Dr. Atwine Champions Community-Led Health Solutions at Kiruddu Hospital Meeting
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Diana Atwine, has called for greater community involvement in promoting health and disease prevention across Uganda.
Speaking as the chief guest at a community engagement meeting held Thursday at Kiruddu National Referral Hospital under the theme “Community-Led Health Solutions,” Dr. Atwine commended hospital staff for their unwavering commitment to serving patients despite existing challenges.
She emphasized that public accountability remains a key pillar in Uganda’s health sector since taxpayers fund health services and staff salaries.
“Every citizen has a role to play in ensuring that the resources invested in health yield results,” Dr. Atwine noted, urging communities to embrace preventive health practices and routine medical checkups.
Highlighting that a healthy population drives national productivity and economic growth, the Permanent Secretary encouraged Ugandans to take personal responsibility for their health through sanitation, disease prevention, and environmental cleanliness. “We cannot build a prosperous nation without healthy citizens,” she stressed.
Dr. Atwine also revealed that the Ministry of Health plans to expand hospital services and strengthen disease prevention programs to reduce the burden of preventable illnesses.
The Director of Kiruddu Hospital, Dr. Kabugo Charles, echoed her message, underscoring the community’s vital role in maintaining public health through active participation and behavioral change.
Kabugo, also highlighted the hospitals achievements over the past years and commended the government for priotiziny health by doubling it's budget in this financial year.
The meeting brought together several stakeholders, including Centenary Bank Uganda, which reaffirmed its commitment to social corporate responsibility.
The bank has contributed over Shs 3 billion in recent years to support cancer patients across the country. Representatives from the Uganda Police Force, local leaders, the Deputy RCC, and medical staff also attended the event.
In recognition of exceptional service, Dr. Atwine awarded certificates of outstanding performance to several dedicated health workers at the hospital.
The engagement concluded with a renewed call for partnership among communities, institutions, and government agencies to amplify health awareness and foster a culture of preventive healthcare across Uganda.
