The Minister of Health, Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng, has expressed optimism that Uganda is on course to being declared tuberculosis (TB)-free, provided communities cooperate with government efforts in screening, diagnosis, and treatment.
Dr. Aceng made the remarks while officiating at the handover ceremony of 48 portable digital X-ray systems fitted with computer-aided detection software.
The equipment, donated by the U.S. government through USAID and PEPFAR, is expected to significantly strengthen TB case detection, especially in 63 districts across the country.
“The declaration of a TB-free Uganda is within reach once people with TB stop hiding in their homes and there is continued effective screening and treatment,” Dr. Aceng stated.
The donation also includes 33 tricycles and 33 TB-LAMP diagnostic platforms, which will help transport the mobile X-ray equipment to hard-to-reach and underserved communities, improving accessibility and early detection.
Speaking at the same event, U.S. Ambassador to Uganda, H.E. William Popp, reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to supporting Uganda until TB is eliminated. “We are here to support Uganda’s vision of a healthier, TB-free future,” he said.
USAID Mission Director Daniele Nyirandutiye commended Uganda’s progress in TB control, revealing that the country has successfully reduced TB cases by 50%, placing it among the leading nations in Africa in the fight against the disease.
Despite this progress, Uganda remains among the 30 high TB-burden countries globally, according to the World Health Organization.
The country is working toward the goal of ending TB by 2030, in line with international health targets.
Data from the Ministry of Health shows that 94,000 people contracted TB in 2023, and 4,700 died of the disease — figures partially attributed to service disruptions during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Ministry of Health has called on the public to take advantage of the improved diagnostic services and embrace testing as a means of early detection and treatment.
By Ben Musanje
14th May 2025
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