
PRIMROSE MAGALA
DIASPORA MERIT AWARD
PRIMROSE MAGALA
Diaspora Merit Award 2024.
Primrose Magala, a British Ugandan senior ophthalmic nurse practitioner based at Moorfields
Eye Hospital in London, has made remarkable strides in transforming eye healthcare in Uganda
and beyond. As the founder of Eye Health Africa (EHA), she has facilitated the donation of both
decommissioned and new equipment to multiple hospitals across Uganda, including Rubaga,
Nsambya, and Hoima Regional Referral Hospitals. These contributions have significantly
improved service delivery and brought life-changing eye care services to communities that
would otherwise lack access. Her leadership extends beyond equipment provision; she has
spearheaded knowledge exchange by encouraging specialists like Prof. Lyndon da Cruz and
dr Kaveh to provide care and build capacity in Uganda.
Magala’s vision for healthcare is anchored in collaboration and sustainability. Through Eye
Health Africa, she has organised numerous free eye medical outreaches in Uganda, offering
essential services and leveraging international expertise. EHA also works closely with
organisations like the Uganda Nurses and Midwife Association UK (UNMA-UK) to conduct
capacity-building sessions for local healthcare providers. Magala is committed to addressing
the critical shortage of ophthalmic care in Sub-Saharan Africa and has dedicated her efforts
to establishing sustainable institutions that can offer world-class eye care services on the
continent. She aims to ensure that no African citizen needs to leave their country to access
specialised eye care.
driven by a passion for serving Africa’s marginalised and vulnerable communities, Magala’s
work exemplifies the powerful impact of the African Diaspora in shaping their home countries.
She is actively working towards establishing an Africa-wide Eye Health Consortium, with a
focus on building centres of excellence and eye health institutes across the region. By aligning
her work with global Sustainable Development Goals, she is making lasting contributions to
healthcare systems in Uganda and creating a legacy of healthier eyes and lives across the continent.

Dr. Kyomugisha Edward
Doctor of the Year
Dr. Kyomugisha Edward
Doctor of the year 2024.
Senior Consultant Surgeon at China-Uganda Friendship Hospital Naguru, serves some of the most
densely populated and underserved communities in Kampala. His expertise and dedication have
helped transform the hospital into a vital lifeline for those with limited access to essential health
services. As Naguru Hospital strives to alleviate the patient load on Mulago National Referral Hospital,
dr Kyomugisha works with tireless commitment to establish the hospital as a center of surgical
excellence. Even amid challenges such as limited resources and high patient numbers, he ensures
that specialized surgical care remains accessible and of commendable quality.
Renowned not only for his medical skill but also for his compassion, dr Kyomugisha consistently
rounds on inpatients and builds enduring trust with his patients, earning a high rate of patient
retention. He is described as caring and accessible, always a call away even during off-hours, treating
every patient with warmth and respect regardless of socioeconomic background. His approach has
won him admiration from patients, administrators, and colleagues alike, as he advocates tirelessly for
the welfare of each individual under his care, making him a beloved and trusted figure.
In the fourth quarter of the 2023/2024 fiscal year alone (April - June 2024), dr Kyomugisha led 42
ward rounds, performed 70 surgeries, and conducted 24 outpatient specialist clinics—demonstrating
his deep commitment to his patients and institution. Beyond the operating room, he takes personal
responsibility for each case, responding to patients with empathy and care. His leadership and
dedication inspire his peers and set a high standard of excellence across the institution. From his
previous roles at Kitovu Hospital in Masaka to Kabale Regional Referral Hospital, dr Kyomugisha’s
career reflects a lifelong dedication to advancing healthcare in Uganda, embodying the true spirit of
service and compassion that defines a hero in health.

