Infectious Diseases Institute

The Infectious Diseases Institute at Makerere University exemplifies the results that innovative partnerships can bring to the global challenge of infectious disease.

AAF’s first major endeavor and primary implementing partner is the Infectious Diseases Institute (IDI) in Kampala, Uganda, a major public-private partnership established by physician scientists and academicians from Uganda and North America, and the generosity of Pfizer Inc. Today, this public-private partnership is inspiring funders at the corporate, foundation, governmental and individual level to invest in the work of IDI as a model for the region.

IDI is an independent teaching, research, and clinical organization that was completed on the grounds of the Makerere University Faculty of Medicine in September of 2004, and has now become an academic institute at Makerere College of Health Sciences. The IDI works in partnership with the Academic Alliance Foundation to overcome the burden of infectious diseases in Africa by building healthcare capacity in the region and strengthening Makerere University. The specific programs at the IDI address the research and educational needs of today and prepare for the anticipated challenges of tomorrow. The enriched academic environment creates a synergy that impacts programs and services well beyond the walls of IDI.

IDI has a staff of more than 150 and is led by an international team of dedicated professionals with guidance from an International Scientific Advisory Board with world-renowned physician-scientists from North America, Europe, and Africa. To date, more than 1,900 doctors, nurses, and other health care providers from 26 African countries have been trained at IDI. The IDI also trains Makerere University medical students and residents in the latest HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment protocols. The IDI clinic has counseled and treated more than 19,000 patients. The IDI has completed 17 clinical research projects and has 11 new studies under way; all aimed at improving clinical care at the bedside and advancing prevention and treatment strategies. The IDI laboratory, one of only three College of American Pathologists accredited research facilities in Africa, enables IDI to conduct the majority of its research projects onsite. Research findings not only inform clinical care, but are incorporated into IDI training programs.

By enhancing the stature and recognition of the Faculty of Medicine at Makerere University, AAF and IDI are helping to reverse the trend of African health care professionals pursuing career opportunities abroad. African doctors and medical scientists can pursue their clinical interests in a world-class academic medical setting and continue to serve the needs of their homeland. Above all, the IDI model – combining training, clinical care and prevention, and research in an African-based, academic medical institution – has proven extraordinarily productive with far-reaching applications for similar efforts elsewhere in Africa.

To find out more information on how you can contribute to the work of the IDI please visit our Donations & Support page. For more information on the IDI you can also visit www.idi.ac.ug.