UPDF National Referral Hospital unveils new directors

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The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) National Referral Hospital in Mbuya has inaugurated its first Board of Directors.

The Board comprises of: Prof. Omaswa (Chairman), Dr Diana Atwine, Mrs Edith Buturo, Dr Ronnie Bakatungira, Maj. Gen. Henry Matsiko, Brig. Gen. Dr Patrick Ocen Ogwok, Mrs Teddy Alako and Col Yusuf Buha Magero.

Presiding over the ceremony at the complex on Friday, September 12, Minister of Defence and Veterans Affairs, Jacob Marksons Oboth-Oboth, described the event as a milestone in improving medical services for troops, their families, veterans and the wider public.

“This is a landmark moment in our ongoing efforts to strengthen the health systems of our brave men and women in uniform, their families, veterans, and indeed the people of Uganda,” Oboth said.

Minister Oboth Oboth with the Ministry of Defence leadership and board of directors inspecting the complex. (Courtesy)

Col Dr Ronald Nangamba, CEO UPDF National Referral Hospital briefing the board members. (Courtesy)

Oboth also thanked President and Commander-in-Chief Gen. (Rtd) Yoweri Museveni for his vision, and applauded the UPDF medical fraternity and experts such as Dr Ben Mbonye, who contributed significantly from the hospital’s inception.

At the events, the minister highlighted the UPDF’s dual mission of safeguarding security and supporting national transformation, citing its innovation and resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic and other emergencies.

The Minister, according to a release from the Director Defence Directorate on Communications, stressed that the hospital is not only for the Defence community but also a national asset accessible to civilians.

“The establishment and strengthening of the UPDF National Referral Hospital is yet another testament to the spirit of service,” he remarked, calling on the team to focus on quality care, infrastructure, technology, human resources, sound financial management and strategic partnerships," he stated.

Describing the directors as a capable and visionary Board, Oboth urged members to maintain professionalism, strong governance, and accountability.

“We shall walk with you, provide the necessary policy guidance and ensure that the hospital continues to grow as a pillar of the military and national health care system," he assured the team.

Mrs Rosette Byengoma, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence and Veterans Affairs, traced the hospital’s origin to the late Gen Aronda Nyakairima’s initiative to improve healthcare and reduce costly referrals. She voiced confidence in the new Board’s ability to elevate the facility to internationally competitive standards.

Professor Francis Omaswa, a renowned cardiologist and surgeon, inaugurated as Board Chairman, congratulated the UPDF and encouraged colleagues to exceed expectations.

“Motivate all staff with the necessary training so that they know what they are doing. With the discipline of the army, this hospital should be a world-class centre,” Prof. Omaswa advised, framing the facility as proof of African capability.

Chief Executive Officer Colonel Ronald Nangamba outlined plans for comprehensive services ranging from general to super-specialised medical and surgical care, with a projected capacity of 375 beds. He noted the hospital’s goal of becoming self-sustaining under a private, not-for-profit model, potentially saving the government substantial referral costs. He also pointed to challenges such as operational funding, medical supplies, equipment, staffing and establishing a clear management framework.

Located in Mbuya city suburbs, the hospital, scheduled to be launched on September 15, is expected to significantly strengthen Uganda’s healthcare capacity, benefiting both military personnel and civilians.

Dignitaries who witnessed the launch of the board included: Under Secretary UPDF – Air Force Mr Mutabazi James, Chief of Joint Staff Lt Gen. Jack Bakasumba, Director of Veterans’ Affairs Brig. Gen. (Rtd) Emmanuel Musinguzi, Planning and Steering Committee Chair, Dr Ben Mbonye, Joint Staff Engineering Col James Lwegaba, MODVA Assistant Commissioner, Human Resource, Ms Harriet Kyomugisha, and senior and junior UPDF officers.