HEALTH NEWS: The Director of China-Uganda Friendship Hospital Naguru (CUFHN), Dr. Irene Yiga, has commended the government for the timely release of funds to support the purchase of new hospital equipment. She noted that the development will significantly improve service delivery at the facility, which serves a large number of patients from across Metropolitan Kampala.
Dr. Yiga made the remarks during the hospital’s second annual community stakeholder engagement meeting. The event brought together Village Health Team (VHT) members and local council leaders to discuss ongoing challenges and explore possible solutions. The meeting was held at the hospital premises.
Addressing over 60 participants, including senior board members, Dr. Yiga expressed appreciation for the government’s support. She revealed that the funds will facilitate the procurement of essential medical equipment, including ultrasound scanning systems and a CT scanner, to strengthen the hospital’s Accident and Emergency Unit, which handles a high number of daily cases.
“We wish to thank the government for approving our request for funding towards the purchase of key hospital equipment, including CT scanners and ultrasound systems, among others, to boost emergency care. We are confident that by the end of June 2026, the equipment will be in the country,” Dr. Yiga said.
She further noted that although the hospital is fully government-owned, it is currently overwhelmed by a surge in patient numbers. The facility reportedly handles over 120,000 outpatient department (OPD) visits, with patients seeking a wide range of medical services.
Dr. Yiga explained that many of these patients are expected to seek care from Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) health centres within their respective divisions. However, a significant number instead opt for Naguru Hospital, placing considerable strain on the facility’s limited workforce.
She emphasized the importance of courteous, fair, and non-discriminatory treatment of patients, as well as maintaining confidentiality, teamwork, and mutual respect between health workers and patients. She noted that adherence to these principles, as outlined in the hospital’s client charter, would lead to improved outcomes.
The Head of the Surgery Department, Dr. Edward Kyomugisha, highlighted that the hospital offers a wide range of specialized services, including obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, surgery, accident and emergency care, radiology, and laboratory services.
Meanwhile, the Head of the Nursing Department, Ms. Achiro Rose, thanked mothers for their cooperation while seeking medical services and called for strengthened collaboration among all stakeholders.
During the engagement, the VHT Coordinator for Nakawa Division, Ms. Taaka Annet Ojore, commended the positive working relationship between VHT members and hospital staff. She, however, noted a few outstanding challenges that require attention, such as the need for improved housing for medical workers.
