Lira, Uganda | Construction of the Lira Regional Blood Bank at Lira University is nearing completion, with officials expressing optimism that the facility will be fully operational before the end of 2026.
The update follows a site inspection conducted on February 19, 2026, by officials from the Ministry of Health and other stakeholders.
According to the project engineer, 2nd Lt. Fahad Kisosonkole, who represents the UPDF Engineering Brigade — the contractor undertaking the works — the first phase of construction is now 98 per cent complete.
“The work is progressing smoothly and we are confident of delivering the project within the agreed timeframe,” he said.
The first phase, which includes groundwork and roofing, has cost approximately Shs1 billion.
The second phase will cover installation of doors and windows, plastering, painting, electrical works and plumbing.
Officials confirmed that funding for the next phase has already been secured to ensure continuity without interruption.
Mr Alex Tumwesigye, a senior engineer at the Ministry of Health and leader of the inspection team, said preparations for the second phase are underway.
“The funds for phase two are ready and construction will proceed steadily,” he said, commending Lira University for providing land for the establishment of the regional blood bank.
The hospital director of Lira Regional Referral Hospital, Dr Andrew Odur, who was part of the inspection team, welcomed the progress, describing the project as timely.
“There is high demand for blood at Lira Regional Referral Hospital. Once commissioned, this facility will greatly ease our work and improve service delivery to the people of Lango and Northern Uganda,” he said.
Dr Odur also thanked the Minister of Health, Jane Ruth Aceng, for spearheading the initiative.
In addition to the blood bank project, the UPDF Engineering Brigade announced plans to commence construction works at Ober Health Centre IV and Ongica Health Centre III in the near future.
Construction of the Lira Regional Blood Bank began in April 2025, following the award of the contract to the UPDF Engineering Brigade.
Once completed, the facility is expected to strengthen blood storage and distribution services across the Lango sub-region and neighbouring areas in Northern Uganda.
