AGP Executive Report

Ebola in DRC: The Red Cross says attacks on volunteers and ambulances are worsening the fight against the country’s worst-ever Ebola outbreak, with six workers injured in incidents across Ituri, North Kivu and Haut-Uele, as Congo’s lab-confirmed cases rise to 5,515 and deaths to 2,642. Uganda health updates: Uganda has been declared free of the latest polio outbreak after WHO assessments found transmission of polio type 2 stopped, but officials warn surveillance and immunisation must continue. Maternal & newborn care: A new study at Kawempe National Referral Hospital reports high stillbirth, preterm birth and neonatal mortality rates, highlighting gaps in perinatal outcomes. Men’s health: A new men-only clinic in Iganga opens to tackle prostate enlargement, infertility and erectile dysfunction, aiming to reduce delays caused by stigma. Community health & safety: Police outline exemptions for the Aug. 29 National Cleaning Day, including people going to health facilities and those with medical appointments, to protect access to care. Health rights & access: UNAIDS’ Winnie Byanyima urges authorities to allow Kizza Besigye to travel for urgent medical treatment, calling his detention care cruel. Wellness innovation: A waterless toilet invention (iThrone) is being deployed in Uganda and other countries to improve sanitation where plumbing is limited.

Polio Update: Uganda and four other African countries have been cleared of the latest polio outbreak after WHO assessments found no ongoing transmission of polio type 2—an important win, but officials warn vaccination and surveillance must continue. Maternal & Newborn Health: A study at Kawempe National Referral Hospital reports high stillbirth (26.3 per 1,000), preterm birth (110.9 per 1,000) and neonatal mortality (22.5 per 1,000), with higher risk for premature babies—highlighting urgent gaps in perinatal care. Neurosurgery Capacity: Mulago carried out 80 complex brain surgeries in a two-week camp, treating tumours, hydrocephalus, skull deformities and other critical conditions, including adult and paediatric cases. HIV Prevention Alarm (Kampala): Stakeholders report a sharp rise in new HIV infections in Kampala—averaging 211 cases weekly—linked to factors such as unregulated sexual services, violence, inequalities and social media exposure, calling for faster prevention targeting young people. Ebola in DRC: The Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak is worsening fast, with 5,515 confirmed cases and 2,642 deaths; attacks on response teams and insecurity are disrupting care and burials, while Pope Leo XIV urges stronger international action. Health System Support: MTN Uganda ended its Y’ello Care campaign by backing maternal and newborn services at Karita Health Centre IV in Amudat with equipment, solar power, digital tools and support for Village Health Teams. Child Protection Probe (Jinja): Police are investigating allegations that a headteacher facilitated sexual exploitation of female students by a senior six student, with multiple complaints reported.

HIV in Kampala: A KCCA review of 649,570 tests (Jul 2025–Jun 2026) found at least 211 new HIV infections weekly—about 30 per day—raising alarm over unregulated sex work settings, domestic violence, inequality, and social media-driven exposure, with women forming 64% of tests and 62% of new positives. Ebola crisis in DRC: The Bundibugyo-strain outbreak is now the deadliest in the country’s history, with WHO reporting thousands of cases and deaths and warning it’s spreading faster than containment, as insecurity disrupts care and contact tracing. Uganda health system support: MTN Uganda ends its Y’ello Care campaign with Shs600m+ support for maternal and newborn care at Karita Health Centre IV in Amudat, including equipment, solar, digital tools, and Village Health Team support. Maternal & newborn pressure: Masaka Regional Referral Hospital says it records about 160 preterm births monthly, urging stronger antenatal care to reduce risks from unmanaged hypertension, infections, and malaria. Medical access & policy: Uganda’s Auditor General debate on Uganda Airlines ownership is resurfacing, while a separate medical report on detained opposition figure Kizza Besigye says he can understand proceedings but can’t speak or write, potentially limiting his defence participation.

