By KT Reporter
The Prime Minister of Uganda, Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja has praised the private sector for complementing government efforts in improving healthcare delivery, highlighting their critical role in extending services to all Ugandans.
Speaking during the commissioning of St. Ambrose Charity Hospital in Kagadi District on Friday, PM Nabbanja emphasized that partnerships between the government and private health facilities are essential for strengthening Uganda’s healthcare system.
The Government of Uganda recently upgraded St. Ambrose Charity Hospital from a Health Centre IV to a fully-fledged hospital after it met all the standards set by the Ministry of Health, Uganda.
Established in 2003 by Rev. Fr. Monsignor Joseph Birungi, the hospital has been steadily expanding its services and infrastructure over the years. Its elevation to hospital status marks a significant milestone in improving access to quality healthcare for residents of Kagadi and surrounding areas.
During the ceremony held at Kagadi Town Council, PM Nabbanja pledged continued government support to private health facilities, encouraging collaboration to ensure that all communities benefit from improved healthcare services.
The State Minister for Works, Fred Byamukama, also pledged to spearhead the construction of the access road leading to St. Ambrose Charity Hospital to improve transportation and accessibility for patients.
Representing the Minister of Health, Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng, the Ministry of Health Commissioner, Dr. Charles Olaro, urged health workers at the hospital to maintain professionalism and dedication in order to ensure quality service delivery.
Meanwhile, the Director of St. Ambrose Charity Hospital and the St. Ambrose Institute of Health Sciences, Rev. Fr. Joseph Birungi, expressed gratitude to all stakeholders who have supported the development of the facility over the years.
However, he pointed out several challenges still facing the hospital, including the lack of a well-equipped ambulance and inadequate medical equipment.
He called upon the government and other well-wishers to continue supporting both the hospital and the institute to enhance service delivery.
The commissioning ceremony began with a thanksgiving Mass led by the Chancellor of Hoima Catholic Diocese, Rev. Fr. Dominic Ndugwa, who represented the Bishop of the diocese, Rt. Rev. Vincent Kirabo.
In his homily, Fr. Dominic encouraged Christians and the public to use the Lenten season not only for prayer and fasting but also for acts of kindness and charity.
He emphasized that helping others during Lent brings greater blessings and strengthens faith. Local leaders welcomed the development, saying it will improve access to healthcare services in the district.
The Kagadi District LC5 Chairperson, Ndibwami B. Yosia, said the elevation of the facility will bring health services closer to the people.
He noted that Kagadi currently has only one government general hospital and expressed hope that the new development will ease pressure on existing health facilities.
The Woman Member of Parliament for Kagadi District, Janepher Kyomuhendo Mbabazi, also called on the government to further upgrade Kagadi General Hospital to a referral hospital to improve specialized healthcare services in the district.
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