The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) brigade has officially commenced the reconstruction of Masindi Main Hospital.
This follows an initial financial allocation of 500 million Ugandan shillings from the Ministry of Finance to kickstart the project, which is estimated to cost 1.5 billion shillings in total.
Captain Yunus Ntegeka ,the western region project manager for the UPDF Engineering Brigade confirmed that the funds will be disbursed in phases, with the first installment of 500 million shillings already received.
The project is scheduled to be completed within one year and the initial phase will focus on the construction of medical quarters, with additional funds being released progressively.
Masindi Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Darius Nadenda has urged the UPDF brigade to ensure high-quality work and encouraged them to employ local labor from Masindi.
Masindi District LCV Chairperson Byaruhanga Cosmass emphasized the significance of this project, noting that it has been in the pipeline for a long time.
He stated that the reconstruction will begin with the staff quarters before progressing to other areas of the hospital. He also called upon residents to cooperate with the UPDF, monitor the progress, and ensure security for the betterment of the district.
Buruli County Member of Parliament, Hon. Akuguzibwa Ronald, expressed his gratitude to the government for approving his request for the hospital’s reconstruction, which he had raised in Parliament.
He highlighted that Masindi Main Hospital is one of the oldest hospitals in Uganda, having existed for over 100 years, and is currently in a deteriorated state. While Parliament has allocated 1.5 billion shillings for the project, Hon. Akuguzibwa affirmed that efforts are ongoing to secure additional funding to ensure the hospital meets modern standards.
Dr. Musinguzi Brian, the Medical Superintendent of Masindi Main Hospital, emphasized the dire need for improved infrastructure, particularly in the maternity ward, which is often overcrowded, leaving new mothers without proper accommodation. He also noted that the hospital’s operating theater is inadequate, often serving only one patient at a time, forcing others to be referred to Hoima Main Hospital.