Ebola Response: DR Congo’s Ebola outbreak is still racing ahead of containment, with the death toll now topping 2,500 and the spread described as “growing exponentially,” leaving health workers under intense pressure. Frontline Conditions: Reports from treatment centres highlight staff stress and unpaid bonuses, raising fears that morale and service quality could slip as cases surge. Regional Preparedness: ECSA-HC has launched a six-month emergency push to strengthen border health teams across major trade and migration corridors, aiming to detect, isolate and report suspected cases faster. Maternal Health Pressure: Masaka Regional Referral Hospital says it records at least 160 preterm births monthly, blaming gaps in antenatal care and unmanaged infections, malaria and hypertension. Health Service Gaps: Luuka’s Kiyunga Health Centre IV is overwhelmed by bed, power and diagnostic shortages, forcing some mothers to seek care in private clinics. Public Health & Waste: Uganda’s Ministry of Health urges household waste sorting ahead of National Cleaning Day to reduce unsafe disposal and burning risks. Air Quality Alert: Kampala is among the most polluted cities in the world on AQI reports, with “unhealthy” air posing risks especially for sensitive groups. Cancer & Care: A palliative care feature follows a mother seeking urgent support after cancer treatment, spotlighting the need for pain relief and quality-of-life services.

Ebola Response: Eastern DR Congo’s Ebola outbreak is spreading “exponentially,” with deaths now reported above 2,500 and cases above 5,000, as WHO and aid partners warn response capacity is being outpaced; Border Health: ECSA-HC has launched a six-month emergency push at 33 border points of entry along major trade and migration corridors (including Uganda) to strengthen early detection, safe isolation and rapid notification; Cancer & Palliative Care: A two-day Uganda focus highlights how cancer patients can access palliative care to manage pain and improve quality of life; Maternal Health Pressure: Masaka Regional Referral Hospital reports at least 160 preterm births monthly, urging stronger antenatal care; Facility Shortages: Luuka’s Kiyunga Health Centre IV is struggling with bed, diagnostic and power shortages, forcing some mothers to sleep on the floor; Health Workforce & Safety: Uganda’s UPDF recruitment continues with medical screening sending some applicants to hospital after collapse; Public Health & Safety: Kampala’s Nansana residents say dangerous Hoima Road crossings are causing frequent pedestrian injuries, often involving boda boda riders.

Ebola Emergency: The DRC’s Ebola outbreak is spreading “exponentially,” with deaths now reported above 2,500 and the UN warning the response is being outpaced as insecurity, attacks on medical teams, and funding gaps worsen the crisis. Cross-Border Preparedness: ECSA Health Community has launched a six-month Ebola emergency push at 33 DRC border entry points, including digital surveillance and safer isolation protocols, with Uganda among targeted transit countries. Uganda Response: Uganda plans to send health workers to South Sudan for Ebola response support, citing the risk from free movement and illegal entry points. Maternal Health Investment: Stanbic Bank will commit Shs200m annually for 10 years to maternal and child health, linking better outcomes to Uganda’s economic growth goals. Health Access for Disabilities: UNAB says over 90% of people with visual impairment can’t afford white canes and is appealing for government and partner support. Air Quality Alert: Kampala is among the most polluted cities in the world this weekend, with “unhealthy” air levels raising respiratory risk. Local Health Infrastructure: West Nile MP Jonam MP Jonam MP urges Parliament to fix Pakwach’s health centre gaps, including lack of a mortuary, ambulance, and a male ward.

