Connect with us

Health

Mak Researchers Partner with Safe Bangle Technologies to Roll out a Real-Time Domestic Violence Reporting Bracelet

Published

on

By Joseph Odoi

A Consortium of Researchers from Makerere University School of Public Health/Resilient Africa Network (MakSPH/RAN), Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW), Somero Uganda together with Safe Bangle Technologies have rolled out a real time domestic violence reporting bracelet.

    This roll out was made possible with support from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) under the PARTNERSHIPS FOR ENHANCED ENGAGEMENT IN RESEARCH (PEER) program and the National Academies of Sciences.

    Dr. Juliet Kiguli, the Principal Investigator from Makerere University, along with Dr. Roy Mayega, Deputy Chief of Party at RAN, and Dr. Agnes Nyabigambo, the study coordinator, initiated the PEER program to identify entry points for testing SafeBangle Technologies (a social enterprise based at Resilient Africa Network (RAN) with a mission to create a safer and more secure environment for women and children through innovative, affordable, and creative technology solutions to curb GBV in Africa.) wearable safety bracelet in the informal settlements. This decision stemmed from findings of increased intimate partner violence (IPV) and gender-based violence (GBV) in three informal settlements in Kampala, Uganda, following a longitudinal study, geospatial mapping, and interviews. The project, titled ‘The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Gender-Based Violence among Women and Girls in Informal Settlements in Kampala,’ highlighted the urgent need for affordable and immediate reporting mechanisms for violence.”

    ‘’While carrying out a study after the Covid-19 Pandemic, we identified gaps when it comes to reporting and response to Gender Based Violence (GBV) among women in informal settlements. Therefore, we used incorporated the SafeBangle intervention to solve the problem of lack of affordable and immediate reporting mechanisms for violence using a bracelet that reports violence in real time’’ explained Dr. Kiguli.

    Innovation details

    According to Saul Kabali and Messach Luminsa, the innovators behind SafeBangle from SafeBangle Technologies, hosted at the Resilient African Network Lab. ‘’The inspiration behind SafeBangle came from a deeply personal place. ‘’We heard countless stories of women who couldn’t call for help during moments of danger. We were deeply affected by the story of Aisha, a young woman in a rural village who was attacked while walking home alone at night. With no way to call for help, she felt helpless and vulnerable. This incident made us realize the critical need for immediate reporting alert tools, accessible to women like Aisha. We knew technology could play a crucial role and this incident awakened a strong desire in us to create a solution’’

    Saul Kabali, Executive Director and Chief Operations Lead at SafeBangle Technologies explaining how the bracelet works at 2023 Imara Girls Festival exhibition. Makerere University School of Public Health/Resilient Africa Network (MakSPH/RAN), Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW), Somero Uganda, Safe Bangle Technologies roll out of a real-time domestic violence reporting bracelet. Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
    Saul Kabali, Executive Director and Chief Operations Lead at SafeBangle Technologies explaining how the bracelet works at 2023 Imara Girls Festival exhibition.

    “While developing SafeBangle, we tested with the users in both rural and urban contexts. We piloted the innovation around Kampala with support from Digital Human Righs Lab and Naguru Youth Health Network as well as it in five districts of Karamoja region with support from Save the Children and Response Innovation Lab. Right now it has become handy in Kamapala‘s informal settlements. We envision a future where SafeBangle becomes a standard tool in the fight against GBV, ensuring every woman feels safe and secure as it has the potential to transform how we respond to GBV in Africa” added Kabali.

    HOW THE SAFEBANGLE TECHNOLOGY WORKS

    The SafeBangle is wearable technology similar to a smartwatch that sends an alarm by SMS to people chosen by a woman herself if she feels threatened.

    How the SafeBangle Real-time Domestic Violence Reporting Bracelet works.  Makerere University School of Public Health/Resilient Africa Network (MakSPH/RAN), Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW), Somero Uganda, Safe Bangle Technologies roll out of a real-time domestic violence reporting bracelet. Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
    How the SafeBangle Real-time Domestic Violence Reporting Bracelet works.

    In terms of the acceptability of the SafeBangle innovation as a solution to GBV among at-risk women in informal settlements Of the 72 adolescent girls and women who received the SafeBangle, 22 activated the reporting button, resulting in 19 receiving immediate and appropriate support, including counseling, police intervention, and health services.

    All adolescent girls and women who experienced GBV received a phone call from Somero Uganda to discuss the most appropriate intervention, including counseling, police cases being handled by the probation office, referral for health services, and post-exposure prophylaxis. All the GBV survivors received support and are still receiving continuous follow-up.

