Uganda and Algeria have signed a landmark cooperation agreement that will see the North African country extend a grant worth Shs 50 billion to fund the expansion and rehabilitation of Katakwi General Hospital in Eastern Uganda.
The agreement was officially signed on Tuesday in Algiers by Uganda’s Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Matia Kasaija, and Algeria’s Minister of Finance, Abdelkarim Bouzred, under the auspices of the Algerian International Cooperation for Solidarity and Development Agency.
Minister Kasaija described the deal as a major boost to Uganda’s healthcare sector and a testament to the growing partnership between the two nations. He noted that the upgraded facility will directly benefit over 500,000 people in Katakwi and surrounding districts.
“This project will significantly transform healthcare delivery for Katakwi and the neighboring districts, not only for today, but for generations to come,” said Kasaija.
The redevelopment is expected to improve access to specialized healthcare services, reduce the need for long-distance patient referrals, and ease congestion in regional referral hospitals. Kasaija also appealed for additional support from Algeria for a second phase, which would include the construction of modern hospital wards, installation of advanced medical equipment, and training programs for medical personnel.
Algerian Finance Minister Abdelkarim Bouzred commended the strengthening diplomatic and development ties between the two countries and pledged Algeria’s full support in ensuring the project’s success.
This funding marks a significant milestone in bilateral cooperation, with health sector development emerging as a key pillar in Uganda-Algeria relations.
