What does meaningful research look like when it truly meets the people it is meant to serve?
At the Uganda Case Research Collaboration (UCRC), the answer lies in stepping into communities, listening carefully, and responding with action. Community engagement is not just a strategy for us—it is at the heart 💗 of how we work.
In Nsambya Urban Municipality, Kampala, where narrow streets are filled with daily hustle and many families face persistent economic challenges, Tuberculosis continues to pose a serious public health threat. This area is densely populated, marked by high poverty levels, and is among the high TB incidence zones in the Kampala metropolitan area.
In mid-December 2025, our Community Engagement (CE) team worked alongside the Nsambya community with a clear purpose: to listen, to inform, and to care.
Through a sensitisation campaign and the distribution of educational flyers, UCRC team members held open conversations with residents about the prevention, transmission, and management of Tuberculosis. These interactions became moments of learning, reassurance, and trust—where myths were dispelled and lived experiences were acknowledged.
The highlight of the outreach was a medical camp, which attracted a large and diverse turnout from the community. By the end of the day, over 150 community members—young and old—had received free medical consultations, treatment, and medicines for a wide range of health concerns. For many, this was among the few opportunities in a long time to receive care in a welcoming and supportive setting.
While addressing the community, Dr. Mary Nsereko shared a message of hope and empowerment: Tuberculosis is preventable, can be diagnosed, and treatment is free. She reaffirmed UCRC’s commitment to sustained community engagement and to conducting research that is driven by community needs and informed by community voices.
This impactful outreach was led by a dedicated team:
Dr. Timothy Muwanguzi – Study Medical Officer
Dr. Mary Nsereko – Clinic Director
Miss Claire Nangajja (Maama Ghetto) – Member, Community Advisory Board
Miss Joan Nasuuna – Head, Community Liaison
Moments like these remind us that lasting public health impact begins with genuine partnerships. We remain committed to working hand in hand with communities to build healthier futures—together.
Special thanks to the UCRC management, funders TB Alliance, Community advisory board members, and communities that continue to make the outreaches possible.
#CommunityEngagement #PublicHealth #TBPrevention #UCRC #HealthEquity #ResearchWithCommunities #Kampala
