AGP Executive Report

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.

Ebola Update (DRC): WHO says the Bundibugyo virus outbreak has surged to 4,665 cases and 2,184 deaths, spreading from Mongbwalu to 54 health zones across six provinces, with 579 cases and 304 deaths reported in the latest week—prompting UN calls for faster, scaled response as Uganda reports 20 cases. Border & Surveillance: DRC health officials urged Uganda to ease border restrictions, warning closures are pushing people into illegal crossings that make Ebola monitoring harder. Clean Cooking: Uganda’s clean cooking push gained fresh momentum as officials and partners urged a shift away from firewood and charcoal to protect health and cut household smoke. Digital Health: Remote facilities are improving care through electronic medical records and training, including support for maternal and newborn services at Maddu Health Centre IV. Cancer Care Funding: Rotary launched fundraising targeting Shs5b to equip St Francis Hospital Nsambya’s cancer centre with a linear accelerator. Health Workforce Tensions: Eight medical interns and health workers were remanded after a protest over unpaid intern allowances. Digital Safety & AI: Stakeholders called for investment in digital skills, online safety, and responsible AI use during Uganda Internet Governance Week.

Ebola Emergency: The UN says the DRC’s Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak is moving faster than the world can respond, with the epidemic killing a person every 30 minutes; WHO reports 4,665 confirmed cases and 2,184 deaths, as transmission intensifies across six provinces and response teams struggle with insecurity, displacement, and cross-border movement. Uganda Risk & Guidance: Uganda’s Health Ministry urges people to avoid travel to the DRC and, for anyone returning, to self-isolate and call the hotline if symptoms appear within 21 days—while noting no confirmed Ebola cases in Israel. Clean Cooking for Health: Uganda is urged to speed up clean cooking access as millions still rely on firewood and charcoal, driving smoke-related illness and deforestation; calls include more awareness and support for cleaner stoves and fuels. Digital Health Delivery: In remote facilities like St. Francis Kijaguzo HC III, Uganda’s shift to digital records is improving reporting and patient management through electronic systems and training. Maternal Care Boost: MTN Uganda’s Y’ello Care supports Maddu Health Centre IV with equipment, digital services, and community health camps focused on maternal and newborn health. Health Workforce Pressure: Eight medical interns and health workers were remanded after a protest over unpaid intern demands, charged with nuisance on a public road.

Clean Cooking Push: Uganda’s clean cooking push got a fresh call as UECCC urged faster transition from firewood and charcoal to cleaner options like LPG, induction and electric cookers, warning of health harm and deforestation. EAC Trade Tension: Rwanda’s suspension of alcoholic drinks from Kenya and Uganda is testing regional standards, with Uganda’s UNBS saying affected products already have harmonised EAC certification and Rwanda FDA acted without formal notice. Ebola Alarm (DRC): UN officials say the DRC Ebola outbreak is killing one person every 30 minutes, with Tom Fletcher warning the virus is outrunning response and announcing extra UN funding and more frontline staff. Uganda’s Ebola Link: Uganda reported 20 cases as the outbreak spreads across more DRC provinces, with scientists flagging the Bundibugyo strain and vaccine limits. Maternal Care Boost: MTN’s Y’ello Care backed Maddu Health Centre IV with equipment, digital services and community support focused on maternal and newborn health. Intern Pay Protest: Eight medical interns and health workers were remanded after a protest over unpaid intern allowances, raising concerns about morale and service continuity. Kampala Waste Plan: KCCA unveiled a new garbage collection plan ahead of National Cleaning Day, aiming to raise daily collection capacity and curb illegal dumping. Prison Break-In: Kyegegwa Government Prison was attacked; three officers were injured and two guns stolen, with investigations underway.

Ebola Emergency in DRC: UN officials say the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo is killing a person every 30 minutes, with at least 2,128 deaths and over 4,500 confirmed cases, and warn the virus is outrunning the response; the UN has added $30.5m to the effort and deployed more frontline staff, while WHO and Africa CDC stress the need for faster, community-focused action and testing of vaccines. Uganda Health System Readiness: Uganda is reporting Ebola cases alongside the wider regional surge, as WHO recommends prioritising the Ervebo vaccine for clinical testing and notes the outbreak may have started months before detection. Kampala Sanitation Push: KCCA unveiled a new waste collection plan ahead of National Cleaning Day, adding private collectors and targeting illegal dumping, while UN-Habitat and Japan-backed work continues to rehabilitate the Kiteezi landfill after the 2024 collapse. Emergency Care Funding: Uganda’s Ministry of Health is seeking Shs40bn to buy 108 ambulances for constituencies without emergency vehicles, alongside concerns about medicine availability and misuse. Public Health & Alcohol Control: Uganda ordered bars and Malwa joints not to open before 3pm on working days to curb early-morning drinking linked to idleness and crime.

