In a major push to strengthen immunization services, Uganda’s Ministry of Health has received a significant boost with the delivery of 500 Solar Direct Drive (SDD) refrigerators aimed at improving vaccine storage and delivery across the country.
The refrigerators, procured by UNICEF with support from the Mastercard Foundation through Africa CDC, will be installed in health facilities nationwide, particularly in hard-to-reach and off-grid areas ensuring that life-saving vaccines remain safe and potent.
Presiding over the handover ceremony, Minister of Health Hon. Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng Ocero underscored the importance of this investment in enhancing Uganda’s cold chain system.
“These Solar Direct Drive refrigerators will significantly expand vaccine storage capacity at both district vaccine stores and health facilities. By providing uninterrupted cold storage powered by solar energy, even in areas without reliable electricity, we will reduce vaccine wastage and improve immunization coverage,” Dr. Aceng said.
The investment comes at a critical time as the country works to increase immunization coverage for children under five and other vulnerable groups.
According to the Ministry, this initiative will reduce the risk of vaccine spoilage due to power outages, a major challenge in rural and remote regions.
Dr. Yaron Wolman, Chief of Child Health and Survival at UNICEF Uganda, speaking on behalf of the UNICEF Country Representative, emphasized the importance of the initiative. “Solar-powered refrigerators are vital in ensuring consistent vaccine availability, particularly in remote areas where electricity is unreliable. This initiative will safeguard the health of children and communities,” he noted.
World Health Organization (WHO) representative Mr. Andrew Bakainaga also commended the effort, saying, “Reliable vaccine storage is essential for any successful immunization programme. This contribution helps bridge gaps in service delivery in underserved regions. WHO remains committed to strengthening cold chain systems, improving data-driven monitoring, and ensuring every child receives life-saving vaccines.”
This latest investment reaffirms Uganda’s commitment to building a resilient immunization program, one that not only relies on modern technology but also on skilled health workers trained to manage and maintain critical infrastructure.
With 500 new solar-powered fridges now ready for deployment, the Ministry of Health is one step closer to achieving its goal, ensuring that every child, no matter where they live, has access to safe and effective vaccines.