    Researchers conducted a survey among 644 girls and women in Kinawataka (Nakawa Division) and Bwaise (Kawempe Division) to gain insights into awareness and understanding of sexual and gender-based violence among adolescent girls and women in informal settlements. The survey measured socioeconomic factors, mental health symptoms, and exposure to GBV. Focus group interviews were conducted with a separate sample of women over 18 in the settlements to explore responses to GBV.

    Preliminary impact of SafeBangle on tracked survivors.  Makerere University School of Public Health/Resilient Africa Network (MakSPH/RAN), Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW), Somero Uganda, Safe Bangle Technologies roll out of a real-time domestic violence reporting bracelet. Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
    Preliminary impact of SafeBangle on tracked survivors.

    A tabular representation of the key findings and lessons learned from your study on gender-based violence (GBV)

    Key FindingsLessons learned
    Prevalence of GBV.
    – Overall prevalence: 34.1% of women and girls reported experiencing GBV.
    – Among adolescents (15-19 years): Over 50% reported experiencing GBV.
    – The pandemic highlighted the need for accessible and comprehensive support services for GBV survivors.
    – Schools emerged as crucial safe spaces for girls, emphasizing their well-being during crises.
    – Economic independence proved crucial, enabling women to leave abusive environments.
    – Involving men and boys as allies in GBV prevention efforts is essential.
    Age-related trends– GBV prevalence tends to decrease with increasing age.
    Physical and health consequences.– Women and girls suffered physical violence, injuries, and deaths, primarily from domestic violence and unsafe abortions due to limited healthcare access.
    – GBV resulted in unintended pregnancies, unsafe abortions, and increased risk of sexually transmitted diseases (STIs) like HIV/AIDS.
    Social and economic impact. .– GBV contributed to family breakups, strained marriages due to financial stress.
    – Economic hardships forced some women and girls into transactional sex, exposing them to further health risks and exploitation.
    – Pandemic-related job losses and economic constraints increased financial dependence on abusers, trapping women in violent situations.
    – School closures and increased household responsibilities limited women’s job opportunities and subjected them to sexual harassment.
    Psychological effects– Survivors experienced guilt, shame, anxiety, fear, and suicidal thoughts due to ongoing abuse.
    Long-term effects– Post-COVID-19, survivors faced disrupted education, early marriages, pregnancies, social stigma, and persistent mental health issues.
    A tabular representation of the key findings and lessons learned from your study on gender-based violence (GBV)

    Reproductive Health Consequences: GBV resulted in unintended pregnancies, unsafe abortions, and increased risk of sexually transmitted diseases (STIs) like HIV/AIDS.

    Family Breakdown: The rise in GBV led to family breakups as women fled abusive relationships. Marriages were strained due to increased financial stress.

    Transactional Sex for Survival: Desperate for basic needs due to job losses and economic hardship, some women and girls resorted to transactional sex, exposing them to further health risks and exploitation.

    One study participant stated, “The time of COVID-19 was so terrible for some of us. We in fact got a lot of diseases from it because you would want to get food and didn’t have money. That way you would be forced to get a man who would use you and pay.” – (FGD_Girls_19–24years_Kinawataka).

    Economic Effects: COVID-19 restrictions caused job losses and limited economic opportunities, particularly for women in the informal sector. This increased financial dependence on abusers and trapped women in violent situations.

    Limited Access to Employment: School closures and increased household chores limited women’s ability to seek employment, perpetuating gender inequality in the workforce. Some faced sexual harassment from potential employers.

    Psychological Effects: Survivors of GBV experienced guilt, shame, anxiety, fear, and even suicidal thoughts due to the constant threat and unpredictability of abuse.

    Post-COVID Effects: GBV survivors faced long-term consequences, including disrupted education, early marriage, early pregnancy, social stigma, and persistent mental health issues.

    Lessons learned

    The pandemic highlighted the need for accessible and comprehensive support services for survivors of GBV, the significance of schools as safe spaces for girls, and the need to prioritize their well-being during crises. Economic empowerment emerged as a significant protective factor for women and girls. Those with greater economic independence were better equipped to leave abusive environments and secure their safety and well-being, while dependent ones suffered abuses. Engaging men and boys as allies in the fight against GBV and involving them in prevention efforts can help promote positive behavior change and foster more equitable relationships.

