USAID Uganda Health Systems Strengthening (UHSS) Activity Quarterly Report

The activity began on October 15, 2019, and is set to conclude on October 15, 2024. The project is implemented by Palladium International, LLC, under contract number 72061719C00006. The UHSS Activity focuses on three key results: improved management of governance, leadership, and accountability for results; increased availability and improved management of key health systems resources; and strengthened community systems for quality health services. The activity engages with various stakeholders, including the Uganda Ministry of Health, Ministry of Local Government, Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Ministry of Public Service, 77 District Local Governments, and other counterpart organizations. The activity's geographic coverage spans 77 USAID-supported districts in the five regions where the RHITES projects are based. The reporting period for this quarterly report is from October 1, 2022, to December 30, 2022. Key achievements for the first quarter of program year 4 include the development of a comprehensive annual work plan, which outlines the activity's objectives, strategies, and expected outcomes. The plan is aligned with the Country Development Cooperation Strategy (CDCS) and the Uganda Health Sector Development Plan. The activity has made significant progress in implementing its guiding principles, including governance leadership and accountability, health financing, and human resources for health. The UHSS Activity has also strengthened its partnerships with civil society organizations, implementing partners, and other stakeholders. In terms of challenges, the activity has faced issues related to management and administrative matters, as well as environmental compliance. However, the activity has taken steps to address these challenges and ensure that its operations are in line with the requirements of the contract. The UHSS Activity has also made progress in supporting the COVID-19 emergency response, including the implementation of infection prevention and control measures, and the provision of personal protective equipment to health workers. The activity's monitoring, evaluation, and learning (MEL) system has been strengthened, with the development of a comprehensive MEL plan and the implementation of a data management system. The activity has also conducted a midterm evaluation, which has provided valuable insights into its progress and areas for improvement. The UHSS Activity has achieved significant results in the first quarter of program year 4, including the development of a comprehensive annual work plan, the strengthening of partnerships, and the progress made in implementing its guiding principles. However, the activity continues to face challenges related to management and administrative matters, as well as environmental compliance. The activity's planned activities for the next quarter include the implementation of a health financing strategy, the strengthening of human resources for health, and the continuation of the COVID-19 emergency response. The activity will also continue to monitor and evaluate its progress, and make adjustments as necessary to ensure that it achieves its objectives. The UHSS Activity has made significant progress in strengthening the health systems in Uganda, and its continued efforts will be crucial in achieving the country's health sector development goals.