Kazo district health department, in collaboration with officials from the Ministry of Health and Malteser International (M.I), yesterday convened a crucial meeting aimed at improving the management and utilization of the district ambulance. The meeting was held at the District Headquarters in the Council Hall and brought together members of the District Ambulance Committee and key stakeholders in emergency medical services.

The engagement forms part of ongoing efforts by Malteser International, working closely with the Ministry of Health to conduct pre-orientation sessions for District Ambulance Committees across the country. These sessions are intended to strengthen coordination, enhance service delivery and streamline emergency response systems at the district level.

During the meeting, participants discussed the operational guidelines for the establishment of sub-national EMS and Ambulance Coordination Committees. A detailed presentation of the draft operational guidelines was made, alongside an overview of ambulance committee activity planning templates, documentation tools, monitoring and evaluation (M&E) frameworks and activity development processes.

In his opening remarks, the District Health Officer, Dr. Edgar Kansiime, welcomed the officials from the Ministry of Health and Malteser International. He reaffirmed the district’s commitment to ensuring effective coordination among committee members to improve service delivery. Dr. Kansiime emphasized the importance of maintaining the district ambulance in a ready state, particularly by ensuring it is consistently fueled to respond promptly to emergencies.

Representing the Chief Administrative Officer, Hajji Badru Mayanja Majwala, the Principal Assistant Secretary, Kyogabirwe Devine, expressed appreciation to the Ministry of Health for its continued support. He also commended the District Health Department for their dedication and acknowledged the introduction of new systems aimed at improving ambulance management in Kazo district.

Dr. Nakyeyune J. Marion, the Principal Medical Officer for Emergency Medical Services at the Ministry of Health, urged the District Ambulance Committee to fully implement the guidelines provided. She highlighted that the guidelines are designed to enhance ambulance operations through the establishment and strengthening of district-level ambulance committees. She further emphasized the importance of delivering timely and effective services to the community.

The meeting also provided a platform for stakeholders to develop implementation work plans tailored to strengthening emergency care systems and referral networks within the district. These plans are expected to complement existing structures and improve overall emergency response efficiency.

Malteser International reiterated its commitment to supporting the Ministry of Health in building capacity at the district level, ensuring that ambulance services are well-coordinated and accessible to communities in need.

The initiative marks a significant step toward improving emergency medical services in Kazo District, with a strong focus on coordination, planning, and sustainable service delivery.

The writer is Tinyefuza Naboth, communications officer for Kazo district local government.