The Ministry of Health has officially opened doors to the public, media, students, researchers, and health enthusiasts to attend the highly anticipated 4th Annual National Nutrition Symposium, scheduled to take place at Speke Resort Munyonyo this week.
The three-day event, organized by the Ministry’s Nutrition Division, promises a dynamic mix of cutting-edge innovations, policy dialogues, exhibitions, and vibrant entertainment — all under the theme “Strategic, Sustainable, and Resilient Nutrition Investments for a Healthier Future.”
Lonyo Grace Ochieng, the Principal Nutritionist at the Ministry of Health, made a passionate appeal to the public, urging Ugandans to take part in what she described as a milestone event in shaping the country’s nutrition policy and practices.
“We encourage everyone to come to Speke Resort Munyonyo and understand what is taking place in the nutrition space,” said Ochieng. “This is more than a conference — it’s a platform for learning, engagement, innovation, and policy transformation. You’ll witness exhibitions showcasing nutritious food innovations like composite flours, health-enhancing juices, and ready-to-use therapeutic foods for children under five.”
The symposium, which will run across three packed days, will bring together a wide range of stakeholders — including researchers, health workers, innovators, students, UN agencies, NGOs, and private sector leaders — to foster collaboration and present actionable solutions to Uganda’s pressing nutrition challenges.
A Rich Program Spanning Three Days
The event is divided into themed sessions across the three days:
- Day 1 will focus on sustainable food systems and childhood nutrition innovations.
- Day 2 will address malnutrition, food security, urbanization, and climate impacts.
- Day 3 will explore youth nutrition, healthcare innovation, and digital transformations in nutrition.
“We’ll also explore how artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming nutrition supply chains and programme implementation,” Ochieng added. “We want to highlight how digital tools can support evidence-based decisions in nutrition programming.”
Special Features to Watch For
Attendees will experience interactive exhibitions, research presentations, and panel discussions featuring distinguished speakers such as:
- Dr. Diana Atwine, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health
- Dr. Charles Olaro, Director General of Health Services
- Dr. Daniel Kyabayinze, Director of Public Health
- Dr. George Openthyo, Commissioner for Community Health
- Dr. Zakaria Fushene from UNICEF, who will deliver the keynote address on investing in nutrition
The event will also feature participation from the Office of the Prime Minister, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Agriculture, Ministry of Trade, and Action Against Hunger, reflecting the cross-sectoral nature of the nutrition agenda.
“Nutrition is not a Ministry of Health-only affair,” Ochieng emphasized. “We are the lead, but it is a multi-sectoral effort involving education, agriculture, trade, and development partners. Everyone has a role to play.”
Youth Engagement, Entertainment & Recognition
In a vibrant twist, the symposium will include performances by school children from Version Primary School, adding a playful yet meaningful touch to the otherwise serious discourse. Additionally, awards will be given to individuals and organizations for outstanding contributions to improving nutrition in Uganda.
“All work without play makes Jack a dull boy,” Ochieng said with a smile. “We want this symposium to be engaging, enlightening, and also enjoyable.”
Real Outcomes Expected
Beyond the discussions, the symposium is expected to yield evidence-based policy recommendations, ready-to-implement strategies, and monitoring frameworks to track Uganda’s progress toward national nutrition goals. A key outcome will be defining how to maximize limited resources, especially in the face of declining donor support.
“With funding cuts globally — what we call the ‘Donald Trump effect’ — we must become smarter with what we have,” she noted. “This symposium will help us explore how to leverage partnerships and local solutions to create impact.”
Open Invitation to the Public and Media
Ochieng extended a warm welcome to members of the media, calling on them to cover the symposium widely, live-stream key moments, and spotlight stories from participants and exhibitors.
“The media is welcome to stay for all three days. Interview people, attend sessions, explore exhibitions — and help us inform the nation,” she urged.
With a rich blend of science, innovation, policy, youth voices, and cultural engagement, the 4th Annual National Nutrition Symposium is a must-attend for anyone concerned about Uganda’s health and development future.
The event is free and open to the public. Mark your calendars — all roads lead to Speke Resort Munyonyo!