Health 27 August 2026 Parliament of Uganda
MPs Urge Increased Cancer Screening Access and Ambulance Services
Ugandan legislators are calling for improved cancer screening facilities and the fulfillment of promises for ambulance services, citing the growing burden of the disease and limited access to early detection methods. Source: https://www.parliament.go.ug/news/4584/address-gaps-cancer-screening-mps
Members of Parliament have voiced significant concerns regarding the insufficient availability of cancer screening services and the persistent shortage of ambulances across the country. These issues were brought to the forefront during a plenary session following a statement by Speaker Jacob Marksons Oboth on Parliament’s commitment to combating cancer, including a Shs3 billion deposit towards the Nsambya Hospital Cancer Centre.
Maruzi North County MP, Hon. Benard Otim, specifically highlighted the need for government investment in mobile screening vans. He noted that the Uganda Cancer Institute currently operates with only one such van, severely limiting the reach of early diagnostic services for many Ugandans.
The debate also encompassed the issue of ambulance provision. Buzaaya County MP, Hon. Martin Muzaale, questioned the Ministry of Health regarding unfulfilled pledges to equip constituencies with ambulances. The Minister of State for Health, Hon. Charles Ayume, explained that a planned decentralization of ambulance services and annual procurement was hampered by the “dis-appropriation” of Shs750 billion. Despite this setback, he mentioned that Shs20 billion was allocated in the previous financial year for the purchase of 54 ambulances.
Minister Ayume acknowledged the substantial resources, including specialized equipment, trained personnel, and infrastructure, required for effective cancer care. He stated that the government has increased its investment in cancer treatment and is working to decentralize services. Furthermore, he emphasized the importance of preventive measures, such as HPV vaccination for girls to combat cervical cancer, and cautioned about the role of lifestyle, diet, and environmental factors in cancer development.
Speaker Oboth underscored the gravity of cancer deaths in Uganda, estimating around 18,000 annually, and stressed the collective responsibility of Parliament, the Ministry of Health, and the public to address this challenge through increased awareness, screening, and early treatment. Wakiso District Woman Representative, Hon. Ethel Naluyima, echoed this sentiment, urging MPs to actively advocate for cancer awareness and collective action.
Source: Parliament of Uganda