ENTEBBE, UGANDA

Uganda’s healthcare sector reached a major milestone today with the groundbreaking ceremony for the Emirate Speciality Hospital in Entebbe, a project expected to significantly improve access to quality and specialised medical services in the country.

The ceremony, held earlier this morning ahead of the swearing-in of President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, brought together senior government officials, diplomats, and representatives from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Uganda. The event was led by Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, the UAE Minister of State, underscoring the importance of the project to both nations.

Among the Ugandan officials present were Hon. Hanifa Kawooya Bangirana, Minister of State for Health in charge of General Duties, and Dr. Diana Atwine, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Health. Also in attendance were H.E. Abdalla Hassan AlShamsi, UAE Ambassador to Uganda; H.E. Ambassador Zaake Wanume Kibedi, Uganda’s Ambassador to the UAE; and Erina Zalwango, Counsellor at the Uganda Consulate General in Dubai, alongside other dignitaries and officials.

The Emirate Speciality Hospital is expected to strengthen Uganda’s healthcare system by expanding access to advanced and specialised treatment services. Health experts and government officials say the facility will help reduce the need for Ugandans to travel abroad for specialised medical care while also improving the country’s medical capacity.

Officials described the project as a reflection of the growing cooperation between Uganda and the UAE, particularly in sectors such as healthcare, investment, and infrastructure development. The partnership between the two countries has continued to expand in recent years through trade, diplomatic engagement, and strategic development initiatives.

Speaking during the ceremony, leaders highlighted the importance of investing in modern healthcare infrastructure to meet the increasing demand for specialised medical services in Uganda’s rapidly growing population.

Once completed, the Emirate Speciality Hospital is expected to create employment opportunities for healthcare professionals and support the advancement of medical expertise in Uganda. The project is also anticipated to contribute to the country’s broader efforts to improve healthcare delivery and strengthen national development.