    Recommendations

    To address GBV against women and girls, the researchers recommend the following moving forward;

    1. There is need to integrate technology-driven solutions like SafeBangle into national GBV prevention and response strategies. SafeBangle can be a valuable tool for policymakers as cases of violence that would have gone unreported will be brought to light and the would-be victims will be able to get immediate help from trusted relatives and friends.
    2. Provide economic opportunities and vocational training for women and girls to enhance their financial independence and reduce vulnerability to violence. There is therefore a need to introduce education and training programs that empower women and girls, by providing them with skills, resources, and opportunities to start their own ventures and to participate fully in community affairs.
    3. Strengthen and enforce existing laws and policies related to GBV, including laws against domestic violence, child marriage, and sexual assault without discrimination be it for law enforcers, leaders, and employers where such cases were suffocated. Ensure that perpetrators are held accountable through swift and fair legal processes that have no room for corruption.
    4. Establish and promote effective, accessible, and confidential reporting mechanisms for GBV incidents that provide confidence and can be trusted by survivors to enhance reporting of such incidences of GBV. Community Engagement and Involvement: Involve community leaders, religious leaders, and elders in discussions about GBV to promote gender equality, change social norms, and reinforce the message that violence against women and girls is unacceptable.
    5. Launch extensive public awareness campaigns to challenge harmful gender norms, report cases of GBV, raise awareness about the consequences of GBV, and promote positive behaviors and attitudes towards women and girls.
    6. Implement comprehensive sexuality education in schools and communities, educating young people about healthy relationships, consent, and reproductive rights to be able to make informed decisions about their own lives and well-being.
    7. Engage men and boys as allies in the fight against GBV, encouraging them to challenge harmful masculinity norms and behaviors. This will help minimize GBV because mostly they are the perpetrators. Strengthening Support for Survivors: Provide ongoing support and follow-up services for survivors of GBV mostly counselling services to aid their recovery and facilitate their reintegration into society.
    8. Provide ongoing support and follow-up services for survivors of GBV, mostly counseling services to aid their recovery and facilitate their reintegration into society.
    9. Provide avenues to seek free or subsidized services by survivors of GBV medical services and legal processes by survivors of GBV to enhance reporting of GBV cases, access to medical care, counseling, legal support, and other essential services.
    10. Encourage and support more research and innovations like SafeBangle to curb incidents of GBV.
    11. A comprehensive and inclusive approach is required. The efforts should involve government institutions, civil society organizations, community leaders, and individuals working together to address the root causes and provide support to survivors.
    12. Involve media in GBV prevention activities and for enhancing campaigns against GBV mostly on radio and TV.

    MORE ABOUT THE STUDY

    The core project team, included researchers at Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH), Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW) led by Prof.  Julia Dickson-Gomez, SafeBangle Technologies, and Somero Uganda, a community-focused NGO, began the project by designing their research protocol and taking a CITI Program course on human subjects social/behavioral research. Team members also met with the Ministry of Gender, Labour, and Social Development (MGLSG) in support of the gender-based violence policy process, Ministry of Health and local government. They also established relationships with the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) and Nakawa and Kawempe probation offices to support legal processes for the GBV survivors. SafeBangle Team also received an award from Defenders Protection Initiative.

    Mak Editor

    Health

    Makerere Public Health Showcases EU Funded Research

    Published

    on

    Makerere University’s School of Public Health (MakSPH) showcased research, training and international partnerships supported through European Union funding during the EU Uganda Research and Study Fair 2026 held at Makerere University.

    The fair brought together students, researchers, academics, government representatives and development partners to explore opportunities in education, research, innovation and international collaboration, while celebrating 50 years of partnership between Uganda and the European Union.

    Through its exhibition, MakSPH highlighted research and capacity building initiatives addressing public health challenges including infectious diseases, non communicable diseases, health systems, climate change and pandemic preparedness.

    18 EU funded projects supported at MakSPH

    Prof. Rhoda Wanyenze, Dean of Students, School of Public Health, said the School has benefited from 18 EU funded projects over the past five years, supporting research and training across several areas of public health.

    Prof. Rhoda Wanyenze explains MakSPH research projects to Acting Minister of Education and Sports Dr John Chrysostom Muyingo during a tour of exhibition stands at the EU Uganda Research and Study Fair.

    She said the projects have contributed to the training of PhD researchers and the development of research addressing infectious diseases and prevention, non communicable diseases, health systems, climate change and health.

    Prof. Wanyenze also highlighted a new five year programme which started in 2021 that is aiming at strengthening capacity for research on pandemic preparedness and response, including outbreaks such as Ebola.

    Stella Kakeeto interacts with students during the EU Uganda Research and Study Fair

    Another programme being undertaken with the Ministry of Health and Karolinska Institute focuses on improving maternal health while also addressing adolescent pregnancy and the health of mothers and children.

    She described partnerships as critical to advancing science and innovation, noting that collaboration allows researchers in Africa and Europe to share knowledge and strengthen the impact of research on communities.

    Research partnerships strengthen innovation

    Prof. Robert Wamala, Director of the Directorate of Research, Innovation and Partnerships at Makerere University, said the exhibition provided an opportunity to showcase EU funded projects across the University.