ATAKO HARRIET
Midwife of the Year
Atako Harriet
Midwife of the Year, 2024
Harriet Atako is a passionate midwife at Dei Health Centre II in Pakwach district, serving a
remote population of 16,000 on the Uganda-drC border. Since joining Dei HC II in 2015, Harriet
has transformed maternal and neonatal care in her community, pioneering services in the
centre’s modest setup with unmatched dedication. Atako’s exceptional skills, resilience, and
commitment have earned her community admiration and professional recognition, including
the title of Safe Motherhood Champion by West Nile Local Maternity and Neonatal System
(LMNS). Her steadfast devotion has led to an astounding 764 successful deliveries in the past
year alone, making her a lifeline for hundreds of mothers in this underserved area.
Despite operating as the lone midwife, Atako provides comprehensive maternal and child
health (MCH) services, including antenatal and postnatal care, family planning, immunisations,
malaria prophylaxis, and critical HIV prevention measures. Her tireless efforts to support families
have seen the facility’s delivery rates increase from an initial 15 per month to 65, underscoring
the impact of her compassionate and client-centred approach. Atako’s close engagement
with Village Health Teams, expert mothers, and local leaders has fostered trust, enhancing the
quality of healthcare while addressing community-specific needs. Her seamless coordination
with other health teams ensures timely referrals, pre-referral treatment, and post-care followup, greatly improving maternal health outcomes.
Atako’s devotion to healthcare extends beyond the health facility. In a region where many
mothers might otherwise forego essential care, she bridges gaps by building relationships,
promoting health education, and mentoring young healthcare professionals. Atako’s work
exemplifies resilience, empathy, and community partnership, driving impactful change and
setting a standard in compassionate healthcare. As we honour Atako with the Heroes in Health
Midwife of the Year Award, we celebrate her expertise and profound dedication to the wellbeing of every mother and child she serves.

Jedah Twebaze
Nurse of the Year
Jedah Twebaze
Nurse of the Year, 2024.
Twebaze Jedah, the Assistant Nursing Officer and mentor at Kyaka II Refugee Settlement,
exemplifies the true spirit of humanitarian healthcare in his dedicated work combatting HIV and TB within refugee communities. For over nine years, Twebaze has committed himself to improving healthcare outcomes and fostering resilience among some of Uganda’s most vulnerable populations. Through rigorous screening programmes and innovative care approaches, he has played an instrumental role in identifying and managing critical cases in challenging resource-limited settings, significantly improving the health and quality of life for countless refugees. His compassionate service has touched many lives, offering healing and hope to those who often feel overlooked.
Twebaze’s influence extends beyond patient care. As a mentor and advocate, he trains and empowers healthcare workers, strengthening the community’s capacity to combat HIV and TB
effectively. His organisation, Queen Elizabeth Medical Foundation Uganda, which he founded in 2018, further reflects his dedication to holistic health and social care. This foundation serves children and adolescents affected by HIV and TB, providing healthcare, education, and livelihood support, especially to those living in and around Queen Elizabeth National Park. Through this initiative, Twebaze has led health programmes for over 1,500 adolescents, distributed hundreds of maternal kits, and conducted family planning outreach, thereby promoting safer and healthier futures for these communities.
Twebze’s work in advocacy has also been transformative. He collaborates with local and
international partners to secure resources essential for the continuation and expansion of HIV
and TB services. His persistence in engaging with policymakers and stakeholders has brought
much-needed attention and support to healthcare needs in refugee settlements. Twebaze’s efforts bridge the gap between communities and healthcare providers, ensuring that everyone,
regardless of their circumstances, receives the care and support they deserve. For his tireless
dedication, expertise, and compassionate leadership, Twebaze is an inspiring nominee for the
2024 HIHA Nurse of the Year Award.

Arinaitwe Vivian
Student Innovation
Arinaitwe Vivian
Students Innovation winner, 2024.
As a final-year Biomedical Engineering student at Makerere University, Arinaitwe has demonstrated remarkable vision and commitment to improving neonatal care through her invention; the NeoNest device. Designed to address neonatal hypothermia during the transport of preterm infants from rural health facilities to referral hospitals, NeoNest uses locally sourced materials and a frugal design to maintain safe thermal conditions, drastically improving survival rates for vulnerable infants. Arinaitwe’s journey with NeoNest began during an intercultural internship with the DukeMakerere Summer Biomedical Engineering Design Programme, where she collaborated with students from Makerere and Duke University to create this low-cost, life-saving solution. With a pilot deployment of 20 units at Kawempe National Referral Hospital and an overwhelming request for additional units, NeoNest has already demonstrated its effectiveness and essential role in neonatal care. Healthcare providers across Kawempe and Luweero districts report that NeoNest is making a tangible difference, filling a critical gap in healthcare delivery in resourcelimited settings. Arinaitwe’s dedication to advancing NeoNest extends beyond Uganda; she has presented her project internationally, gaining insights from experts in the field, and she is currently pursuing clinical trials to bring NeoNest closer to the market. Recognised in competitions like the Rice360 Global Design Competition and ASME ISHOW Kenya, her work exemplifies the power of youth-led innovation to address pressing healthcare challenges. Honouring Arinaitwe with the Student Innovation Award will celebrate her exceptional achievements and inspire a generation of healthcare innovators dedicated to improving lives across Uganda and beyond.

