United for Neurological Health: A Call to Action from the Head of the Neurology Federation of Uganda
Dear Colleagues,
As the Head of the Neurology Federation of Uganda (NFU), I write to you not just as a specialist, but as a fellow health worker committed to transforming the lives of patients living with neurological conditions across Uganda.
Today, more than ever, our country faces a rising burden of neurological diseases—stroke, epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, dementia, neuropathies, multiple sclerosis, and many more. These conditions do not discriminate. They affect children, the elderly, rural farmers, urban professionals—every Ugandan is at risk. And yet, neurological care remains significantly under-resourced, underdiagnosed, and under-prioritized.
This is a call to all doctors, nurses, clinical officers, physiotherapists, psychiatrists, psychologists, occupational therapists, pharmacists, researchers, and policymakers: we need you. The time has come for us to work as one united force under the umbrella of the Neurology Federation of Uganda.
Why We Must Unite:
- A Growing Neurological Crisis
Stroke is now one of the leading causes of death and disability in Uganda. Epilepsy remains highly stigmatized, and many children with neurodevelopmental disorders go undiagnosed and unsupported. Meanwhile, we are beginning to see an increase in neurodegenerative diseases as life expectancy improves. These challenges require a multidisciplinary, coordinated response. - Strength in Collaboration
Neurology is not a solo field. From emergency care to rehabilitation, from diagnosis to long-term support, every health worker along the chain plays a critical role. By joining forces, we can develop national guidelines, conduct research, advocate for policy change, and provide better care for our patients. - Professional Growth and Support
The Federation is building a network for mentorship, continuous medical education (CME), training opportunities, and knowledge exchange. Whether you are a student, intern, seasoned clinician, or allied health professional, NFU provides a platform for growth, recognition, and community. - Creating a National Voice for Neurology
Together, we can speak louder. Together, we can advocate for better access to diagnostic tools (such as EEGs, CTs, MRIs), essential medications, and government support for neurological services. Alone, our voices are small. United, we are powerful.
Our Vision:
To establish a Uganda where every person with a neurological condition receives timely, compassionate, and evidence-based care, and where every health worker involved in neurology is equipped, connected, and empowered.
How You Can Join:
Joining the Neurology Federation of Uganda is simple. We welcome:
- Neurologists and neurology trainees
- General practitioners and internists
- Pediatricians and psychiatrists
- Physiotherapists and occupational therapists
- Nurses, clinical officers, and social workers
- Researchers and public health experts interested in neurological conditions
Please send your expression of interest to [insert email/contact]. Membership will give you access to a growing community, regular CMEs, newsletters, webinars, collaborative research initiatives, and conferences.
Final Word:
Our patients deserve more. Our country needs more neurologically-informed care. And we, as health workers, deserve to be part of a vibrant professional family that supports, uplifts, and equips us to do better.
Let us build this future together.
Yours sincerely,
Dr. Kaddu Mukasa Mirtin
President, Neurology Federation of Uganda
