Written By | Joshua Nahamya
Ground breaking underway to construct a block for Mbarara Municipal Council Health Centre IV
Search
MBARARA CITY
Access to maternal healthcare in Mbarara City is set for a major boost following the official handover of the construction site for a new multi-storeyed maternity ward and theatre at Mbarara Municipal Council Health Centre IV.
The project, valued at UGX 3.04 billion (approximately USD 836,000), is funded by the American people through the United States Department of State, in partnership with the Uganda Health Activity (UHA) and the Ministry of Health.
The handover ceremony was attended by key city leaders, including South Division Deputy RCC Gerald Tukamuhebwa, City Mayor Robert Mugabe Kakyebezi, City Speaker Bonny Tashobya Karutsya, and Deputy Town Clerk Ejua Simon.
Bullen Construction and Supplies Ltd has been contracted to execute the project within six months, with completion expected by September 30, 2026.
Expansion to Boost Maternal Health Capacity
The new facility is expected to significantly increase the health centre’s capacity, raising the number of expectant mothers it can handle from the current 70 to about 250.
City Speaker Bonny Tashobya Karutsya said the council is already considering further expansion beyond the current design.
“The building will have a ground and first floor, but as a council we plan to add a third and fourth floor to accommodate more women,” Tashobya said.
“We previously handled about 30 mothers, later increased to 70, and after completion we expect to handle up to 250. This will reduce congestion at Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital.”
Plans to Upgrade Facility to City Hospital
The expansion forms part of a broader strategy to upgrade the Health Centre IV into a fully-fledged city hospital.
To create more space for the facility, the city council plans to relocate its offices.
“We are preparing to vacate the current city council premises and relocate to Kamukuzi so that this facility can expand,” Tashobya said.
“We are also requesting the Ministry of Health to elevate this Health Centre IV to a city hospital to improve service delivery.”
Official flagging off of the construction works at Mbarara Municipal Council Health Centre IV
Accountability and Timely Completion
Dr. Augustine Muhwezi, Project Lead at Uganda Health Activity, emphasized the need for accountability and measurable health outcomes.
“This project is funded by American taxpayers to benefit Ugandans through improved service delivery. We must ensure it translates into better outcomes,” Muhwezi said.
“We will monitor indicators such as increased deliveries, improved patient satisfaction, and reduced neonatal deaths.”
He warned that the funding is time-bound and must be utilized within schedule.
“The project must be completed by the end of September 2026. If delays occur, the funding could be lost,” he cautioned.
Health Facility Ready for Implementation
Dr. Alfred Mugalula, who heads the medical team at the Health Centre IV, said staff are fully prepared to support the project, even if it comes with temporary disruptions.
“As management and staff, we are ready to support the construction process fully, even if it requires major adjustments,” he said.
“We are already operating day and night, including weekends, but we still face staffing gaps and need at least two more doctors and additional midwives.”
Medics at Mbarara Municipal Council Health Centre IV embracing a new structure from the Ministry of Health
Mayor Urges Efficiency, Staff Promotion
Mayor Robert Mugabe Kakyebezi urged the contractor to deliver results within the set timeframe and emphasized the need for efficiency.
He also called for the promotion of long-serving staff in acting positions.
“It is demoralizing for staff to serve in acting roles for many years despite having the required qualifications. They should be considered for substantive appointments,” the Mayor said.
Contractor Promises Immediate Work
Felix Kakaire, representing Bullen Construction, assured stakeholders that work would begin immediately. “Construction starts today. As demolition begins, the site will be cleared within days,” he said.
He added that the company will adhere to environmental standards by planting three trees for every one removed during construction.
Torch Media Africa
