OBADIAH
Authorities in Ntungamo District on Tuesday flagged off renovation works worth Shs1.5 billion at Itojo Hospital, located in Itojo Sub-county.
The project, funded by the Ministry of Health, will be executed by the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) Engineering Brigade.
Speaking at the official launch, Ntungamo District Chairperson Sam Muchunguzi Rwakigooba said the initiative reflects the district’s commitment to improving healthcare infrastructure. He noted that the renovations, coupled with planned facility expansions, will significantly enhance the quality of medical services provided to area residents.
Deputy Resident District Commissioner Rosemary Atuhaire praised the Ministry of Health for supporting the project and expressed confidence in the UPDF’s capacity to deliver quality work within the agreed timelines.
Itojo Sub-county District Councillor Denis Savimbi Muhumuza also welcomed the development, stating that the hospital, originally built in the early 1970s, has long required urgent refurbishment.
Dr. Innocent Twesiime, the hospital’s Medical Superintendent, described the renovations as timely and appealed to the government to allocate more resources to address other pressing needs at the facility.
According to Alfred Nabaasa, a representative from the Ministry of Health, the renovation will be carried out in phases, beginning with the most critical areas of the hospital.
Ntungamo District Health Officer Dr. Amon Bahati revealed that the district is also lobbying for additional health workers to fill existing gaps and strengthen service delivery at the hospital.
Gerald Niwagaba, the Senior Assistant Secretary representing the Chief Administrative Officer, called for collaboration among local leaders, hospital management, and the contractors to ensure the project’s successful execution.
The renovation works will cover major repairs to the hospital’s water and sanitation systems, full upgrades to the male and pediatric wards, improvements to the main operating theatre, and the installation of a new standby generator.
