Bios - Health Access Connect

Our Team Meet

Board of Directors

Benson Chirwa

Board Chairperson, HAC Uganda

Dr Benson Chirwa has been working in global health and HIV/AIDS for over 20 years. He is currently Deputy Chief of Party/DSD at Equip Zambia. Formerly he was Country Director of KethImpilo‘s USAID-funded External Quality Improvement Programme (EQUIP) in Zimbabwe. Previously he has served as the Director General of the National AIDS Council of Zambia and as the Technical Adviser for John Hopkins University Bloomberg School of Public Health SSDI Programme in Malawi. He has undertaken consultancies with UNAIDS and UKAID and has served on the Board of ViiV Healthcare’s Positive Action Challenges Fund from 2012-2016. Bachelor of Medicine & Bachelor of Surgery (M.B.Ch.B.) from the University of Zambia and an MPH from the University of Ibadan. On the Board, Ben focuses on fundraising, grant writing, communication, and public relations for Health Access Connect.

Ronald Tibiita

Board Member, HAC Uganda

Ronald Tibiita has been a implementer and researcher of multiple global health programs. He is currently the Senior Programs Manager at Global Health Uganda and formerly served as Technical and Quality Improvement Officer of Maternal, Newborn, and Child Health & HIV Interventions at the USAID Applying Science to Strengthen and Improve Systems (ASSIST) Project in Northern Uganda. He has served as a member of Health Information for All 2030, as a Global Health Corps (GHC) Fellow, as a mentor with the GHC Alumni Association, and as a member of the Norwegian International Health Policy Scholars. He has a Bachelors of Social Work and Social Administration from Makerere University, an MPH from the James P Grant School of Public Health of BRAC University, and a Masters in International Health Policy and Social Welfare from Oslo and Akershus University College of Applied Sciences. On the Board, Ronald focuses on monitoring & evaluation and programmatic and implementation techniques for Health Access Connect.

Rebecca Kinney

Board Member, HAC Uganda and HAC USA

Rebecca comes to Health Access Connect with a background as a primary care physician serving marginalized rural and urban populations in the United States and abroad. Committed to ensuring universal access to health care and social justice, her current work is focused on improving integrity of essential products and services through supply chain optimization, and she currently serves as the Director of Global Health Partnerships at Denver-based technology company, Parsyl. Rebecca holds an AB in History and Literature from Harvard University, an MD from the Mount Sinai School of Medicine, and an MSc in Global Health Policy from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. On the Board, Rebecca focuses on fundraising, grant writing, and program development for Health Access Connect.

Dr. Stephen Assimwe

Board Member, HAC Uganda

Dr Stephen Asiimwe (MBChB, MS, DrPH) is a physician scientist and senior medical epidemiologist. Dr Asiimwe studied Medicine & Surgery from Makerere University Kampala Uganda (MUK), and at Case Western Reserve University (CWRU) in Cleveland, Ohio USA. He completed his second doctorate from the University of Georgia (UGA), USA, College of Public Health. He has 20 years’ experience in developing health systems, conducting medical research and public health application, accrued from serving in Uganda’s local health systems, and various positions held in the Uganda ministry of health, local government, civil society and university respectively, some at executive level. He is currently the Director of the Global Health Collaborative (GHC), a large global-health partnership between the Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital and Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST) in Uganda; with Harvard University and Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) in Boston, USA. He is also co-founder, Principal Investigator and Principal Research Scientist for the Kabwohe Clinical Research Center (KCRC), in Sheema Uganda. Dr. Stephen is also an Honorary Lecturer and External Examiner of Epidemiology & Biostatistics at the MUST Department of Community Health. Stephen is also a renown nature enthusiast, traveler, biker and family man. On the board, Stephen will assist advise the learning and knowledge generation from HAC initiatives, as well as with grant writing (fundraising).

Denis Kibira

Board Member, HAC Uganda

Has experience in Program management, coordination of multi-stakeholder groups on access to medicines, innovative research, health policy analysis, intellectual property and advocacy in Uganda and the East African region. Extensive experience in the Uganda health system, regional and global health and trade environment; knowledge of public health systems, health and pharmaceutical policy and management.

Nick Bennett

Board Member, HAC Uganda

Nick Bennett is a Health Markets Associate at MedAccess, working within the health markets team to identify, develop, and execute transactions where innovative finance can help unlock access to lifesaving medicines, vaccines, and diagnostic products.