    He noted that the School of Public Health alone has more than 18 such projects, while other colleges also have several EU supported initiatives.

    Prof. Julius Okuni

    One of the projects showcased was PREPARE TID, a partnership aimed at developing rapid diagnostic technologies for emerging and re emerging infectious diseases.

    Prof. Julius Okuni, Associate Professor of Veterinary Pathobiology and Molecular Diagnostics at Makerere University, said the project brings together universities, industries and other organisations from Africa and Europe.

    The project is working to develop technologies that can quickly identify pathogens responsible for outbreaks such as Ebola, Rift Valley fever and Crimean Congo haemorrhagic fever.

    According to Prof. Okuni, Makerere is involved in field and laboratory work to test and refine the technologies before they can be delivered to end users.

    Fair provides platform for research visibility

    For researchers at MakSPH, the fair also provided an opportunity to increase the visibility of ongoing research and create new connections with researchers, policymakers and potential funders.

    Dr. Raymond Tweheyo, Honorary Lecturer and Senior Research Fellow in the Department of Health Policy, Planning and Management, said such exhibitions allow researchers to share their work and identify others working on related challenges.

    Dr. Raymond Tweheyo and Assoc. Prof. Angelina Kakooza Mwesigye at the exhibition

    He cited the CONNECT for Health project, which focuses on transforming non-communicable disease care in Uganda through collaboration with partners across several countries.

    Dr. Tweheyo said exhibitions can help researchers connect with policymakers, civil society organisations and other partners who can contribute to translating research into practical solutions.

    Assoc. Prof. Angelina Kakooza Mwesigye, Associate Professor and Child Neurologist at Makerere University College of Health Sciences, also emphasised the importance of exposing young people to international research opportunities.

    She said the long standing Uganda Europe partnership provides opportunities for the next generation of researchers to learn, build networks and prepare for future research collaborations.

    The School of Public Health’s participation highlighted the role of international partnerships in strengthening research capacity, supporting innovation and developing evidence based responses to Uganda’s public health challenges.

    Allan Ainematsiko

    Bachelors of Journalism and Communication

    Continue Reading

    Health

    Uganda’s Outbreak Experience Points to Strong Response Systems but Persistent Detection Gaps

    Published

    on

    MakSPH Dean Prof. Rhoda Wanyenze, Dr. Steven Kabwama, district health officials and partners at the EPiC validation workshop on Uganda’s Ebola and Marburg outbreak responses, 6 October 2026. Makerere University School of Public Health and FHI 360 country validation workshop convened by the Meeting Targets and Maintaining Epidemic Control (EPiC) project, to examine lessons from Uganda’s response to filovirus disease outbreaks, 6th October 2026, MakSPH Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

    Uganda has strengthened its ability to respond rapidly to Ebola and Marburg outbreaks once cases are confirmed, but delays in frontline detection, health worker exposure, emergency financing bottlenecks and incomplete implementation of lessons from previous outbreaks continue to undermine preparedness, a study has found.

    The findings were presented today, October 6, 2026, during a country validation workshop convened by the Meeting Targets and Maintaining Epidemic Control (EPiC) project, to examine lessons from Uganda’s response to filovirus disease outbreaks. The study was undertaken by Makerere University School of Public Health and FHI 360.

    Presented by Dr. Steven Kabwama, the synthesis examined Uganda’s experience with recurrent Ebola virus disease (EVD) and Marburg virus disease (MVD) outbreaks between 2000 and 2026, drawing particularly on After-Action Reviews from the 2017 Marburg outbreak and the 2019, 2022 and 2025 Ebola outbreaks. The work seeks to consolidate recurring strengths, weaknesses, innovations and lessons that had previously been documented separately.

    Dr. Steven Kabwama presents findings on strengths and detection gaps in Uganda’s Ebola and Marburg outbreak responses at the EPiC validation workshop, 6 October 2026. Makerere University School of Public Health and FHI 360 country validation workshop convened by the Meeting Targets and Maintaining Epidemic Control (EPiC) project, to examine lessons from Uganda’s response to filovirus disease outbreaks, 6th October 2026, MakSPH Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
    Dr. Steven Kabwama presents findings on strengths and detection gaps in Uganda’s Ebola and Marburg outbreak responses at the EPiC validation workshop, 6 October 2026.

    Uganda has recorded 12 filovirus outbreaks over the 26-year period, including nine Ebola and three Marburg outbreaks, according to the research team. Among the four outbreaks examined closely were the 2017 Marburg outbreak in Kween and Kapchorwa, the cross-border Ebola outbreak in Kasese in 2019, the multi-district Sudan Ebola virus outbreak in 2022, and the 2025 outbreak whose index case was a health worker.

