An artificial intelligence (AI)-powered system has been unveiled to combat persistent drug stock-outs in Uganda, particularly in refugee-hosting districts and hard-to-reach communities.
The offline-capable AI framework, developed by the International Foundation for Recovery and Development (IFRAD), is designed to strengthen the government’s health supply chain where internet access is unreliable.
‘The model allows health workers in low-connectivity areas to enter data offline using their phones. Once the device reconnects to the internet even briefly, the information automatically uploads to district servers, enabling District Health Officers (DHOs) and National Medical Stores to monitor supply levels and redistribute medicines in real time,’ said Mr Gideon Apako, the system’s Principal Investigator.
Apako explained that the system uses predictive demand analytics to forecast medicine needs two to three weeks in advance. ‘The aim is to ensure mothers, children and refugees walk into a facility and find medicines available instead of trekking hours to another facility or spending money out of pocket to buy drugs.’
The pilot program, currently 20 percent complete, is focusing on the Karamoja region, southwestern districts such as Kyegegwa, and other remote areas serving over 2.1 million people. The project has so far received Shs358 million for needs assessments and baseline data collection, with further funding planned for nationwide rollout.
On Friday, Mr Patrick Mugisha, IFRAD’s Executive Director, highlighted the human cost of stock-outs. ‘During outbreaks, a large number of people can be infected just like cholera outbreak – but medicines are often insufficient. A few who arrive early get treatment, while the rest miss out since orders were not made on time. It can take National Medical Stores weeks, sometimes even a month or two before new supplies arrive.’
He added that refugees and mothers often walk hours in search of medicines. ‘If a mother walks two hours distance to a facility and finds no medicine, then walk another two hours looking for another option. With this system, stock levels are monitored by DHOs and medicines will be [available] when needed.’
Ms Samalie Namukose, a Ministry of Health nutritionist, said the system improves data accuracy and supports evidence-based decisions. ‘Facilities without the internet can still process and use data to request medicines on time. by cutting emergency response delays, we ensure consistent access to essential medicines in refugee settlements and other remote areas once fully adopted.’
The Essential Medicines and Health Supplies Manual 2012 mandates effective stock management, but the 2023 Auditor General report observed that the National Medical Stores often under-supplied facilities, with deliveries arriving late.