In his role, Nick is responsible for undertaking the feasibility analysis and due diligence required to identify and scope new opportunities, building the proposition, and working closely with partner organisations to take transactions through to execution.

Immediately prior to MedAccess, Nick was part of the Resource Mobilisation Private Sector Partnerships and Innovative Finance team at Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, where he was responsible for securing resources from government, philanthropic, and private sector donors to support Gavi’s mission. His role included a specific focus on partnership creation with private sector organisations, extending beyond donor funding to explore opportunities that harness the skills and expertise of the private sector to support vaccine access, from demand generation through to cold chain innovation.

Working at Gavi at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, Nick went on to co-lead the project management team for the Gavi COVAX Advance Market Commitment (AMC) Resource Mobilisation campaign, working with donor managers in key G7 and G20 markets to secure political and financial support for the AMC and helping to secure over $14bn in financial commitments.

Nick is driven personally and professionally by his interest in equitable access to essential products and services. Prior to Gavi, he led partnership development in East Africa and the US for Cambridge based non-profit tech company Simprints, focussing on the use of technology to improve effectiveness and accountability of global health and development programmes.

Nick holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Immunology from the University of Sydney and a Postgraduate Diploma in Health & Medical Science from the University of Notre Dame Australia.

Nick is a Board member for Health Access Connect, a non-for-profit organisation that links remote communities to healthcare in Uganda. His research on pre-hospital paediatric airway management has been published in the Emergency Medicine Journal (2019) and Critical Care (2020).

Email Nick: nbennett@medaccess.org

Tonny Chono Okot

Board Member, HAC Uganda

Okot Chono Tonny is a highly accomplished professional with over 16 years of extensive experience working with national and international organizations in the areas of compliance, audit, risk management, accounting, finance, and investigation. He currently serves as an Internal Auditor at the Insurance Regulatory Authority of Uganda, where he has made significant contributions in preparing and presenting risk reports, evaluating internal control processes, performing operational, financial, and compliance audits, and developing risk mitigation strategies. His work has promoted and implemented robust compliance and risk management frameworks across several organizations, including the Finance Trust Bank, Uganda Revenue Authority, and the Insurance Regulatory Authority of Uganda. He also guides the Head Internal Audit on internal controls and risk management and coordinates with external audits.

Tonny’s career is marked by a series of impactful roles, such as Senior Audit and Compliance Officer, Internal Auditor, Senior Audit and Inspectorate Officer, Finance Officer, Branch Accountant, and Compliance and Investigation Officer. His experience spans reputable institutions such as the United Nations, Kampala Capital City Authority, Uganda Revenue Authority, Insurance Regulatory Authority of Uganda, TDR Associate Consult Ltd, Fred Andema and Associates, and Finance Trust Bank. His diverse roles have honed his skills in developing risk management, compliance management ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, and leading audit engagements to enhance organizational efficiency and effectiveness.

Okot Chono holds an MBA in Finance & Accounting, a Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting from Makerere University. He is a Chartered Risk Analyst (CRA) and a Fellow of the Global Academy of Finance and Management (USA). Additionally, he has earned a Diploma in Data Analytics, a Diploma in Actuarial Science, a Certificate in Modern Global Diplomacy from the University of London, and a Certificate of Proficiency in Insurance. He also holds a Certificate in Advanced Enterprise Risk Management. These qualifications underscore his profound expertise and commitment to continuous professional development.

Beyond his professional roles, Okot Chono is a results-oriented consultant with experience in risk management, compliance, and USAID compliance and donor regulations. He has provided consultancy services to local and international organizations such as Frontline AIDS/Uganda Key Population Consortium, Fulcrum Consult, BLD Consult Uganda Ltd, and Horizont 3000. His consultancy work has further solidified his reputation as a strategic thinker and a proficient problem-solver, capable of delivering tailored solutions that drive organizational success.