    Strong systems after confirmation

    Across the outbreaks reviewed, the synthesis found that Uganda has developed significant capacity to mobilise after laboratory confirmation. National and district task forces and technical response structures are activated quickly, supported by strong laboratory capacity, established coordination mechanisms and increasingly sophisticated surveillance systems.

    The country has also built laboratory capacity around the Uganda Virus Research Institute, mobile laboratories, genomic sequencing, sample referral systems and the Results Dispatch System. Digital surveillance tools, Village Health Teams, survivor champions and established national and district coordination structures have further strengthened response capacity.

    Detection remains a weak point

    However, the findings point to a critical problem before confirmation: recognising a possible outbreak early enough.

    For outbreaks originating within Uganda, the synthesis found that the period between a patient’s first presentation and confirmation ranged from nine to 27 days. This the study found is linked to low clinical suspicion and weaknesses in screening. Other recurring challenges included delayed access to emergency financing, infections among health workers, disruptions to essential health services, community mistrust and stigma, and limited follow-through on recommendations from previous After-Action Reviews.

    Opening the workshop, the Dean, Prof. Rhoda Wanyenze, said understanding these delays requires going beyond identifying broad weaknesses to examining where response systems fail in practice.

    “We can identify a broad challenge such as delayed detection from the literature, but your experience on the ground can help us understand the specific factors that create that challenge,” Prof. Wanyenze said while addressing district health officials from across the country.

    MakSPH Dean Prof. Rhoda Wanyenze (right) speaks with Dr. Andrew Ocero of FHI 360 during the EPiC validation workshop on Uganda’s Ebola and Marburg outbreak responses, 6 October 2026. Makerere University School of Public Health and FHI 360 country validation workshop convened by the Meeting Targets and Maintaining Epidemic Control (EPiC) project, to examine lessons from Uganda’s response to filovirus disease outbreaks, 6th October 2026, MakSPH Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
    MakSPH Dean Prof. Rhoda Wanyenze (right) speaks with Dr. Andrew Ocero of FHI 360 during the EPiC validation workshop on Uganda’s Ebola and Marburg outbreak responses, 6 October 2026.

    “When we begin looking for solutions, we need to be able to target the actual problems rather than simply identifying broad challenges.”

    The workshop brought together partners and colleagues from districts, including people directly involved in outbreak response, to validate the synthesis against frontline experience. Prof. Wanyenze noted that published literature, scientific papers and response reports cannot capture every operational reality, making practitioner experience essential to understanding where delays occur and what interventions have worked. Remarks validation workshop

    Turning outbreak experience into continuous readiness

    Among the priority actions proposed are stronger screening and alert systems for earlier detection; ring-fenced emergency financing and more reliable responder payment systems; routine infection prevention and control training; stronger occupational protection for health workers; continued investment in laboratories and genomic sequencing; and preparedness extending beyond districts traditionally considered outbreak hotspots. The study also recommends stronger community engagement and a formal mechanism to track and finance implementation of recommendations from After-Action Reviews.

    Participants contribute to discussions on Uganda’s Ebola and Marburg outbreak responses during the EPiC validation workshop, 6 October 2026. Makerere University School of Public Health and FHI 360 country validation workshop convened by the Meeting Targets and Maintaining Epidemic Control (EPiC) project, to examine lessons from Uganda’s response to filovirus disease outbreaks, 6th October 2026, MakSPH Auditorium, Makerere University, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
    Participants contribute to discussions on Uganda’s Ebola and Marburg outbreak responses during the EPiC validation workshop, 6 October 2026.

    Dr. Andrew Acero, Director of the EPiC project at FHI 360’s Uganda Office said the central challenge is ensuring that experience accumulated during successive outbreaks translates into lasting institutional capacity.

    “The real value lies in ensuring that what we learn changes what we do. Our findings should inform policy, shape guidelines and training, strengthen systems and ultimately improve practice.”

    He noted that preparedness cannot begin only after an emergency has been declared, but must be built through sustained relationships, systems and capacity before outbreaks occur. Remarks validation workshop

    The EPiC project is led by FHI 360 with core partners including Right to Care, Palladium and Population Services International.

    View on MakSPH

    Betty Kyakuwa
    Betty Kyakuwa

    Continue Reading

    Health

    Uganda’s HIV Treatment Gains Bring the Youth Gap into Focus

    Published

    on

    Stakeholders pose for a group photo at the UPHIA preliminary results release on 1st October 2026. Released of preliminary findings of the 2025 Uganda Population-Based HIV Impact Assessment (UPHIA 2025), a national household survey that provides a current picture of the country’s HIV response and selected non-communicable disease indicators, Ministry of Health-overall leadership, Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH)-prime implementing organisation, working with UVRI, UBOS, regional referral hospitals and local governments. Funded by PEPFAR through the U.S. CDC, 1st October 2026, Uganda Media Centre, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.

