Uganda is set to host the inaugural Linen Day Africa on August 15, 2025, at Lubaga Hospital, a landmark event aimed at improving hygiene standards and sustainability in healthcare and hospitality sectors across the continent.
According to new findings, poor linen management in Ugandan healthcare facilities is contributing to a sharp rise in hospital-acquired infections (HAIs), with 90% of facilities exhibiting inadequate practices. Items such as bedsheets, gowns, and hospital curtains—often improperly handled or cleaned—serve as silent carriers for infections including Hepatitis B, HIV, and skin diseases.
Organized under the theme “Linen Science and Sustainability: Enhancing Hygiene, Efficiency, and Industry Collaboration”, the event will bring together industry leaders, healthcare professionals, and textile experts to address pressing challenges in linen care and propose actionable solutions.
Experts warn that contaminated hospital linen—especially when laundered at suboptimal temperatures (e.g., 60°C)—can retain bacteria like Enterococcus faecium, posing serious risks to patients, particularly pregnant women and newborns.
Beyond health concerns, the event aims to tackle the economic and environmental consequences of poor linen practices. Mismanaged linen leads to increased costs, resource waste, and reduced efficiency in both healthcare and hospitality sectors.
Linen Day Africa will feature hands-on demonstrations, expert panels, and technology showcases focused on improving linen handling, reducing waste, and integrating automation and tracking systems. Key sessions will highlight how proper linen protocols can reduce HAIs by up to 30% and help facilities cut costs while improving service quality.
Industry leaders will also advocate for eco-friendly practices, including the use of sustainable fabrics, energy-efficient laundering methods, and recycling initiatives. These efforts aim to reduce environmental impact while boosting operational efficiency.
Organizers hope the event will spark cross-sector collaboration and inspire long-term change, positioning Uganda as a leader in linen science and hygiene management on the continent.
