Kampala (UG):- The Uganda-UK Health Alliance (UUKHA) lead person and founder of Uganda Diaspora Health Foundation, Mr Moses Mulimira, and Primrose Magala from Eye-Health African & Uganda Nurses and Midwives Association in UK have been awarded for their patriotic efforts towards improving the country’s health sector.
Mulimira and Magala were on Friday, November 15, recognized at the colourful 5th Edition of Heroes in Health Awards (HIHA 2024) held at Speke Resort Munyonyo where the Health Ministry alongside partners celebrated outstanding men & women, who have tirelessly worked to shine a light on Uganda’s health sector
Themed on; “Health Workforce Financing To Achieve Universal Health Coverage”, the HIHAs this year recognized entities, institutions, services, products, and programs whose remarkable contribution to Uganda’s healthcare is unmatched were also recognised.
Mulimira, who is also Tropical Health and Education Trust (THET) Diaspora Engagement Advisor, and Project Manager NHSE Global Health Fellowship was on the night decorated with the Diaspora Merit Award for linking the health sector to that of UK and vice versa.
“I am thrilled to be recognized with the Diaspora Merit Award at HIHA 2024. Receiving several nominations from our motherland and the Diaspora is a true honour. The recognition fills me with immense pride, and motivation to continue supporting our health sector,” Mulimira said.
He added that the recognition is more than a win, as it reflects his patriotic spirit and willingness to contribute to building a resilient and sustainable health system in Uganda. “I thank my team at THET, the Health Ministry of Uganda, & all those who nominated me for their love. I am inspired by this award and promise to push for even greater growth in Uganda’s health sector.”
On her part, Primrose Magala, a Ugandan British nurse at the world-renowned Moorfields Eye Hospital, in London, reckoned that it’s a great honour and privilege to celebrate her remarkable contribution toward Uganda’s health system.
“It feels good to acknowledge and recognise the Diaspora, as important players and partners in national, global health and economic development. This moment is extra special because I am standing alongside our own heroes. What an incredible honour,” Ms Magala said.
She thanked Moorfields Eye Hospital, the Health Ministry, and all participants for their continued efforts and support toward changing the face of Uganda’s health system. “I am sincerely grateful to colleagues for inspiring us to be proactive participants and contributors toward positive change back home.”
Other notable winners included Dr Kyomugisha Edward (Doctor of the Year), Dr Mwandah Daniel Chans (Pharmacist of the Year), Jedah Twebaze (Nurse of the Year), & Atako Harriet (Midwife of the Year), Mary Bayoa Tani is the Community Health Worker of the Year (North), while the Excellence in Health Logistics Award 2024 went to Joint Medical Store, among others.
The event was graced by Health Minister, Hon. Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng, Justice Minister, Hon. Nobert Mao, Director General Health Services, Dr. Henry Mwebesa, State Minister for Minerals, Phiona Nyamutoro, Senior Presidential Advisor on Creatives, Eddy Kenzo, Health Ministry Spokesman, Emmanuel Ainebyoona, & Deputy CEO Next Media, Joseph Kigozi.
On the sidelines, stakeholders emphasized that financing is critical to ensuring the sustainable development and strengthening of both health workers and institutions. “One of the key strategies to make the health workforce more effective is the use of performance-based incentives and results-based financing,” Jessica Healey stressed.
Stanbic, DFCU, and Housing Finance Banks extended tokens of appreciation to the winners; underscoring their commitment to advancing and supporting healthcare in Uganda.
Since 2019, HIHA has celebrated trailblazers transforming Uganda’s health system, and this year’s edition now sets the foundation for the 6th edition (2025), which is expected to bring a brighter spotlight to healthcare heroes, building community pride and encouraging sector-wide excellence.
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