Ebola Surge in DR Congo: Africa CDC warns the Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak is outpacing response, with figures cited around 4,449 confirmed cases and 2,061 deaths, and spread now reaching a sixth province—raising fears of further regional spillover. Vaccine Push: WHO recommends Ervebo for a Phase III trial against Bundibugyo, while Moderna begins the first human trial of an mRNA vaccine targeting the strain driving Congo’s outbreak. Community Prevention in Eastern Congo: Christian health partners expand outreach by training pastors and community leaders on Ebola symptoms, hygiene, and when to seek care fast. Uganda Health System Needs: Uganda’s Health Ministry seeks Shs40bn to buy 108 ambulances for constituencies still lacking emergency vehicles, alongside concerns about medicine availability and misuse. Kampala Clean-Up and Waste Safety: Kiteezi landfill rehabilitation advances, with the first phase handed over to KCCA after a 2024 collapse; KCCA also unveils a new waste collection plan ahead of National Cleaning Day. Alcohol Control for Public Health: Uganda orders bars and Malwa joints not to open before 3pm on working days to curb early-morning drinking linked to idleness and crime. Air Quality Watch: Kampala tops a pollution list in a reported AQI ranking, underscoring ongoing respiratory risk from dirty air.

Ebola Crisis (DRC): The WHO says the Democratic Republic of Congo’s Ebola outbreak is “outpacing the response,” with 4,449 confirmed cases and 2,061 deaths reported by Aug 10, and new infections doubling in hotspots. Regional Spread (DRC): Africa CDC reports Ebola has reached a sixth province, with a death recorded in Bas-Uélé after travel from Haut-Uélé—raising fears of spillover toward South Sudan. Vaccine Push (DRC): Moderna has started the first human trial of an mRNA vaccine targeting Bundibugyo ebolavirus, the strain behind the DRC outbreak that currently has no approved vaccine. Uganda Link (Ebola): Uganda is also mentioned in the outbreak context, including confirmed cases tied to travellers, underscoring the need for strong surveillance and community response. Health Systems & Access (Uganda): Equity Bank’s $50m support is helping Microhaem expand local malaria diagnostics, aiming to cut reliance on imported tests. Air Quality (Uganda/Region): Kampala tops a pollution list with an AQI of 186 (unhealthy), while Dhaka remains “moderate” at AQI 97—both reminders that health risks extend beyond disease outbreaks.

Ebola Alert (DRC): The Democratic Republic of Congo’s Ebola outbreak is now affecting six provinces, with deaths reported above 2,100 and cases above 4,500, and WHO says it’s on track to become the deadliest in history as the virus appears to have started months earlier than the May declaration. Cross-Border Risk (Uganda/South Sudan): Africa CDC warns the outbreak’s speed is unprecedented, raising fears of spread toward neighbouring countries, including Uganda-linked travel histories. WHO Response Pressure: WHO leaders say health teams are “chasing” the virus, with containment hampered by conflict, weak health access, and deaths occurring in villages beyond isolation care. Public Health Innovation (EAC AI): The EAC and Germany launched an AI4EAC challenge, adding an Ebola Response track to help researchers build tools for outbreak detection and preparedness. Local Health System (Interns): Uganda’s government says it will table medical interns’ grievances in Cabinet as the Uganda Medical Association threatens industrial action over deployment, welfare and allowances. Neglected Disease (Leprosy): Terego leaders call for urgent action to eliminate leprosy after dozens of cases persist amid stigma and delayed reporting. Livestock Health & Nutrition (NAGRC&DB): Uganda’s animal genetics centre plans to expand breeding stock and disease-resistant breeds to strengthen farmer productivity. Health Access (Hilton Prize): Last Mile Health wins the Conrad N. Hilton Humanitarian Prize for scaling community primary care across remote areas.

Ebola Alert (DRC): WHO says the fast-moving Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak in eastern Congo is on track to surpass the deadliest in history, with over 2,000 deaths and more than 4,300 cases, and sequencing suggesting it began months earlier than the official declaration. Vaccine Push: Congo and WHO are advancing talks for a Phase 3 clinical trial using Merck’s Ervebo, while the DRC has requested emergency stockpile doses—an attempt to bridge a gap where no approved vaccine or treatment targets this strain. Containment Strain: Health teams face conflict, poor infrastructure, health worker strikes over unpaid wages, and misinformation that keeps people away from clinics—while WHO warns the outbreak is “playing catch-up” to a big head start. Uganda Health System (Interns): Uganda’s Health Ministry warns medical interns who miss deployment reporting dates risk losing placements, as Cabinet prepares to discuss their grievances. Neglected Disease (Leprosy): Terego leaders call for urgent government action to eliminate leprosy, citing stigma and continued cases. Aquaculture (Uganda): Researchers at Kajjansi are working on better fish seed, genetics, feeds, and farming systems to boost farmed fish and ease pressure on wild stocks. Digital Health (Uganda): Government moves to integrate over 700 ICT systems to reduce duplication and improve service delivery, setting the stage for more automation and responsible AI use. Clean Cooking (Tanzania): Tanzania highlights natural gas as a route to cleaner cooking and energy security, noting Africa’s large gap in access to clean fuels. Air Quality (Uganda region): Kampala is reported as highly polluted while Dhaka is “moderate,” underscoring ongoing respiratory health risks from air pollution.

