MU-JHU is participating in the 22nd Annual Paediatric Conference of the Uganda Paediatric Association (UPA), taking place from 27–28 August 2026 at Speke Resort Convention Centre, Munyonyo. Held under the theme “Bridging the Gap to Equitable Child Healthcare,” the conference brings together paediatricians, researchers, health professionals and other stakeholders to discuss research, innovation, newborn health, advocacy and emerging challenges in child healthcare.
A key MU-JHU highlight is the oral presentation by Robert Serunjogi, titled “Enhancing rare birth defect surveillance: Using unaffected birth intervals to detect shifts in microcephaly occurrence.” The study explores how intervals between unaffected births can complement conventional surveillance approaches to identify unusual changes in the occurrence of rare birth defects. Using birth-defect surveillance data from four Kampala hospitals covering August 2015 to December 2024, the study reviewed 292,686 births and identified 50 cases of microcephaly, with an estimated prevalence of 1.7 per 10,000 births. Also representing MU-JHU are Dr. Eric Wobudeya, Prof. Philippa Musoke, Dr. Patience Atuhaire and Dr. Irene Kinera, alongside colleagues and exhibitors.
The conference is also providing opportunities for mentorship, networking and knowledge exchange. A special mentorship lunch brought together the first 20 early-career paediatricians with Prof. Sarah Kiguli and Prof. Philippa Musoke, offering an opportunity to share career experiences, guidance and lessons from years of service in child health.MU-JHU staff are also engaging with innovations showcased at the conference, including bedside ultrasound for newborns, highlighting the growing role of technology and innovation in strengthening newborn care.
The conference continues today, with delegates engaging in discussions aimed at advancing equitable, evidence-informed and high-quality healthcare for children in Uganda. MU-JHU is proud to be part of this important platform for advancing child health research, strengthening professional capacity and sharing knowledge that can contribute to better outcomes for children.
