About Rakai Health Sciences Program

Established in 1988, has evolved into a leading health research institution in Africa. Pioneering HIV research and community-based healthcare, RHSP collaborates with global partners to advance public health in Uganda and beyond, shaping global health strategies and improving lives in vulnerable communities.

The Rakai Health Sciences Program (RHSP), established in 1988, is a premier health research and service delivery organization based in Uganda's Rakai District. Our mission is to advance global public health through groundbreaking HIV research and innovative healthcare solutions. As a leading HIV research institution, RHSP has made significant strides in combating HIV/AIDS, becoming a beacon of hope and a model for public health interventions worldwide.

Our origins date back to the early 1980s, when Professor David Serwadda and his colleagues, including Professor Nelson Sewankambo and Dr. Maria Wawer, first identified HIV/AIDS cases in Uganda. What began as a modest cohort study in Kyotera has evolved into one of Africa's foremost HIV research programs. Supported by esteemed partners like the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH), RHSP now employs over 300 dedicated professionals.

Our pioneering research has led to landmark discoveries, such as documenting HIV incidence and evaluating the impact of HIV interventions at the population level. Our Safe Male Circumcision program has been instrumental in reducing HIV transmission rates across Uganda, with findings published in top journals like the New England Journal of Medicine.

Central to our work is the Rakai Community Cohort Study (RCCS), one of Africa's largest and most enduring HIV research cohorts. RCCS provides critical data on HIV transmission and the effectiveness of health interventions, influencing global health strategies and improving public health interventions.

RHSP remains committed to community-based research and health service delivery. We collaborate closely with local communities, policymakers, and international partners to ensure our research benefits those most in need. Our partnerships with organizations like the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation, and the World Health Organization (WHO) help us expand our impact beyond Uganda.

Despite challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and natural disasters, RHSP has shown remarkable resilience. Our teams have demonstrated dedication by ensuring continuity of care and research, even under difficult conditions.

Looking ahead, RHSP is focused on leading the fight against HIV/AIDS and other health challenges. With a legacy of scientific excellence and a robust network of global collaborators, we are poised to continue making substantial contributions to public health in Uganda, Africa, and beyond. Join us as we build on our successes and strive for a healthier future for all..