Uganda has intensified its fight against tuberculosis (TB) by launching a nationwide mobile diagnostic campaign powered by artificial intelligence, with support from the United States government.
The initiative was officially commissioned in Kampala, on 15th December, 2025, by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Diana Atwine, who unveiled a new fleet of mobile TB clinic trucks alongside 14 ultra mobile AI-enabled digital X-ray machines donated by the US government in partnership with American medical technology firm MinXray, Inc.
Dr. Atwine said the intervention represents a decisive step toward closing long-standing gaps in TB detection and care, particularly in hard to reach communities.
“This dual intervention marks a major achievement in our ongoing efforts to eliminate tuberculosis in Uganda,” Dr. Atwine said.
“By taking services directly to communities and using AI-driven X-ray technology, we are transforming TB screening and treatment while ensuring no one is left behind,” she added.
The mobile clinics are designed to operate in remote areas where access to health facilities remains limited.
Each unit is equipped with portable, state of the art digital X-ray machines capable of analyzing chest images in real time.
Equipped with artificial intelligence, the digital X-ray devices can analyze chest images in real time, detecting TB as well as signs of up to 20 other lung diseases.
Health officials say the technology will significantly reduce diagnosis delays and allow patients to begin treatment earlier.
US Ambassador to Uganda, William W. Popp, who attended the commissioning ceremony, highlighted the importance of the partnership in strengthening Uganda’s healthcare system.
“By combining US innovation with Uganda’s commitment, this partnership is saving lives, strengthening healthcare systems, and accelerating progress toward a TB Free Uganda,” Ambassador Popp stated.
Uganda remains among the countries with a high burden of tuberculosis, with thousands of cases going undiagnosed each year.
Officials say the introduction of mobile diagnostic services will help close this gap by reaching populations previously excluded due to distance, cost, or limited health infrastructure.
By bringing TB screening closer to communities and integrating advanced technology into frontline care, the program is expected to reduce missed diagnoses and curb the spread of the infectious disease nationwide.
Dr. Atwine concluded the launch by emphasizing that the fight against TB requires collective action, urging communities to embrace early testing, support nationwide screening efforts, and join the country’s mission to eliminate tuberculosis once and for all.
With the mobile clinic trucks now on the move, Uganda moves closer to TB elimination, powered by innovation, collaborative partnerships, and a united vision for better health.
