The government has allowed only five kidney transplant surgeries to happen at Mulago National Referral Hospital as they prepare to start the Organ Transplant facility. These surgeries will be free for patients with severe kidney disease who are undergoing dialysis.
During a session chaired by Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa, Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja shared this information in response to concerns raised by Central Youth Representative Agnes Kirabo. Kirabo had complained about the high cost of kidney transplants at Mulago Hospital, stating that it’s unaffordable for regular citizens.
Nabbanja clarified that the reported cost of Shs46 million for a kidney transplant was not confirmed by the government. She mentioned that they are still figuring out the actual cost by observing more transplants.
The Prime Minister promised that after understanding all the expenses involved in the transplant process and a patient’s recovery, they would set a reasonable price and inform the public.
She also highlighted the successful kidney transplant conducted at Mulago in December 2023 by Ugandan and Indian doctors. This, she said, shows progress in saving Ugandans from the high costs of going abroad for transplants.
Nabbanja emphasized that specialized medical services are very expensive, often costing Ugandans over $18,000 on average, not including travel and other expenses. She sees Mulago’s success as a way to prevent people from needing to travel to countries like India for kidney transplants.