The Speaker of Parliament, Jacob Marksons Oboth, has defended Uganda’s policy of openly declaring outbreaks of infectious diseases, saying transparency during health emergencies is a patriotic responsibility that protects not only Ugandans but also the global community.
Speaking during a meeting with the chairperson of the UK All-Party Parliamentary Group on Global Health, Dr Beccy Cooper, who paid him a courtesy call at Parliament on Thursday, Oboth said Uganda has consistently prioritised openness over economic considerations when responding to public health emergencies such as HIV/AIDS and Ebola.
He noted that while the country could have concealed disease outbreaks to safeguard sectors such as tourism and trade, the government instead opted for transparency to enable timely interventions and prevent the spread of infectious diseases beyond its borders.
‘It was not about economics; it was about health,’ Oboth said, adding that Uganda’s openness has enabled the country to develop effective strategies for managing major public health challenges while contributing to global health security.
The Speaker said Uganda’s approach reflects its commitment to protecting both its citizens and the international community, given that infectious diseases can easily spread across national boundaries.
Dr Cooper commended Uganda for its leadership in responding to disease outbreaks, describing the country’s achievements in the health sector as remarkable.
She said the United Kingdom appreciates Uganda’s commitment to early reporting and effective disease surveillance, noting that such efforts benefit the international community because infectious diseases do not respect borders.
‘The UK directly benefits from Uganda’s leadership and health initiatives in the region,’ she said.
State Minister for Health in charge of Primary Health Care Charles Ayume thanked the UK government for its continued partnership with Uganda, particularly in strengthening the country’s health system through training and capacity building for health workers.
Ayume said the support proved invaluable during the COVID-19 pandemic and successive Ebola outbreaks, helping Uganda improve its preparedness and response to public health emergencies.