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Antimicrobial resistance remains a growing concern in the management of infectious diseases, with new research highlighting its potential role in predicting severe community-acquired pneumonia. #JASH2026 #NACNCDC2026 #UnifiedAction Presenting at the 20th Joint Annual Scientific Health Conference (JASH2026), Professor William Borotier shared findings from a Ugandan study examining molecular diagnostics and predictors of severe community-acquired pneumonia. The research found that patients with certain antimicrobial resistance genes had approximately twice the odds of developing severe community-acquired pneumonia. The BioFire platform also detected resistance genes among participants, raising important questions about the implications of antimicrobial resistance for patient outcomes. Professor Borotier emphasised that resistance genes should not be used as a standalone tool for diagnosing severe pneumonia. However, when considered alongside clinical parameters, they could help improve the identification of patients at risk of severe illness. He also noted that the findings were generated from referral hospitals and may not necessarily be generalisable to other healthcare settings. Nevertheless, they provide an important signal for further investigation into the relationship between microbial resistance and severe pneumonia. The findings reinforce the need for stronger antimicrobial resistance surveillance, improved diagnostic capacity and further research to inform clinical practice and patient management in Uganda. The message is clear: understanding antimicrobial resistance is essential not only for guiding treatment, but also for improving how we identify and respond to patients at risk of severe disease.

We’re kicking off the final day of the 20th Joint Annual Scientific Health Conference (JASH), the 2nd National Communicable and Non-Communicable Diseases Conference, and the 34th UNACOH Annual Conference.#JASH2026 #NACNCDC2026 After two days of insightful discussions, research presentations and knowledge exchange, we enter the final day with a shared commitment to turning evidence, innovation and collaboration into meaningful action. Today, we continue building on the theme “Unified Action Against Communicable and Non-Communicable Diseases” as health leaders, researchers, policymakers and partners work towards stronger health systems and better health outcomes for all. One final day. More ideas, stronger partnerships and a shared vision for a healthier Uganda.

Day 2 brought more insightful discussions, research presentations and knowledge sharing as health leaders, researchers, policymakers and partners explored practical approaches to tackling communicable and non-communicable diseases. #JASH2026 #NACNCDC2026 From integrated healthcare and screening to sustainable health financing and stronger health systems, the conversations reinforced the importance of collaboration, innovation and evidence-driven action. Watch the highlights and relive the moments from Day 2!

Day 1 of the 20th Joint Annual Scientific Health Conference (JASH), the 2nd National Communicable and Non-Communicable Diseases Conference, and the 34th UNACOH Annual Conference brought together health leaders, policymakers, researchers, healthcare professionals and partners to reflect on Uganda’s health priorities and explore solutions to pressing public health challenges.#JASH2026 #NACNCDC2026 #UnifiedAction Under the theme “Unified Action Against Communicable and Non-Communicable Diseases,” discussions highlighted the importance of prevention and early detection, stronger primary healthcare, sustainable health financing, research-driven policies, and collaborative action to improve health outcomes for all. From insightful presentations to meaningful exchanges, Day 1 reinforced a shared commitment to building a stronger, more resilient health system for Uganda.

“We can do better. Let us come together as a country.” At the #JASH2026 and #NACNCDC2026 conference, Kenneth called for greater flexibility from development partners to support integrated health programmes, particularly for communities affected by hepatitis. He highlighted the inequalities created when funding is restricted to specific programmes, yet existing health systems and support structures could also benefit people living with other conditions. He urged partners to consider more inclusive funding approaches that respond to interconnected health needs. Drawing on the lived experiences of people affected by hepatitis, he emphasised the determination of community-led organisations that continue their work despite limited resources. He also shared the difficult choices families face when seeking medical assessments and treatment, sometimes having to sell land to access care. His message was clear: healthcare should not place unbearable financial burdens on families, and no community should be left behind because of funding gaps. Stronger collaboration, flexible financing and greater support for community-led organisations are essential to advancing equitable access to healthcare.