The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has allocated Shs14.4 billion to Uganda’s Ministry of Health to enhance the country’s ability to respond to public health emergencies, particularly Mpox and Ebola.

The funding, part of IGAD’s Regional Pandemic Preparedness and Response (PREPARE) Project, aims to bolster Uganda’s health infrastructure, improve disease surveillance, and strengthen emergency response mechanisms. This initiative will equip Uganda with the necessary resources to manage both current and future outbreaks more effectively.

Mubarak Mabuya, IGAD’s Chief of Staff and Interim Director of the Health and Social Development Division, emphasized that the project is tailored to address Uganda’s unique challenges, ensuring that investments directly support critical areas such as laboratory capacity, workforce training, and regional coordination.

Dr. Kasonde Mwinga, the World Health Organization (WHO) Representative to Uganda, highlighted the collaboration between WHO, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), and the Uganda Red Cross Society in crafting a comprehensive response plan aligned with Uganda’s health priorities.

Uganda’s Minister of Health, Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng, welcomed IGAD’s support, acknowledging the dual challenge of managing disease outbreaks while also hosting approximately 1.8 million refugees. She noted that this investment will help the country build resilience and protect vulnerable populations.

The PREPARE Project, funded by the World Bank’s Pandemic Fund through WHO, is designed to reduce the spread of infectious diseases, lower mortality rates, and enhance regional preparedness. Given the high level of cross-border movement within IGAD member states, a strong, coordinated health system is essential to prevent future health crises.

Since the start of the 2024 Mpox outbreak, WHO has confirmed 494 cases and one death, with most cases in the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area. Additionally, Uganda has recorded nine confirmed Ebola cases, with one fatality.

By investing in Uganda’s health sector, IGAD is not only addressing immediate challenges but also building a foundation for long-term disease prevention and control, ensuring that the country—and the entire region—is better prepared for future public health threats.