Ebola Update (DRC–Uganda): WHO says the fast-moving Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak in eastern DR Congo is on track to become the deadliest in history, with deaths now over 2,000 and cases above 4,300 as the virus spreads faster than response teams can reach remote communities. New Variant Link: A Nature Medicine study reports a distinct Ebola genetic cluster tied to a fresh animal-to-human spillover, with the animal source still unknown, and calls for stronger local diagnostics and wider genomic surveillance. Vaccine Shift: WHO has reversed course and is now considering the use of Ervebo in a trial for this strain, after earlier assumptions that existing tools wouldn’t work across the virus types. Regional Readiness (Kenya): Kenya reports Ebola preparedness nearing 90% after training, simulations, and infection-control upgrades in high-risk border counties. Uganda Health Systems (Care Spaces): Victoria Jubilee Hospital’s new courtyard for staff and patients highlights growing attention to mental wellness and supportive environments in healthcare. Aquaculture & Nutrition: Uganda’s fisheries researchers are pushing improved fish seed, genetics, feeds, and farming systems to grow farmed fish output and ease pressure on wild stocks. Public Health Safety (UPDF Recruitment): A Masindi man was arrested for allegedly trying to bribe UPDF recruitment officers, underscoring ongoing integrity checks during health-adjacent national recruitment processes.

Ebola in DR Congo: The outbreak has surged past 2,000 deaths, with 4,381 confirmed cases across five provinces, as WHO warns the virus is outrunning response efforts amid conflict, delayed detection, and strained health services. New source clues: A new study says the current strain is a distinct Bundibugyo variant, pointing to a fresh animal-to-human spillover, with Uganda-linked cases tied to the same outbreak. Frontline scaling: WHO says a treatment centre in Lita is being expanded to double capacity to 80 beds, while international agencies push for faster, community-led action. Uganda health messaging: Uganda AIDS Commission cautions the public against claims of HIV healing through prayer, stressing antiretroviral therapy and “U equals U.” Nutrition policy: Uganda’s Health ministry launched a nutrition profiling model to flag processed foods high in sugar, salt, saturated and trans fats, aiming to guide regulation and protect against diet-related NCDs. Local sanitation: Kampala’s solid waste crisis is being tackled through land and coordination planning, with NWSC and city stakeholders focusing on better organization of waste collection and disposal.

Ebola Surge in DR Congo: DR Congo says Ebola has killed 2,011 people out of 4,381 confirmed cases, with the outbreak described as the fastest-spreading on record as conflict, delayed detection, and strained health services hamper contact tracing and isolation. US Travel Alerts & Restrictions: The CDC upgraded its warning to Level 4 for Ituri and Nord-Kivu, urging Americans to avoid all travel, and the US tightened entry rules for people who have been in the DRC in the past 21 days. Uganda Link & Preparedness: Uganda has also been flagged in the regional response, with health authorities urging travellers to seek advice before travel and to monitor for fever after returning. New Clues on the Virus: A study in Nature Medicine suggests this Bundibugyo Ebola strain is genetically distinct from earlier outbreaks, pointing to a fresh animal-to-human spillover, and highlighting why early testing and sequencing matter. HIV Myths Warning: Uganda’s AIDS Commission cautioned the public after claims of HIV healing through prayer, stressing that HIV is controlled with antiretroviral therapy and that stopping treatment can be dangerous. Urban Sanitation Push: Kampala’s garbage crisis is being tackled through a land-ownership and coordination plan tied to NWSC and city sanitation efforts, aiming to improve how the city collects and manages waste.

Ebola Surge in DR Congo: DR Congo reports Ebola deaths rising to 2,011 and confirmed cases to 4,381 across five provinces, with WHO warning the outbreak is “outpacing” response as conflict, delayed diagnosis, and strained health services slow contact tracing. Uganda at Risk: WHO notes Uganda has recorded cases linked to the emergency, underscoring the need for faster, community-led action. Why control is slipping: WHO says the outbreak likely began months earlier (sequencing points to February), and early illnesses were misdiagnosed as malaria or typhoid—while Africa CDC says many new infections are coming from community spread, not known contacts. Travel and screening pressure: The US tightens Ebola travel rules for people returning from DR Congo, while other countries also add entry restrictions. Local health angle: Uganda’s broader push for resilience includes a new three-year climate resilience initiative for livestock, land, and insurance systems to protect food and health during climate shocks.