Ebola Crisis in DRC: The UN and WHO say the Democratic Republic of Congo’s Ebola outbreak is growing “exponentially,” with deaths now above 2,500 and cases surpassing 5,000, as health systems struggle and humanitarian funding gaps slow response. Regional Border Readiness: ECSA-HC has launched a six-month cross-border emergency push at 33 priority entry points along the DRC border, including Uganda, to strengthen screening, isolation, lab transport, and real-time surveillance. Vaccine Push: DRC has received an initial 70,000 Ervebo doses, with part earmarked for a Phase III trial to test protection against Bundibugyo virus, while frontline vaccination begins. Uganda’s Response: Uganda plans to send health workers to South Sudan for Ebola support and is also deploying screening at gazetted border points to reduce importation risk. Maternal Health Investment: Stanbic commits Shs200m annually for 10 years to maternal and child health, linking safer motherhood to Uganda’s future productivity. Disability Care: UNAB appeals for support for white canes, saying most visually impaired Ugandans still can’t afford them. Cancer Concern: Uganda Cancer Institute findings highlight rising cancer cases in the Rwenzori region, with alcohol, smoking, and poor diets cited as key drivers. Intern Allowance Debate: Medical interns question the Shs1m monthly net allowance, arguing it falls short of basic living costs. Aquaculture Skills: A Norwegian-funded Samaki Poa project is training aquaculture entrepreneurs in Uganda and the region through hubs that also improve access to fingerlings.

Ebola Response in DRC: The Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo keeps worsening, with WHO and partners warning it’s far from under control as cases and deaths rise; Vaccine Rollout: Gavi and CEPI are backing the emergency push, including approval and release of 70,000 Ervebo doses from the stockpile and studies to see how well existing Ebola vaccines work against Bundibugyo; Travel Alerts: U.S. aviation guidance advises travelers to avoid boarding after recent DRC exposure and to use designated entry airports if they’ve been in Uganda or South Sudan; Maternal Health Funding: Stanbic Bank and Rotary Mama Toto Care Uganda sign a sh600m partnership aimed at strengthening public facilities and cutting preventable maternal and newborn deaths; Malaria Burden Warning: A research network flags Africa’s heavy malaria load and urges sustained surveillance and public health messaging; Sickle Cell Nutrition Study: New research reports daily zinc (20mg) reduced infections by nearly 40% in Ugandan children under 5 with sickle cell anemia; Food Safety: UK salmonella cases linked to imported eggs continue to raise concerns about egg handling and vulnerable groups; Animal Health Threat: African swine fever spreads to at least six Kenyan counties, threatening pig farmers with high mortalities and no cure.

Ebola Crisis (DRC): WHO and Africa CDC warn the Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo is spiralling, with fatality rates now above 46% and health services strained as cases surge across provinces. Vaccine Push: CEPI is funding $4.17m to test whether existing Ebola vaccines can protect against Bundibugyo, while Gavi adds $7m plus another $13m package to support Ervebo vaccine doses and protect routine immunisation in high-risk areas. Uganda Link (Travel): The US updates Ebola-related travel restrictions affecting people who have been in DRC, Uganda or South Sudan in the past 21 days, with entry limited to designated airports. HIV Prevention Breakthrough: Uganda’s Makerere researchers report zero HIV infections over one year with lenacapavir long-acting PrEP in female adolescents and women in Africa. Public Health Alerts: NYC reports its first 2026 West Nile case, and Italy sees a spike in West Nile infections, underscoring mosquito-bite prevention. Local Health & Safety: Kampala police investigate a Kalungu Bunga stabbing that killed two children and left three hospitalised, while Uganda mourns Dr Henry Stanley Okia after a fatal heart attack. Health Systems & Access: Uganda’s Dei BioPharma CEO warns local pharma manufacturing will stall without National Medical Stores backing.

Ebola Alert (DRC): WHO says the Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo is “far from control,” with nearly 5,000 infections and over 2,300 deaths, driven by insecurity, displacement and intense movement—while Uganda is cited as having stopped transmission after an initial spillover. Child Health (Uganda): A Ugandan randomized trial at Jinja Regional Referral Hospital found daily zinc supplementation cut infection rates by 38% and reduced severe bacterial infections by two-thirds among young children with sickle cell anemia. Food Safety (UK-linked): A UK salmonella outbreak is being linked to imported eggs, with health officials warning cases may be undercounted. Public Health Policy (Uganda): Local leaders and bar owners react to new directives on alcohol and betting operating hours, with concerns raised about enforceability. Health Systems & Governance (Aviation probe): Parliament’s COSASE stalls parts of its UCAA corruption inquiry after legal questions over acting leadership and missed appearances. Maternal Care (Research): A study from conflict-affected settings highlights nurse-led antenatal care as a possible way to protect maternal and newborn outcomes when physician access collapses.

