The new initiative aims to enhance inspection, reporting, and enforcement processes to protect communities from health risks and improve public health outcomes.
In a significant move to strengthen public health, the Ministry of Health has introduced Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for Environmental Health Workers.
The new initiative aims to enhance inspection, reporting, and enforcement processes to protect communities from health risks and improve public health outcomes.
At the launch event held at Fairway Hotel in Kampala, Dr. Diana Atwine, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, highlighted the crucial role of district Chief Administrative Officers (CAOs) in overseeing environmental health teams.
"District CAOs must take an active role in ensuring inspection teams remain focused on their core duties--ensuring food safety, enhancing environmental health, and preventing disease outbreaks," she said.
The KPIs are designed to guide Environmental Health Officers (EHOs) in effectively carrying out their responsibilities, including conducting thorough inspections, preparing actionable reports, educating communities on health practices, and enforcing regulations fairly.
The Ministry emphasized the need for a results-driven approach to enhance health promotion and inspection.
Dr. Atwine stressed the importance of moving beyond planning and initiating real action. "We must shift from endless meetings and guidelines to impactful implementation. Our communities need to see results--cleaner environments, safer food, and fewer preventable diseases," she noted.
Environmental Health Workers have been urged to focus on food safety, a critical area given growing concerns about food contamination and its impact on public health.
The KPIs will ensure that inspections and regulations are strictly followed. Additionally, the Ministry is committed to providing EHOs with the necessary training and resources to perform their duties effectively.
District leaders have been called upon to ensure that the KPIs translate into tangible benefits for the community.
"Leadership and supervision at the district level are key to making this initiative successful," said Dr. Atwine.
Sign up for free AllAfrica Newsletters
Get the latest in African news delivered straight to your inbox
"Accountability starts with ensuring that our inspection teams are empowered and motivated to do their work."
This initiative marks an important step in strengthening Uganda's public health system. By holding Environmental Health Workers accountable and providing them with clear performance targets, the Ministry aims to foster a culture of efficiency and responsibility.
It aligns with the government's broader vision of improving health service delivery and protecting communities from preventable diseases.
With concerted efforts from all stakeholders, the Ministry is confident that Uganda can achieve its goal of healthier, safer communities.