Lalam Clare
Palliative Care
Lalam Clare
Winner, Palliative Care category, 2024,
Lalam has consistently demonstrated a profound dedication to providing compassionate support to patients and their families, coupled with innovative practices and exemplary leadership. Her efforts have significantly enhanced the quality of life for countless individuals facing serious illnesses, making her a deserving candidate for this prestigious award. At the core of Lalam’s work lies her deep compassion for patients. She goes above and beyond to deliver personalised care that addresses the physical symptoms and emotional and spiritual needs of those she serves. Lalam understands that palliative care is about improving the wellbeing of patients during their most challenging times. Families often express their heartfelt gratitude for the comfort and reassurance she provides, highlighting her exceptional ability to foster trust and rapport during moments of uncertainty. Lalam’s leadership extends beyond her clinical responsibilities; she is a passionate advocate for palliative care. Actively engaging with healthcare professionals and policymakers, she raises awareness about the vital role of palliative care and its integration into mainstream health services. Her dedication to education is evident through her participation in training programmes, where she empowers fellow healthcare providers with the knowledge and skills necessary to deliver quality palliative care. With a focus on innovative practices, Lalam has pioneered initiatives that enhance pain management and patient comfort, reflecting her unwavering commitment to improving patient outcomes. Her impact resonates within healthcare facilities and the community, where she organises support groups and workshops that provide invaluable resources for patients and families navigating serious illness. Lalam’s extraordinary contributions to palliative care make her an exemplary candidate for the Palliative Care Excellence Award.

Joint Medical Store
Excellence in Health Logistics Award.
Joint Medical Store
Winner, Excellence In Health Logistics Award, 2024.
With over four decades of dedicated service, JMS has cultivated an extensive network that ensures healthcare providers countrywide and neighbouring regions receive quality medical products in a timely and efficient manner. The organisation’s commitment to excellence and its unwavering focus on quality assurance have established it as a trusted partner for public and private health facilities, as well as non-governmental organisations, all of whom rely on JMS to meet their critical healthcare needs. JMS stands out for its diverse portfolio of medical supplies — including pharmaceuticals, hospital consumables, and personal protective equipment — but also for its advanced logistics capabilities. With a modern warehouse in Kampala and regional hubs strategically placed throughout Uganda, JMS ensures that even the most remote health facilities have access to essential medical supplies. Its sophisticated inventory management and GPS-enabled fleet allow for timely deliveries, often within 48 hours, which minimises disruptions in healthcare service provision. By offering last-mile delivery, JMS demonstrates its commitment to reaching underserved areas, thereby reinforcing the backbone of Uganda’s healthcare infrastructure. In addition to supplying medical products, JMS plays a vital role in building the capacity of health facilities across Uganda. Through comprehensive training programmes, JMS empowers healthcare providers with the knowledge and skills necessary to optimise the use of pharmaceuticals and medical equipment. Its embrace of innovation — such as an electronic procurement system — further enhances efficiency, ensuring health facilities can seamlessly manage their supplies while maintaining affordability and sustainability. As a steadfast partner of the Ministry of Health and various non-governmental organisations, JMS exemplifies the essence of collaboration in advancing public health priorities.

