Construction works to upgrade Buseruka Health Centre III to Health Centre IV will officially begin on Friday, June 12, in Hoima District as Uganda continues to strengthen infrastructure ahead of co-hosting the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The project, valued at approximately UGX 6.9 billion, will be implemented by the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) Engineering Brigade. Local authorities are expected to launch the construction phase at a ceremony scheduled for 1:00pm, with officials from the Ministry of Health, district leadership and the UPDF expected to attend.
Once completed, the upgraded facility will offer a significantly higher level of healthcare services than those currently available at the health centre. Planned works include the construction of a new Accident and Emergency Unit, a radiology department, enhanced laboratory and pharmacy facilities, additional consultation rooms, a fully equipped operating theatre, expanded inpatient wards, staff housing and a standard outpatient department.
The new theatre will be capable of handling emergency surgical procedures, including caesarean sections, while the upgraded facility will also provide blood transfusion services and improved diagnostic capabilities.
The project forms part of a wider government investment of UGX 91.05 billion in health infrastructure across Hoima and Masindi districts as Uganda prepares to host AFCON matches in 2027 alongside Kenya and Tanzania.
Health sector improvements in the region also include major works at Hoima Regional Referral Hospital, where a new Accident and Emergency Unit, inpatient facilities, renovations and the operationalisation of intensive care services are planned. Similar upgrades are also underway at Masindi General Hospital.
The investments are intended to support the delivery of medical services during the tournament, particularly around Hoima City Stadium, the newly completed 20,000-capacity venue that will host AFCON matches.
Officials say the upgraded Buseruka Health Centre IV will provide an important layer of emergency medical support for players, officials, supporters and residents during the tournament while also delivering long-term benefits to communities in the Albertine region.
Beyond AFCON 2027, the project is expected to improve access to specialised healthcare, reduce referrals to distant facilities and strengthen emergency response services in one of Uganda’s fastest-growing areas.
