The initiative, supported by the Pandemic Fund—a multi-stakeholder partnership developed by the World Bank in close collaboration with the World Health Organization, UNICEF, and FAO—seeks to deliver global health financing for pandemic prevention and preparedness in the region.

Speaking at the launch, Deputy Speaker Tayebwa pledged parliamentary support for policies that promote a harmonious and healthy relationship between humans, animals, and the environment.

“We are committed to ensuring that legislation reflects the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health,” he stated.

The Country Director of WWF Uganda emphasized the central role of local communities in the program’s success.

“Placing people at the center is key. We are working closely with communities, involving them in decision-making, and supporting them to protect biodiversity while maintaining healthy, resilient livelihoods,” he said.

The program will be implemented by a coalition of partners, including the Greater Virunga Transboundary Collaboration, Gorilla Doctors, the International Union for Conservation of Nature, and the International Gorilla Conservation Programme, in collaboration with government ministries, agencies, and local communities.

This initiative represents a significant step toward integrating human, animal, and environmental health in Uganda, enhancing the region’s resilience against future pandemics while safeguarding its rich biodiversity.

Prior to the official launch, WWF Uganda, in collaboration with the Greater Virunga Transboundary Collaboration and other partners, convened a technical planning meeting to lay the groundwork for the project’s rollout.

Stakeholders from the Ministries of Agriculture, Water and Environment, Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Health, FAO, WHO, UNICEF, and district health offices spent two days developing workplans, identifying capacity gaps, and mapping areas of collaboration to ensure the successful implementation of the program.

 According to WWF Uganda Country Director Ivan Ndyareeba, this preparatory meeting was critical to reinforcing health security across the Greater Virunga Landscape by embedding the One Health approach from the very start.