Dr. Piloya is a Senior Lecturer and Paediatric Endocrinologist at Makerere University College of Health Sciences, where she leads the Paediatric Endocrinology & Diabetes Unit and directs undergraduate medical education.
A recognized expert in child health, she specializes in managing childhood endocrine disorders, including diabetes.
A Distinguished Career in Paediatrics
Dr. Piloya commenced her medical journey with an MBChB and advanced MMed at Makerere University, following which she joined Mulago National Referral Hospital in 2013 as one of Uganda’s first paediatric endocrinologists.
Since then, she has led the Paediatric Endocrinology & Diabetes Unit, training countless medical students and residents, and advocating for comprehensive diabetes care across Uganda’s health system. In recognition of her contributions, she was named a Fellow of the Uganda National Academy of Sciences
Research, Advocacy & Global Health Impact
Dr. Piloya is widely recognized for her research on the intersection of paediatric HIV and endocrine disorders—examining how vitamin D status affects treatment outcomes in HIV-positive children
Her role as a Fogarty International Center Global Health Fellow further advanced her advocacy, supporting communities through initiatives like Camp Waromo and T1International, where she trained youth advocates living with Type 1 diabetes.
Leadership & Advisory Roles
Dr. Piloya is a:
- Member of the Uganda National Council of Science and Technology Accreditation Committee for Research and Ethics Committees
- Member of the Technical Advisory Committee of the Uganda Pen Plus Pilot Project, Ministry of Health
- Executive Committee Member, Uganda Diabetes Association
- Member, Africa Society of Paediatric Endocrinology
Her advocacy extends to youth empowerment through diabetes camps and training programs, including her work with T1International to build Type 1 diabetes advocacy in Uganda.
Awards & Recognition
Dr. Piloya has received multiple recognitions, including her election as a Fellow of the Uganda National Academy of Sciences, honouring her contribution to child health research and clinical excellence in Uganda.
Why Dr. Piloya-Were Moves Nations
- Paediatric Endocrinology & Diabetes: Shapes clinical care and training for Uganda’s young patients
- Academic Leadership: Educates the next generation of health professionals
- Global Health Research: Conducts studies that inform policy and improve child health
- Advocacy & Community Training: Equips communities with tools and knowledge for diabetes care
Dr. Thereza Piloya-Were truly embodies Postdator’s #WomenWhoMoveNations—a doctor, researcher, teacher, and advocate whose work in endocrinology and paediatric HIV has transformed child health in Uganda, elevated local medical training, and empowered youth living with chronic conditions.
