Minister Ruth Aceng Highlights Key Healthcare Milestones At NRM Manifesto Week In Kampala

The Ministry of Health, led by Hon. Ruth Aceng, provided a comprehensive update on Uganda’s healthcare progress during the NRM Manifesto Week in Kampala today, November 28, 2024.

During her presentation, the Minister reported significant advancements in medical infrastructure, including the completion and commissioning of a state-of-the-art National Medical Stores warehouse in Kajjansi.

According to the minister, this facility inaugurated in November 2022, has enhanced the efficiency of medical supplies distribution across the country. Additionally, a regional equipment maintenance workshop has been established in Kampala, but similar workshops planned for Mbarara, Masaka, Mbale, and Arua have stalled due to funding constraints.

Progress has also been made in specialized healthcare services. The Uganda Heart Institute has secured $70 million for the construction of a new facility on 10 acres of land at Naguru, with construction scheduled to begin in 2025.

The minister also highlighted that Gulu Regional Cancer Center became operational last year, while cancer centers planned for Mbale and Mbarara are expected to commence construction next year. Renovations at Mulago Hospital to establish an Orthopedic and Trauma Institute are set to begin soon, supported by the Chinese government.

The government’s efforts to upgrade hospitals and health centers have also seen significant milestones. The upgrades of Kayunga and Yumbe Regional Referral Hospitals have been completed, while Kapchorwa General Hospital’s elevation to referral status has been delayed by financial constraints. Renovation work at Gombe General Hospital is finished, and expansions at Busolwe Hospital are 95% complete.

According to the report, 412 Health Center IIs have been upgraded to Health Center IIIs since 2018 under the Uganda Intergovernmental Fiscal Transfers program, bringing vital health services closer to communities.

Hon. Aceng also highlighted Uganda’s progress in managing non-communicable diseases. Cervical and prostate cancer screening services are now available at various health facilities, and outreach programs from the Uganda Heart and Cancer Institutes continue to provide preventive care. HPV vaccination coverage has been remarkable, though efforts to reach out-of-school girls are still underway. The introduction of mammograms and mobile cancer screening vans has further boosted early detection and intervention.

Despite these strides, the Minister acknowledged the persistent challenges that hinder the completion of key projects.Among the challenges include limited funding which has delayed the construction of regional cancer centers, additional equipment workshops, and the upgrading of remaining health facilities. Staffing shortages in specialized fields such as radiology and pathology remain a concern, prompting the Ministry to invest in scholarships and training for health professionals.

Hon. Aceng reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fulfilling the NRM Manifesto goals and ensuring access to quality healthcare for all citizens.

She called for greater collaboration among stakeholders to address funding gaps and support Uganda’s vision of a robust healthcare system.