In a significant step towards improving access to primary healthcare and achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by 2030, Kwania District has officially commissioned 90 newly trained Community Health Extension Workers (CHEWs). The commissioning ceremony took place at the Uganda College of Commerce in Aduku Subcounty and was attended by key health officials, district leaders, development partners, and members of the local community.
These 90 CHEWs were selected from various sub-counties across Kwania District and successfully completed a six-month intensive training program under the Ministry of Health’s Community Health Strategy. Their training covered critical areas including disease prevention, maternal and child health, sanitation, nutrition, health education, and data management.
Strengthening Primary Health Care at the Parish Level
The newly commissioned CHEWs will serve at the parish level, working hand-in-hand with Village Health Teams (VHTs) to bridge the gap between the formal health system and hard-to-reach communities. They will play a crucial role in disease prevention, health education, referrals, and follow-ups on patient care — helping to reduce the disease burden on overwhelmed health facilities.
Speaking at the event, the Kwania Resident District Commissioner (RDC) praised the Ministry of Health for prioritizing community-led healthcare solutions.
“The CHEWs program is a turning point for our communities. These young men and women will be our first line of defense, bringing health services closer to the people and empowering communities through education and prevention,” the RDC emphasized.
A Boost for Disease Prevention and Public Health Response
According to Kwania District Health Officer, Dr. Okino David, the integration of CHEWs is expected to improve immunization coverage, maternal and child health outcomes, sanitation practices, and early disease outbreak responses.
“With CHEWs in place, we anticipate more efficient follow-ups, better health data reporting, and enhanced health promotion activities across our villages,” he said.
The program is part of Uganda’s broader health sector reforms aimed at strengthening community health systems and has received strong support from development partners including UNICEF, WHO, and Mastercard Foundation.
Ministry of Health Reaffirms Commitment to Community Health
At the ceremony, Minister of Health, Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng, officiated the passing-out of the CHEWs and presented certificates of completion. She urged the graduates to remain committed to transforming healthcare delivery at the grassroots while also supporting government health initiatives.
Building Sustainable Healthcare Systems for Uganda’s Future With malaria, diarrheal diseases, and maternal mortality still high in Kwania, the deployment of these CHEWs represents a strategic investment in Uganda’s primary healthcare infrastructure. District leaders reaffirmed their commitment to provide continuous supervision, mentorship, and logistical support to ensure the program’s long-term success
source: Ministry of Health
