The Uganda Heart Institute (UHI) has intensified its efforts to decentralize cardiovascular care, reaching thousands through regional heart camps, free clinics, and local training initiatives.
Speaking at an event commemorating World Heart Day, UHI Executive Director Dr. Omagino John emphasised the urgency of early detection and prevention in fighting heart disease, one of the country’s leading causes of death.
This year’s global theme, “Don’t Miss a Beat,” underscores the critical need for timely diagnosis, treatment, and support for those with cardiovascular disease.
“Heart health is everyone’s business,” Dr. Omagino said, calling for collective action from individuals, health workers, and government partners.
Over the past year, UHI has significantly expanded access to heart care beyond Kampala. Since October 2023, the Institute has conducted closed-heart surgical camps in Mbarara, Jinja, and Lira, screening hundreds of children and performing life-saving surgeries for those with congenital heart disease.
These camps have not only saved lives but also built local capacity and reduced the financial and travel burdens on families.
Additionally, monthly free heart clinics are now held at all 16 Regional Referral Hospitals in Uganda, making cardiac services more accessible to underserved populations.
In line with its “Heart BUBU (Buy Uganda, Build Uganda)” strategy, UHI is training the next generation of heart care specialists through accredited fellowship programs in cardiology, cardiac surgery, cardiac anesthesia, critical care, cardiac nursing, and catheterisation technology.
In 2025, 30 new trainees are expected to join these programs, helping reduce Uganda’s dependence on overseas training and strengthening homegrown expertise.
One of UHI’s most ambitious projects is currently under construction in Naguru. The 250-bed cardiac hospital, set for completion by February 2027, will be a regional hub for heart surgery, diagnostics, training, and research.
This facility is supported by the Government of Uganda and will significantly boost the country’s capacity to manage complex heart conditions.
Beyond clinical services, UHI is ramping up community engagement and preventive programs. Outreach efforts in schools, churches, workplaces, and public spaces continue to educate Ugandans on the dangers of high blood pressure, diabetes, poor diet, and lack of physical activity. Regular screening campaigns are also helping identify at-risk individuals early.
Dr. Omagino emphasised two priority areas going forward: prevention and early detection. He urged for expanded community screenings, especially during antenatal visits and early childhood, alongside broader health education campaigns.
Dr. Omagino expressed appreciation to the Ministry of Health, the NRM Government, international donors, and local communities for their continued support.
He credited their collaboration for enabling the Institute to offer many of its services free of charge to patients who would otherwise not afford care.
Dr. Omagino reiterated the need for urgency and unity in addressing cardiovascular disease in Uganda. “If we collaborate with compassion, speed, and intent, we will ensure fewer Ugandans lose years of life to avoidable heart disease.”