Dr. Harriet Mayanja - Kizza
EXCELLENCE IN HEALTH ACADEMIA AWARD
Dr. Harriet Mayanja - Kizza
Excellence In Health Academia Award, 2024.
With over three decades of unwavering dedication to the field, Mayanja has enriched the educational landscape as a Professor of Medicine at Makerere University and has been pivotal in shaping the next generation of healthcare professionals. Her passion for teaching and mentorship is evident in the countless careers she has influenced, instilling a commitment to excellence and service in her students. Mayanja is a trailblazer in research, particularly in the areas of infectious diseases such as HIV/ AIDS and malaria. Her groundbreaking studies have been published in high-impact journals, significantly advancing scientific understanding and shaping health policies at both local and national levels. By translating her research findings into actionable health policies, she has directly enhanced patient care and improved public health interventions, demonstrating a profound commitment to addressing the most pressing health challenges that our communities are facing. Her work is a testament to the power of academic inquiry in driving real-world change. Beyond her research and teaching, Mayanja is deeply engaged in capacity building and community involvement, exemplifying the essence of public health advocacy. She has been instrumental in developing models of care that resonate with community needs, ensuring effective healthcare delivery for diverse populations. Mayanja’s holistic approach to health education and research empowers individuals and strengthens the healthcare system as a whole. Her extraordinary contributions make her a deserving candidate for the HIHA Academia Award.

Namale Hajarah Shahista
Media excellence in Health Award
Namale Hajarah Shahista
Media Excellence Heroes in Health Award 2024,
Namale is a senior science health news reporter and English news anchor at CBS FM 89.2 Emmanduso Radio, which caters specifically to youth audiences. Throughout her career in media, Hajarah has demonstrated a profound commitment to addressing pressing health challenges that plague Uganda. She firmly believes in the media’s critical role in alleviating the health plight of many, and her impactful reporting raises awareness of vital health issues for both rural and urban populations. Her dedication to informing the public is particularly evident in her coverage of topics such as antimicrobial resistance, childhood and adult cancers, reproductive health, obesity, infertility, and other prevalent health concerns, often featuring victims, experts, and activists to provide a comprehensive understanding of these complex issues. Namale’s work has been a beacon of hope, especially during challenging times like the COVID-19 pandemic, when she consistently delivered timely health updates and guidance. Her ability to present intricate health information in an accessible manner ensures that even those unfamiliar with medical terminology can grasp critical concepts. This accessibility is coupled with her encouragement and reassurance, reminding listeners that brighter days are ahead and inspiring them to embrace necessary lifestyle changes. Her dietary insights, tailored for different age groups, have empowered individuals to take better care of themselves and their families. Furthermore, Namale has addressed broader systemic issues within Uganda’s healthcare sector, highlighting the challenges of infectious diseases and the importance of community responsibility in improving public health. Her advocacy for equitable healthcare access and her exploration of the responsibilities of political, religious, and community leaders, have sparked important conversations about potential solutions. Through her selfless dedication and tireless efforts, Namale has become a trusted source of information and inspiration in her community, laying the groundwork for a healthier Uganda.

Prof Seggane Musisi
MENTAL HEALTH CHAMPION AWARD
Prof Seggane Musisi
Winner, Mental Health Champion Award, 2024,
As a leading figure in the field, Musisi has tirelessly advocated for the integration of mental health services within both private institutions and non-governmental organisations. His vision extends beyond merely treating mental health patients; he actively seeks to dismantle the stigma surrounding mental health challenges, creating a more inclusive environment for those affected. Through his engagement on various media platforms, he has raised public awareness about the importance of mental health and has been instrumental in encouraging a cultural shift towards understanding and acceptance. Musisi’s contributions to mental health care go hand-in-hand with his extensive research efforts, which have significantly enriched the body of knowledge in Uganda. His scholarly work addresses critical aspects of mental health, offering insights that are informative and impactful in shaping policies and practices in the sector. His research pieces are widely regarded for their depth and rigour. They serve as essential resources for practitioners, policymakers, and academics alike. By bridging the gap between theory and practice, Musisi has established himself as a thought leader whose work continues to influence the mental health discourse in Uganda. In addition to his clinical and academic contributions, Musisi embodies the spirit of a champion for mental health by inspiring others to prioritise mental well-being in their communities. His holistic approach to mental health care emphasises the need for collaborative efforts across sectors to effectively address the challenges faced by individuals living with mental health conditions. Professor Seggane Musisi’s dedication to advocating for mental health integration and his profound impact on research and public awareness make him an exemplary candidate for the Mental Health Champion Award. His tireless efforts not only improve the lives of many but also contribute to a healthier, more supportive society

