Uganda is set to start construction of a 250-bed state-of-the-art cardiac hospital in Naguru, a significant step towards improving heart-related healthcare in the country.
The groundbreaking ceremony, which marked the start of the project, was officiated by Robinah Nabbanja, the Prime Minister of Uganda, who represented President Yoweri Museveni.
The new hospital, expected to be completed by 2027, is set to provide specialized care for Ugandans suffering from heart conditions.
The facility, to be constructed on 10 acres of land, will mark a major milestone in the country’s efforts to improve cardiovascular care and reduce the need for expensive patient referrals abroad.
The new hospital will have 250 beds, including 40 Intensive Care Unit (ICU) beds, three operating theaters, and two state-of-the-art catheterization labs.
The hospital will not only provide advanced care but will also serve as a specialized center for teaching, research, and awareness on cardiovascular diseases (CVDs).
President Yoweri Museveni, who was represented by Prime Minister Nabbanja, reiterated the importance of the facility.
He described the development as a significant step forward in improving Uganda’s healthcare system, particularly in the treatment of heart diseases
The president emphasized that the facility would reduce the need for Ugandans to travel abroad for heart treatments, saving both lives and resources
“The government secured USD 70 million from BADEA, OPEC Fund and SFD to construct a modern, fully-equipped cardiac hospital, reducing referrals abroad and enhancing training and research” he said.
He noted that this project will expand cardiac care capacity, reduce costly overseas referrals, Improve training and research.
He added that this facility will also create job opportunities for health care professional hence making Uganda a regional leader in heart care.
Dr. John Omagino, the Executive Director of UHI, stated that this project aims to ensure affordable treatment, provide specialized training, and reduce the need for referrals abroad.
“With 10 floors, 250 beds (40 ICU), 3 operating theaters, and 2 catheterization labs, the new UHI hospital will provide world-class cardiovascular care. This project ensures affordable treatment, specialized training and reduced referrals abroad,” he said.
Dr. James Magara, the Board Chair of Directors at UHI, assured that they would ensure the project is completed on time and meets the highest standards.
“We have entrusted this critical task to The Arab Contractors (Osman Ahmed Osman & Co.), a globally recognized firm, and we urge them to uphold professionalism, integrity, and efficiency throughout the process.” Magara said.
On her part, Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng the Minster for Health noted that the new Uganda Heart Institute Hospital will enhance early diagnosis, prevention, and specialized treatment, reducing referrals abroad and strengthening our healthcare system.
The project is a two-year initiative expected to be completed by 2027, and it will be carried out by the Arab Contractors, also known as Osman Ahmed Osman & Co.
