________________ Makerere University has introduced Kalangala's initial clinical research center. This implies that patients will not ne...
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Makerere University has introduced Kalangala's initial clinical research center. This implies that patients will not need to go far for high-level treatment.
During the opening of the facility on Thursday, November 20, Makerere University's Vice Chancellor, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, stated that Kalangala, a picturesque group of islands frequently celebrated for its sunsets, has now experienced a significant advancement in healthcare.
The Kalangala Clinical Research Centre, established by the Makerere University Infectious Diseases Institute (IDI), is the island's initial advanced research center.
Makerere University, positioned second in Africa and 63rd worldwide, remains solidifying its status as a center for research cooperation, technology exchange, and creative advancement. "This goes beyond just a structure; it's a vital connection," remarked Prof. Nawangwe. "IDI serves not only as Uganda's top health collaborator, handling more than 20% of HIV cases, but also prioritizes research. If individuals aren't in good health, they cannot work; investing in anything else becomes pointless."
The institution holds the second position in Africa and 63rd place worldwide, while maintaining its standing as a center for research partnerships, technology exchange, and creative advancement.
This goes beyond just a structure; it's a vital connection," stated Prof. Nawangwe. "IDI is not merely Uganda's top health collaborator, handling more than 20% of HIV cases, but also prioritizes research above all else.
"If individuals are not in good health, they cannot work; investing in anything else is pointless," he added.
To the residents of Kalangala, the Center, as stated by Nawangwe, provides essential medical services, such as the use of drones to deliver medications. "This center offers access without obstacles, meaning people from Kalangala no longer have to go far for clinical trials or specialized treatment," said Dr. Andrew Kambugu, Executive Director of IDI.
Kalangala is ranked third in the country for HIV prevalence at 13.1%, with fishing areas being the most affected. Up until now, locals faced risky boat trips to the mainland for better medical treatment. 'Getting healthcare has always meant a long, expensive, and sometimes dangerous trip across the water,' said District Chairperson Jajab Ssemakula. 'You have not only invested in Kalangala; you have brought Makerere University to Kalangala.'
Backed by the Gates Foundation, the center is part of a global HIV prevention study spanning 31 locations in Kenya, South Africa, and Uganda. Its initial goal: to evaluate if a monthly tablet can shield teenage girls and young women from HIV, a development that could significantly impact at-risk communities.
Professor Samuel Luboga, Chair of the IDI Board, assured the residents of IDI's ongoing dedication:
We are not a temporary partner. This sentinel research center is in line with our goal of liberating Africa from the burden of infectious diseases. The guarantee I offer Kalangala is— we are here to remain.
Henry Ssebunya, the Deputy Resident District Commissioner, commended IDI's creativity and reliability:
IDI has provided care and treatment to individuals living with HIV, utilized medical drones to transport critical medications, and recently established a research center. This marks a new era for Kalangala.
From a sleeping sickness camp in 1906 to a state-of-the-art research center in 2025, the tale of Kalangala reflects perseverance, creativity, and optimism," he remarked.
Kalangala is ranked third in the country for HIV rates, standing at 13.1%, with fishing areas being the most affected. Up until this point, locals have faced unsafe boat trips to the mainland for better medical treatment. "Getting healthcare has always meant a long, expensive, and sometimes risky trip across the water," said District Chairperson Jajab Ssemakula.
Ssemakula stated, "You have not only invested in Kalangala; you have taken Makerere University to Kalangala."
Backed by the Gates Foundation, the center is part of a global HIV prevention study spanning 31 locations in Kenya, South Africa, and Uganda. Its initial goal: to evaluate if a monthly tablet can shield teenage girls and young women from HIV—a discovery that could revolutionize affected communities.
This facility offers barrier-free access," stated Dr. Andrew Kambugu, Executive Director of IDI. "Residents of Kalangala no longer have to go far for clinical trials or specialized treatment.
Professor Samuel Luboga, Chair of the IDI Board, assured the residents of IDI's ongoing dedication:
We are not a temporary partner. This sentinel research center is in line with our goal of liberating Africa from the burden of infectious diseases. The commitment I offer Kalangala is that we will remain here.
Henry Ssebunya, the Deputy Resident District Commissioner, commended IDI's creativity and reliability:
IDI has provided care and treatment to individuals living with HIV, utilized medical drones to transport critical medications, and recently established a research center. This marks a new era for Kalangala.
From a sleeping sickness camp in 1906 to a state-of-the-art research center in 2025, Kalangala's history reflects perseverance, creativity, and optimism.
Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (Syndigate.info).
