.It is indeed a major milestone for the health sector of Uganda as the country launched the construction of a- state -of- the art $250 million Uganda Heart Institute Hospital. This move by the country is aimed at expanding the access to advanced cardiovascular care and reducing the need for costly medical referrals to western countries.
Addressing the public at the ground-breaking ceremony, Dr James Magala, Chairperson of UHI Board, stressed on the need for a dedicated facility. Additionally, he also pointed out the rising burden of heart disease both in Uganda and across the region.
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Furthermore, Magala pointed out that the institute has faced difficulties for a long time operating within Mulago National Specialized Hospital. This has therefore limited the capacity of the institute to meet the rapidly increasing number of patients.
“The institute has been operating with constraints at the Mulago National Hospital. This has limited its capacity to meet the ever-rising patient load,” Dr Magala stated.
“The increasing burden of cardiovascular diseases has made it necessary to plan for the establishment of a world class cardiovascular hospital.”
Contractor/Developer of the Project
This hospital project has been awarded to the Egyptian-based Arab Contractors Osman Ahmed Osman & Co. The contractor is expected to transform Uganda into a regional hub for cardiac care, medical training, and even research.
Uganda Heart Institute Hospital Facilities
This upcoming new facility will comprise of 10 floors and a 250-bed capacity inclusive of 40 ICU beds. Additionally, it will contain modern medical equipment and training facililties designed to strengthen health care capacity of Uganda.
The facility will also feature three operating theaters and two catheterization laboratories. These facilities will ensure that Uganda can provide high quality cardiovascular care while reducing need for specialized treatment outside the country.
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Uganda Heart Institute Hospital Project Duration
This project is expected to be completed within two years. The upcoming hospital is set to revolutionize the health care system of Uganda. This will be achieved through the provision of world-class cardiac care and position Uganda as a leading cardiovascular treatment hub in Africa.
Funding of the Project
Dr. John Omagino who is the Executive Director of UHI, announced that financing of the project has already been secured. This is through the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA), the Opec Fund, and the Saudi Fund for Development (SFD).
This funding package is inclusive of $70 million in both loans and grants. This is along with extra $3 million and 10 acres of land that will be utilized for the project’s development.
Significance of the Project
According to Dr Magala, this upcoming new hospital facility will expand the access to quality cardiac care in Uganda. This will be achieved by ensuring that lifesaving treatment is available for all Ugandans regardless of their financial status.
Additionally, he pointed out the significance of advancing both research and training. This will help to develop local expertise in both cardiovascular medicine and medical research.
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