FRESHAIR4Life update: Uganda
FRESHAIR4Life is an implementation science programme funded by Horizon Europe and UKRI to prevent 14-21 year olds’ exposure to air pollution and tobacco in low- and middle-income countries. Read on for FRESHAIR4Life PhD candidate Charlotte Hoffman’s blogpost on the recent situational analysis in Uganda.
As one of the last countries visited by the FRESHAIR4Life project, Uganda presented its own unique opportunities and challenges during the situational analysis. While the overall objective remained the same, the emphasis in Uganda was on air pollution, with particular attention paid to household air pollution.
After a successful training, a somewhat challenging start didn't diminish the excitement when the first participants were included and the initial findings were discussed. In debriefing and evaluation meetings, the team, comprising Ugandan and Dutch researchers, shared ideas, thoughts, and potential solutions for addressing air pollution in Kampala.
We thank the Makerere Lung Institute for its strong presence, established through previous involvement in FRESH AIR projects, giving the team access to various connections for organising interviews and focus group discussions. Visits to schools, a football club, a religious institute, parliament, and healthcare facilities provided diverse perspectives from adolescents, sports coaches, teachers, and politicians. Despite time constraints, the team managed to gather sufficient results, including conducting a Photovoice session, to gain a comprehensive understanding of the implementation setting.
Amidst our working activities, Uganda revealed itself as the true pearl of Africa, boasting green rolling hills, lush forests, and diverse wildlife. Hopefully, the project will ensure that the air becomes as nourishing for the people as the fertile land is for the sweet fruits and fresh crops it yields. With the groundwork laid, the project now moves into an exciting phase of selecting and adapting interventions. With the team's enthusiasm and the spirited participation of adolescents, success is sure to follow.