The Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) National Referral Hospital in Mbuya will significantly boost Uganda’s healthcare services, according to the Chief of Defence Forces, Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba.
During a tour of the state-of-the-art facility on Tuesday, Gen Muhoozi described the hospital as a game-changer for the country’s health sector, noting that it would provide world-class treatment while strengthening the UPDF’s ability to serve both its personnel and the wider public.
The facility is expected to be officially commissioned by President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni in the coming weeks. Prof Ben Mbonye, who has provided technical oversight during the hospital’s construction and equipment installation, highlighted the advanced medical technologies incorporated into the facility.
“This hospital is poised to revolutionize healthcare for military personnel, their families, and Ugandan citizens at large,” Prof Mbonye said.
“Key features include a helipad for emergency air evacuations, VIP treatment wings, emergency services, physiotherapy units, and specialized medical departments.”
Gen Muhoozi and Prof Mbonye inspected the hospital’s six blocks, which host a range of advanced medical services designed to improve care for both soldiers and civilians.
A long-time advocate for improving welfare within the UPDF, Gen Muhoozi has consistently emphasized better healthcare, quality education for soldiers’ children, and access to modern military equipment.
In his 14 months as Chief of Defence Forces, he has prioritized efficient service delivery to ensure that soldiers can serve the nation with full institutional support.
The CDF was accompanied during the tour by senior Ministry of Defence officials, including Permanent Secretary Rosette Byengoma and Undersecretary Edith Buturo.