Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja has urged Ugandans to utilize the advanced specialized medical services available at Mulago National Referral Hospital rather than spending millions of shillings traveling abroad.
Speaking on Tuesday during belated Women’s Day celebrations at Mulago, Nabbanja praised female health workers as the backbone of Uganda’s healthcare system. The Prime Minister he was the guest of honor , where she addressed female health workers, commended their resilience and contributions.
“So as we celebrate Women’s Day today, I wish to express my deepest appreciation to the female health workers of Mulago National Specialized Referral Hospital. Your dedication assures that millions of Ugandans receive care every day,” she said.
She urged Ugandans to seek specialized care at Mulago (including for organ transplants), and revealed government support for the hospital’s advancements. During her visit, Nabbanja toured several specialized units, including oncology at the Uganda Cancer Institute, cardiology at the Uganda Heart Institute, dialysis, neurosurgery, and kidney transplant services treatments that were previously sought abroad.
“All those three words, oncology, cardiology, dialysis, were not here when I was Minister of Health. It’s a very big development,” she said.
She further announced that Mulago is preparing to launch liver transplants later this year, with the team currently undergoing training in India. Bone marrow, pancreas, and other organ transplant programs are also planned, positioning Mulago among the most advanced facilities in the region.
The Prime Minister noted examples of patients who previously would have traveled abroad for treatment, reiterating that they can now access world class care at Mulago. “It was not necessary for him to go to Nairobi because all the experts are here,” Nabbanja said, referring to a member of Parliament who recently received local treatment.
Nabbanja also commended Mulago’s management and departmental heads for achieving international certification, reflecting the hospital’s growing global recognition.
However, she cautioned staff against malpractice, including extortion and absenteeism, urging them to uphold professionalism and treat patients with respect.
The event was attended by Minister of State for Health (General Duties) Anifa kawooya, Head of Public Service and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health Dr. Diana Atwine.
By spotlighting both the advances in specialized healthcare and the critical role of women in Uganda’s medical sector, Nabbanja’s visit put spotlight on the government’s commitment to strengthening local health systems and reducing dependency on foreign medical services.