Dr. MWANDAH DANIEL CHANS
PHARMACIST OF THE YEAR
Dr. MWANDAH DANIEL CHANS
Pharmacist of The Year, 2024
Dr Daniel Chans Mwandah stands as a true leader in the fight against antimicrobial resistance (AMR), bringing together his passion for pharmacy, education, and community engagement. As an academician at Kampala International University and Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mwandah is shaping the minds of future healthcare professionals and mentoring them to understand the critical importance of responsible antimicrobial use. His role as the patron of the AMR Club at KIU underscores his commitment to fostering awareness and action against AMR, as he passionately trains and inspires students and local communities to combat this pressing global health challenge. Through his research as the principal investigator of antimicrobial stewardship at Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital, Mwandah has implemented evidence-based strategies that optimise the use of antimicrobials, aiming to reduce resistance and improve patient outcomes. His contributions extend to the development of Uganda’s Clinical Guidelines and the National Antimicrobial Stewardship Manual, establishing essential frameworks that empower healthcare professionals to make informed decisions. Furthermore, his active participation in AMR-related initiatives, such as organising educational webinars and community outreach programmes, showcases his innovative spirit and dedication to creating a well-informed public. Mwandah’s impact on the field of pharmacy transcends traditional boundaries, as he actively engages with the community, collaborates with healthcare professionals, and advocates for a collective response to AMR. His initiatives have mobilised students from various universities to participate in awareness activities

Makindu Health Center 3
Public Health Facility of the year
Makindu Health Center 3
Public Health Facility of the year 2024.
Makindu Health Cente III stands as a beacon of excellence and dedication in public healthcare, serving the people of Najja sub-county and beyond, since its inception in 2002. Located along the Mukono-Katosi-Kisoga-Nyenga road in Buikwe district, this health centre has become an essential part of the region’s healthcare infrastructure, addressing diverse medical needs through its outpatient, maternity, immunisation, TB, HIV, and family planning services. Despite its modest size, Makindu Health Centre III provides a breadth of services that rivals larger facilities, offering outpatient care and 24-hour emergency and maternity support. With support from the government and committed partners, it has consistently met the healthcare needs of a growing community, cementing a strong reputation for quality and compassion within the Ministry of Health. Makindu Health Centre III’s impact extends well beyond its immediate catchment area, thanks to its proactive outreach initiatives. Recognising the challenges faced by remote villages, the facility organises regular health outreaches to border communities, including those near Lake Victoria’s fishing sites. These outreach efforts, encompassing immunisation, HPV vaccinations, COVID-19 response, and more, have reduced travel distances for patients and expanded preventive care, enhancing the health outcomes of both Najja sub-county residents and neighbouring populations. Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, Makindu Health Centre III responded with unwavering resilience, extending vaccination services to clients from Buikwe, Ngogwe, Kiyindi Town Council, Nyenga Division, and beyond — demonstrating its commitment to serve all who come through its doors. It actively collaborates with numerous partners, including Malaria Consortium, Living Goods, and MUWRP, to amplify its impact and address local health challenges effectively. By welcoming volunteer health workers and data clerks, the Centre tackles staffing gaps with community participation, strengthening its service delivery and ensuring continuity of care. Despite limited resources, Makindu Health Centre III remains resilient, working tirelessly to uphold its mission of saving lives and promoting health. This facility exemplifies the values of public health in Uganda, setting a high standard of patient-centred care, health promotion, and disease prevention, making it an exemplary choice for the 2024 HIHA Public Health Facility of the Year Award.

