malnutrition programs, ensuring that communities receive complete and continuous care.
Dr. Kasonde Mwinga, WHO Representative to Uganda, described the handover as a turning point in the country’s fight against NCDs:
“This is not just about medical equipment — it’s about saving lives and giving every Ugandan access to quality health care. We must strengthen health data systems, train health workers, and empower communities to prevent and manage these diseases.”
He also expressed deep appreciation to the World Diabetes Foundation, whose funding and partnership made this progress possible.
Tackling the Growing Burden of Noncommunicable Diseases in Uganda
Noncommunicable diseases like diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, and stroke are among the leading causes of illness and death in Uganda. Many people live for years without knowing they have these conditions until severe complications arise.
The new WHO-supported equipment will help health centers catch diseases early, provide proper care, and educate patients on prevention through healthy diets, regular exercise, and routine checkups.
By strengthening community-level health services, Uganda is moving closer to Universal Health Coverage (UHC) — where every person can access affordable, quality care without financial hardship.
A Healthier Future for All Ugandans
Through this partnership between WHO, Uganda’s Ministry of Health, and the World Diabetes Foundation, Uganda’s health system is becoming stronger and more equitable.
Early diagnosis and prevention of diabetes and hypertension will now be possible even in rural areas, saving countless lives and reducing the burden on hospitals.
As WHO continues to support Uganda’s efforts to fight noncommunicable diseases, this initiative serves as a powerful reminder that access to health care should never depend on where you live.
Uganda’s journey toward better diabetes care, stronger heart health, and healthier communities is gaining momentum — one health center at a time.