By Mark Kawalya
Uganda has taken a leap in healthcare innovation by inaugurating the Artificial Intelligence (AI) Health Lab at Makerere University. The initiative is a collaboration between the Ugandan government and Makerere University. With a goal of transforming the nation’s healthcare system, the initiative will leverage AI for diagnostics, personalized treatment plans, and medical breakthroughs.
Dr. Amina Zawedde, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of ICT and National Guidance, emphasized the significance of this milestone. She highlighted its potential to revolutionize healthcare delivery in Uganda. She described the lab as a vital step in ushering the nation into an era of AI-powered healthcare innovation.
Harnessing AI for Better Healthcare
Dr. Zawedde outlined how AI could address critical healthcare challenges, citing examples such as telemedicine, health data analytics, advanced imaging, and drug discovery. However, she stressed the importance of deploying AI responsibly. She addressed ethical concerns like algorithmic bias, patient privacy, and equitable access.
Dr. Zawedde reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fostering AI adoption through policy guidance, financial support, and capacity building. Collaboration among government agencies, academia, and healthcare providers was also highlighted as essential for success.
Focus on Local Solutions and Digital Transformation
Dr. Zawedde further emphasized Uganda’s push for homegrown solutions, which are better suited to address the country’s unique challenges. Key areas of focus for Uganda’s digital transformation include expanding infrastructure to reach 70% of the population within five years, improving digital services, and enhancing cybersecurity.
To make digital tools more accessible, the government is working on reducing the cost of gadgets like smartphones through tax incentives and local manufacturing. Transitioning government services online is another major goal, aimed at boosting efficiency and transparency.
Digital skills development remains a priority, with initiatives targeting end-users and professionals to ensure effective use of these new technologies. Uganda also aims to foster a culture of innovation, supporting local entrepreneurs and community-driven solutions.
The Ministry of Health Advocates for AI Adoption
Dr. Myers Lugemwa from the National Malaria Control Program highlighted the pressing need for AI in Uganda’s healthcare system. He pointed out how AI could dramatically improve disease diagnosis and management, addressing gaps in the current system and enhancing health outcomes nationwide.
Through the AI Health Lab, Uganda is setting a bold precedent for how emerging technologies can revolutionize healthcare in developing nations.
