Uganda, Japan Sign USD 6.8 Million Grant Agreement to Enhance Medical Equipment for Regional Referral Hospitals
Frank Semata 
Finance Minister Matia Kasaija today signed an Exchange of Notes and Grant Agreement with Mr. Inoue Yoichi, the Chief Representative of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) in Uganda, and H.E Yoshimura Tomotaka, Deputy Head of Mission at the Embassy of Japan in Uganda.
The grant agreement, worth JPY 941,000,000 (approximately USD 6.8 million) or UGX 24,250,000,000, marks a crucial milestone in enhancing medical equipment and infrastructure at Jinja and Soroti regional referral hospitals (RRHs).
Minister Kasaija expressed profound gratitude for the longstanding and robust cooperation with the Government of Japan, emphasizing the critical role of regional referral hospitals in providing specialized medical care to Uganda's large population.
"Our healthcare system faces daunting challenges, with regional referral hospitals bearing a substantial burden," stated Minister Kasaija.
The grant aid is expected to significantly strengthen the diagnostic and treatment capabilities of the two RRHs, benefiting patients across the region.
Deputy Head of Mission Yoshimura Tomotaka highlighted Japan's commitment to supporting Uganda's health sector.
"I sincerely hope that this grant aid assists Uganda in achieving its targets in the health sector," he remarked.
JICA Chief Representative Inoue Yoichi outlined the medical equipment to be provided under the grant, including operating tables, surgery lights, ultrasound scanners, and anesthesia machines.