    Uganda’s latest national HIV survey reveals lower viral suppression among adolescents and young adults living with HIV than among older adults, even as the country records substantial improvements in controlling the virus. The findings come from Uganda Population-Based HIV Impact Assessment (UPHIA 2025), a national household survey examining HIV prevalence and whether people living with the virus know their status, receive treatment, and achieve viral suppression.

    Releasing the preliminary UPHIA 2025 findings at the Uganda Media Centre on 1 October 2026, Minister of Health Hon. Dr. Chris Baryomunsi called for earlier prevention and testing, particularly among adolescent girls and young women, alongside support for treatment adherence. “We must reach out to the young people, ensure that they have information, they test, take treatment, and adhere to the treatment guidance,” he urged.

    Hon. Baryomunsi recalled how fear had discouraged testing during his university years: “I remember when we were at university, we went for testing at the university hospital. We sat there for three hours. Some of us left without even testing because it was scary.” Today, he explained, “even if you test HIV positive, you can be initiated on treatment, and you live normally like the rest of those who don’t have HIV.”

    Minister of Health Hon. Dr. Chris Baryomunsi urges earlier HIV testing and stronger treatment adherence among young people at the UPHIA 2025 preliminary results release, Uganda Media Centre, 1 October 2026. Released of preliminary findings of the 2025 Uganda Population-Based HIV Impact Assessment (UPHIA 2025), a national household survey that provides a current picture of the country’s HIV response and selected non-communicable disease indicators, Ministry of Health-overall leadership, Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH)-prime implementing organisation, working with UVRI, UBOS, regional referral hospitals and local governments. Funded by PEPFAR through the U.S. CDC, 1st October 2026, Uganda Media Centre, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
    Minister of Health Hon. Dr. Chris Baryomunsi urges earlier HIV testing and stronger treatment adherence among young people at the UPHIA 2025 preliminary results release, Uganda Media Centre, 1 October 2026.

    UPHIA 2025 was locally led under the Ministry of Health’s overall leadership, with Makerere University School of Public Health serving as the prime implementer, a role ICAP at Columbia University held in the previous two surveys. The Uganda Bureau of Statistics led sampling, while the Uganda Virus Research Institute and National Health Laboratory and Diagnostic Services led laboratory operations. Regional referral hospitals and local governments supported implementation, and the U.S. government provided US$10 million through PEPFAR, along with technical assistance from the U.S. CDC.

    UPHIA collected data from July to September 2025 among people aged 15 and above, including those outside routine treatment services. Of 6,283 eligible households, 94.4% completed interviews. Researchers interviewed 13,801 people and tested 13,477 for HIV.

    Testing followed Uganda’s national algorithm, with laboratory confirmation of positive samples, viral-load measurement, and checks for antiretroviral medicines to establish treatment use. Researchers weighted the estimates to account for the sampling design. Participants received counselling and results, and those who tested positive were referred for treatment.

    Hon. Baryomunsi thanked participants and their families for welcoming survey staff and contributing their time, information and samples, without which the national evidence would not have been available.

    UPHIA field staff sensitise community members about the survey ahead of data collection in July 2025. Release of preliminary findings of the 2025 Uganda Population-Based HIV Impact Assessment (UPHIA 2025), a national household survey that provides a current picture of the country’s HIV response and selected non-communicable disease indicators, Ministry of Health-overall leadership, Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH)-prime implementing organisation, working with UVRI, UBOS, regional referral hospitals and local governments. Funded by PEPFAR through the U.S. CDC, 1st October 2026, Uganda Media Centre, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
    UPHIA field staff sensitise community members about the survey ahead of data collection in July 2025.

    National progress and the youth gap

    The survey estimated HIV prevalence, which means the proportion of people living with HIV, at 5.9% among those aged 15 and above, corresponding to about 1.496 million people in this age group nationwide. Prevalence was 7.3% among women and 4.1% among men, ranging from 1.3% in Karamoja to 8% in the South Western region.

    Among people aged 15 and above living with HIV, 86% had achieved viral suppression, meaning a low amount of HIV in the blood, measured in UPHIA as fewer than 1,000 copies per millilitre. Suppression stood at 69.3% among adolescents and young adults aged 15–24 living with HIV, compared with 89.9% among those aged 50 and above. These estimates cover people living with HIV regardless of whether they know their status or receive treatment.

