Uganda: Health Ministry Urges Ugandans to Learn Basic Emergency Response Skills

What the report says

Uganda’s Ministry of Health has praised Jefrat Health Hub Ltd for leading a public campaign to improve basic emergency response knowledge and strengthen emergency medical services. The initiative was launched in partnership with emergency response stakeholders and is being taken to markets and other busy public places around the country, according to Nile Post’s report distributed by AllAfrica.

Dr. John Baptist Waniaye Nambohe, the ministry’s Commissioner for Emergency Medical Services, flagged off the awareness drive and said communities should be prepared to act first in emergencies such as road accidents, fires and similar incidents while waiting for professional help. He also encouraged organisers to prioritize safety and discipline as the outreach expands, and said more people should be made aware of ambulance contact numbers and available emergency services.

Jefrat Health Hub chief executive Jeremiah Kirungi said the campaign is meant to help people understand both prevention and immediate response, especially in crowded public spaces. He said the effort is being extended to different parts of Uganda so more residents can learn how to respond when someone is in danger. The organization also credited partners including the Uganda Red Cross Society for supporting sensitization and preparedness efforts.

The broader significance is that the campaign reflects a push to improve the “first response” period before ambulances or other medical teams arrive. In a country with varied access to emergency services, public training in basic response can help communities reduce harm and improve outcomes in urgent situations.