Kambuga Hospital Gets Major Boost as Shs43 Billion Upgrade Takes Shape

The transformation of Kambuga General Hospital has taken a significant step forward following the completion and commissioning of a modern operating theatre and a 16-unit staff housing complex under the first phase of a Shs43 billion government-funded upgrade project.The newly completed facilities, constructed by the UPDF Engineering Brigade, were officially handed over to Kanungu District Local Government, marking a key milestone in the government’s ambitious plan to elevate Kambuga General Hospital into a regional referral hospital serving the wider Kigezi region and neighboring communities.

Government has committed Shs43 billion to the project, with Shs30 billion allocated for construction works and Shs13 billion earmarked for the acquisition of modern medical equipment. The upgrade is expected to significantly improve healthcare services and expand the hospital’s capacity to handle specialized treatment.According to officials from the UPDF Engineering Brigade, the first phase included the construction of a fully equipped operating theatre and staff accommodation facilities. While the project initially had a shorter completion timeline, implementation adjustments extended the construction period, allowing the brigade to maintain quality standards throughout the process.

District leaders praised the development, noting that housing medical workers within the hospital compound will improve staff availability, reduce absenteeism, and strengthen emergency response services. The accommodation consists of 16 self-contained units equipped with modern amenities to support healthcare workers and their families.Officials revealed that approximately Shs3.4 billion was invested in the construction of the theatre and staff houses, while an additional Shs800 million has been set aside to kick-start the construction of a new maternity ward as authorities await further funding releases from the government.Medical Superintendent Dr Daniel Kasudha welcomed the development, saying the modern operating theatre will greatly enhance surgical services at the hospital.

He noted that the previous operating space was inadequate and often constrained medical teams, but the new facility provides sufficient room and improved conditions for life-saving procedures.Established more than five decades ago, Kambuga General Hospital serves residents from Kanungu, Rukungiri, Rukiga and parts of eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. Once the entire upgrade is completed, the facility is expected to become a major referral center in the Kigezi Sub-region, offering advanced healthcare services, improved maternal care, better staff welfare, and expanded access to specialized treatment.