Strengthening intersectoral cooperation for control and integrated surveillance of rabies in Uganda: A multistakeholder engagement workshop

Abstract

Rabies is a prioritized zoonotic disease and significant public health threat in Uganda. Despite Uganda's commitment to the global "Zero-by-30" goal and a validated National Rabies Elimination Strategy (NRES), implementation has been hindered by fragmented surveillance, limited intersectoral coordination, and lack of operationalization of control plans. To address these challenges, a participatory multisectoral workshop was conducted by the Schnell Einsetzbare Expertengruppe Gesundheit and eRabies project team, in collaboration with Makerere University, the Ministry of Agriculture, Animal Industry and Fisheries (MAAIF), and the Ministry of Health (MOH). The workshop brought together 49 participants from national, subnational, and international institutions to strengthen intersectoral cooperation, assess NRES implementation, and define next immediate steps for rabies control. The primary output was a structured SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) analysis of NRES implementation, across four thematic areas: Governance, Coordination, and Risk Communication; Rabies Prevention and Control; Field and Laboratory Surveillance and Data Management, and Training and Operational Research. Insights from the SWOT analysis informed a one-year log frame outlining 10 prioritized objectives and 26 targeted activities, each linked to success indicators and timelines. Early follow-up actions included piloting a digital application for integrated bite case management in four selected districts, specialized rabies diagnostic training, a national rabies research scoping review, and targeted mass dog vaccination campaigns. Despite these advancements, broader implementation of the plan remains inconsistent. Over a year later, activities such as vaccination coverage assessment, post-exposure prophylaxis procurement and distribution, and sustained community engagement have not progressed beyond planning or lack documentation. Sustained political commitment, dedicated financing, and strengthened coordination at both national and subnational levels are critical to overcome existing challenges and ensure initial momentum translates into lasting impact. The workshop outputs offer a practical, stakeholder-driven framework to guide national priorities, aligned with the NRES and goal of rabies elimination in Uganda.

Keywords: National rabies elimination strategy; One health; Participatory; SWOT analysis; Surveillance.