Health minister Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng is encouraging communities to support health centers and actively engage in staying healthy. She made this call during an event where assistive devices were distributed by ReLAB-HS on October 7th in Lira City.
Dr. Aceng explained that the ministry’s new approach is no longer just about treating illnesses; it’s about involving the community. She wants people to demand health services but also understand what they are asking for and be part of the process.
The goal is to provide health education on preventing conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and disabilities so that everyone knows what they need and why. Dr. Aceng stressed the importance of everyone being active participants in their health to make informed choices.
She highlighted the ministry’s national community strategy, which aims to achieve universal health coverage. Dr. Aceng mentioned her commitment at the United Nations General Assembly to ensure healthcare reaches all communities, following President Yoweri Museveni’s directive.
Dr. Daniel J. Kyabayinze, the director of public health in the Ministry of Health, mentioned the development of a national rehabilitation and assistive technology plan. This plan was based on a systematic assessment, identifying gaps and providing recommendations to enhance access to rehabilitation services.
