UPDF National Referral Hospital Inaugurates First Board to Drive Military and National Healthcare Growth
The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) National Referral Hospital in Mbuya today marked a major step forward with the inauguration of its first Board of Directors, strengthening its role as a cornerstone of military and national healthcare.
Presiding over the ceremony, Minister of Defence and Veterans Affairs Honourable Jacob Marksons 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,” Hon Oboth said.
He 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 stressed that the hospital is not only for the defence community but also a national asset accessible to civilians.
Commending the selection of a capable and visionary Board, Hon Oboth urged members to maintain professionalism, strong governance, and accountability. “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.
Pledging full backing from the Ministry, he assured: “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.”
Hon Oboth also thanked President and Commander-in-Chief Gen (Rtd) Yoweri Kaguta 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.
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.
The Board includes 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.
Set for a soft launch on 15 September 2025 and full launch on launch 15 October 2025, the hospital is expected to significantly strengthen Uganda’s healthcare capacity, benefiting both military personnel and civilians.
The inauguration drew a wide range of officials, including 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.