The Ministry of Health has launched the Karamoja Public Health Emergency Operation Center, in response to the recent outbreaks of measles and anthrax in the sub-region.

Located at Moroto Regional Referral Hospital, the center is designed to coordinate rapid responses to disease outbreaks and enhance the region's overall public health preparedness.

The new center, the seventh of its kind in Uganda, will operate in close collaboration with regional stakeholders and the Ministry of Health.

Dr. Stephen Pande, Director Moroto Regional Referral Hospital says according to its design, the referral pathway for managing disease outbreaks will begin at the village level, ensuring that cases are quickly identified and managed.

However, local leaders have expressed concerns about the sustainability of the initiative.

They pointed out that previous health initiatives in the region have often lagged behind due to inadequate government funding.

The launch of the Karamoja Public Health Emergency Operation Center represents a critical step in addressing the ongoing health challenges in the region.