Sweden has committed $2 million to UNICEF to support Uganda’s efforts in combating the Sudan Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) outbreak. This funding will reinforce Uganda’s national response strategy over the next five months, focusing on Kampala and its five divisions, along with the districts of Mbale and Jinja.
The contribution will enhance critical areas such as risk communication, community engagement, infection prevention, and the provision of essential services, including water, sanitation, hygiene (WASH), nutrition, mental health, and psychosocial support. With this financial backing, UNICEF, in collaboration with Uganda’s Ministry of Health and other partners, aims to strengthen coordination at both national and local levels to contain the virus effectively.
A key aspect of the response involves intensified public awareness and engagement to educate communities on Ebola prevention, symptom recognition, and early treatment-seeking behaviors. These efforts are expected to reach approximately 8.1 million people, ensuring that communities remain vigilant and proactive in preventing the spread of the disease.
Swedish Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade, Benjamin Dousa, announced the funding during his visit to Kawempe National Referral Hospital in Kampala. The hospital, which benefits from Swedish support through UNICEF, plays a vital role in maternal and newborn healthcare.
“Sweden has a history of supporting Uganda’s Ebola response, and we are committed to standing with UNICEF once again in tackling this outbreak,” Minister Dousa said. “This funding will strengthen Uganda’s response at all levels, ensuring timely prevention and intervention.”
UNICEF Representative to Uganda, Dr. Robin Nandy, expressed appreciation for Sweden’s continued partnership, emphasizing its role in bolstering Uganda’s healthcare system and emergency preparedness. He pointed out that past collaborations, such as COVID-19 response initiatives, played a crucial role in Uganda’s public health resilience.
“Sweden’s support will significantly enhance our ability to assist Uganda in containing this outbreak,” Dr. Nandy stated. “By maintaining a coordinated, integrated response, we can save lives—especially among children and women.”
UNICEF’s ongoing contributions to Uganda’s Sudan EVD response include setting up emergency treatment and isolation facilities at Mulago National Referral Hospital and in Mbale, providing nutritional support for affected children, and leading community awareness initiatives. The organization is also involved in vaccine distribution, supply chain management for critical health equipment, and ensuring continuity in healthcare services through strategic partnerships with the Ministry of Health.
Further support includes the distribution of handwashing units, soap, and the rehabilitation of water supply systems at key Ebola treatment centers. UNICEF is also providing mental health and psychosocial support for affected children and assisting with their reintegration into communities.
Through these comprehensive measures, Sweden and UNICEF are working to strengthen Uganda’s capacity to control the outbreak and protect its most vulnerable populations.
