Unilever Uganda drives oral care awareness with 100,000-student outreach initiative
The initiative builds on prior efforts, kicking off with events at schools like Nakasero Primary School to promote brushing twice daily for two minutes using Pepsodent products.
UGANDA – Unilever Uganda has launched an expanded Pepsodent school outreach campaign targeting 100,000 pupils across 40 schools, primarily in the central regions of Kampala and Wakiso, as part of World Oral Health Day activities in March 2026.
This initiative, launched to coincide with World Oral Health Day, operates under the theme “Do the 2 – Brush Day and Night,” urging kids to brush twice daily for two minutes to combat tooth decay and gum problems.
It emphasizes early education on oral hygiene to foster lifelong habits and reduce dental issues among children.
Speaking at Nakasero Primary School, Luck Ochieng, the Managing Director of Unilever East Africa, underscored the importance of early intervention in oral health, stating, “Building the habit of brushing twice a day from a young age is one of the most effective ways to prevent oral health problems.”
“Through the ‘Do the 2’ campaign, we are empowering children with simple, practical habits that support healthier smiles and better wellbeing.”
The effort highlights oral diseases as a major global concern, affecting nearly 3.5 billion people according to WHO estimates, with poor hygiene contributing to school absenteeism and health issues in Uganda.
Focusing on primary schools, the outreach will distribute toothpaste, toothbrushes, and educational materials while training pupils on proper dental care.
This expansion aligns with Unilever’s broader oral health goals in Uganda, following a 2025 nationwide campaign that aimed for 400,000 children across all regions.
By partnering with local schools, Unilever addresses poor oral health linked to school absenteeism and low hygiene awareness in East Africa.
The program supports sustainability in personal care by promoting affordable, effective products tailored to regional needs.
Similarly, in the same move of enhancing children’s hygiene education through targeted school programs and product donations, Goonite Hygiene expanded its sanitary wellness program to Caleb International School in Magodo, Lagos.
Under the “Healthy Beginning, Happy Future” theme, CEO Robby Yang led interactive sessions on menstrual health, emotional confidence, and hygiene management, emphasizing dignity for young girls.
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