Uganda’s Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), recently unveiled a strategic report titled “Refugee and Migrant Health System Review: Challenges and Opportunities for Long-term Health System Strengthening in Uganda.” Launched on October 15, this comprehensive plan underscores the urgent need to reinforce Uganda’s healthcare system to better support both refugee and migrant populations, as well as the host communities.
Hosting over 1.6 million refugees, Uganda stands as Africa’s largest host nation for displaced people. Refugees are primarily located in settlements across northern and southwestern Uganda and within Kampala City, where they rely heavily on the country’s health infrastructure. Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng, Uganda’s Minister of Health, highlighted the importance of equitable health access for all residents, including migrants, stressing the need for improved policies that enhance the inclusivity of health services.
This strategic report emerged from a thorough review conducted by WHO, the Ministry of Health, and partners, including the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the International Organization for Migration (IOM), and UNICEF. The study provides several critical recommendations aimed at strengthening health services for displaced populations and host communities alike, enhancing the capacity and resilience of Uganda’s health system.
Key recommendations focus on three primary areas:
- Strengthening Health Worker Capacities: Enhancing training and skill development for health professionals to address the complex healthcare needs of refugees and migrants.
- Improving Access to Medical Resources: Expanding the availability of essential medications, equipment, and services across regions hosting refugees, ensuring timely and efficient healthcare access.
- Boosting Coordination Among Stakeholders: Fostering robust partnerships and cooperation between government agencies, international organizations, and local health providers to streamline efforts and resources.
Additionally, the report highlights the importance of developing new funding strategies, implementing a comprehensive health insurance system, and reinforcing intersectoral collaboration with other ministries to address the broader determinants of health. These initiatives are part of a broader strategy to create a resilient health infrastructure that can sustainably serve refugees, migrants, and local populations.
At the report’s launch event, which took place in Kampala and online, WHO and Ugandan leaders commended the collaborative approach taken to enhance health services for Uganda’s refugee and migrant communities. Dr. Santino Severoni, WHO’s Director of Health and Migration, praised Uganda’s inclusive health policies as a model of solidarity, ensuring that all residents have access to essential health services.
The WHO and UNHCR had previously signed a Letter of Understanding in February 2024 to reinforce their commitment to supporting Uganda’s efforts. On the day of the report launch, October 15, IOM and WHO signed a similar agreement, further aligning with Uganda’s goal to achieve the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals by advancing health and well-being for all residents.
According to WHO Regional Director for Africa, Dr. Moeti Matshidiso, countries should recognize the potential contributions that migrants and refugees can make to healthcare services, leveraging their skills to improve service delivery.
In addition to healthcare access, Uganda supports refugees through policies promoting integration, freedom of movement, and access to social services, employment, and land. Upon settlement, refugees receive a range of health services, from emergency care to continuous primary health care, ensuring a holistic approach to health for Uganda’s displaced populations.
This landmark report marks a step forward in the collaboration between Uganda and international health partners, ensuring that healthcare systems are inclusive, resilient, and prepared to meet the needs of all communities.