Soroti, Uganda | Soroti Regional Referral Hospital (SRRH) has received a significant boost in its medical capacity with the delivery of state-of-the-art equipment worth approximately Shs12 billion, courtesy of the Government of Japan through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
The new equipment was officially launched during a high-profile ceremony attended by the Japanese Ambassador to Uganda, health officials from the Ministry of Health, and various regional leaders.
The donation marks the final stage of a nine-year-long initiative that included extensive planning, procurement, and installation.
Dr. Joseph Epodoi, Senior Executive Consultant at SRRH, who represented the hospital’s director at the ceremony, described the moment as a landmark achievement for the hospital.
He emphasized that the equipment would enhance the hospital’s diagnostic and treatment capabilities, benefitting multiple departments, including Outpatients, Emergency, Maternity, Surgery, Radiology, Pediatrics, and Orthopedics, among others.
“The journey to this day has been long, but it is a proud moment for the hospital and the Teso sub-region,” Dr. Epodoi remarked. “These improvements are essential to address the growing medical needs of the community, particularly in the face of evolving health challenges.”
Among the major advancements is the hospital’s new ability to conduct endoscopic procedures, facilitating early detection of diseases in the oesophagus and stomach.
The ophthalmology department has also received upgraded diagnostic equipment, while physiotherapy services will now be better equipped to manage chronic conditions such as back pain.
Dr. Epodoi also highlighted the improved capabilities in neonatal care, with the hospital now able to better support premature infants through the upgraded Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).
Dr. Joseph Okware, the Director of Health Services at the Ministry of Health, who attended on behalf of Permanent Secretary Dr. Diana Atwiine and Health Minister Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng, conveyed their appreciation for Japan’s continued support.
He acknowledged that discussions for the equipment began during the COVID-19 pandemic, when Uganda experienced severe shortages of medical supplies.
Soroti was identified as a priority due to its longstanding challenges with outdated equipment and infrastructure.
In addition, Dr. Okware noted that JICA would offer technical support for the next three years to help SRRH effectively utilize the new equipment.
“This collaboration is a testament to the strength of international partnerships in addressing health challenges,” he said.
Local leaders, including Soroti City West MP-elect and NRM National Vice Chairperson for Eastern Region, David Calvin Echodu, also commended the donation, calling it a pivotal development in the region’s healthcare infrastructure.
He pledged to push for further government investment in expanding the hospital’s physical capacity and services.
“We recognize that good health is the bedrock of development. We will continue to advocate for increased support for Soroti Hospital,” said Echodu.
The Ministry of Health thanked the Government of Japan for its invaluable contribution, noting that the donation would significantly enhance healthcare delivery in the region, improve staff morale, and help address key medical challenges in the Teso sub-region.
The equipment is expected to have a lasting impact on the hospital’s ability to provide high-quality care to the people of Soroti and surrounding areas.
