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Dr. Ruth Aceng emphasizes the crucial need for multisectoral support in the health sector during the Heroes in Health Awards ceremony. Collaborations and recognitions underscore the interconnected challenges in healthcare. The awards highlight strategic partnerships for health transformation.

Multisectoral support is imperative for enhancing service delivery in the health sector, emphasized Dr. Ruth Aceng, the Health Minister. Strategic collaborations, weaving a network of support from various sectors, are vital for strengthening the health system and ensuring sustainable impactful interventions, she noted. Speaking at the Heroes in Health Awards (HIHA) celebration on November 10 at Speke Resort Munyonyo in Kampala, Dr. Aceng underscored the need for every government agency and private sector to address the complexities of the health sector.

Individuals and organizations honored during the ceremony demonstrated exceptional contributions to the health field, inspiring others through selfless dedication. Dr. Aceng highlighted the interconnected nature of the health sector and emphasized that addressing its challenges requires collaborative efforts. She cited instances during health crises, such as COVID-19, Marburg, and Ebola, where private sector and organizational interventions played a crucial role.

Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Thomas Tayebwa, commended the resilience of health workers, acknowledging their pivotal role in Uganda’s progress across sectors. He echoed Dr. Aceng’s call for all sectors to support the health ministry, emphasizing the government’s commitment to positive changes and top-quality health services. Senior economist Prof. Augustus Nuwagaba emphasized the critical role of the health sector in human capital development, advocating for strategic investments in health and education.

Dr. Diana Atwine, the Health Ministry Permanent Secretary, emphasized the importance of celebrating health workers as real heroes and motivating them to continue their dedicated work. The awards, celebrated under the theme “Strategic Multi-Sectoral Partnerships to Transform Health and Workforce,” recognized 20 individuals and entities across 14 categories, with awardees receiving plaques. Notable among them was Nurse of the Year, Agnes Namboozo, recognized for her exceptional dedication and courage in providing medical care to pregnant women and children on Mountain Elgon. Deputy Speaker Tayebwa offered her a scholarship for a nursing degree and was also given sh5m cash.

The winners

Doctor of the Year

Gladys Otto

Lifetime Achievement Awardees

Dr. Cyprian Opira

Dr. Lydia Mungherera

Dr Ruhakana Rugunda

Professor Francis Omaswa

Maternal and child health care

Dr. Margaret Nakakeeeto

Midwife of the Year

Alicemari Celina

Community health worker of the year

East: Livingstone Kiggo

Central: Sarah Nakyambade

West: Agnes Twongire,

North: Jasper Ojok

Media excellence in health

Norbert Atukunda (NTV)

Public facility of the year

Anaka Hospital Pakwach district

Private facility of the year

Terrewode Women’s Community Hospital in Soroti district

Use of ICT to improve patient care

Smart Application Uganda

Student Innovation Award

Deogratius Delafrique

Allied health professional worker

Matayo Yandua

Excellence in palliative care

Prof. Silver Bahendeka