    A UPHIA field worker collects a blood sample from a survey participant in July 2025. Release of preliminary findings of the 2025 Uganda Population-Based HIV Impact Assessment (UPHIA 2025), a national household survey that provides a current picture of the country’s HIV response and selected non-communicable disease indicators, Ministry of Health-overall leadership, Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH)-prime implementing organisation, working with UVRI, UBOS, regional referral hospitals and local governments. Funded by PEPFAR through the U.S. CDC, 1st October 2026, Uganda Media Centre, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
    A UPHIA field worker collects a blood sample from a survey participant in July 2025.

    HIV prevalence among people aged 15–24 was 1.5%, including 2% among young women and 1% among young men. Among young women, prevalence was 1.3% at ages 15–19 and 2.8% at ages 20–24. These differences support attention to earlier prevention and testing, although they do not establish when infections occurred.

    The highest prevalence estimates occurred among middle-aged adults: 15.7% among women aged 40–44 and 11.7% among men aged 45–49. Lower suppression among young people therefore requires attention alongside the higher HIV prevalence among middle-aged adults. Comparing the same age group across both surveys, viral suppression among people aged 15–64 increased from 74.9% in 2020–21 to 86.1% in 2025, while HIV prevalence remained at 5.9%.

    UPHIA 2025 findings show HIV prevalence by age, sex and region among people aged 15 and above, with the highest estimates among middle-aged adults and in the South Western region. Release of preliminary findings of the 2025 Uganda Population-Based HIV Impact Assessment (UPHIA 2025), a national household survey that provides a current picture of the country’s HIV response and selected non-communicable disease indicators, Ministry of Health-overall leadership, Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH)-prime implementing organisation, working with UVRI, UBOS, regional referral hospitals and local governments. Funded by PEPFAR through the U.S. CDC, 1st October 2026, Uganda Media Centre, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
    UPHIA 2025 findings show HIV prevalence by age, sex and region among people aged 15 and above, with the highest estimates among middle-aged adults and in the South Western region.

    Diagnosis and the path to 2030

    The treatment results identify diagnosis as the main national gap. Among people aged 15 and above living with HIV, 85.3% knew their status. Of those aware, 99.1% were receiving treatment; among those receiving treatment, 96.5% had achieved suppression.

    The 95-95-95 targets aimed for 95% of people living with HIV to know their status, 95% of those diagnosed to receive treatment, and 95% of those receiving treatment to achieve viral suppression by 2025. Among people aged 15 and above, Uganda exceeded the treatment and suppression targets, while diagnosis remained below target. UNAIDS’s Global AIDS Strategy 2026–2031 retains these targets towards ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.

    According to WHO, viral suppression protects health and helps prevent HIV transmission. Uncontrolled HIV weakens the immune system, increasing the risk of serious illness. With continued treatment as prescribed, sexual transmission risk is negligible when HIV remains suppressed but detectable, and zero when undetectable. The Uganda AIDS Commission estimated over 34,000 new HIV infections in 2025, underscoring the importance of early diagnosis, timely treatment, and sustained suppression alongside other prevention measures.

    Then Minister of Health Hon. Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng flagged off UPHIA 2025 field teams in Kampala on 29 May 2025 to generate evidence guiding Uganda’s HIV response towards ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030. The Ministry of Health-led survey is implemented with technical support from MakSPH and partners. Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH) reflection on long and productive partnership with the people and Government of the United States, spanning more than 35 years. Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
    Then Minister of Health Hon. Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng flagged off UPHIA 2025 field teams in Kampala on 29 May 2025 to generate evidence guiding Uganda’s HIV response towards ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.

    The demographic stakes are substantial. People aged 15–24 constituted 21.2% of Uganda’s population in the 2024 census. The country’s Fourth National Development Plan, covering 2025–2030, prioritises a healthy, knowledgeable, skilled and productive population and reducing HIV through primary health care. Protecting young people’s health, therefore, supports their participation in education, work, and national development; UPHIA helps identify where services need greater attention.

    Turning evidence into action

    The study’s conclusions identify three priorities: sustain treatment outcomes, find people unaware of their status, and improve suppression among younger people. Permanent Secretary Dr. Diana Atwine connected the findings to the Ministry’s planning.

    “We do believe that these results are a true reflection of what is happening in our country as far as the HIV status is concerned, and we do believe that it will give us a very clear direction and the roadmap that we are going to take in the next five years to target and to get our targets achieved.”

    Ministry of Health Permanent Secretary Dr. Diana Atwine explains how UPHIA findings will guide the Ministry’s planning at the preliminary results release, Uganda Media Centre, 1 October 2026. Release of preliminary findings of the 2025 Uganda Population-Based HIV Impact Assessment (UPHIA 2025), a national household survey that provides a current picture of the country’s HIV response and selected non-communicable disease indicators, Ministry of Health-overall leadership, Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH)-prime implementing organisation, working with UVRI, UBOS, regional referral hospitals and local governments. Funded by PEPFAR through the U.S. CDC, 1st October 2026, Uganda Media Centre, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
    Ministry of Health Permanent Secretary Dr. Diana Atwine explains how UPHIA findings will guide the Ministry’s planning at the preliminary results release, Uganda Media Centre, 1 October 2026.

