Masindi MPs Push for Timely Hospital Completion Ahead of AFCON 2027

Members of Parliament representing Masindi district have called on NEC Construction Works and Engineering Ltd to accelerate the ongoing construction of Masindi General Hospital. The legislators are keen to see the facility completed by the end of 2026, well in advance of Uganda co-hosting the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The project, which has reached 12% completion, is a significant government investment of Shs58 billion. The upgrade is crucial for the aging Masindi General Hospital, originally built in 1920, which has long struggled to serve the growing population across Masindi, Kyankwanzi, Nakaseke, and Kiryandongo districts.

The selection of Uganda as a co-host for AFCON 2027 has provided a catalyst for infrastructure development, including the hospital project. With Hoima preparing to host matches, Masindi will host training sessions, necessitating improved medical facilities. The Shs58 billion commitment will fund new inpatient and outpatient blocks, along with renovations to existing structures, aiming to manage potential medical emergencies during the tournament and enhance healthcare services long-term.

During a site visit, area MPs, led by Rogers Byamukama, expressed optimism about the progress but emphasized the need for speed. Byamukama noted that AFCON had finally secured the necessary government funding for the hospital, a project local leaders had advocated for years. He highlighted the transformative potential of the new facility for healthcare in the region.

Legislators, including Kenneth Nyendwoha of Bujenje County, believe the modernized hospital will significantly reduce the need for patient referrals to facilities in other districts. The MPs also commended the government for releasing the full Shs58 billion funding within the first quarter of the financial year, signaling a strong commitment to the project’s timely completion. Buruli County MP Aled Akugizibwe echoed this sentiment, appealing to the contractor to work diligently to meet the December 2026 deadline.

Upon completion, the new hospital is expected to boast a surgical theatre, a maternity wing, a minor surgery unit, and modern amenities like elevators, aiming to improve healthcare delivery and reduce reliance on regional referral centers.

Source: Nile Post