Our Approach
Turning Evidence Into Action for Better Health Systems
At the Makerere University Centre of Excellence for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (MNCH), we believe that the future of health will be shaped by how effectively we transform evidence into action.
Across Sub-Saharan Africa, millions of women, newborns and children continue to face preventable health challenges despite the availability of proven interventions. The challenge is no longer only knowing what works,it is ensuring that effective solutions reach every community, are integrated within health systems, and are sustained over time.
Our approach is designed to address this challenge.
As an African-led Centre of Excellence based at the Makerere University School of Public Health, we bring together research, innovation, implementation science, policy engagement, and health system strengthening to develop solutions that are locally grounded, scientifically rigorous, and globally relevant.
We move beyond short-term projects to build sustainable platforms for improving reproductive, maternal, newborn, child and adolescent health and nutrition (RMNCAH+N).
Our Approach
Science, Systems and Scale
Evidence Generation & Knowledge Translation
Research creates the greatest impact when it informs decisions and improves practice.
We generate high-quality evidence to understand how interventions can be effectively delivered, adapted, and scaled within real-world health systems.
- Policies & Guidelines: Strengthening national health programs.
- Implementation Strategies: Improving frontline service delivery.
- Knowledge Products: Supporting local decision-makers.
- Practical Solutions: Responding directly to local health challenges.
Strengthening Health Systems
Sustainable health improvements require strong systems, not isolated solutions.
We strengthen unified platforms that enable quality care delivery—from community-level providers up to referral hospitals.
- Quality Care: Improving maternal and newborn health services.
- Referral Pathways: Supporting robust continuity-of-care.
- Workforce Support: Providing training, mentorship, and supervision.
- Routine Integration: Bringing evidence-based care into services.
- Strong Coordination: Uniting communities and policymakers.
A Life-Course Approach to Health
The health of a child begins long before birth.
We recognize reproductive, maternal, newborn, child, adolescent health, and nutrition outcomes are systematically interconnected.
Innovation & Digital Transformation
Modern healthcare requires solutions that respond to real-world context.
We leverage emerging medical technologies, digital health, and data platforms to reinforce service delivery and support decisions.
- Timely Access: Strengthening clear health information flow.
- Worker Tools: Equipping frontline staff with key resources.
- Disease Surveillance: Upgrading detection and response times.
- Data Utility: Harnessing data for local accountability.
Building African Capacity & Leadership
Long-term impact depends on strong institutions and skilled local people.
We develop the next generation of African researchers, clinicians, policymakers, and public health leaders through systemic training.
- Evidence: Generating locally relevant operational proof.
- Leadership: Directing and managing complex health systems.
- Solutions: Designing innovative practical products.
- Influence: Guiding regional policies and investment decisions.
Partnerships for Greater Impact
Complex health challenges require unified, collaborative action.
We work alongside governments, regional communities, academic platforms, and global health organizations to co-create sustainable answers.
- Health Outcomes: Driving positive health results.
- System Strength: Toughening operational care infrastructure.
- Innovation: Advancing and scaling scientific progress.
- Prioritization: Aligning with national health agendas.
Our Commitment
At Makerere MNCH, our vision extends beyond individual interventions.
We are building a future where evidence guides decisions, health systems deliver quality care, innovations reach those who need them most, and every mother, newborn, and child has the opportunity to survive and thrive.
Our measure of success is not only what we discover, but what changes because of that discovery.
Explore the Work Behind the Impact
See how MNCH turns tested innovations into practical initiatives, active projects, and research partnerships that strengthen health systems.