The newly crowned King of Tooro, Edward Rukiidi Nyabongo I, has launched the Tooro leg of a nationwide vaccination campaign against measles and rubella. The campaign, which began on Thursday, aims to vaccinate children aged nine months to five years across the country. The king made his first official public appearance at Karuziika Palace in Fort Portal City, where he urged parents and caregivers to have their children vaccinated.
King Nyabongo, accompanied by Queen Rebecca Amoding, emphasized the importance of vaccinating children against measles and rubella. He stated that healthy children are vital to healthy families, the kingdom, and the country. The king also thanked the Ministry of Health for organizing the campaign and pledged that Tooro Kingdom would continue working with the ministry to support similar health programs.
The five-day vaccination campaign, which will run until October 5, targets children aged nine months to five years across the country. According to Dr. Emmanuel Mugisa, the Fort Portal City Health Officer, Uganda recorded more than 10,000 measles cases in 2025, resulting in 60 child deaths. He also stated that 28 districts reported measles outbreaks last year, while more than 20 districts have already reported outbreaks since the beginning of 2026.
Dr. Mugisa explained that the outbreaks point to low immunization coverage and inadequate immunity among children. He added that the campaign will provide a booster dose to children aged nine months to five years, including those who have already received measles vaccination through the routine immunization program. The vaccination will be conducted at government health centers and other designated vaccination points.
The vaccination campaign will be conducted at various locations, including government health centers, primary schools, places of worship, and villages. King Nyabongo also called on the government to consider organizing free immunization campaigns targeting adults. The king's call is in line with efforts to strengthen the country's healthcare system and prevent the spread of diseases.
The Ministry of Health has been working to increase immunization coverage and prevent the spread of diseases in Uganda. The vaccination campaign against measles and rubella is part of these efforts. According to Dr. Mugisa, the campaign will help to boost the immunity of children and prevent future outbreaks.
The Tooro Kingdom's partnership with the Ministry of Health is expected to enhance the success of the vaccination campaign. The king's involvement in the campaign is also expected to increase awareness and encourage parents and caregivers to have their children vaccinated. The campaign's success will depend on the cooperation of parents, caregivers, and the community at large.
Key points
- The Tooro King has launched a vaccination campaign against measles and rubella, targeting children aged 9 months to 5 years in Uganda.
- The campaign aims to provide a booster dose to children who have already received measles vaccination through the routine immunization program.
- The king has called on the government to consider organizing free immunization campaigns targeting adults.
