The Heroes in Health Awards, organized by the Ministry of Health Uganda, took place on November 10, 2023, celebrating individuals and organizations making exceptional contributions to the country’s healthcare sector. Here’s a summary of the event:
This was under the Theme: Strategic multi sectoral partnerships to transform the health system and workforce. The goal of the event was to recognize and motivate health workers and partners, while showcasing innovative partnerships that improve healthcare delivery.
The awards covered various categories as below:
- Clinical Service:Recognizing outstanding healthcare professionals like doctors, nurses, and midwives.
- Public Health:Celebrating individuals and organizations excelling in public health initiatives like disease prevention and community outreach.
- Research and Innovation:Applauding groundbreaking research and innovative solutions impacting healthcare in Uganda.
- Community Service:Highlighting individuals and organizations actively involved in community-based health interventions.
- Media Excellence:Recognizing journalists and media outlets effectively promoting health awareness and advocacy.
During the event, Mbarara University of Science and Technology set standards by scooping three big awards. These were:
Dr. Of the year was won by Dr. Gladys Atto a MUST alumna in the 2004 MBChB cohort.
Dr. Gladys Atto from Moroto Regional Referral Hospital earning the prestigious “Doctor of the Year” Dr. Atto serves as an ophthalmologist at Moroto Regional Referral Hospital, bringing vital eye care services to a region with significant needs. Her dedication and expertise have restored sight to countless individuals, transforming their lives and offering them a brighter future.
Transforming Lives Through Sight:
Dr. Atto’s impact extends far beyond individual patients. She has tirelessly advocated for improved access to ophthalmological care in Moroto and across Uganda. Her efforts have:
- Led to the expansion of eye care services at the hospital.
- Increased awareness about preventable eye diseases and the importance of timely treatment.
- Empowered local communities to take charge of their eye health.
Beyond Clinical Excellence:
Dr. Atto’s commitment goes beyond providing clinical care. She is known for her:
- Compassionate approach:Treating patients with kindness and respect, regardless of their circumstances.
- Mentorship:Nurturing the next generation of healthcare professionals by sharing her knowledge and skills.
- Advocacy:Raising awareness about the critical need for accessible and affordable eye care throughout Uganda
Award II: Student innovation of the year award won by Mr. Delafrique Deogratias
Delafrique Deogratias, a student from Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST), emerged as a shining star at the Heroes in Health Awards held on November 10, 2023, organized by the Ministry of Health Uganda. His remarkable contributions to healthcare innovation earned him the prestigious recognition in the “Student Innovation” category.
Deogratias Delafrique is spearheading efforts to transform health care system by adopting herbal and complementary medicines so that patients can always have effective, safe and affordable options for treatment.
In that regard, in the Pipeline is VEP antiseptic herbal wound spray, a herbal formulation from locally sourced raw medicinal plants, Bidens Pilosa (Black jack) and Aloevera. It is intended to be used for wound healing especially minor cuts, burns, and diabetic wounds.
Award III: HIHA special award for improvement of health service delivery won by Dr. Henry Mwebesa
Dr. Henry. Mwebesa is a University council member. During the HIHA, he was given a special award for his exceptional and tremendous contribution to the continuous improvement of health service delivery.
Dr. Henry G. Mwebesa is the Director General of Health Services at the Ministry of Health Uganda and has over 30 years of experience in the health sector.
Special Award: Dr. Mwebesa has been involved in planning and supervising various health programs and activities at national, regional, and district levels. His work has focused on building quality and performance improvement systems, including developing standards, monitoring performance, and establishing accreditation and reward systems.
Congratulations to our own stars. The sky no-longer exists for you. Kudos!!!!