The Government of Uganda has commenced the upgrade of Hoima Regional Referral Hospital to a modern facility, marking another milestone in the country’s preparations for the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2027.
The groundbreaking ceremony was officiated by Prime Minister Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja on Friday 12th June 2026, together with the Minister of State for Education and Sports (Sports), Hon. Peter Ogwang, Minister of State for Primary Healthcare, Hon. Dr. Charles Ayume, Minister of State for Bunyoro Affairs, Hon. Grace Mary Mugasa, Hoima District Woman Member of Parliament, Hon. Beatrice Wembabazi, other area leaders and the community.
The Prime Minister described the project as a transformative investment in the regional healthcare services and Uganda at large.
The new facility will be built to international standards and is expected to significantly improve specialized healthcare services for mothers and children while enhancing the region’s emergency medical preparedness.
“This facility will be constructed to world-class standards and will strengthen healthcare delivery for the people of Hoima and surrounding districts,” the Prime Minister said.
In a notable demonstration of local expertise, the Prime Minister commended health workers and officials from the Department of Health Infrastructure for developing the facility’s designs without relying on external consultants.
“I commend the health workers and the Department of Health Infrastructure for their professionalism and dedication. Their work has saved Government hundreds of millions of shillings,” she said.
The project is among several healthcare investments being implemented alongside upgrades at Masindi General Hospital and Buseruka Health Centre III as part of Uganda’s AFCON 2027 readiness programme.
Hon. Ogwang, while giving an address revealed that government is investing nearly Shs 91 billion in health infrastructure improvements across the three facilities to strengthen medical services during the AFCON 2027 tournament and beyond.
Beyond healthcare, the Minister encouraged local communities and businesses to prepare for the economic opportunities that AFCON 2027 will bring, noting that thousands of visitors from across Africa and beyond are expected to stay in Hoima during the tournament.
Hon. Dr. Ayume disclosed that the new facility, expected to be ready for use by December 31st 2026, will have among others, a functional CT Scan and MRI, an accident emergency unit, and an Out of Patient Department.
