President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni has called upon Ugandans to adopt healthier lifestyles and embrace preventive healthcare as a key strategy to combat the rising threat of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and cancer — illnesses that are increasingly prevalent, especially in urban areas.
The President made this call in a message delivered by the Minister for Kampala Capital City and Metropolitan Affairs, Hon. Minsa Kabanda, during the 13th Graduation Ceremony of Mulago School of Nursing and Midwifery, where 633 graduates were awarded diplomas and certificates in various health disciplines.
President Museveni emphasized that Uganda’s growing disease burden could be significantly reduced if citizens adopted lifestyle adjustments such as eating balanced diets, exercising regularly, and seeking regular medical checkups. He noted that preventive healthcare remains one of the most cost-effective ways of ensuring a healthier and more productive population.
The event, held at the institution’s campus in Kampala, also marked major milestones for the school. The Principal, Mrs. Josephine Nambiro Kigozi, revealed that the institution had launched a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing in affiliation with Busitema University. She also announced the introduction of an online licensing system aimed at simplifying certification and renewal for nurses and midwives across the country.
The Commissioner for Health Education and Training, Hajjat Safina Musene, commended the institute for maintaining its long-standing legacy as one of Uganda’s leading centers for health training. She lauded the administration for embracing innovation and continuously striving for academic excellence.
Representing the First Lady and Minister of Education and Sports, Hon. Janet Kataha Museveni, the Minister of State for Higher Education, Hon. Dr. John Chrysestom Muyingo, urged the graduates to uphold love, dignity, and professionalism in their service. He reminded them that the health profession is a calling rooted in compassion and integrity.
Dr. Muyingo further encouraged Ugandans to reflect on the achievements of the current government and make wise choices in the forthcoming elections.
“You can see where we have come from and where we are heading. It is vivid that we must vote wisely — for President Museveni and the NRM — to sustain the progress we have made,” Muyingo stated.
The ceremony attracted a distinguished audience, including former Vice President His Eminence Edward Kiwanuka Ssekandi, who attended as a proud parent, former principals of the institute, and leaders from other health training institutions.
The 633 new graduates were applauded for their hard work and commitment. They now join Uganda’s growing health workforce at a time when the nation is prioritizing quality healthcare delivery and capacity building in the health sector.
