The Executive Director of Mulago National Referral Hospital, Dr Rosemary Byanyima, has appealed to the government to boost funding for essential hospital utilities such as water and electricity, warning that budget cuts are affecting the hospital’s ability to deliver critical care.
Dr Byanyima made the call during a visit by the Deputy Resident District Commissioner (RDC) for Kawempe Division, Lukka Kagenyi, who toured major hospital departments including cancer treatment, fever management, limb reconstruction, and diagnostic services.
“Water and electricity alone take up the biggest share of our daily expenses. With the budget cuts, it has become increasingly difficult to sustain smooth operations,” Dr Byanyima said, noting that Mulago’s annual operational budget has been reduced from Shs6 billion to Shs3 billion.
She also highlighted other pressing challenges, including staff shortages, patient congestion, and aging equipment that requires urgent replacement.
Dr John Ssekabira, deputy executive director, expressed concern over the number of Ugandans traveling abroad for costly treatment.
“Many people are spending millions outside the country, yet Mulago has modern equipment and offers many services free of charge,” he said.
Deputy RDC Kagenyi said the visit was part of government efforts to monitor key programs in sectors like health, education, and poverty alleviation.
“We want to know what is working and what needs improvement so that Ugandans can fully benefit from government programs,” he said.
He also urged the public to disregard misinformation circulating on social media about hospital equipment shortages.
“People should not rely on social media lies. Let them visit hospitals and get the right information and services,” Kagenyi added.
The RDC pledged to compile a detailed report of the findings and submit it to relevant authorities, hoping that increased government support will strengthen service delivery at Mulago National Referral Hospital.