Email address: chonot2001@yahoo.com

Hudson Balidawa

Board Member, HAC Uganda

Dr. Hudson Balidawa is a Public Health Specialist and Development Advisory and Management consultant with 20 years of experience as a team leader, program management and technical advisor; working with national governments, senior leaders of bilateral and multilateral donor agencies, international financing institutions to design, implement, monitor and evaluate public health interventions across several countries in Africa. He has specific country professional experience and a deep contextual understanding of the Public Health terrain in Uganda, Kenya, South Sudan, Sudan, Namibia, Nigeria, and Zimbabwe. From 2004 to 2011, he was a senior manager in Uganda, supported by the WHO Kampala office, to lead the rollout of HIV program capacity, where he co-led the public health consulting and advisory practice that led Uganda to achieve the 3by5 global HIV targets. He has worked with international firms like KPMG-Kenya where he has further harnessed his expertise in the end-to-end management of consulting assignments, from proposal writing to presenting final results to clients. He has extensive familiarity working with and leading engagements for WHO, UNAIDS, USAID; UNICEF; and the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria. He has collaborated in several research to generate evidence for decision-making. He holds two Master’s Degrees in Public Health and Pediatrics and Child Health, from Makerere University, Kampala; Post Graduate Diplomas in Monitoring and evaluation from Uganda Management Institute, Kampala; and International Health from Berlin, Germany; and a Bachelor’s degree in Medicine and Surgery from Makerere University in Kampala, Uganda.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/balidawa-hudson-06278a138/

Email address: hbalidawa@gmail.com

To inspire the Board to grow the organization beyond its current goals and contribute to shaping its bright future

Bruce Willis

Board Chairperson, HAC USA

Bruce Willis practices law at Musgrove Law Firm P.C. in Dallas, Texas. He serves as legal counsel to small-to-middle market companies and entrepreneurs and has a passion for helping to propel organizations to achieve their goals. Previously he partnered his own law firm and served as the Executive Vice President and General Counsel of an aviation company. He has a BS in Ecology & Evolutionary Biology from Tulane University and a JD from the University of Tulsa College of Law. On the Board, Bruce focuses on finance, budgeting, and legal processes for Health Access Connect.

Marjorie Norman

Board Member, HAC USA

Marjorie Norman comes to HAC with over 30 years of experience in business and competitive intelligence, strategic development, competitive benchmarking and market research in corporate, consulting, entrepreneurial and Non-Governmental Organization environments. Her focus has been in the pharmaceutical and medical device industries. Ms. Norman retired from Pfizer, Inc as Director, Worldwide Competitive Intelligence where she led the corporation’s global primary intelligence program. Prior to joining Pfizer, she was Director – Pharmaceutical Practice at Fuld + Company, a competitive intelligence consulting firm and a Senior Market Research Analyst at Johnson & Johnson Professional. Ms. Norman currently serves as Strategic Advisor to Cambridge Healthcare Research, an Executive Mentor for The Global Good Fund and an active member of Massachusetts Medical Reserve Corps in response to the COVID crisis. She was previously awarded a Pfizer Global Health Fellowship, partnering with Population Services International on the ACTwatch Project based in Nairobi, Kenya.

Ms. Norman holds an MBA from the Graduate School of Management at Simmons College and a BA in German and art history from Franklin & Marshall College.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/marjoriegnorman/

Amelia Nicholson

Board Member, HAC USA

Amelia Nicholson trained and worked at St Thomas’ Hospital in the UK as a staff nurse, graduating as a Nightingale nurse. A mother of three children, she has been involved in volunteer positions at her children’s schools and church, is in the choir, ran the local swim team for 3 years, and volunteered for Meals on Wheels for 10 years. During on various trips to Uganda, she realized the need for help and supported Child’s i Foundation in the promotion of foster care, and strongly believes in the need for safe medical care access for all people in Uganda which led to the interest in Health Access Connect. In her contributions on the Board, Amelia helps with fundraising and communications strategy and public health programs. Amelia and her family have lived in Washington, DC, having moved to USA from UK in 1986.

Ben Miller

Board Member, HAC USA

Ben Miller is a sales and marketing specialist who has worked in the technology space for over a decade. He has spent most of his career helping startups create go-to-market strategies for acquiring large enterprise customers. He is currently working at Amazon where he was an early member of creating the Just Walk Out technology business. He has a BA degree in History from Princeton University and lives in Austin, TX. On the Board, Ben focuses on the fundraising and marketing strategies for Health Access Connect.

Pete Sullivan

Board Member, HAC USA

Financial Advisor, Managing Director with The Hatton Sullivan Group, A private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC. Pete has 26 years experience working as a senior vice president financial advisor at Morgan Stanley. He is a graduate from University of Florida.

Staff

Kevin Gibbons

Executive Director & Co-Founder

Kevin Gibbons serves people by combining his experience in community organizing, project development, digital media, social research, and organizational leadership. He co-founded HAC after spending many months researching livelihoods and food security in Lake Victoria fishing communities. He previously worked as a Digital Media Consultant at University of Wisconsin-Madison and as a US Peace Corps Volunteer in the Philippines. He has a BS in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology from Tulane University and an MS in Conservation Biology and Sustainable Development from University of Wisconsin-Madison. As Executive Director, Kevin is in charge of program development, administration, monitoring & evaluation, fundraising, and communications.

