Across Uganda, a quiet transformation is underway. The country is building a health system grounded in proximity, trust, and timely data. This transformation took a significant leap forward as Uganda celebrated the graduation and deployment of 1,138 newly trained Community Health Extension Workers (CHEWs), individuals tasked with bridging the persistent gap between communities and formal healthcare systems.

Held in Kyotera and Lwengo, the ceremonies marked more than a milestone. They represented a renewed investment in Uganda’s health future, backed by digital innovation, community engagement, and national leadership.

“This is not just a job—it’s a noble responsibility,” said Dr. Diana Atwiine, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health.

“Through you, Uganda hopes to transform its health sector. We shall rely on your timely data to make decisions that matter.”

The CHEWs were not only trained, but they were also empowered. Equipped with digital tools, blood pressure monitors, and bicycles, these workers are now better positioned to deliver essential services across their parishes. Their deployment across eight districts, Kyotera, Lwengo, Maracha, Ngora, Namutumba, Koboko, Kween, and Butalejja, signals Uganda’s commitment to localizing care and nationalizing impact.

Technology will play a pivotal role. Many CHEWs are now connected to Uganda’s electronic Community Health Information System (eCHIS), enabling real-time data collection and improved performance management. In some facilities, full electronic patient registration is already a reality, a glimpse into the digital-first future the Ministry envisions.

Dr. Atwiine underscored why this investment matters: 30% of outpatient visits in Kyotera District are due to malaria, while 3% of children visiting health facilities present with diarrheal diseases, both largely preventable.

“With CHWs deployed at the village level, we now have a strong frontline force to promote hygiene, educate families, support malaria prevention, and stop these illnesses before they reach health facilities,” she said.

Dr. Richard Kabanda, Commissioner for Health Services, echoed the transformative vision:

“CHEWs are catalysts for prevention, health promotion, and even economic growth. When we reduce preventable illnesses, we free up resources to invest in higher-level care. We cannot grow as a country if all our money goes into treating worms and malaria.”

Behind this achievement is a network of dedicated partners. With funding from the Global Fund, and technical assistance from Africa Frontline First (AFF), the Ministry of Health implemented this effort in close coordination with Living Goods, which supported the design of CHEW workflows under the BIRCH project.

Other partners, including UNICEF, CDC, USAID, PATH, Makerere University, and UNEPI, played critical roles in preparing this new cadre of workers to deliver quality services.

Early results are promising. In Kyotera, Dr. Edward Muwanga, the District Health Officer, reported a notable increase in family planning uptake just six months after initial community outreach began.

“With enhanced supervision and CHEWs now on the ground, we expect these numbers to rise even further,” he said.

In Lwengo, Dr. Moses Kafumbe emphasized the need for sustained investment:

“Support from government and partners is vital to keep momentum going and ensure no Ugandan is left behind.”

While the CHEWs represent professionalized community health, Uganda’s system continues to rely on the dedication of Village Health Teams (VHTs), volunteers who have served their communities for years.

Dr. Atwiine closed the graduation ceremony by honoring these unsung heroes:

“Even as volunteers, their role is crucial. They give what they can to improve health at the village level, and their efforts are not in vain.”

With CHEWs now supervising VHTs, Uganda is reinforcing, not replacing, its community health foundation.