Ebola Response Boost: The EU has procured €2.5m in rapid diagnostic tests for Africa CDC to speed up detection in the Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak in DR Congo, with early deliveries planned and more tests in preparation with WHO. Ebola Alarm in Congo: WHO says the epidemic is still far from controlled as cases pass 5,000 and deaths exceed 2,300, with spread into a sixth province and concerns that some deaths occur outside contact lists. NCDs in UHC: African health leaders are urged to integrate non-communicable disease services, essential medicines and diagnostics into Universal Health Coverage reforms to tackle rising NCD deaths. Sickle Cell Nutrition Trial: A Uganda study found daily zinc supplementation cut infections in children with sickle cell anemia by 38%, including a two-thirds drop in severe bacterial infections. Salmonella Egg Warning (UK): UKHSA reports a salmonella outbreak linked to imported eggs, warning the true number of infections may be higher than confirmed cases. Cancer Screening Push: Centenary Bank and Rotary Cancer Run partners renewed calls for early cancer screening and awareness ahead of the August 30 race. Local Health Accountability: Uganda’s Local Government minister warns corruption is draining funds meant for schools and health facilities, calling for stronger accountability in local spending.

Ebola Emergency (DRC): WHO says the DRC Ebola outbreak is spreading at “unprecedented” speed, with 5,021 confirmed cases and 2,378 deaths reported across 55 health zones, and warns it is still “far from being under control,” driven by insecurity, displacement and intense movement along roads, rivers and mining routes. Ebola Response (Africa/Europe): The EU will procure €2.5m in rapid diagnostic tests for Africa CDC to speed up detection and get patients into care earlier. Medical Interns (Uganda): Government has restored medical interns’ monthly net allowance to Shs1 million and ordered all interns to report for training immediately, after weeks of protests over facilitation and deployment rules. Cancer Awareness (Nsambya): Centenary Bank and Rotary Cancer Run organisers urged early screening and community action, warning that many people seek care only after cancer has advanced. NCD Prevention (Parliament): MPs were urged to push self-care and preventive health as diabetes, cancer and hypertension rise. Public Health & Safety (Uganda): A UN report highlights how free press can save lives during disasters and health emergencies by countering disinformation and holding authorities accountable. Air Quality (Region): Kampala was listed among the most polluted cities, with health risks especially for children and people with heart or lung conditions.

Ebola Emergency (DRC): WHO chief Tedros warns the Congo Ebola outbreak is “far from being under control,” citing nearly 5,000 cases and 2,325 deaths, with spread driven by insecurity, displacement and weak health systems; WHO’s emergency committee is meeting to update risk and response guidance. Africa CDC Update: Africa CDC says Uganda’s containment shows it can be done, urging Congo to act fast with community-led response, ERVEBO vaccination, better treatment access and protection for health workers. EU Support for Diagnostics: The European Commission will fund 2.5 million euros for rapid Ebola diagnostic tests to strengthen detection and speed up care via Africa CDC, with deliveries starting in August. Food Safety (UK): UKHSA reports a salmonella outbreak linked to imported eggs, with 47 confirmed cases in London, one death, and hundreds affected; officials say UK-produced eggs show no sign of contamination. Clean Water (Sembabule): Government-backed Shs10bn solar-powered water works aim to cut disease risk as families in water-stressed Sembabule trek long distances for unsafe water. Health Workforce (Uganda): Cabinet lifts suspension of facilitation for medical interns; interns released on bail after protests are set to receive Shs1m allowances from August to December. Cancer (Uganda): Uganda Cancer Institute ranks common cancers by sub-region, highlighting cervix, breast, oesophagus and ovarian cancers in females, and prostate, oesophagus, Kaposi Sarcoma and liver cancers in males. Waste Management (Kampala): KCCA sets fees for waste generated during National Cleaning Day (Aug 29), alongside plans to boost daily collection capacity. Menstrual Health (Global): Coverage highlights how period poverty keeps girls out of school and calls for action to improve access to menstrual products and facilities. Community Health & Equity (Uganda): A Ugandan trans pastor, Aggie Dennett Harmon, is recognized internationally for building healing and harm-reduction support for trans people facing violence and exclusion.

