# Implications of COVID-19 pandemic and response approaches in Uganda: Stakeholder perspectives

## TL;DR

This study examines how the COVID-19 pandemic affected Uganda's health programs and response strategies based on stakeholder perspectives.

## Contribution

The study provides insights into Uganda's pandemic response and identifies opportunities for strengthening health systems in Africa.

## Key findings

- The pandemic disrupted health programs and access to care in Uganda.
- Key informants highlighted barriers to implementing response strategies.
- The study suggests strengthening the MoH's epidemic preparedness department for future outbreaks.

## Abstract

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic significantly impacted health systems worldwide.

This study explored the effects of the COVID-19 cascade on health programmes in Uganda.

This study conducted in-depth interviews with key informants involved in Uganda’s national COVID-19 response.

A cross-sectional exploratory study using qualitative approaches was carried out. A purposive sample of 30 key informants from the Ministry of Health (MoH) and implementing partners were interviewed (May 2023 – June 2023). Interviews were audio recorded and analysed using inductive thematic analysis with NVivo 14 software.

Four themes emerged: (1) approaches and opportunities for successful COVID-19 response, (2) negative impacts of the pandemic on health services, (3) barriers to implementing response strategies and (4) suggestions for preparedness for future epidemics.

While the pandemic disrupted health programmes and access to care, it also revealed opportunities to strengthen healthcare delivery. Strengthening the dedicated Ministry of Health department for epidemic preparedness and response is recommended.

This study identifies areas for improvement in Uganda’s health system exposed by the COVID-19 pandemic. It informs public health preparedness efforts in Uganda and other African countries, aligning with the Journal’s focus on strengthening health systems in Africa.