Uganda

Epicentre, MSF’s dedicated centre on epidemiology, has run a research centre in Uganda, based at Mbarara University of Science and Technology, for over 20 years. Several studies are currently underway, including a study aimed at improving the diagnosis and treatment of tuberculosis; an investigation into the possibility of reducing the amount of yellow fever vaccine needed for each person; and an assessment on the efficacy and safety of the mpox vaccine.

In Kasese district, we continued to run Kasese Adolescent clinic, a dedicated clinic for adolescents aged between 10 and 19 years. It is located inside a Ministry of Health centre in Kasese town, close to the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The clinic has a one-stop-shop approach, delivering a broad range of medical services tailored to adolescents’ needs, in particular sexual and reproductive healthcare, with a specific focus on pregnant teenagers. We also help patients with the management of chronic conditions, such as sickle cell disease, and offer treatment, as well as social and mental health support, for victims and survivors of sexual violence of all ages.

The clinic has a recreation area – a welcoming space where young people using the health services can spend time. Our health promotion teams organise activities there, and in communities and schools in the district, to engage young people on key health topics. There is also a resource centre with a small library and computers to enable young people to study, and young mothers to learn skills such as basket weaving and sewing, to help them earn an income.

Epicentre, MSF’s dedicated centre on epidemiology, has run a research centre in Uganda, based at Mbarara University of Science and Technology, for over 20 years. Several studies are currently underway, including a study aimed at improving the diagnosis and treatment of tuberculosis; an investigation into the possibility of reducing the amount of yellow fever vaccine needed for each person; and an assessment on the efficacy and safety of the mpox vaccine. Our research team also teach at the faculty of medicine.