Holy Innocents Children’s Hospital Mbarara
Private Health Facility of the year
Holy Innocents Children’s Hospital Mbarara
Private Health Facility of the year of the year 2024.
Holy Innocents Children’s Hospital is nominated for the 2024 HIHA Private Health Facility of the Year Award for its exceptional commitment to providing specialised, affordable pediatric care in southwestern Uganda. As the only major children’s hospital in the region, operated by a dedicated non-governmental organisation and the Catholic Church, it serves a vital role in addressing healthcare access for the local community. The hospital’s unwavering focus on holistic childcare and operational excellence sets it apart as a leader in pediatric services. What distinguishes Holy Innocents is its team of qualified professionals and an innovative training programme designed to enhance knowledge transfer and skill development. The hospital employs a patient care system that includes critical health charts in all wards and an online management platform, demonstrating a strong commitment to preventing medical errors and ensuring patient safety. The facility conducts regular ward rounds led by pediatricians, with attentive nurses diligently monitoring patient vitals. Its impressive hygiene standards and thoughtful design, which includes providing each child with their own bed and offering mattresses for caregivers, highlight the hospital’s dedication to comfort and dignity in patient care. Additionally, Holy Innocents Children’s Hospital adopts a transparent and compassionate model of care. The staff excels in communicating treatment options and side effects, while providing counselling and emotional support to families during challenging times. The hospital implements a flexible payment system to accommodate various financial situations, ensuring that no child is denied treatment due to inability to pay. The child-friendly environment, featuring play areas and gardens, enriches the healing experience and promotes engagement in joyful activities. With a focus on first-come, first-served service and prioritisation of specialised care, along with essential services like ambulance support, Holy Innocents Children’s Hospital exemplifies excellence in pediatric healthcare. The dedicated efforts of the hospital and its staff deserve recognition for their remarkable service and profound impact on the community.

Dr. Shamim Nabuuma
USE OF ICT TO IMPROVE PATIENT CARE
Dr. Shamim Nabuuma
Winner, Use of ICT to Improve Patient Care category, 2024.
Dr Shamim Nabuuma, a visionary AI researcher and healthcare innovator, is addressing cancer through her groundbreaking work on Keti AI. Keti AI has revolutionised cancer diagnosis and treatment by enabling faster, more accurate, and personalised patient care. It facilitates healthcare professionals in rural areas to identify cancer cases early and develop effective, individualised treatment plans. Beyond her work with Keti AI, Nabuuma has founded Femtech Chil Lab, a pioneering organisation committed to using AI for women’s health issues. At Femtech Chil Lab, she has developed cutting-edge AI applications that address vital areas of women’s health, such as cervical cancer screening, maternal health monitoring, and menstrual health management. By integrating technology into women’s healthcare, Nabuuma is addressing critical gaps in early diagnosis and treatment, making a substantial impact on healthcare outcomes for countless women.

Dr. Akello Jackline
Maternal and Child Health Care
Dr. Akello Jackline
Maternal and Child Health Care 2024 Winner
As a dedicated Safe Motherhood champion, dr Akello Jackline has spearheaded four consecutive national awareness campaigns targeting preeclampsia and hemorrhage, two of the leading causes of maternal mortality. Through her tireless efforts, Jackline has significantly raised awareness of these critical health issues, empowering healthcare providers and communities with essential knowledge to prevent maternal deaths. Her advocacy and outreach initiatives have fostered a culture of vigilance and preparedness, enabling better health outcomes for mothers and their children. In her capacity as chair of the Safe Motherhood Expert Committee on Preeclampsia, Akello has been instrumental in shaping national policies and protocols for the early detection and management of this life-threatening condition. Her leadership ensures that maternal health remains a focal point in Uganda’s healthcare agenda, promoting best practices and standards that can save lives. Furthermore, during her tenure at Nebbi Hospital, she championed the reinstatement of the Nebbi Blood Collection and Distribution Centre, enhancing the region’s capacity to respond to obstetric emergencies. Akello’s proactive approach in lobbying for essential medical equipment, including the establishment of a dedicated land cruiser vehicle for the facility, exemplifies her commitment to improving health services in underserved areas. Akello’s remarkable contributions to maternal and child healthcare resonate deeply within the communities she serves. Akello’s dedication and impact make her an exemplary candidate for the Maternal Child Health Care Individual of the Year Award, as she continues to champion the rights and health of mothers and children throughout the nation.

