On the 09th October 2025, Uganda commemorated her 63rd Independence Day. Reflections on patriotism, especially within the healthcare sector, occurred. Among the key pillars of national progress stand the nurses and midwives, who are the professionals whose daily work embodies not only service, but also resilience and commitment to the well-being of citizens.
Nurses and midwives are the backbone of Uganda’s health system, providing >80% of the healthcare services. Nurses and midwives serve in remote and resource-limited areas, ensuring that quality care reaches every corner of our country, Uganda. Whereas technical competence and professionalism are widely emphasised in training and practice, the principle of patriotism ie love for the country, devotion to duty and collective responsibility, remains insufficiently integrated into the professional development of nurses and midwives.
It is important to note that patriotism in healthcare extends beyond just symbols of national pride. It is expressed through dedication, accountability, and the consistent pursuit of excellence in service delivery. For nurses and midwives, patriotism further means recognising that their daily work contributes directly to Uganda’s development and the realization of universal health coverage. Every life saved, every mother safely delivered, and every community health intervention implemented reflects a quiet but powerful form of national service.
However, the concept of patriotism is often overlooked in the nursing and midwifery curricula and professional mentorship. Training programs tend to focus majorly on clinical and technical competencies, which are essential, but may not fully cultivate a sense of civic responsibility and ethical duty to one’s country.
Without this foundation, professionalism risks becoming procedural rather than purpose-driven. A patriotic mindset fosters commitment even in challenging circumstances and motivates health workers to innovate and serve with compassion, integrity, and accountability.
Recommendations
To strengthen Uganda’s health system, it is imperative to deliberately nurture patriotism within the nursing and midwifery professions. This can be achieved through structured mentorship, civic education, and continuing professional development programs that highlight national pride, ethical service, and shared responsibility.
Ministry of Health, health facilities/hospitals, professional associations, NGOs and the media should also spotlight stories of nurses and midwives who demonstrate extraordinary dedication, those who work tirelessly in hard-to-reach areas, lead community health initiatives, or develop innovative solutions to local health challenges. Recognising and celebrating such individuals reinforces the belief that patriotism is both a professional and moral virtue.
Conclusively, patriotism must be reaffirmed as a cornerstone of healthcare professionalism as Uganda strives towards the goals of universal health coverage and sustainable national development. Nurses and midwives who serve with national pride not only transform individual lives but also strengthen the moral fabric of the nation.
Remember, true patriotism is lived daily, in every act of care, compassion, and service to humanity.
Lilian Nuwabaine Luyima (Episteme Award Recipient 2025; Worlds’ Best Nurse Finalist 2024
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