By Jengo Eria

The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) has established its inaugural Scientific Advisory Committee (SAC), a milestone initiative designed to enhance disease surveillance and bolster the military’s readiness to respond to emerging health threats.

Chaired by Prof Dr Moses Joloba of Makerere University, the committee brings together leading experts including Prof Byarugaba Denis (Makerere University), Prof Peter Olupot (Busitema University), Dr Susan Nabadda (Ministry of Health), and Col Dr Kyobe Bbosa, the Ministry’s Incident Commander.

Speaking on behalf of the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence and Veteran Affairs, Mrs Rosette Byengoma, Under Secretary for Logistics Mr Francis Ngabirano Kahiriita highlighted the critical role of health in national defence. “There is need for a deeper understanding of known, unknown, anticipated, and unanticipated health threats to the Force and its operating environment,” he said.

“One of the strategic responses to these challenges is rooted in science, and this is why the SAC was constituted.”

Mr Ngabirano praised the committee’s members for their commitment and expertise, calling them a national asset. “SAC is expected to advise on current and future biological threats, identify knowledge gaps, and promote national and international collaboration. Its work will support force health protection and contribute to Uganda’s socio-economic transformation,” he added.

He expressed gratitude to President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni for his guidance, and to the Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, for approving the initiative.

Maj Gen Dr Ambrose Musinguzi, head of the Joint Staff Health Services, reaffirmed the committee’s role in fortifying Uganda’s disease surveillance capabilities. “We saw it necessary to put mechanisms in place to detect, protect against, and respond to emerging infectious diseases. The SAC will play a critical role in advancing this mission,” he said.

Prof Dr Joloba welcomed the collaboration, noting the UPDF’s potential to positively impact public health through its existing infrastructure. “We are grateful for this opportunity. The UPDF has made important contributions to public health, and we are excited to be part of this journey. Through collaboration, we can address pressing health issues not just nationally but across the region,” he said.

He underscored the global precedent for military involvement in healthcare. “Globally, the military has been instrumental in health interventions. The UPDF is well-positioned to do the same, and we must harness this potential,” he added.

The event was attended by senior UPDF leadership, including Service Chiefs of Staff, Generals, and representatives from Makerere and Busitema universities.