On 11th July 2025, the city of Jinja – Uganda, became a beacon of hope as Raising Hope International Friends (RHIF) hosted the 4th Annual Sickle Cell Convention—an extraordinary gathering that transcended the ordinary and sparked what many described as the beginning of a national movement for change.
Graced by the Hon. Dr. Monica Musenero Masanza, Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation under the Office of the President, the convention underscored Uganda’s renewed commitment to transforming the sickle cell response.
In her keynote address, the Minister passionately called for the formulation of a national policy framework that would guide diagnosis, treatment, awareness, and long-term support for people affected by sickle cell disease (SCD) in Uganda.
“This is more than a health issue—it’s a national priority,” she said. “We must embed innovation, research, and strategic collaboration across ministries and sectors. Only then can we build a robust roadmap for impactful SCD programs.”
Dr. Musenero also applauded RHIF’s leadership and its meaningful partnerships, especially with Kampala University, highlighting it as a model for bridging academic research with public health policy. “Working with the right educators such as Kampala University is essential. This partnership will greatly contribute to the development of appropriate research and policies in the fight against sickle cell disease,” she remarked.
The convention drew over 350 physical participants from across 9 countries—Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia, South Africa, Nigeria, the United States, Ivory Coast, and France. This international presence reflected a shared urgency and collective resolve to address SCD beyond borders.
A standout feature of the day was the diverse representation of communities of practice, creating a dynamic space where lived experiences met clinical expertise. Among the 13 communities represented were patients, caregivers, healthcare professionals, nurses, pharmacists, oncologists, hematologists, genetic counselors, primary care providers, patient advocates, and members of the general public. Their collective presence enriched conversations with unique insights and practical solutions.
Throughout the convention, attendees were offered free sickle cell testing, reinforcing RHIF’s unwavering commitment to accessible healthcare and early intervention. The screening campaign was not just a service—it was a statement: that every life matters, and knowing your status is the first step to empowerment and prevention.
Fueling the momentum of the convention were our esteemed partners and sponsors, whose contributions brought innovation, expertise, and unwavering support to the cause. These included key institutions such as the Ministry of Health, Terumo Blood Cell Technologies, Hemex Health, Nicosam, ABSA, Stabex, F&S Scientific, Novartis Pharma, Agios Pharma, Acculife Pharma, Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), along with numerous sickle cell advocacy organizations. Their involvement spanned a wide spectrum—from showcasing cutting-edge diagnostic technologies and delivering impactful technical presentations, to exploring new pathways in health financing and collaborative research. Together, they amplified a shared commitment to advancing comprehensive care and policy for sickle cell disease in Uganda and beyond.
Mr. Isaac Okello, Executive Director of RHIF, expressed heartfelt appreciation to the entire congregation for their presence and solidarity, and extended special gratitude to the sponsors who have consistently supported RHIF’s campaigns across Uganda. “Your commitment has sustained our advocacy work and strengthened our mission to reach every corner of the country with hope and healthcare,” he remarked.
Mr. Okello officially appealed to Hon. Dr. Musenero to take on the role of National Sickle Cell Ambassador, calling for stronger political will to champion better policies and nationwide awareness. To the joy of all in attendance, she graciously accepted the call, signaling a new era of high-level advocacy for sickle cell disease in Uganda.
As the day unfolded, it became clear that this was more than a conference—it was a movement. A momentum was building, not just to raise awareness, but to adopt policy, drive research, and transform systems. This year’s convention redefined the role of academia, civil society, government, and private sector in the sickle cell ecosystem.
An observer said “The 4th Annual Sickle Cell Convention was not just an event—it was a defining moment in Uganda’s fight against sickle cell disease. It brought together hearts, minds, and institutions committed to rewriting the story of SCD through innovation, collaboration, and compassion. With strong leadership from government, unwavering support from partners, and the resilience of affected communities, a new chapter has begun—one defined by action, inclusion, and impact”.
As Raising Hope International Friends (RHIF) continues to build bridges between research, policy, and grassroots engagement, the commitment from visionaries like Hon. Dr. Monica Musenero and academic institutions like Kampala University gives us renewed confidence. The future of sickle cell care in Uganda is no longer a distant dream—it is a movement in motion. Together, we are not just raising awareness; we are raising hope.
