Health 29 August 2026 Parliament of Uganda
MPs Urge Action on Cancer Screening Gaps and Ambulance Shortages
Parliamentarians are raising urgent concerns about critical gaps in cancer screening facilities and the lack of promised ambulances, highlighting the growing burden of cancer in Uganda. Legislators are calling for increased investment in mobile screening services and accountability for unfulfilled government pledges. Source: https://www.parliament.go.ug/index.php/news/4584/address-gaps-cancer-screening-mps
Legislators in Uganda have voiced significant concerns regarding the inadequacy of cancer screening services and the persistent shortage of ambulances, especially in light of the increasing cancer burden on the nation. The discussions took place in Parliament following a statement by Speaker Jacob Marksons Oboth regarding the institution’s support for cancer initiatives and the upcoming Rotary Cancer Run.
Maruzi North County MP, Hon. Benard Otim, emphasized the critical need for government investment in mobile cancer screening vans. He pointed out that the Uganda Cancer Institute currently operates with only one such van, severely limiting access to early diagnosis for many citizens. This lack of accessible screening is a major hurdle in the fight against cancer.
The debate also spotlighted the unfulfilled promise of distributing ambulances to constituencies. Buzaaya County MP, Hon. Martin Muzaale, demanded an explanation from the Ministry of Health regarding this delay. The Minister of State for Health (Primary Health Care), Hon. Charles Ayume, explained that a plan to decentralize ambulance services and procure them annually faced setbacks due to the “dis-appropriation” of Shs750 billion.
Despite these challenges, Minister Ayume noted that Shs20 billion was allocated in the previous financial year for the purchase of 54 ambulances. He acknowledged the intense demands of cancer care, citing the need for specialized equipment, trained personnel, and robust infrastructure. The government, he stated, has increased investment in cancer care and is working to decentralize treatment services beyond Kampala.
Preventative measures are also a focus, with the ministry’s policy to vaccinate 10-year-old girls against HPV to combat cervical cancer. Minister Ayume also cautioned that lifestyle choices, diet, and environmental factors can contribute to cancer development.
Speaker Oboth stressed that the high annual cancer death toll, estimated at 18,000, necessitates a stronger, unified response from Parliament, the Ministry of Health, and the public. He urged MPs to leverage their positions to promote awareness about cancer prevention, screening, and early treatment. Wakiso District Woman Representative, Hon. Ethel Naluyima, echoed this sentiment, calling for MPs to become active advocates in the fight against cancer through increased awareness and collective action.