Carolyne Ariokot

Program Director & Co-Founder

Carolyne Ariokot is passionate about using her background in project management and organizational development to serve people living in remote areas. When she co-founded HAC, she had over 10 years of experience in the banking sector in project management, systems administration, risk mitigation, and financial oversight. She has previously worked as a Project Manager at KCB Bank and a Section Head at Stanbic Bank Uganda. She has a BS in Social Sciences & Sociology and an MBA in Project Management from Makerere University. At HAC she supervises support staff, oversees budgets and financial transfers, hones risk management strategies, and interfaces with government officials.

Abdullahi Ali Muhammad

Partnerships & Grants Manager

Abdullahi Ali Muhammad brings a wealth of experience in sales, business development, and fundraising to his role as Business Development Manager at Health Access Connect (HAC). A graduate of CUNY Queens College in New York City, Abdullahi embarked on a successful career in the dynamic world of SaaS companies, working with prominent players in the field of data research and education. In 2016, driven by a passion for making a positive impact in Africa, Abdullahi returned to the continent to pursue a career in fundraising. His most recent position as Regional Funding Manager for Africa at Amnesty International further honed his expertise in navigating the intricacies of securing funding for impactful causes. At HAC, Abdullahi’s proven track record of achieving ambitious sales and fundraising goals, coupled with his deep understanding of the African landscape, will play a pivotal role in driving the organization’s growth and expanding its reach to underserved communities across the continent.

Costaritah Nalukwago

Program Manager

Costaritah Nalukwago is Public Health practitioner who currently works as the Program Manager for Health Access Connect (HAC). Her core roles are to support the expansion of HAC activities to new areas that qualify for the organization’s interventions, closely work with the community structures to support the implementation of HAC models and approaches, oversee the program activities of the organization, and also coordinate the work of the Field Coordinator and Field Officers who are spread out in all HAC districts of operation.

Costaritah’s background in Clinical work, Social Work and Administration and her current Post graduate training in Public Health has given her a unique dimension of approaching public health issues with empathy and accommodativeness that is backed by researched academic knowledge.

She brings to HAC over 10 years’ experience in Clinical and Public Health work. Ritah has previously worked with the Rakai Health Sciences Program (RHSP) as Clinician directly supporting the HIV Care and Treatment Program at RHSP and building the capacity for the Government Health Care structures to take over the HIV Prevention and Care Programs. Ms. Nalukwago has also worked for the Local Government Health structure in the capacity of a Public health nurse. She also has locum experience with Baylor Uganda to support the scaling up of Elimination of Mother to Child Transmission of HIV (EMTCT) through government health center systems in Soroti region.

Costaritah has both passion and special abilities in strategic planning of public health programs and as well as working with both the government structures and private sector to promote healthcare initiatives.

Denis Onyango

Research, Monitoring & Evaluation Coordinator

Denish has experience of the Donors Reporting requirements such MCF, USAID, CDC, DFID and Trust Fund for Victims. He has the knowledge and skills of designing M&E System, PMP indicator table, Indicator Performance Tracking Table (IPTT), Indicator Performance Reference Sheet (IPRS), M&E Reporting System as well as M&E task schedules. Good understanding and requirement of the Logical Framework, Result Framework of any community project. Sound knowledge in using Web based data collection tool such as Kobotool box, Mwater, Ona, Survey CTO Monkey, google sheet, google form CommCare, ODK and well verse with statistical packages such as SPSS, Excel and Epidata.

Anthony Tisasirana

Finance and Administration Manager

Anthony Tisasirana, a Finance and Administration Manager based in Kampala, Uganda, with extensive experience in financial management and administrative roles. Skilled in transaction monitoring, reporting, and payroll support, Anthony has demonstrated proficiency in QuickBooks and possesses strong strategic planning abilities. His work history includes managing expense tracking, payroll, and personnel vouchers for Health Access Connect, where he also conducted financial due diligence on potential investments and acquisitions. Additionally, he has held positions as a Finance and Admin Officer and Administrative Officer, contributing to budget preparation, agenda setting, and stakeholder communication. Anthony’s educational background includes a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting and Finance from Kyambogo University and a Post Graduate Diploma in Monitoring and Evaluation from Uganda Management Institute. Outside of work, he enjoys sports such as soccer, basketball, and volleyball, and indulges in activities like taking long walks and hitting the gym. His language proficiency extends to English, Luganda, and Runyakitara, adding to his versatility and effectiveness in diverse settings.

