Uganda Red Cross Society (URCS), through funding from the PREPARE Project, proudly supported and co-facilitated a national workshop focused on developing the National Alert Management Framework for Preparedness and Response in Uganda. The workshop, held at Mansion Hotel in Jinja City, brought together technical experts and key stakeholders from the Ministry of Health, WHO, Baylor Uganda, URC, and sub-national authorities to strengthen Uganda’s ability to detect, verify, and respond to public health threats effectively.
The five-day workshop aimed to create a harmonized, efficient, and inclusive alert management system. Participants worked collectively to identify gaps in the current system, refine Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and improve the integration of various digital platforms such as eIDSR, ePHEM, DHIS2, and the National Call Centre. The sessions also focused on testing upgraded digital systems designed to enhance functionality, interoperability, and rapid decision-making during emergencies.
Throughout the workshop, stakeholders engaged in technical presentations, group work, and plenary discussions, ultimately achieving several milestones. A comprehensive draft of the Alert Management SOPs was developed, reflecting extensive peer review and multi-stakeholder input.
Participants also formulated a harmonized framework for system integration, aimed at reducing data fragmentation and improving the efficiency of workflows. In addition, technical teams tested and reviewed digital alert system upgrades, securing consensus on linking alert outcomes to existing surveillance and emergency response structures to create a more resilient national health system.
However, the discussions also highlighted a number of pressing gaps and operational challenges that need to be addressed to ensure an effective and sustainable alert management system. A key concern was the 6767 hotline feedback mechanism, which is currently non-functional, hampering timely communication and follow-up on alerts.
Other challenges cited were the inconsistencies in hotline numbers, limited district-level access to real-time data, and difficulties integrating current digital platforms as significant barriers to optimal performance. There were additional gaps in defining the structure and function of Emergency Medical Services (EMS), alert verification protocols, and surge planning for outbreak peaks.
In response to these challenges, the workshop outlined clear action points and a way forward. Commitments were made to reactivate and resource the 6767 hotline, standardize hotline numbers across platforms, and ensure real-time access to alert data at all levels.
Further actions include finalizing and rolling out the SOPs, fully integrating digital surveillance platforms for smooth data exchange, and defining EMS roles and triage protocols. A surge capacity plan for hotline support and emergency response was also prioritized to help manage periods of high alert effectively.
By the end of the workshop, participants agreed that these efforts represent a significant step forward in enhancing Uganda’s health preparedness. The harmonized framework and upgraded alert system will enable quicker detection of public health threats, more coordinated responses, and stronger collaboration between national and district levels.

“This workshop marks a turning point in Uganda’s efforts to build a stronger, more responsive alert management system that will save lives during disease outbreaks and other emergencies,” said Dr. Joseph Kasumba, PREPARE program Officer at URCS.
Dr. Sunday from the Ministry of Health noted, “The strengthened partnership between the Ministry and the Red Cross is critical to our national health security. Together, we are building resilient systems that ensure no alert goes unanswered.”
The Uganda Red Cross Society remains steadfast in its commitment to supporting national preparedness and response initiatives, working alongside government and partners to protect vulnerable communities and uphold its humanitarian mandate.