SHiNE Child Program – Palliative Care Association of Uganda (PCAU)

Uganda has one of the youngest populations in the world, with over 57% of its citizens under 14 years. Yet, children face daunting health challenges; infant mortality stands at 61 per 1,000 live births, malaria, respiratory infections, and diarrheal diseases remain leading causes of death, and malnutrition continues to weaken survival. HIV/AIDS has left 1.2 million orphans, while 150,000 children under 15 live with the virus. With over 41% of Ugandans living in poverty and many rural families struggling to access under-resourced health facilities, the need for support is urgent. Childhood cancer adds to this burden. Each year, Uganda records an estimated 1,500 – 3,000 new childhood cancer cases, yet only 30% reach the Uganda Cancer Institute. Most cancers are treatable, but survival remains at just 20–30%, far below global averages. Financial constraints, transportation challenges, and stigma cause nearly one-third of families to abandon treatment. Childhood cancer adds to this burden. Each year, Uganda records an estimated 1,500 – 3,000 new childhood cancer cases, yet only 30% reach the Uganda Cancer Institute. Most cancers are treatable, but survival remains at just 20–30%, far below global averages. Financial constraints, transportation challenges, and stigma cause nearly one-third of families to abandon treatment.

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The Palliative Care Association of Uganda (PCAU) launched the Special Hearts to Nurture Every Child (SHiNE Child) Program as a pioneering community navigation initiative to address the pressing challenges faced by families with seriously ill children. Implemented across five underserved districts in Southwestern Uganda, the program is anchored in strong partnerships with Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital, Kitagata General Hospital, Nsiika Health Centre IV, Mitooma Health Centre IV, Lugazi Health Centre IV, and more than ten additional lower-level health facilities. Its focus is to ensure equitable access to care for children suffering from cancer and other life-threatening conditions—including sickle cell disease, rheumatic heart disease, malnutrition, and neurological disorders—through the provision of essential support services.

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