Unilever Uganda, through its oral care brand Pepsodent, has launched a school outreach campaign targeting 100,000 pupils across 40 primary schools in Kampala and Wakiso districts to promote better oral hygiene among children.
The campaign was launched at Nakasero Primary School as part of activities to mark World Oral Health Day under the theme “Do the 2 Brush Day and Night.” The initiative encourages children to brush their teeth at least twice daily to prevent tooth decay and gum disease.
Through interactive school-based sessions, pupils are being taught proper toothbrushing techniques, the importance of oral hygiene, and how daily habits contribute to maintaining a healthy mouth. The programme also includes the distribution of oral care products to enable learners to practice the lessons at school and at home.
Luck Ochieng, Managing Director of Unilever East Africa, said the campaign is part of efforts to promote preventive oral health practices among children.
“Today we are here to mark World Oral Health Day. We have a plan to reach 100,000 school-going children in 40 schools in central Uganda, specifically around Kampala,” Ochieng said.
“Statistics show that globally over 3.5 billion people suffer from various forms of oral and dental hygiene issues. This day is an opportunity for us to amplify awareness about oral health challenges.”
He encouraged parents to reinforce good oral hygiene habits at home.
“We encourage parents to take this message back home and practice with their children the behaviour of doing the two brushing twice a day, day and night and teaching them to use fluoride-based toothpaste,” he said.
Ochieng added that the initiative aligns with government efforts to focus on preventive healthcare.
“The Government of Uganda is keen on driving preventive rather than curative solutions around health challenges, and we believe we have an opportunity to contribute to that journey by promoting the wellbeing of Ugandans, starting with children,” he said.
According to Uganda’s National Oral Health Policy, oral diseases remain a major public health concern, with prevention and early education identified as key strategies for reducing the burden of dental conditions.
Globally, the World Health Organization estimates that oral diseases affect nearly 3.5 billion people, making them among the most common health conditions worldwide.
School administrators say such programmes help reinforce health education among learners.
Angella Kisolo, Deputy Headteacher of Nakasero Primary School, said the initiative has helped sensitise pupils on oral hygiene.
“We are excited as Nakasero Primary School to host Unilever as we celebrate World Oral Health Day. Our children have been involved in the activities and they are being sensitised on how to take care of their teeth,” Kisolo said.
She added that good oral health contributes to pupils’ wellbeing and learning.
“It gives them confidence as they talk to others because their mouth has a nice odour. It also helps them concentrate in class because when a child has a toothache, they cannot focus on their studies,” she said.
Through the campaign, Unilever Uganda aims to reach 100,000 pupils in the Central Region, promoting preventive oral health practices among schoolchildren.
