Remarks at Dissemination of the 7th Uganda Demographic and Health Survey 2022 Results

Honourable Mr. Matia Kasaija, Minister of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development,

Honourable Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng Ocero, Minister of Health,

Dr. Albert Byamugisha, Chairman of the Board of Directors for Uganda Bureau of Statistics,

Members of the Board of Directors of Uganda Bureau of Statistics,

Dr. Chris Mukiza, Executive Director of Uganda Bureau of Statistics

Your Excellencies, Ambassadors and Heads of Diplomatic Missions,

Representatives of Academia,

Representatives of Civil Society Organisations,

Government representatives,

Colleagues from the UN system,

Representatives of the Media

Distinguished Guests,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

On behalf of my colleagues in the United Nations system, I am honored to join you today for the official dissemination of the key findings of the 7th Uganda Demographic and Health Survey (UDHS) 2022.

First and foremost, I would like to commend the Government and Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) for their unwavering commitment and dedication to the launch of the UDHS. This launch is a testament to the resilience of the national statistical system under the leadership of UBOS, and it marks a significant milestone in the journey towards generating accurate and comprehensive data.

Over the years, DHS surveys have provided valuable insights into various aspects of health and development in Uganda, including child mortality, nutrition, maternal healthcare, family planning, gender-based violence, and access to clean water and sanitation. The inclusion of new topics in the most recent survey demonstrates a proactive approach to addressing the data needs of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and aligning them with the country's unique context.

Honourable Minister and Distinguished Participants,

The 7th Uganda Demographic and Health Survey stands out for three reasons. Firstly, it includes data on the refugee population for the first time, a significant step towards the full inclusion of refugees in national data production. This initiative is particularly commendable as Uganda co-chairs the Global Refugee Forum in Geneva later this year.

Secondly, the survey incorporates modules from the Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS) on Early Childhood Development (ECD) and Water Quality, providing critical insights for policy-making, planning, and evaluation in these areas.

Lastly, it is noteworthy that the survey was conducted amidst two health epidemics, namely COVID-19 and the Sudan Ebola Virus Disease, highlighting the resilience and dedication of the individuals involved in its implementation.

The launch of this survey is a timely opportunity for Uganda. It will assist in monitoring the progress of the Third National Development Plan (NDPIII) and inform the development of the Fourth National Development Plan (NDPIV). Additionally, it will contribute to progress monitoring of the SDGs and ongoing interventions under the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF)-2021-2025. The survey's findings will also play a crucial role in Uganda's Voluntary National Review report to be presented at the High-Level Political Forum in 2024.

Honourable Minister and Distinguished Participants,

The key findings report being launched today reflects the remarkable progress made in improving the demographic and health conditions of Ugandans. It is a testament to the government's hard work, the dedication of health workers, and the collaboration of non-state actors in ensuring the provision of high-quality health services for all.

However, it is important to acknowledge that Uganda still faces significant socio-economic challenges, such as high adolescent fertility, unmet needs for family planning, and the prevalence of HIV/AIDS, Malaria, and Tuberculosis. The UN system reaffirms its commitment to supporting the country in addressing these challenges and achieving sustainable development.

I would like to highlight that the UN system, alongside other Development Partners, has been a steadfast ally to the government throughout the journey of this survey. We have provided technical, logistical, and financial support at various stages. Moreover, the UN has played an integral role in the peer review process of the 7th UDHS, ensuring the quality and accuracy of key indicators.

It is my understanding that three separate reports will be produced for the 7th UDHS, namely the key findings report being launched today, the full DHS report, and thematic reports on various topics. The UN system remains committed to supporting the production of the full DHS report and thematic reports, and I am delighted to announce that twelve (12) UN agencies have collaborated with UBOS to develop a USD 42 million Joint Program for Data and Statistics. This program aims to strengthen the National Statistical System, enhance the production, reporting, access, and use of quality data and statistics in Uganda.

Distinguished Participants, Ladies and Gentlemen,

In conclusion, I would like to once again congratulate the Government, particularly Uganda Bureau of Statistics, on the launch of the key indicator findings of the 7th UDHS 2022. I am confident that this report will serve as a valuable resource to inform governmental and developmental decision-making towards accelerated progress on the SDGs.

Thank you.