Uganda Receives Solar-Powered Vaccine Fridges to Boost Immunization Efforts

Africa CDC partners with Uganda to deploy 500 solar-powered refrigerators, strengthening vaccine cold chain infrastructure.

The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) has partnered with Uganda's Ministry of Health to deploy 500 solar-powered refrigerators worth $4.3 million, significantly strengthening the country's vaccine cold chain infrastructure.  

 
Health Minister Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng officially received the equipment, emphasising its transformative impact: "These solar fridges will revolutionise immunisation services, particularly in hard-to-reach areas without reliable electricity." The technology ensures safe vaccine storage and transportation across Uganda's most remote regions.  

 
Uganda currently monitors 14 vaccine-preventable diseases, with mosquito-borne illnesses disproportionately affecting children and pregnant women. The new infrastructure arrives as the country works to improve child health outcomes, while Uganda welcomes 1.5 million newborns annually, 54 out of every 1,000 children die before age five from preventable diseases.  

 
Dr.Mazyanga Lucy Mazaba from the Africa CDC reaffirmed their commitment: "We stand with Uganda in strengthening its health systems and disease prevention capabilities."  

UNICEF's Dr. Yaron Wolman highlighted the critical timing: "Vaccination remains our most powerful tool to protect children and ensure they survive beyond their fifth birthday."