Politics 20 April 2026 Parliament of Uganda
Parliament Demands Verified List of 34 Upgraded Health Centres Amid Allocation Disputes
Uganda's Budget Committee has flagged discrepancies in the Ministry of Health's claim of upgrading 34 Health Centre IIIs to IVs, demanding a complete list for verification. Lawmakers also raised concerns over uneven resource distribution across districts and adequacy of funds for key projects like ambulances and AFCON preparations. Source: https://www.parliament.go.ug/news/4408/health-committee-submit-missing-list-upgraded-health-centres
Uganda’s parliamentary Budget Committee, chaired by Hon. Patrick Isiagi, expressed serious concerns over inconsistencies in health facility upgrades during a meeting on April 20, 2026. The Health Committee, led by Hon. Joseph Ruyonga, presented its report on the upcoming financial year’s sector budget, highlighting the Ministry of Health’s assertion that 34 Health Centre IIIs had been elevated to Health Centre IVs nationwide.
MPs challenged the claim, pointing out that listed facilities fell short of the stated number and some remained incomplete. Isiagi stressed the need for a precise, verifiable list, warning against unconfirmed reports. Ruyonga acknowledged the issue, noting that the ministry had just provided the details that morning, prompting the committee to seek time for thorough review.
Debate extended to equity in resource allocation, with Hon. Herbert Ariko questioning why certain districts received repeated funding while others were overlooked. Isiagi emphasized fairness, advocating that every district benefit before revisiting areas. Hon. Paul Omara from Otuke County accused the ministry of disregarding parliamentary approvals.
The session also probed the Shs20 billion for the National Ambulance System. Ruyonga estimated it could fund around 80 units at Shs250 million each, though MPs sought confirmation on feasibility.
Preparations for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) drew attention, particularly Hoima Regional Referral Hospital. Ruyonga argued the Shs26 billion allocation was insufficient against a Shs40 billion request, but Isiagi countered that it sufficed for necessary readiness.