The Ministry of Health (MOH) has marked a major milestone in the fight against onchocerciasis (river blindness) by declaring the disease eliminated in the Kasyoha-Kitomi focus, which covers the districts of Kitagwenda, Rubirizi, Ibanda, and Buhweju.
The celebration, held on Thursday at Kiteera Playground in Buhanda Sub-County, Kitagwenda District, was attended by officials from MOH, The Carter Centre, district leaders, and other stakeholders.
The National Onchocerciasis Control Program (NOCP) was launched in 2007 with support from The Carter Center, aiming to eliminate the disease through mass drug administration (MDA) with ivermectin and vector control.
Uganda has made remarkable progress, with 15 foci in 37 out of 48 districts and one city reaching the elimination phase.
Speaking at the celebration, Dr Irene Kahimakazi, the acting Kitagwenda District Health Officer, highlighted the key strategies that led to success.
“Through mass drug administration, vector control, and community engagement, we have raised awareness and ensured compliance with treatment. This achievement is a testament to our collective efforts," she said.
Dr. Seith Tubenda, the Rubirizi District Health Officer, emphasized the importance of continued vigilance.
“Even with elimination, we must maintain surveillance for any suspected cases so that early treatment can be provided. Our goal is to ensure the disease never resurfaces," he stressed.
While celebrating the milestone, Kitagwenda District Chairperson, Ismail Mushemeza, voiced concerns over the withdrawal of U.S. aid for such programs in Uganda.
“We must explore alternative funding sources to sustain these efforts. The Ministry of Health should prioritize securing resources to prevent any setbacks," Mushemeza urged.
Harriet Ssengendo, Senior Administrator at The Carter Center, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to supporting Uganda in the fight against river blindness. “Continuous vigilance is key to sustaining these gains.
The Carter Center remains dedicated to working with the government to ensure total elimination of onchocerciasis across the country," she stated.
Dr. Ivan Ankunda from the MOH echoed this commitment, noting that the ministry will continue collaborating with partners.
“It is ultimately the World Health Organization (WHO) that declares a country free of onchocerciasis. Therefore, we must maintain routine surveillance and ensure that no new cases emerge," Dr. Ankunda explained.
Dorothy Nyakato Nzibonera, the Kitagwenda District Woman Member of Parliament, lauded The Carter Center and the Ministry of Health for their dedication.
“This achievement is a beacon of hope. I commend The Carter Center for their unwavering support in strengthening Uganda’s health system. We must now work together to ensure these gains are not lost," she said in her closing remarks.
Onchocerciasis, locally known as "Obukambi," is a parasitic disease caused by Onchocerca volvulus, transmitted through blackfly bites.
It can cause severe itching, skin rashes, nodules, and blindness. The disease has long been a public health burden, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa.
Ivermectin, an oral antiparasitic medication, is the primary treatment, administered through mass drug distribution programs.
The success in Kasyoha-Kitomi is part of a broader national strategy to eliminate the disease, making Uganda a leader in onchocerciasis elimination efforts.
With Uganda steadily moving toward full elimination of onchocerciasis, the success in Kasyoha-Kitomi stands as an inspiring example of how coordinated efforts, sustained treatment, and community involvement can lead to the eradication of debilitating diseases.