Awareness of diabetes and its complications remains critically low in Uganda, with an estimated 75% of people living with the condition undiagnosed. This gap has made prevention and early detection an urgent public health priority.
In response, the World Diabetes Foundation (WDF) launched a school-based diabetes prevention program targeting Mbarara District and Isingiro District, home to a combined population of about 900,000 people. The initiative focuses on primary prevention, particularly tackling obesity and reducing the risk of diabetes through education and lifestyle changes.
A School-Centered Approach
The program places schools at the heart of community transformation. Its key strategy is promoting healthy lifestyles while equipping students, teachers, and parents with knowledge about diabetes prevention.
To ensure effectiveness, a project monitoring group was established to oversee implementation, develop educational materials, and guide health promotion efforts. A baseline Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) survey was also conducted to measure impact.
Key Interventions
The initiative rolled out several practical and community-driven activities:
Training and mentorship: Students aged 10–18, along with teachers and parents, were trained as peer educators through tailored one-day camps.
Physical activity promotion: Schools received sports equipment and were encouraged to develop playgrounds to keep learners active.
School food gardens: Gardens were introduced to promote healthy eating, supply fresh produce for school meals, and encourage better nutrition practices within communities.
Weekly health education: Trained educators conducted regular sessions on diabetes awareness and prevention.
Health camps and screenings: Six large health camps were organized, offering free medical check-ups and glucose testing. Individuals diagnosed with diabetes were referred to Mbarara Community Hospital for further care.
Mass media outreach: Educational TV and radio programs were broadcast to raise awareness about diabetes risk factors and healthy living.
Measurable Impact
By the end of the project, the results reflected significant progress:
998 students, 400 parents, and 392 teachers trained as peer educators
Over 19,900 students sensitized on diabetes prevention and management
1,188 teachers and 3,506 parents reached with awareness messages
100 school food gardens established
Approximately 750,000 people reached through media campaigns
Multiple reports and school competitions conducted to sustain engagement
Most notably, follow-up KAP surveys showed substantial improvements in diabetes knowledge, increased consumption of fruits and vegetables, and higher levels of daily physical activity.
A Model for the Future
The program demonstrates how schools can serve as powerful platforms for public health interventions. By combining education, community involvement, and practical lifestyle changes, the initiative has not only raised awareness but also inspired long-term behavioral change.
As Uganda continues to grapple with rising non-communicable diseases, this model offers a scalable and sustainable pathway to prevention—starting with the youngest members of society.