Palma Akello

Human Resource Officer

Palma brings over four years of experience in Human Resources and Administration within the non-government and private sectors. As Human Resources Officer at Health Access Connect (HAC), she is pivotal in supporting the recruitment process, inducting new staff on the HR manual, and ensuring compliance with organizational policies. She is also responsible for organizing staff evaluations and appraisals, tracking leaves and holidays, maintaining and updating staff pay slips monthly, and managing various people-related issues. In her previous role as HR Executive, Palma participated in the development and implementation of comprehensive Human Resource policies.

At HAC, she has spearheaded the cascading of the balanced scorecard as a staff performance management tool and coordinated the review of the Human Resource Manual. Additionally, she has effectively managed relationships with various stakeholders, including employees, suppliers, , and the private sector. Palma is currently pursuing a Master’s in Business Administration (General Management) at Uganda Management Institute and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Human Resource Management from Makerere University. She is proficient in writing office correspondences and developing terms of reference. Outside of work, she enjoys watching movies, shopping, and spending time with family and friends.

Frances Itiang

Communication & Development Officer

Frances is a goal-oriented Communications professional with over two years of experience, with a demonstrated track record of spearheading innovative communication strategies, creating engaging social media content, and leading successful fundraising campaigns. As the Communications & Development Officer at Health Access Connect, she works closely with HAC staff and partners to develop and implement effective communication strategies that support the organization’s objectives. Her responsibilities include assisting with report writing, compiling monthly newsletters and the annual report, maintaining active social media sites, and ensuring adherence to organizational branding. Additionally, she leads the creation of communication outputs such as blogs, and visuals, and supports fundraising efforts through grant writing and donation drives.

Frances previously worked as a Communications & Marketing Officer at Eastern Agricultural Development Company Limited and was involved in spearheading internal and external communications, developing marketing strategies, managing social media accounts, and conducting market research. She has a bachelor’s degree in Journalism and Communication with Communications as a major from Makerere University.

Kenneth Komakech

Finance Officer

Kenneth serves as the Finance Officer at Health Access Connect (HAC). With 7 years of experience in the non-governmental sector, He is responsible for conducting financial analysis to identify potential areas of improvement and cost savings, performing monthly budget and forecast variance analysis, managing accounts receivable and payable processes, and ensuring accurate recording of transactions in the general ledger system. He assists with the preparation of financial statements for yearly audits in accordance with IAS & IFRS, evaluates existing internal controls to safeguard assets, tracks budgets for specific restricted grants, provides technical guidance to junior staff on HAC accounting policies, and reconciles bank accounts to ensure record accuracy.

Kenneth’s previous roles include Finance Officer at Irene Gleeson Foundation (3 years), Grant Coordinator at Childcare Technical Institute in partnership with PACE & TASO (1 year), and Finance & Administration Assistant at Irene Gleeson Foundation (3 years). He holds a Bachelor of Business Administration with an Accounting Major from Makerere University and is currently pursuing Level I certification with the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Uganda (ICPAU) and an MSc in Accounting & Finance at Makerere University. Kenneth also has expertise in IT, grant development and management, and graphic design. Outside of work, he enjoys reading, playing football and supporting Arsenal, spending time with his daughter, and hanging out with friends.

Ann Kugonza

Field Coordinator, Medicycles Project

Kugonza Ann is a dedicated and experienced healthcare professional currently serving as the Field Coordinator for the Masaka Cluster. With 12 years of experience in community health-related programs, Ann excels in setting up monitoring procedures for fieldwork and activities, reviewing and analyzing field reports, and compiling findings into comprehensive reports for the Programme Director and Executive Director. Her role involves implementing expansion plans, maintaining outreach schedules, tracking the progress of Field Officers in target communities, and addressing challenges faced by health facilities and communities. Ann’s commitment to improving community health is reflected in her meticulous approach to ensuring effective field operations and fostering sustainable healthcare initiatives.