Baisemubaka Sylvia
Allied Health Worker
Baisemubaka Sylvia
Winner, Allied Health Worker category, 2024,
This nomination recognises the outstanding contributions of Sylvia Baisemubaka to healthcare in the underserved Luuka district. Baisemubaka has navigated significant challenges, including a shortage of medical personnel and resources, as well as a population burdened by preventable diseases due to limited access to healthcare. Despite these obstacles, she has tirelessly provided vital medical services, ensuring that the health needs of the community are met with professionalism and care. Baisemubaka’s impact extends across several key healthcare programmes, particularly in general health services and specialised interventions for HIV and malaria. She has played a central role in expanding access to essential medical care for a population that often resides far from medical centres. By treating common yet deadly diseases and ensuring timely diagnoses, Baisemubaka has saved countless lives. Her dedication to addressing the HIV epidemic in the region — through raising awareness, stigma reduction, and providing access to antiretroviral therapy — has contributed to a notable decline in transmission rates. Additionally, her efforts in malaria prevention and treatment, including community outreach and the distribution of insecticide-treated bed nets, have significantly improved the health and quality of life for many, especially vulnerable children. What truly sets Baisemubaka apart is her expertise as one of the few anesthesia specialists in Luuka district, a role that has proven life-saving, particularly in obstetric care. Her ability to provide safe anesthesia during childbirth-related surgeries has directly contributed to reducing maternal and infant mortality rates in the area. Beyond her clinical skills, Baisemubaka’s compassion and commitment to her patients are evident in her willingness to work long hours, often without adequate resources, and to extend her services to those in financial need. In a region marked by systemic challenges, Baisemubaka has become a trusted figure and a role model, embodying the profound impact one dedicated individual can have on their community.

BAYOA ROSE MARY TANI
Community Health Worker - North
BAYOA ROSE MARY TANI
Winner, Community Health Worker - North, 2024.
A dedicated volunteer with the Village Health Team in Moyo Town Council’s Celecelea ward, Tani has devoted years to serving her community. Her exceptional ability to communicate effectively allows her to engage with various health programs, including Integrated Community Case Management (ICCM), family planning initiatives, and immunisation campaigns. Tani’s commitment to public health is evident through her proactive approach to disease surveillance and her involvement in hygiene and sanitation efforts, making her a vital asset to the health landscape in her area. Tani exemplifies the spirit of volunteerism, consistently demonstrating a strong work ethic and a willingness to take on responsibilities without hesitation. She is known for meeting deadlines and approaching her duties with sincerity and positivity. As a VHT supervisor for the Onco programme, Tani has proven her leadership skills by effectively representing her colleagues in meetings with officials and persuading community members to engage with government programs. Her ability to resolve issues independently reflects her dedication to community health, fostering trust and cooperation among residents. Tani’s exemplary behaviour, respect for others, and punctuality in attending meetings further highlight her professionalism and reliability. Beyond her operational excellence, Tani’s commitment to maintaining a clean environment and her well-organised medicine box in her home illustrate her dedication to safety and health standards. Her exceptional record-keeping abilities enable her to track vital community health data accurately, ensuring that health programs are effectively implemented. Tani’s respectful relationships with her neighbours and her talent for keeping confidentiality enhance her reputation within the community, allowing her to serve with integrity.

Simon Mugerwa
Community Health Worker - Central
Simon Mugerwa
Winner, Community Health Worker - Central, 2024.
Mugerwa has tirelessly served vulnerable populations, including low-income families, immigrants, and individuals with limited access to healthcare. At Mengo Eye Hospital, Mugerwa plays a crucial role in identifying individuals in need of eye care, travelling to the most remote villages, and spreading awareness through word of mouth. His extensive mapping of villages allows him to systematically reach out to those with visual impairments and other health-related challenges. Through community eye screenings, mental health support dialogues, and health education initiatives, Mugerwa has empowered individuals by building trust and promoting health literacy. His innovative programs address specific community needs, ensuring that health resources are accessible and that individuals feel empowered to take charge of their health. One of Mugerwa’s most remarkable achievements is his ability to forge partnerships with local organizations, healthcare providers, and community groups. These collaborations have facilitated comprehensive care coordination, ensuring that community members receive seamless support. Mugerwa’s leadership extends to mentoring and training new community health workers, advocating for health equity, and fostering a sustainable workforce. Additionally, his efforts to support vulnerable communities in improving their financial stability through referrals and backyard gardening initiatives have enabled families to pay for school fees and medical bills, further demonstrating his commitment to transforming lives.

