Health 23 March 2026 Parliament of Uganda
Fuel Shortages Ground Masaka Hospital Ambulances, MPs Raise Alarm
Masaka Regional Referral Hospital's ambulances are largely idle due to drastic fuel funding cuts from Shs5 million to Shs1 million quarterly, as revealed by Executive Director Dr. James Elima to Parliament's Public Accounts Committee. Lawmakers voiced strong concerns over patients footing fuel bills in emergencies and called for urgent fixes including better staffing and specialized vehicles. Source: https://www.parliament.go.ug/index.php/news/4305/masaka-hospital-ambulances-grounded-due-fuel-cuts
Masaka Regional Referral Hospital struggles to operate its five ambulances amid severe funding shortages. During a March 19, 2026, session with the Public Accounts Committee (Central Government), Executive Director Dr. James Elima explained that the hospital receives just Shs36 million quarterly for fuel, servicing, generators, and regional travel.
Dr. Elima highlighted a sharp drop in fuel allocation from Shs5 million to Shs1 million by the Ministry of Health, limiting services to only one or two patient referrals. He stressed the need for a specialized Type-C ambulance for advanced life support and intensive care.
Staffing shortages exacerbate the crisis, with only 32 midwives handling over 800 monthly deliveries, far below levels in nearby districts like Kyotera.
MP Hon. Joseph Ssewungu shared personal experiences of funding ambulances out-of-pocket, noting a minimum Shs500,000 cost per trip that burdens rural patients. Deputy Chairperson Hon. Goreth Namugga criticized the practice, arguing regional hospitals should provide free emergency transfers to Kampala without delays for payment.
Hon. Richard Wanda demanded explanations from the Ministry of Health for the 80% fuel cut, warning it cripples operations. Hon. Elijah Okupa urged reviewing water ambulances, which guzzle more fuel and have sat unused for two years in lake-adjacent areas.