Ann’s previous work experience includes roles such as Field Officer at Health Access Connect, where she introduced the Medicycle program to stakeholders, expanded the program to two new districts, and established 44 sustainable outreach sites. At THETA, she served as District Coordinator for a USAID-supported PMTCT program, focusing on community empowerment, health education, and health advocacy. As an Enrolled Midwife at Kitovu Hospital, Ann supported women during labor and childbirth, provided antenatal and postnatal care, and contributed to health education and accurate patient documentation. Her educational background includes a Diploma in Midwifery from Nsambya Training School and a Certificate in Midwifery from Ibanda School of Midwifery and Comprehensive Nursing. Outside of work, Ann enjoys praying, spending quality time with her family, and taking adventures. Her diverse experience and unwavering dedication make her a vital asset to the healthcare community.

Denis Otim

Field Coordinator, Medicycles Project.

Otim Denis, currently serving as the Field Coordinator, brings over six years of experience in community-based organizations. In HAC he is responsible for setting up monitoring procedures for field activities, reviewing and analyzing reports from Field Officers, and compiling findings for submission to the Program Director and Executive Director. He is instrumental in implementing expansion plans, providing government officials with reports, and maintaining the schedule of outreach activities. Denis closely tracks the progress of Field Officers, assesses and resolves challenges with health facilities and communities, conducts staff evaluations, and participates in Board of Directors Programs Committee meetings. His proficiency in using tools like Salesforce, Asana, Google Drive, and Odoo ERP ensures accurate monitoring and reporting of project activities. He is also involved in interviewing beneficiaries and health workers to understand their needs and adjusting HAC programs to address challenges.

Before joining Health Access Connect, Denis managed the Mbarara Clinic and Diagnostic Centre Clinic, overseeing administration, staffing, and program implementation. He also served as a Community Development Officer (Trainee) at Reproductive Health Uganda, where he conducted community assessments, mobilized communities for reproductive health programs, and trained communities on socioeconomic improvement. At the Uganda Red Cross Society, he worked as a Data Collector, collecting data for property valuation and responding to disaster occurrences. Denis holds a Diploma in Development Studies from the Nzamizi Institute of Social Development and a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work and Social Administration from Bishop Stuart University. He is skilled in computer applications, and team collaboration, and possesses strong analytical and communication skills. Outside of work, Denis enjoys spending time with family and friends and playing football.

Joyce Namasinga

Field Coordinator & Trainer, Treat & teach

Joyce serves as the Family Planning Coordinator and Trainer (FPCT) at Health Access Connect (HAC). In this role, Ann oversees and supports family planning project officers across operational districts, supervises training programs for village health teams, ensures timely and accurate reporting to family planning donors and partners, and manages relationships with stakeholders involved in family planning projects. She also supervises village health teams and health facilities to ensure they are well-stocked with family planning supplies, participates in staff appraisals, ensures the quality of family planning services at partner health facilities, works with medical teams to increase the couple years of protection provided at HAC integrated outreaches, tracks family planning stock-outs, orders, and dispenses buffer stocks, adjusts HAC programs to address challenges, and interviews beneficiaries and health workers to understand their needs.

Joyce brings a wealth of experience in the healthcare sector, having started her career as a Nurse at St. Joseph’s Kitovu Hospital in Masaka from 2007 to 2014, where she provided comprehensive nursing and midwifery care, cared for and followed up with PMTCT mothers, and organized ward rounds and activities. She then worked as a Clinical Instructor at Masaka School of Comprehensive Nursing from 2014 to 2016, training and mentoring nurse students and supervising practical skills sessions. From 2019 to June 2022, she served as a Nurse Tutor, training nursing and midwifery students and acting as a regional trainer/mentor for family planning with Marie Stopes Uganda, as well as a national trainer for family planning and HIV/AIDS with ACP Uganda and Living Goods – Uganda.

Joyce holds a Bachelor’s degree in Medical Education (2019), a Diploma in Midwifery (2014), and a Certificate in Midwifery (2006).

Ivan Walukhu

Monitoring and Evaluation Family Planning

Ivan Walukhu has a BS in nursing. He brings a wealth of experience in health promotion and capacity building of community health workers

Ivan is passionate about health promotion and brings experience in capacity building of community health workers. He holds a bachelor of science in Nursing and comes to HAC having worked as a health trainer with BRAC.

As Field Coordinator, Ivan will lead the training of at least 50 community health workers, which are called village health team members (VHTs) in Uganda. The training will focus on delivering health promotion messaging about family planning, HIV and other STI prevention to at least 10,000 beneficiaries in Masaka and Kalangala districts. The goal is to increase demand for services and ensure everyone has access to preventive healthcare.

