As the Makerere University Lung Institute (MLI) prepares to celebrate its 10th anniversary later this month, the Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, has officiated at the handover of the construction site for the new Lung Institute complex.
The six-level facility, to be constructed at Mulago, is expected to significantly boost respiratory health research, care, and training in Uganda and beyond.
The first phase of the shs 3.6 billion project will be executed by CK Associates, on land provided by Mulago National Referral Hospital.
Speaking at the handover event, Prof. Nawangwe commended Mulago Hospital for offering land to Makerere University, describing the gesture as a reinforcement of the long-standing partnership between the two institutions.
“The contribution of the Lung Institute to Uganda’s health sector cannot be ignored, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. MLI is extremely important — I have witnessed many people lose their lives to respiratory illnesses. Since MLI has demonstrated that it can address these challenges, we must support it,” remarked Prof. Nawangwe.
The Chairperson of the MLI Board, Prof. Charles Ibingira, noted that the upcoming facility will house a Pulmonary Care Centre, an Intensive Care Unit (ICU), and spaces designed to enhance human resource development and specialized lung health services.
MLI Director, Prof. Bruce Kirenga, highlighted the Institute’s growing research capacity despite its current space limitations. He noted that MLI operates the second-largest cold room in Uganda—a minus 80°C, 2300cc facility capable of storing clinical and research materials.
“Mulago has allocated us this space to synergize our work. We are finalizing a memorandum of understanding with Mulago to further strengthen collaboration in research and clinical care,” said Prof. Kirenga.
Dr. Rosemary Byanyima, the Executive Director of Mulago National Referral Hospital, commended the Lung Institute for its investments in clinical research and trials, emphasizing that such initiatives are transforming respiratory health care in Uganda.
The handover event marks the beginning of a new chapter for the Makerere University Lung Institute—one that aligns with its 10-year anniversary celebrations and its vision to become a regional center of excellence in lung health, research, and innovation.