Ebola in DRC: The Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo has surged to 4,945 confirmed cases and 2,325 deaths, with the fatality rate climbing to about 46% and warnings that it could become the deadliest on record. TB & HIV care: A new real-world study across six countries including Uganda finds TB preventive treatment lowers TB disease and death risk for people living with HIV, especially when started soon after entering HIV care. Maternal health support: MTN Uganda expanded maternal and newborn care in Luuka by equipping Kiyunga Health Centre IV, training staff on electronic records, and running community health camps. Blood shortage: Hospitals are facing a blood shortage during school holidays, as demand rises and regular donor supply remains limited. Digital health & access: An AMDA Caravan Run in Kampala combined fitness with screening for cancer and HIV testing, pushing prevention and early detection. Cybersecurity for health systems: Interpol warns Africa’s critical infrastructure—including utilities that support health services—is increasingly targeted by sophisticated ransomware groups. Local welfare: The IGP inspected Nsambya Police Barracks and pledged immediate welfare improvements for officers and families. Kiteezi landfill: UN-Habitat and KCCA handed over the first phase of Kiteezi landfill rehabilitation after a 2024 collapse that killed 46 people.

Ebola Update (DRC): The Democratic Republic of Congo’s Ebola outbreak has become the deadliest in the country’s history, with deaths rising to 2,325 and confirmed cases reaching 4,945 as transmission accelerates and the case fatality ratio climbs to about 46%. Malaria (Uganda): Ugandan parasite samples have revealed new genetic mutations linked to reduced susceptibility to malaria drugs, raising fresh alarm for treatment effectiveness and resistance tracking. Health Workforce (Kampala): Eight medical interns arrested over a Parliamentary Avenue protest over delayed allowances have been granted bail, with court conditions aimed at preventing repeat offences. Preventive Health (AMDA): AMDA’s Caravan Run in Kampala combined community fitness with screening, including cancer checks and HIV counselling/testing, pushing prevention as a daily habit. Medicines (Uganda): Dei Biopharma is seeking additional funding to scale up local pharmaceutical production, as government weighs ways to cut reliance on imported medicines. Cross-border Health (Refugees): Uganda reports 150 Sudanese refugees have voluntarily repatriated as security improves, with more returns planned.

Ebola Crisis (DRC): The Democratic Republic of Congo’s Ebola outbreak has become the deadliest in the country’s history, with deaths rising to 2,325 and confirmed cases to 4,945 (101 new cases in 24 hours). The UN says “Ebola is winning,” warning the epidemic is killing a person every 30 minutes, while health experts point to late detection and limited care as case fatality climbs to about 46%. Uganda Border & Preparedness: Uganda is urged to keep easing pressure on official crossings, as closures push people to use illegal routes that are harder to monitor for Ebola spread; meanwhile Israel reported a suspected case after travel, with Uganda advising self-isolation and hotline use for returning travellers. Health Workers’ Rights (Kampala): The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists and Dentists Union (KMPDU) condemned the arrest and remand of 8 Ugandan medical interns over allowance demands, calling it a regional workforce crisis and urging their immediate release. Cancer Care Fundraising (Nsambya): Rotary Cancer Run fundraising has started, targeting Shs5b to complete and equip St Francis Hospital Nsambya’s cancer treatment centre, including a modern radiotherapy linear accelerator. Digital Health & Safety: Uganda Internet Governance Week pushed for safer, more inclusive internet use, stronger digital skills, online safety, and responsible AI adoption.