Kampala, Uganda – Bugiri General Hospital in eastern Uganda is set for a significant transformation, with bed capacity expected to increase from 100 to 250 following the approval of a US$20 million loan from the Arab Bank for Economic Development in Africa (BADEA). Parliament passed the loan request during a plenary session on Wednesday, 10 September 2025, chaired by Speaker Anita Among.
The hospital upgrade, aimed at improving healthcare delivery and infrastructure, will be supported by an additional US$3 million contribution from the Ugandan government. The funds will facilitate comprehensive renovations that include expanding staff accommodation, establishing a modern accident and emergency unit, and laying the groundwork for Bugiri Hospital to be elevated to a regional referral facility.
Presenting the motion, Minister of State for Finance (General Duties), Hon. Henry Musasizi, said the project reflects the government’s commitment to a healthier, more productive population. He emphasized that the initiative would reduce maternal and infant mortality, improve access to emergency care, and strengthen the broader health system.
Hon. John Bosco Ikojo, Chairperson of the Committee on National Economy, described the hospital's current condition as dire. Built in 1971, Bugiri Hospital has never undergone major rehabilitation, despite serving a catchment population of up to 600,000 people across Bugiri and surrounding districts. The facility is plagued by crumbling infrastructure, inadequate sanitation systems, and a severe lack of ward space and emergency care facilities.
He assured the House that the loan terms are highly concessional and favorable, with long repayment periods and low interest, making it a sound financial decision.
Bugiri Municipality MP Asuman Basalirwa strongly supported the motion, calling the project one of the most impactful investments Parliament has approved. Recalling a past incident involving the late Prime Minister Prof. Apolo Nsibambi, Basalirwa noted how the hospital’s condition was so poor it couldn’t accommodate him after a helicopter emergency landing.
In response to the committee’s report, Parliament recommended that the government include the project in multi-year budget commitments starting in FY 2025/26 to ensure timely completion and long-term sustainability. The report also urged increased funding for the health sector to support recurrent costs after the project’s completion.
Once finalized, the upgraded Bugiri Hospital is expected to greatly enhance healthcare access and outcomes for thousands in eastern Uganda, marking a crucial step forward in equitable health service delivery nationwide.