By Musa Mbogo
The Pharmaceutical Society of Uganda (PSU) on Friday unveiled a weeklong program of activities to mark Pharmacy Awareness Week, including a sickle cell run scheduled for Sunday, September 21, at Pharmacy House in Kyambogo.
Addressing the press at the PSU headquarters, Dr. Stephen Lutoti, the Secretary General (SG) of the Society, said the week runs from September 21 to 26 and is aligned with the annual World Pharmacists Day observed on September 25 under the theme “Think Health, Think Pharmacist.”
“We are not just an association but a professional body created by law under the Pharmacy and Drugs Act,” Dr. Lutoti explained, highlighting the PSU role of upholding the highest standards in pharmacy practice. He noted that this week allows pharmacists to highlight both global and national priorities.
According to Lutoti, PSU is linked internationally through membership in the International Pharmaceutical Federation (IPF) and the Commonwealth Pharmacists Association. Activities for the week will include health awareness drives, university outreach, media engagements, and the annual general meeting of members.
One of the highlights will be the Sickle Cell Run, organized in partnership with Rising Hope International Friends Uganda (RHIF), set for Sunday, September 21, starting from Pharmacy House opposite Kabaka’s Farm in Kyambogo.
Mr. Isaac Okello of Rising Hope International said the run is part of efforts to raise awareness about sickle cell disease during September, which is globally recognized as Sickle Cell Awareness Month.
“Sickle cell affects each one of us, directly or indirectly,” he said, adding that they are using the event to amplify community voices, create awareness, and support sickle cell affected communities.
Participants will compete in 5km and 10km races, with tickets priced at UGX 25,000 and 35,000. Tickets are available at pharmacies in Nansana, Wandegeya, Gayaza, Naguru, Agenda, Kampala, and Entebbe.
Dr. Nuru Mugide, the PSU Vice President, emphasized the importance of Continuous Professional Development (CPD) for pharmacists, noting that health challenges are constantly evolving.
“COVID-19 showed us how dynamic the world is. New diseases and new drugs emerge every day, and our members must remain updated,” she said.
The CPD conference will take place on Thursday, September 25 at Imperial Royale Hotel, with Health Ministry Permanent Secretary Dr. Diana Atwine expected as Guest of Honour. The session will focus on “Transforming Pharmacy Practice in Uganda” and is expected to draw over 2,000 pharmacists.
PSU President Jonana Musimire announced that most of the week’s activities will be streamed live on YouTube and Zoom, allowing members of the public to participate virtually. However, the PSU’s Annual General Meeting scheduled for Friday will be a closed session for members only.
With events ranging from awareness campaigns and professional learning to the sickle cell run, PSU leaders said the week underscores the critical role pharmacists play in Uganda’s health system while also shining a spotlight on the fight against sickle cell disease.