Ivan has been promoted to the position of M & E Family Planning Project

Dorah Ampurire

Field Officer, Family Planning

Dorah Ampurire is the Family Planning Field Officer for Kalangala District at Health Access Connect (HAC). With 4 years of experience, Dorah works closely with government health facilities to conduct family planning (FP) outreaches and leads efforts in identifying demand generation for FP services. She collaborates with health facilities to minimize the discontinuity of FP among childbearing-aged girls and women and supports the Monitoring & Evaluation team in data collection.

Previously, Dorah served as a Sexual and Reproductive Health Service Provider. She holds a nursing qualification and has expertise in behavioral change communication and public health promotion.

Outside of her professional responsibilities, Dorah enjoys reading and traveling.

Dorah’s dedication to improving reproductive health and her expertise in public health make her a valuable member of the HAC team.

David Bugembe

Field Officer, Medicycles

Bugembe David is a dedicated community health worker and licensed medical laboratory assistant with extensive experience in grassroots health initiatives. His professional journey has seen him take on roles at various health organizations, where he has excelled in community mobilization, participatory implementation, and data management. He is a Field Officer for Health Access Connect (HAC). He has worked with the Rakai Health Sciences Program (RHSP), demonstrating his commitment to improving health outcomes at the community level. David’s educational background includes a Certificate in Medical Laboratory Technology from St. Elizabeth’s Institution of Health Professionals in Mukono and secondary education at Masaka Senior Secondary School and Kibaale Community Secondary School.

Throughout his career, David has shown a talent for report writing and has been actively involved in preparing and submitting reports on community-based activities. His hands-on experience includes compiling periodic reports, record-keeping, and supporting data collection. David is known for his open-mindedness, willingness to learn, and ability to work effectively in a team. His professional development includes various workshops and training sessions, enhancing his skills in customer care, supply chain management, and health service provision. Fluent in English, Luganda, and Lunyankore, David enjoys engaging in sports, music, and community activities.

Dominiko Mulesa

Field Officer, Medicycles.

Mulesa Dominiko is the Field Officer for Iganga District at Health Access Connect (HAC), and holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Adult and Community Education. With a decade of experience, he has been instrumental in implementing projects aimed at increasing access to integrated Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) services in the remote communities of the Busoga sub-region. Mulesa’s principal role at HAC involves collaborating with government health facilities and rural communities to support community organizing activities, expanding services to new villages and districts, collecting relevant data, and networking with district officials to enhance access to healthcare services in remote areas.

Mulesa has actively contributed to the development, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of the Medicyle project in the eastern cluster. His involvement in the creation of Information Education and Communication (IEC) materials has honed his technical expertise and ability to embrace diverse socio-cultural customs, promoting behavioral change among target communities. As a certified Sexual and Reproductive Health trainer, Mulesa has facilitated numerous pieces of training on a contracted and consultancy basis. He has played a vital role in advocating for improved SRH services for young people and adolescents, addressing issues such as teenage pregnancies, unsafe abortions, early marriages, HIV/AIDS, and STIs. Mulesa is passionate about increasing access to healthcare services and promoting public health, equipped with excellent interpersonal, communication, teamwork, networking, and facilitation skills that have propelled his career growth and development in the public health sector.

Jim Muhangi

Field Officer, Medicycles

Jim Muhangi serves as the Field Officer for Mpigi at Health Access Connect (HAC). With 5 years of experience, Jim pioneered the formation of the Group Approach Model (Local Community Associations – LCA) to bring sustainable outreaches to rural communities in Gomba. He is responsible for expanding and maintaining monthly outreaches, as well as conducting community review meetings to assess the impact of outreach clinics on rural communities.

Jim’s previous work experience includes serving as a Prevention Officer at Rakai Orphans Hope Project (ROHP) from 2018 to 2021, where he significantly contributed to the identification, referrals, and linkages of over 500 newly initiated clients on ART while supporting health facilities in Kyotera District. He was responsible for identifying TB cases and ensuring their treatment under DOTS and played a vital role in promoting children’s rights in Rakai District with funding from Freedom House. From 2016 to 2018, Jim worked with Esco (U) Ltd as a Field Officer, training farmers on best agronomy practices in Bundibugyo District.

Jim holds a degree from Uganda Christian University (2012-2014) and attended Kyambogo College School (2009-2010) and Mbarara High School (2005-2008).

Outside of work, Jim enjoys sports, farming, indoor games such as ludo and scrabble, and touring. His innovative approach and dedication to improving rural healthcare services make him a key asset to the HAC team.

