Parliament has granted full approval for the government to secure international loans aimed at boosting cancer treatment services through new regional oncology centers in Mbale and Arua. This parliament approval for cancer care marks a major step in expanding access to quality oncology services across Uganda.
The Committee on National Economy, led by Hon. John Bosco Ikojo, announced that Uganda will borrow €9.4 million from UniCredit Bank Austria to fund the Mbale Cancer Centre and US$36.5 million from the Islamic Development Bank for the Arua Cancer Centre and radiotherapy equipment. The move strengthens cancer center funding to meet growing healthcare needs.
Uganda Cancer Institute (UCI) currently manages over 54,000 patients annually, with nearly 36,000 new cases each year. Legislators highlighted that Eastern and Northern Uganda—regions most affected by cancer—will greatly benefit from decentralizing oncology services. “These loans will bring treatment closer to the people,” Ikojo stated.
Deputy Speaker Thomas Tayebwa commended the initiative, emphasizing that it fulfills Vision 2040 goals by improving regional health equity. The healthcare loans for cancer centers will allow construction to begin in the 2025/2026 financial year.
The UniCredit Bank Austria loan carries a 23-year tenure, while the Islamic Development Bank financing extends over 25 years with concessional terms. The Ugandan government will contribute an additional US$4.79 million in counterpart funding. Citizens interested in regional development projects can also explore Afrikeye Travel.
This story was first reported by the Parliament of the Republic of Uganda. Read the full article here.
