Updated by Dr. Kivumbi Earnest Benjamin, L.H.D (Hon.) at 2341 EAT on Monday 08th September 2025

ALGIERS- High Expectations as Uganda and Algeria Sign Agreement to Expand Katakwi General Hospital

Excitement is high among residents of Katakwi following the signing of a cooperation agreement between the Government of Uganda and the Government of Algeria to expand and rehabilitate Katakwi General Hospital.

The $13.7 million (approximately Shs50 billion) grant agreement was signed by Uganda’s Minister of Finance, Hon. Matia Kasaija, on behalf of the Government of Uganda. The ceremony, held today in Algiers—the capital of the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria—was also witnessed by Dr. Ichumar Simon Omeke, District Health Officer of Katakwi, along with other government officials.

The project, which is yet to commence, will include the construction of a modern Outpatient Department equipped with an Emergency Unit and Operating Theatre, a Radiology Department (X-ray and scanning), and a state-of-the-art Intensive Care Unit—the first of its kind in Eastern and Northern Uganda.

Additional facilities will include a modern mortuary, 12 multi-storied staff houses, a medical waste management system with an incinerator, and the renovation of the Maternity, Children’s, Male, Female, and General wards. The project will also cover the construction of an attendants’ kitchen and laundry, a placenta pit, as well as landscaping and beautification of the hospital grounds.

Speaking at the signing, Minister Kasaija described the project as not just a health investment but also a socio-economic catalyst aimed at strengthening healthcare delivery across Uganda.

“This investment will uplift rural communities by stimulating local economies through job creation and increased demand for goods and services, thereby contributing to regional growth and equity,” he said.

Kasaija extended heartfelt gratitude to the Government and people of Algeria for the landmark cooperation, noting that the initiative marks yet another milestone in the friendship and solidarity between the two nations.

“We are especially grateful that the first project under this framework is the expansion and rehabilitation of Katakwi General Hospital,” he added.

The project is expected to transform healthcare delivery in Katakwi and neighboring districts, directly benefiting more than half a million people—both today and for generations to come.

Kasaija stressed that the hospital will greatly improve access to specialized care, reducing delays in treatment—especially in emergencies—thereby improving survival and recovery rates. He further appealed to Algeria to consider supporting a second phase of the project, which would focus on additional wards, advanced medical equipment, and the training of healthcare professionals.

“Equipping our health workers with the right skills to match the new infrastructure is key to guaranteeing the highest standards of care for our people,” he emphasized.

Katakwi Hospital has a long history, beginning as a dispensary in 1956 during the colonial era, later elevated to a Health Centre IV under the NRM government, and eventually upgraded to District Hospital status in 2011. However, its infrastructure has not kept pace with its elevation—until now.

Dr. Omeke noted that the expansion will significantly reduce the financial and social burden on families, minimizing the need for long-distance travel and associated expenses such as accommodation, food, and transport.

“This project will decongest regional referral hospitals and allow national hospitals to focus on patients requiring highly complex, specialized procedures,” he explained.

He further highlighted that the rehabilitation will not only strengthen the healthcare system but also serve as a training and mentorship hub for medical interns, nurses, and other health professionals.

Dr. Omeke added that the project will enhance emergency and critical care services, stimulate local economies through job creation and infrastructure development, and promote equity in healthcare delivery by bridging the urban–rural divide.

“This initiative will ensure fairness in healthcare access for all citizens, particularly rural populations, while narrowing the urban–rural health gap,” he said.