Epidemics are not just a health issue. Their impacts ripple across all sectors—disrupting trade, transport, education, agriculture, supply chains, and livelihoods. These challenges highlight the urgent need for multisectoral collaboration as a cornerstone of epidemic preparedness and response efforts.
In Uganda, we have witnessed how health insecurity can destabilize entire communities and strain national systems. The National Action Plan for Health Security II (NAPHS II) is a critical step toward strengthening our country's preparedness and responsiveness to emerging and re- emerging health threats. This comprehensive plan aims to build robust systems capable of mitigating risks and protecting lives while safeguarding our social and economic stability.
Our communities remain our first line of defense in the fight against health insecurity. Engaging and empowering them, alongside fostering coordination across sectors such as agriculture, trade, and education, will ensure a holistic approach to epidemic preparedness. By working together, we can establish resilient systems to protect against future health crises.
As shared by our Executive Director, Cornelia Asiimwe, in her article published in the New Vision, “According to the Ministry of Health, Uganda faces an estimated loss of sh4 trillion annually due to health crises, underscoring the need for strategic investment in the country’s preparedness and response.”
Let us prioritize multisectoral efforts and community engagement to prepare for, and effectively respond to, future epidemics. A secure health system is the backbone of a thriving nation.