Belinda Agnes
A child born in Uganda in 2024 can expect to live an average of 68 years, a notable improvement from the 63-year life expectancy for a child born in 2011. This remarkable progress highlights advancements in healthcare, nutrition, and overall socioeconomic conditions.
A key driver of this increased life expectancy is the significant reduction in infant mortality rates, which have dropped from 54 per 1,000 live births in 2011 to 40 per 1,000 live births in 2022. This decline means more children can survive beyond infancy and reach adulthood. Consequently, Uganda is witnessing a natural population growth driven by longer life expectancies and declining infant mortality rates This progress was highlighted by Commissioner Joseph Enyimu from the Ministry of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development during the Global Entrepreneurship Week 2024 conference held on November 19 in Kampala. The increase in life expectancy now serves as a critical benchmark for the ministry’s ambitious target to grow GDP from $1,093 (Shs4m) in FY 2022 to $7,000 (Shs25.8m) by 2040.
As we reflect on the life trajectory of a child born in 2024, achieving the expected life expectancy of 68 years will still significantly depend on access to quality healthcare, from infancy right into adulthood.
One of the most critical interventions in this regard is the prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) of HIV. PMTCT programmes have been transformative, leading to a 77 per cent reduction in new HIV infections among newborns, from 20,000 cases in 2010 to just 5,900 in 2022.
This success stems from innovative solutions that have translated research into public health impact. For instance, in 2001, a landmark study spearheaded by MU-JHU, demonstrated that a single dose of Nevirapine could prevent mother-to-child transmission of HIV.
This breakthrough fundamentally changed the global approach to HIV prevention for expectant mothers and was swiftly adopted into World Health Organisation guidelines. Fast forward to 2024, advancements in scientific research and innovative Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) technologies continue to redefine HIV prevention. MU-JHU has also supported the groundbreaking PURPOSE 1 study on Lenacapavir (LEN), a long-acting injectable PrEP solution requiring administration only twice a year. With a 100 per cent success rate and currently awaiting regulatory approval, this revolutionary solution not only improves adherence but also reduces stigma associated with daily oral PrEP, particularly among young women. Beyond HIV-specific innovations, Uganda’s collective response to the HIV/Aids epidemic over the years has strengthened its overall healthcare system.
In 2022, this system faced the unprecedented strain of the Covid-19 pandemic while already burdened by diseases such as malaria, Tuberculosis, and HIV/Aids. Despite these challenges, Uganda’s healthcare system demonstrated remarkable resilience. The public health infrastructure developed for HIV prevention, including widespread testing, community outreach programmes, and capacity building for healthcare workers, played a critical role in navigating the pandemic.
Today, Uganda’s healthcare sys- tem continues to save lives, not just during emergencies but also in the face of other health challenges. As Uganda makes strides in HIV prevention and treatment, the nation must address the emerging challenge of a growing population of older adults living with HIV.
Ageing with HIV often increases the risk of chronic illnesses such as diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases, requiring a healthcare system that seamlessly integrates HIV management with care for age-related conditions. With this proactive approach, Uganda can guarantee that children born today will live longer, healthier lives, supported by an inclusive and resilient healthcare system — even into the evening of their years.
Ms Agnes Namutebi is a Communications Professional now transitioning into public health.
