A Prestigious National Recognition for Community Health Innovation Rise Labs Initiative was officially nominated for the Health & Social Enterprise of the Year category at the 2025 Social Enterprise Awards, organized by the Federation of Uganda Social Entrepreneurs (FUSE).This prestigious acknowledgment affirms the transformative work we are doing to make healthcare more accessible, affordable, and community-cantered—particularly for underserved populations across Uganda. Being nominated among leading social enterprises in the country is more than an award milestone. It is a powerful recognition that community-driven innovation in healthcare matters. From Vision to Impact: Serving Where It Matters Most At Rise Labs Initiative, our mission has always been clear: to bridge laboratory diagnostic gaps and expand access to quality health services in Nakivale. One of our most impactful initiatives has been our diabetes awareness and screening campaigns in the Nakivale Refugee Settlement—one of the largest refugee settlements in Africa. In Nakivale, we have: Conducted community diabetes screening camps Delivered health education sessions on lifestyle prevention Raised awareness about non-communicable diseases among vulnerable populations For many residents, these screenings were their first-ever diagnostic test. Through our laboratory medical camps, individuals living with undiagnosed diabetes and related conditions were identified early and connected to care pathways that can save lives. Recognition of Community-Led Health Innovation This nomination by FUSE reflects the growing recognition of: The importance of preventive healthcare in refugee and rural communities The role of youth-led social enterprises in strengthening health systems The power of innovation rooted in community realities It validates the long hours, the field outreaches, the partnerships built from the ground up, and the unwavering belief that equitable healthcare is possible. A Collective Achievement This achievement belongs to our volunteers, partners and every individual who has trusted Rise Labs Initiative with their health journey. To our supporters and communities in Nakivale and beyond — this recognition is yours. We remain committed to expanding access to diagnostics, scaling our diabetes care interventions, and advancing community health innovation across Uganda. Together, we rise for health.Together, we rise for impact. Join us to keep supporting this work through partnerships or collaborations to support our work: Contact us via our website contact page Follow our journey as we continue transforming community health access in Uganda — Rise Labs Team.
Rise Labs Hosts Fourth Phase of Diabetes Awareness & Training Campaign in Nakivale Settlement.
Rise Labs Initiative is proud to announce the successful hosting of the Fourth Phase of our Diabetes Awareness and Training Campaign in Nakivale Refugee Settlement.This phase marks another powerful milestone in our commitment to improving access to diagnostic services, strengthening community health education, and empowering individuals to take control of their wellbeing. POWERED BY THE SUPPORT THROUGH THE SHIFT THE POWER PROJECT.We are especially grateful for the support of the Global Refugee Network through the Shift the Power Project, whose partnership made this phase possible. Their belief in locally led solutions continues to strengthen our mission of bringing affordable and accessible health services closer to underserved communities.Through this collaboration, we were able to expand outreach, provide more screening services, and intensify community-based training efforts. WHAT WE DO DURING OUR DIABETES TRAININGS.Each phase of our diabetes campaign is designed to go beyond simple screening. Our approach combines awareness, practical training, and long-term empowerment.During this fourth phase, we conducted:• Community Diabetes Awareness Sessions – Educating individuals about prevention, early detection, symptoms, and lifestyle management.• Hands-on Glucometer Training – Teaching participants how to properly test and monitor blood sugar levels.• Free Blood Glucose Screening – Providing immediate diagnostic support to identify high-risk individuals.• Nutrition & Lifestyle Guidance – Sharing practical, culturally relevant advice on diet, exercise, and disease management.• Referral Pathways – Connecting patients in need of further care to appropriate health facilities.Every session strengthens knowledge, reduces stigma, and builds local capacity for disease prevention and management. OUR GROWING COMMUNITY IMPACT.With this fourth phase completed, our collective progress continues to inspire us:• Over 1,200 community members trained across all campaign phases• More than 135 blood testing glucometers distributed to individuals and community health groups• Hundreds screened and referred for early medical interventionThis campaign demonstrated that each phase brings us back stronger, more organized, and more impactful. Community participation continues to grow, and the demand for services remains high. LOOKING AHEAD.While we celebrate this milestone, the need in Nakivale remains significant. Many individuals still lack access to consistent screening, monitoring tools, and continuous health education.To sustain and expand this work, more support and engagement are urgently needed.We call upon partners, donors, volunteers, and organizations to join us in bringing these essential services even closer to patients in Nakivale Settlement.Together, we can:• Expand screening coverage• Distribute more glucometers• Train more community health championsAt Rise Labs Initiative, we believe that access to diagnostics is not a privilege — it is a right.And with continued partnership and collective action, we will keep impacting more lives — one screening, one training, and one empowered individual at a time. Join our mission. Support us. Partner with us.
International Diabetes Awareness Run
On November 17, 2024, we had the privilege of participating in the International Diabetes Awareness Run, organized by the Lions Club of Bushenyi. This event was an incredible opportunity to raise awareness about diabetes, promote public health, and unite the community in the fight against this growing health challenge. As an organization deeply committed to health and wellness, this event was more than just a run—it was a powerful reminder of how collaboration can drive meaningful change in global health. Together, we can make impactful strides toward healthier lives and a brighter future for all. A heartfelt thank you to the Lions Club of Bushenyi for leading this initiative and to everyone who came out to support this important cause. For God and My Country. 🇺🇬Cc: Lions Clubs International
Diabetes Awareness & Training Campaign – Phase Two
Diabetes Awareness & Training Campaign – Phase Two We are thrilled to share the success of the Diabetes Awareness and Training Campaign – Phase Two at Nakivale Refugee Settlement! Our dedicated Rise Labs team provided essential training and free blood glucose level testing, addressing a critical healthcare need in the community. One of the campaign’s key milestones was the distribution of glucometers, empowering individuals to monitor their blood sugar levels regularly. This initiative aims to enhance diabetes management, promote healthier lifestyles, and improve overall health outcomes. A special thank you to the Aspire Institute Alumni Program for their invaluable support in making this initiative possible. This is just the beginning—together, we can create lasting health solutions! For God and My Country. 🇺🇬
