Senior leaders of the Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) have inspected the new UPDF National Referral and Teaching Hospital in Mbuya as preparations move closer to its official commissioning.
The inspection, held on April 11, 2025, focused on reviewing the progress of construction and the installation of critical medical equipment. Maj Gen Jack Bakasumba, who led the tour, urged officers to familiarize themselves with the facility’s development and take an active role in its completion.
“This meeting is meant for all of you to examine the facility and understand the stage of construction and equipment installation,” Maj Gen Bakasumba told the officers.
Col Dr Ambrose Oiko highlighted the hospital’s importance in reducing the UPDF’s reliance on costly foreign medical referrals. He noted that the project is designed to ease pressure on the military’s healthcare budget while ensuring access to quality treatment within Uganda.
The hospital’s capacity will be supported by 232 uniformed health professionals currently undergoing advanced training at PhD, fellowship, master’s, and diploma levels. The training program has been strengthened through partnerships with medical institutions in Turkey and India.
Ezra Nayoga, a representative from the consulting firm managing the hospital’s development, confirmed that structural works are complete and only final finishing touches remain.
Once operational, the facility will offer specialized healthcare services to UPDF personnel, civilians, and high-profile dignitaries, positioning itself as a leading medical center in the region.
The inspection was attended by UPDF Service Chiefs of Staff, members of the Joint Staff, and senior officers involved in the project.
