back to top
HomeHealthParliament Approves Additional UGX 53 Billion For The Stalled Lubowa Specialized Hospital

Parliament Approves Additional UGX 53 Billion For The Stalled Lubowa Specialized Hospital

Published on

- Advertisement -spot_img

Parliament has approved an additional UGX53.119 billion for the Lubowa International Hospital project, pushing the total government expenditure on the project to UGX529.588 billion. This decision comes after Prime Minister Robinah Nabbanja assured legislators that the hospital, whose completion has faced repeated delays, will be operational by April 2025. Nabbanja further revealed that medical personnel are currently undergoing specialized training in Italy in preparation for the hospital’s opening.

The approval, however, faced stiff opposition, with lawmakers raising concerns over limited access to the project site and a lack of transparency. Joel Ssenyonyi, chairperson of the Committee on Commissions, Statutory Authorities, and State Enterprises (COSASE), expressed frustration over Parliament’s inability to conduct on-site inspections. “The government keeps returning to Parliament for more funding, yet it denies us access to monitor progress. This raises serious questions about accountability,” Ssenyonyi remarked.

Despite the opposition, Nabbanja urged Parliament to release the funds, stating that construction is 61.8% complete, with most of the necessary medical equipment already procured. She emphasized that additional funding would ensure the hospital’s timely completion.

Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa, who visited the site on two occasions, endorsed the funding, describing the progress as promising. He noted that over 700 workers are actively engaged in the project and expressed confidence in the contractor’s commitment to complete structural works by April 2025.

Concerns over accountability, however, remain a key issue. In a minority report, MP Ibrahim Ssemujju called for a halt to further disbursements until an independent audit is conducted. He cited a June 2023 Auditor General’s report that highlighted restricted access to engineers and inadequate supervision, warning of potential financial mismanagement.

Health Minister Dr. Ruth Aceng acknowledged challenges with oversight, revealing that construction progress stood at just 35% as of December 2024. She requested an additional UGX1.5 billion to bolster supervision efforts, admitting the absence of a consultant has left government engineers overstretched.

The debate underscores the divide between the government and opposition lawmakers over the handling of the Lubowa project, with demands for greater transparency continuing to dominate discussions.

Related

Engulfed Businessman Asiimwe Emmanuel Has A Case  To Answer Regarding Forgery And Uttering Forged Documents, Risks Jail If Found Guilty

In a blockbuster ruling at Buganda Road Court on Wednesday, the Chief Magistrate, His...

Mercy Kanyesigye Calls For Swift Conclusion Of Suspended NRM Youth Elections

NRM National Youth MP candidate for the 2026–2030 term, Mercy Kanyesigye, has urged the...

Uganda Law Society Launches Digital Training, Clears Global Dues, And Prepares 2029 Commonwealth Bid

The Uganda Law Society (ULS) has unveiled a new drive to modernize the legal...

Frustrated URA Commissioner Resigns, Wangwe Tipped For Top Domestic Taxes Job

The Uganda Revenue Authority (URA) is on the brink of a significant leadership shake-up...

More from The Capital Times

Business Boom In Namugongo Ahead Of Martyrs Day

Business has picked up this morning at Namugongo Martyrs shrine according to traders. The...

Uganda Adopts Kiswahili As Official Language

Uganda has adopted Kiswahili as an official language, a top government official said on...

Big Size Recap: London Parties With Legendary Bebe Cool’s Break The Chains Album Was Massive

On August 12th, Bebe Cool held a successful listener’s party at Masq London, Restaurant...