Dr. Ayebare Elizabeth
Lifetime Achievement Award

Dr. Emintone Odong Ayella
Lifetime Achievement Award
Dr. Emintone Odong Ayella
Winner, Life Time Award category, 2024.
In the hallowed halls of St Mary’s Hospital Lacor, Dr Emintone Odong Ayella has carved out a legacy that resonates with hope and resilience. Beginning his journey in the 1980s as a young intern, he quickly became an indispensable pillar of strength for the community during times of immense turmoil. Throughout the decades, as conflict ravaged the region, Odong stood unwavering in his commitment to providing essential healthcare services, even as the hospital faced severe challenges — from supply shortages to physical destruction. His dedication in the face of adversity has not only transformed lives but has also redefined what it means to serve in the medical profession. Odong’s remarkable skill as a surgeon has brought healing to those suffering from obstetric fistula, a condition that isolates and shuns countless women. His compassionate approach ensures these patients receive not just surgical repair, but also the dignity and emotional support they deserve. As civil wars and humanitarian crises unfolded around him, Odong emerged as a beacon of hope, embodying the spirit of endurance and compassion. His exemplary leadership as the medical director of Lacor Hospital has not only fostered a culture of healing but has also made the hospital a sanctuary for those battling sickle cell disease, where patients find understanding, empathy, and unwavering support. Honoured with a national medal of service by Uganda’s President in recognition of his outstanding contributions, Odong’s true legacy is seen in the gratitude of his patients and the smiles of families who have benefited from his care. He leads by example, mentoring and inspiring the next generation of healthcare professionals, while fostering an environment of compassion within the hospital. Odong’s journey is not merely a testament to his medical expertise; it is a profound narrative of love, sacrifice, and an indelible commitment to uplifting the human spirit. His enduring impact on healthcare in Uganda makes him a luminary in his field and a deserving recipient of the HIHA Lifetime Achievement Award, a recognition of a life dedicated to healing and hope.

Dr. scott Kellermann
Lifetime Achievement Award
Dr. scott Kellermann
Winner, Life Time Award category, 2024.
Dr Scott Kellermann is a distinguished physician and researcher whose unwavering commitment to global health and humanitarian efforts has profoundly impacted the lives of countless individuals, particularly in Uganda. Board-certified in internal medicine and pediatrics, Kellermann’s expertise spans tropical medicine and infectious diseases, with a dedicated focus on rural health. His extensive research on malaria, HIV, and tuberculosis has enriched the medical community, resulting in numerous published works in peer-reviewed journals. However, it is his handson work in underserved communities that truly embodies his legacy as a health champion. In 2000, Kellermann and his wife, Carol, travelled to Uganda, initially to assess the needs of the Batwa pygmies in the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. Witnessing the heartbreaking conditions faced by these communities, they made the selfless decision to relocate to Uganda as full-time missionaries from 2001 to 2009. Through their tireless efforts, they established mobile medical clinics that treated hundreds of patients daily, laying the groundwork for what would become the Bwindi Community Hospital — now recognised as one of Uganda’s finest healthcare institutions. Their compassionate approach and community development initiatives have transformed lives, fostering hope and health among the Batwa and surrounding populations. Kellermann’s profound impact extends beyond clinical care; he has pioneered educational opportunities through the Bwindi Nursing School, equipping future generations of health professionals. The Kellermann Foundation has provided scholarships for Batwa children and nursing students, ensuring access to education and healthcare for those most in need. Kellermann’s legacy as a healer and advocate for health equity has earned him numerous accolades, including the “Unsung Heroes of Compassion” award from His Holiness the Dalai Lama and the American Medical Association’s dr Nathan Davis International Award in Medicine. His commitment to providing care, fostering education, and uplifting communities exemplifies the true spirit of compassion in healthcare, making him a deserving recipient of the 2024 HIHA Lifetime Achievement Award.