Situation analysis for F&E: Uganda case study

Interventions for face washing and environmental improvements often require expertise beyond the reach of health programmes. A wide range of stakeholders and partnerships are needed to implement sustainable solutions. In this step we look at how Uganda has been working towards establishing F&E in their trachoma endemic districts.

Uganda is a landlocked country located in Eastern Africa. It has 114 districts and a population of approximately 36 million people. The country has targeted trachoma to be eliminated by 2020. The national trachoma elimination program started in 2007 as part of an integrated programme to eliminate neglected tropical diseases. Trachoma mapping of all the districts was completed by 2013. As of July 2016, there are 20 districts with a prevalence of active trachoma (TF) of more than 5% in children aged 1 – 9 years.

17 districts in the Busoga and Karamoja regions of Uganda have received funding for F&E activities. A situational analysis was carried out in early 2014 to understand the Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) situation in the regions.

As you watch this video, consider the potential of including local and multinational businesses as F&E partners (for example, soap makers). What role could they play in F&E for trachoma elimination? And what would be the key argument with which to approach these groups?