    Acting on these priorities requires funding for services and research. Hon. Baryomunsi outlined plans to target resources where needs are greatest, strengthen district services and align partner support with government priorities. Responding to journalists’ questions, he noted the government’s intention to increase domestic funding for the HIV response, including research.

    “The HIV/AIDS response, including research and surveys such as this one, has largely been funded by partners in the past. The government of Uganda is committed to allocating more resources from our domestic budget to support the response and research,” he noted.

    For the first time in the UPHIA series, the survey assessed selected noncommunicable disease indicators among people aged 15 and above: 15.5% had elevated blood pressure, 24.8% were overweight or obese, and 0.9% had raised random blood glucose. These screening findings align with the Ministry’s integration agenda and Hon. Baryomunsi’s call to bring HIV and chronic care services together to address people’s wider health needs.

    Speaking at the release of the preliminary results, U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Mikael (Mika) Cleverley described UPHIA 2025 as the first Population-Based HIV Impact Assessment worldwide fully led and implemented by the country itself.

    U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Mikael (Mika) Cleverley highlights Ugandan leadership and U.S. support for UPHIA 2025 at the preliminary results release, Uganda Media Centre, 1 October 2026. Release of preliminary findings of the 2025 Uganda Population-Based HIV Impact Assessment (UPHIA 2025), a national household survey that provides a current picture of the country’s HIV response and selected non-communicable disease indicators, Ministry of Health-overall leadership, Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH)-prime implementing organisation, working with UVRI, UBOS, regional referral hospitals and local governments. Funded by PEPFAR through the U.S. CDC, 1st October 2026, Uganda Media Centre, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
    U.S. Embassy Chargé d’Affaires Mikael (Mika) Cleverley highlights Ugandan leadership and U.S. support for UPHIA 2025 at the preliminary results release, Uganda Media Centre, 1 October 2026.

    “The study was led by Ugandan scientists, Ugandan managers, Ugandan public servants, Ugandan field teams, from design to data collection to analysis. And this is what two decades of focused strategic U.S. foreign investments in the public health sector was meant to produce, is to reinforce Ugandan leadership and Ugandan-led efforts.”

    At the survey launch on 29 May 2025, MakSPH Dean Prof. Rhoda Wanyenze highlighted the partnership’s contribution: “The partnership between Makerere University and CDC has not only helped build national capacity in surveillance and epidemiology, but has also strengthened our ability to lead high-quality, large-scale national surveys.”

    MakSPH Dean Prof. Rhoda Wanyenze speaks during the UPHIA 2025 launch in Kampala, highlighting MakSPH’s contribution to Uganda’s public health response through research, evidence and technical guidance. Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH) reflection on long and productive partnership with the people and Government of the United States, spanning more than 35 years. Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
    MakSPH Dean and UPHIA 2025 Principal Investigator Prof. Rhoda Wanyenze highlights Uganda’s capacity to lead national surveys at the survey launch on 29 May 2025.

    The Dean added: “After two decades of joint work, we are proud that UPHIA is now a fully Ugandan-led effort. This is critical to the sustainability of the skills and knowledge generation to inform our local response.”

    UPHIA 2025 shows how far Uganda’s HIV response has advanced and where gaps remain. As the country works towards ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030, reaching young people with testing, treatment, and continued care will be essential to extending those gains.

    MakSPH researchers, including UPHIA 2025 Activity Lead Prof. Frederick Makumbi and Project Director Dr. Sam Biraro, converse at the preliminary results release, Uganda Media Centre, 1 October 2026. Release of preliminary findings of the 2025 Uganda Population-Based HIV Impact Assessment (UPHIA 2025), a national household survey that provides a current picture of the country’s HIV response and selected non-communicable disease indicators, Ministry of Health-overall leadership, Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH)-prime implementing organisation, working with UVRI, UBOS, regional referral hospitals and local governments. Funded by PEPFAR through the U.S. CDC, 1st October 2026, Uganda Media Centre, Kampala Uganda, East Africa.
    MakSPH researchers, including UPHIA 2025 Activity Lead Prof. Frederick Makumbi and Project Director Dr. Sam Biraro, converse at the preliminary results release, Uganda Media Centre, 1 October 2026.

    Read the full UPHIA 2025 summary results here:

    UPHIA 2025 SUMMARY SHEET

    John Okeya

    Continue Reading

    Trending