Experts on epidemics have addressed the pressing issue of epidemic risks and mitigation strategies in Uganda during a discussion on local television on Tuesday, October 2, 2024.

Sabiiti Wilber, Co-Chair of the Interdisciplinary Consortium on Epidemics, emphasized the need for immediate action to control the spread of Mpox.

He highlighted the rising concerns surrounding Mpox, which was traditionally viewed as an endemic disease in Africa but is now posing a significant threat as cases increase.

“When cases began to rise, it raised concerns, and now we must respond and control it before it spreads further,” Sabiiti said.

He also underscored the importance of local vaccine manufacturing, urging governments to support African researchers in this endeavor.

“If someone produces something that is only recognized within their own country, it will remain at that level and not reach its full potential,” Sabiiti warned.

Sabiiti further highlighted the necessity of protecting scientific research through robust intellectual property laws.

“A good scientist is one who understands the ecosystem in which they are working; safeguarding scientific innovation is crucial for effective epidemic response,” he added.

Allana Kembabazi, Programme Manager at Initiative for Social and Economic Rights (ISER), raised critical concerns about the current state of Uganda’s health system and questioned, “Do you feel like health is a priority in this country? As long as these bad practices persist in the health system, people will continue to stay home instead of going to hospitals for treatment,” she remarked, calling for urgent reforms.

Reflecting on lessons learnt from the COVID-19 pandemic, Kembabazi asserted that Africans must be able to rely on public health facilities for care without fear of exploitation.

“We learnt that, in the end, no one is going to save you. Africans are already struggling with many other challenges, and when pandemics happen, they need to know they can access care,” she stated.

Kembabazi also criticized the commodification of health, pointing out that while vaccines were being sold at high prices during the pandemic, many Africans were struggling to meet basic needs.

“You cannot reduce health to a mere figure. Most people in Africa are struggling to put food on the table,” she added.

As Uganda grapples with the threat of epidemics, the call for a coordinated response and investment in local health infrastructure has never been more urgent.