Challenges and opportunities for long-term strengthening of the health system in Uganda”

The report is the result of a joint effort between Uganda's Ministry of Health (MoH) and the World Health Organization (WHO), in partnership with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM).

The presentation of the report was led by the Ugandan Minister of Health, Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng, together with the WHO Director of Health and Migration, Dr. Santino Severoni, the WHO Regional Director for Africa, Dr. Moeti Matsidis and the UNHCR representative in Uganda, Mr. Matthew Crentsil.

The hybrid event held in Kampala and online brought together key players from the Ugandan government, United Nations agencies, donors and other partners to discuss the report's findings. The event also highlighted joint efforts by UN agencies to improve health service delivery for refugees, migrants and host communities in Uganda, to catalyze further action and resource mobilization.

While hosting the launch event, Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng explained that “to ensure that Uganda has a strong health system that can meet the needs of the entire population, it is essential to further improve existing policies and strategies that give migrants equal access to health services” .

In March 2024, WHO, together with the Ministry of Health and UNHCR, conducted a joint audit mission to provide a comprehensive review of the health system's response to refugees. The objective was to understand challenges in service delivery and identify opportunities to further support Uganda in strengthening health system capacity and ensuring continued access to health services for refugees, migrants and host communities.

Key findings from the report show that the Ugandan government is supporting refugees through policies that promote freedom of movement, integration and access to social services, employment and land. Refugees and asylum seekers also receive a comprehensive health package including emergency care, psychological first aid and ongoing access to primary health care services once settled.

While the report praised the integration of people forced to flee into national services, key challenges identified include constant supplies of essential medicines and supplies, cultural and language barriers between refugees and the health team, and limited resources to recruit and manage the necessary health workforce in health facilities.

The report highlights key steps to improve Uganda's health system by integrating refugees and addressing the specific needs of both migrants and host communities. WHO Director of Health and Migration, Dr. Santino Severoni, said: “Uganda's leadership in integrating refugees and migrants into the health system is a model of solidarity in action, ensuring access to basic health services for all.”

For the WHO Regional Director for Africa, Dr. Moeti Matshidiso, “countries should use the potential of migrants and refugees to contribute to the service delivery workforce, using their competences and experience.”

Further considerations from the report include identifying and implementing new financing strategies and creating a comprehensive health insurance system; Incorporating traditional healers into health systems and strengthening cross-sectoral collaboration with other ministries to address broader health determinants, among others.

Efforts to strengthen the health system and act according to the planned activities are already underway. In March 2024, UNHCR and WHO signed a Letter of Understanding to enhance their cooperation in supporting the Government of Uganda in improving health services for migrants, refugees and host communities in the country.

“This partnership aims to strengthen the rights and health of people who have been forced to flee, while supporting Uganda's efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030,” explained Mr. Matthew Crentsil, UNHCR's representative in Uganda.

Uganda's commitment to host millions fleeing conflict and hardship and efforts to integrate and protect refugees and migrants are remarkable. Uganda's Open Door Policy and Comprehensive Refugee Response Framework are exemplary models for providing security, dignity and hope.