South-Eastern Uganda Receives Major Healthcare Investment from Korea
The Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) has announced a significant financial commitment of $12 million (Shs43b billion) to address critical healthcare needs in the Busoga region of Uganda over the next five years. This announcement was made by Ms Jihee Ahn, the Country Director of KOICA, during the handover of health facilities that were refurbished and equipped through a previous $10 million (Shs35.9 billion) project spanning five districts in the area.
This initiative highlights the power of tripartite collaboration between KOICA, the World Health Organisation (WHO), and the Ugandan Ministry of Health. The focus of the project has been on strengthening reproductive, maternal, newborn, child, and adolescent health (RMNCAH) services. This includes infrastructure improvements, enhanced water systems, and capacity building efforts aimed at improving public health and equity.
Ms Ahn emphasized that the project has provided crucial insights, particularly regarding persistent blood shortages in the region. As a result, a new Blood System Strengthening Project will be launched later this year, with KOICA investing an additional $12 million over the next five years.
A Significant Step Forward for Healthcare in Busoga
Dr Diana Atwine, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Health, officially received the renovated health facilities during a ceremony held at Bulamagi HCIII in Iganga. The project, implemented in collaboration with KOICA, WHO, and the Ministry of Health, involved the refurbishment and equipping of 28 health facilities across Bugiri, Buyende, Iganga, Kamuli, and Mayuge districts.
Dr Atwine praised the Korean government for its support and urged the effective use of the newly acquired equipment. She highlighted the importance of the investment in addressing high maternal mortality rates in the region. “These facilities have not only been renovated but also equipped with significant investments. We need to ensure they are used to their full potential,” she said.
She also called on health workers to remain committed to their roles, avoid absenteeism, and provide quality care to patients. Dr Atwine noted that while plans are often developed, limited resources have frequently hindered implementation.
Contributions from WHO and Local Leaders
Dr Kasonde Mwinga, WHO country representative, described the event as a milestone in the journey towards Universal Health Coverage in Uganda. She expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Health and the Republic of Korea for their continued investment in health and dignity.
“The investments made are not just one-time capital works; they are fundamental enablers of integrated, people-centred Primary Health Care, which is essential for achieving Universal Health Coverage,” she said. Dr Mwinga added that the improved infrastructure and equipping of facilities would significantly benefit mothers and newborns, helping them survive and thrive.
Local leaders, including Dr Atwine, appreciated KOICA’s funding and called for more urgent support from the government and development partners. They emphasized the need for better accommodation for health workers, which would improve their well-being, availability, and motivation to serve patients effectively.
Enhancing Capacity and Patient Care
Dr Richard Mugahi, Commissioner for Reproductive and Child Health at the Ministry of Health, highlighted that the project also focused on training health workers to deliver quality care. He noted that the investments have already led to an increase in the number of mothers attending antenatal care and delivering in the facilities.
This collaborative effort underscores the importance of sustained investment in healthcare infrastructure and human resources. By focusing on both physical facilities and the skills of healthcare workers, the project aims to create long-term improvements in public health outcomes in the Busoga region.
The success of this initiative serves as a model for future collaborations, demonstrating how strategic partnerships can drive meaningful change in underserved communities.
