Uganda Bolsters One Health Strategy to Combat Zoonotic Disease Outbreaks

Uganda is ramping up its One Health strategy to address zoonotic diseases, which are spreading due to greater human-wildlife interactions in forests, gardens, and fields.

Samuel Okware, Director General of the Uganda National Health Research Organisation, emphasized the need for integrated human, animal, and environmental health systems during a recent Entebbe meeting. The event followed four years of research on outbreaks like Rift Valley Fever, Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic Fever, and Brucellosis, which have caused livestock losses, human illnesses, and deaths.

Okware stressed that research findings should guide prevention within a One Health framework, promoting sustainable, locally driven solutions.

Samuel Oti from the International Development Research Centre praised Uganda’s community-based surveillance model. It unites community health workers, animal health staff, and wildlife officers in a volunteer network for early outbreak detection and reporting.

Researchers have created and tested local diagnostic tools, minimizing dependence on central labs.

Project lead Julius Julian Lutwama explained the system’s focus on community surveillance by trained locals, such as health extension workers and veterinary assistants, who report suspected cases promptly. This tackles delays in detection when people only seek care after symptoms appear.

Lutwama also called for behavioral shifts, cautioning against consuming or feeding dead animals to pets, as this spreads infections like Rift Valley Fever.

The approach aims to enhance early warnings, curb disease spread, and safeguard public health and livelihoods.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)