By Aggrey Baba
For decades, cancer patients in Uganda have had to travel long distances to Kampala to access specialized care at the Uganda Cancer Institute (UCI). However, change is on the horizon. The UCI, a recognized East African Centre of Excellence in cancer care, is now taking services closer to the people through the creation of regional cancer centers.
Speaking at a media briefing, on Tuesday, UCI Executive Director Dr. Jackson Orem emphasized the importance of decentralization in improving cancer treatment and prevention across the country. “The public wants services to be as close as possible to them,” he noted. “This is why we have been working on setting up regional cancer centers, and I am happy to say we are making great progress.”
Under the current National Development Plan, the government had set a goal of establishing four regional cancer centers in Mbarara, Mbale, Gulu, and Arua.
Dr. Orem confirmed that the target is well on its way to being met. “We already have a center in Gulu set for commissioning, and funding has been secured for the remaining three. Construction is expected to begin at the start of the next financial year,” he revealed.
Cancer remains a major health concern in Uganda, requiring a multi-faceted approach. Dr. Orem outlined the key pillars of UCI’s work, which include patient care, training specialists, research, and prevention efforts. He stressed the importance of early detection and preventive measures, especially for cancers linked to infections, such as those preventable through vaccination.
With its strong history dating back to the 1960s, the Uganda Cancer Institute has grown into a regional leader in cancer care. Now, with the establishment of regional centers, more Ugandans will have access to life-saving treatment without having to travel long distances.
As the saying goes, a tree is best climbed when it is near you, and soon, cancer care will be within reach for many more people across the country. (For comments on this story, get back to us on 0705579994 [WhatsApp line], 0779411734 & 041 4674611 or email us at mulengeranews@gmail.com).
