Uganda has recorded a major breakthrough in cancer treatment following the successful discharge of the country’s first bone marrow transplant patient at the Uganda Cancer Institute.
The patient, Stephen Sande, who was diagnosed with Multiple Myeloma, a type of blood cancer, became the first person in Uganda to undergo and recover from the highly specialized procedure. His recovery marks a new chapter in the country’s healthcare system.
Speaking during the discharge, Health Minister Jane Ruth Aceng described the achievement as a historic milestone for Uganda’s medical sector.
She noted that for many years, patients in need of bone marrow transplants had to travel abroad and spend huge sums of money on treatment. However, the same service is now available in Uganda at a significantly lower cost.
According to Aceng, the procedure typically costs more than Shs 111 million (about $30,000) overseas, but it was performed locally for approximately Shs 55.5 million (about $15,000), fully funded by the government.
“This is the beginning of a new era in healthcare. Ugandans can now receive such specialized treatment at home,” she said.
Stephen, who had been battling multiple myeloma, thanked the government and medical team for supporting him through the difficult journey. He emphasized that trusting the doctors and following medical advice played a key role in his recovery.
“I believed in the doctors, and today I am leaving stronger,” he said.
Executive Director Jackson Orem said the success demonstrates that Uganda now has the capacity to handle advanced medical procedures locally.
He added that the institute plans to strengthen the transplant program and expand access to advanced cancer care for more patients.
The government is also establishing regional cancer centres across the country to bring treatment services closer to the people.
Health experts say this achievement will not only improve cancer treatment but also open opportunities for managing other serious illnesses using transplant and cellular therapy.
