Dr. Diana Atwine, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Health, delivered a keynote address during a public dialogue organized by Makerere University’s Department of Journalism and Communication. The event, titled “Role of Health Journalism and Health Communication in Health Services Delivery in Uganda,” focused on the critical role of media and communication practitioners in the country’s healthcare system.
Dr. Atwine highlighted the essential functions of communication, emphasizing its role in informing, empowering, and influencing mindset and behavior. She pointed out that changing behavior is key to achieving 75% of healthcare goals and stressed the importance of positive and constructive journalism, which contributes to a sense of national dignity and amplifies knowledge, energizing healthcare providers.
Negative reporting, she noted, has adverse consequences, including low immunization rates and maternal mortality. Some expectant mothers, influenced by negative reporting, continue to seek assistance from Traditional Birth Attendants (TBAs) rather than skilled health workers. Despite a significant number of deliveries being attended to by skilled health workers (91%), there remains a 9% proportion opting for TBAs.
Dr. Pamela Khanakwa, Acting Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, emphasized the increasing need for accurate and timely information, particularly in the context of recent pandemics such as COVID-19 and Ebola. She expressed concern about the rapid evolution of media and communication technologies, which has led to the rapid spread of information, and the prevalence of fake news and disinformation that can negatively impact healthcare services.
Dr. Aisha Nakiwala, Senior Lecturer and Head of the Department of Journalism and Communication, highlighted the importance of debates in influencing public policy. She mentioned the department’s commitment to integrating public needs and demands into its curriculum. The department’s training is now focused on key thematic areas, including health journalism and health communication, to align with the university’s strategic direction.
Dr. Christine Nalwadda, representing the Dean of Makerere University School of Public Health, revealed that they are in advanced stages of a health and communication project with the Department, aligning with their 10-year strategic plan’s Partnerships pillar.
