Kwania, Uganda: The Ministry of Health in Uganda has commissioned a total of 98 Community Health Extension Workers (CHEWs) in Kwania District, urging them to prioritize community engagement, disease prevention, and collaboration with existing Village Health Teams (VHTs).
The function, held Wednesday, July 16, at the Uganda College of Commerce, Aduku, saw the newly trained CHEWs equipped with tools including first aid kits, blood pressure monitors, blood sugar testing machines, and pulse oximeters to enhance healthcare delivery at the parish level.
The training was facilitated through the World Bank-funded UCREPP project.
The Minister of Health, Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng, who officiated at the pass-out ceremony, reminded the CHEWs to stay within their defined roles, saying: “We are not training you to be doctors or nurses. You remain Community Health Extension Workers.”
“Your task is to promote primary healthcare, refer cases early, and support the VHT structures in place. Do not attempt to perform roles you have not been trained for, because you risk facing the law.”
Dr Aceng emphasized that CHEWs are now better positioned to support door-to-door community health services, adding: “You have been given transport and equipment to reach even the furthest homes. Work with your VHTs, supervise them, and ensure they are performing their duties. The health of the community depends on you working together.”
Dr. Charles Olaro, the Director General of Health Services, urged the CHEWs to practice what they preach, starting with their own families. “The health information you are passing to others must start with you at home. If we advise communities about hygiene, blood pressure checks, or good nutrition, we expect you to do the same with your own families,” Dr. Olaro said.
“Lead by example. If your neighbors see you living responsibly, it becomes easier for them to trust your advice.”
Dr. Richard Kabanda, the Commissioner for Health Promotion, Education, and Communication, emphasized the importance of teamwork and accountability between CHEWs and VHTs:
“The CHEWs program has now been rolled out in 30 districts. It is important that you understand this work requires partnerships. Work closely with your VHTs and maintain regular communication with the Ministry so that we improve health education and crisis response,” he said.
“You are an extension of us at the top. Your reports, your data, and your attitude will shape the next chapter of Uganda’s community health story.”
The Chairperson of the Health Service Commission, Dr. Henry Mwebesa, reminded the new CHEWs about professionalism and discipline in their daily work. “Be smart, be presentable, and be disciplined. Communities look up to you. Your conduct will determine whether the community trusts our health programs,” Dr. Mwebesa said.
“Work with integrity. You are not just employees; you are role models for the next generation of health workers.”
Minister Aceng, who also delivered a community ambulance for Kwania at the event, reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to expanding the CHEW model nationwide as part of strengthening Uganda’s primary healthcare and disease prevention structures.
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