COVID 19 Test and Treat

TRAC FM partnered with Health Equity and Policy Research (HEPS) to conduct interactive radio talk shows in Uganda aimed at dispelling myths and misconceptions surrounding COVID-19 testing and treatment, as well as increasing uptake of COVID-19 testing services in the country.

POLL 4

If the government was to extend small business loans, who do you think should be given priority?

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Total Responses

Total

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Unknown Responses

Unknown

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Radio Stations

Radio Stations

BACKGROUND

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RADIO STATIONS

Radio 1

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POLL QUESTION.

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Location Responses

Campaign Background

Despite the availability of COVID-19 testing and vaccines, uptake in Uganda remained low. By 2022, only 29% of the eligible population was fully vaccinated. The campaign aimed to investigate why citizens were hesitant and what factors could encourage greater participation in the national COVID-19 response, especially testing and vaccination. Click here to download the full campaign report.

Partners and Scope

Implemented by HEPS-Uganda in partnership with TRAC FM, and funded by FIND and Unitaid, the campaign utilized live talk shows and SMS polling to reach thousands of Ugandans. Two polls were conducted on Radio Simba to identify what would motivate citizens to get tested or vaccinated. A follow-up survey with 250 participants provided deeper insights into public attitudes and awareness.

Objective and Impact

The campaign revealed that the most significant motivators for testing were free access (26%) and proximity to testing facilities (22%), while 44% of unvaccinated respondents believed vaccination was unnecessary. Stigma, misinformation, and access barriers were also identified. Importantly, nearly half of respondents reported increased awareness of vaccination benefits after the campaign. These insights supported targeted advocacy and informed public health messaging aimed at increasing uptake of COVID-19 testing and vaccination services.

Infographics