Mark Kayongo

Field Officer, Medicycles

Mark Kayongo is a Field Officer based in Kalangala District with Health Access Connect (HAC). In his role, Mark mobilizes and organizes communities to embrace the HAC Medicycles model, reports on all HAC field activities in his area, and fosters a common understanding between district officials, health workers, and communities to ensure the successful operation of HAC Medicycles programs.

Mark’s previous work experience includes serving as a Project Assistant at Forum for Concern Initiatives in Kalangala from January 2013 to May 2014, and as a Risk Advisor at Jubilee Life Insurance from June 2014 to February 2017. He joined HAC in February 2017.

Mark holds a Bachelor’s degree in Community Based Rehabilitation from Kyambogo University (2009-2012) and a Certificate of Proficiency in Insurance (2016). He completed his primary education at St. Balikudembe Primary School (2001 PLE) and secondary education at Sserwanga Lwanga Memorial Secondary School, where he obtained his UCE (2004) and UACE (2008).

Outside of work, Mark loves to travel, explore new things, and engage in sports activities, particularly football and athletics. His dedication to community mobilization and healthcare access, combined with his diverse background, makes him a valuable member of the HAC team.

Paul Gubi

Field Officer, Medicycles

Gubi Paul serves as a Field Officer at Health Access Connect (HAC), bringing a wealth of expertise in community-based rehabilitation. His primary roles include coordinating government health workers to extend services in remote rural communities, preparing and mobilizing communities for outreach work, and facilitating stakeholder meetings at various administrative levels. Gubi actively engages in weekly reporting and supports the Monitoring & Evaluation team in data collection.

Gubi holds a Bachelor’s degree in Community Based Rehabilitation from Kyambogo University, which has equipped him with skills in community mobilization, data collection, and analysis, as well as community engagement and assessment.

Outside of work, Gubi enjoys attending prayers and worshipping, watching soccer, listening to country music and oldies, and traveling. His commitment to community empowerment and his diverse skill set make him a valuable asset to the HAC team.

Pascal Ssekalala

Field Officer, Medicycles

Ssekalala Pascal is a Field Officer at Health Access Connect (HAC). His key responsibilities include mobilizing communities in remote villages to form groups and register as Community-Based Organizations (CBOs), thereby enabling them to access health services locally. He is also tasked with expanding and maintaining outreach clinics across all HAC sites, ensuring VIP contacts are maintained, and overseeing the timely and accurate submission of reports and clinic forms to the Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) team.

With six years of experience at HAC, starting from May 1, 2018, Pascal has garnered extensive experience working with diverse communities, stakeholders at various administrative levels, and international entities. He has gained valuable insights into managing interactions with people of different backgrounds. His tenure at HAC has also enabled him to advance academically; he has completed a Diploma in Public Administration and Management from Kampala University, pending graduation. His educational background includes a Bachelor’s degree in Arts with Education from Makerere University, a Diploma in Records Management from Uganda Management Institute, and certifications as a Trainer of Trainers in First Aid. Pascal is also involved in the Red Cross Action Team and has expertise in refereeing. Outside of work, he enjoys engaging in agriculture and business activities.

Jolly Violet

Data Officer

Jolly Violet serves as the Data Field Officer at Health Access Connect, spearheading essential data management and monitoring tasks. With 7 years of experience across various NGOs, she brings extensive expertise in research, monitoring, and data management, particularly in the public health sector.

Jolly’s responsibilities include conducting surveys using Kobo toolbox, offering capacity building to health workers on digital stock management, and performing routine Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) field activities. She has a keen eye for detail, excelling in data entry, cleaning, analysis, and reporting, with proficiency in statistical packages like SPSS and advanced Excel. Additionally, Jolly is finalizing her Post Graduate Diploma in Monitoring and Evaluation, complementing her academic qualifications in Statistics and Planning, and Computer Science.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Jolly is an avid learner who enjoys exploring new interests and engaging in mini-project initiatives. She finds joy in baking, traveling, and participating in praise and worship activities.

Antony Innocent Ntale

Volunteer Finance Assistant

Innocent serve as a Volunteer Finance Assistant at Health Access Connect, focusing on implementing finance department processes and office administration to support healthcare service delivery to remote communities. With approximately 2 years of experience primarily in the nonprofit sector, my previous roles include streamlining mobile money documentation, enhancing customer service satisfaction, and improving invoice processing efficiency. I hold a Bachelor of Business Administration from Makerere University and excel in communication, financial regulations, MS Office, QuickBooks, Beyonic system, cashbooks and problem solving, with a strong commitment to teamwork and adaptability.