WHO and Germany Donate IT Equipment to Boost Uganda’s Health Sector Digitization

The Ugandan Ministry of Health has received a significant boost in its digitization efforts with a donation of IT equipment valued at USD 222,594 (approximately UGX 865 million). This donation, comprising 95 laptops and 130 scanners, comes from the Federal Republic of Germany through the World Health Organization (WHO) and aims to enhance the Electronic Medical Records (EMR) system across public health facilities.

The initiative aligns with Uganda’s Health Information and Digital Health Strategic Plan (2020/21-2024/25) and supports the Ministry’s broader strategic goals as outlined in the National Development Plan (NDP) III. This effort is part of a presidential directive aimed at leveraging technology to improve healthcare delivery, accountability, and the continuity of patient care.

During the handover ceremony, Dr. Diana Atwine, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, expressed gratitude for the support from WHO and Germany, emphasizing the importance of advancing electronic medical records nationwide. “We are rolling out a comprehensive EMR system in phases, starting with National Referral hospitals and high-volume Health Centre IIIs. However, we still need substantial investment in computers and networking equipment to effectively implement and scale this system,” Dr. Atwine stated.

Dr. Christine Chakanyuka Musanhu, Officer in Charge at the WHO Uganda Country Office, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the partnership’s alignment with WHO’s mission to strengthen Uganda’s health system. She emphasized the critical role of EMR in meeting the healthcare needs of the population.

Hans von Schroeder, the German Deputy Ambassador to Uganda, reaffirmed his government’s commitment, noting, “By supporting the digitization of medical records, we are contributing to ensuring timely access to healthcare for all who need it.”

This donation marks a crucial step towards modernizing Uganda’s health sector and improving service delivery for its citizens.