In a recent engagement, the Permanent secretary at Ministry of Health Dr. Diana Atwine emphasized the critical role of religious leaders in promoting health and combating misinformation, particularly regarding malaria prevention and immunization. While the Ministry continues to advance medical solutions, it acknowledges that public trust lies heavily with faith leaders, who interact with communities daily.
Dr. Atwine highlighted how science and faith must work hand in hand, stating that spiritual well-being cannot thrive without physical health. She underscored the success of vaccination programs, which have eradicated many once-deadly diseases, and called on religious leaders to amplify the message of disease prevention, especially in a time when social media misinformation is rampant.
With 16 lives lost to malaria daily, she urged all stakeholders to build confidence in health interventions, ensuring that both rural and urban communities embrace scientifically proven solutions.
The State Minister for Primary Health Care Hon. Margaret Mugisha Muhanga, alongside health officials, has called on religious leaders to take a frontline role in the fight against malaria in Uganda. Speaking at a recent engagement, she emphasized that despite ongoing efforts, malaria remains one of the leading causes of death, with 16 lives lost daily, particularly blind children and pregnant women.
Uganda is among the top three malaria-burdened countries, and misinformation about the malaria vaccine threatens progress. Hon. Muhanga stressed that religious leaders hold a unique and trusted position in society, with the ability to influence communities more effectively than politicians. Given their frequent interactions with the public through Sunday services, midweek prayers, and other religious gatherings, they are well-placed to dispel myths and encourage vaccine uptake.
Drawing lessons from countries that have successfully eliminated malaria, she highlighted how factors such as landscaping, controlled environments, and scientific advancements played a role. However, in Uganda, the focus must be on prevention, vaccination, and public awareness.
Hon. Muhanga urged religious leaders to use their places of worship, media appearances, and community engagements to reassure the public about the safety and effectiveness of the malaria vaccine. With six countries already rolling it out, Uganda must embrace science and faith together to reduce malaria cases and boost national productivity.
