The Government of Uganda has officially launched a cutting-edge Catheterization Laboratory (Cath Lab) at the Uganda Heart Institute (UHI), marking a significant leap forward in the country’s healthcare infrastructure. The new facility, unveiled on December 17, 2024, is the most advanced of its kind in Africa and promises to transform cardiac care for Ugandans.
A Milestone in Cardiovascular Healthcare
The Cath Lab, located in Block C of the Mulago Hospital Complex, will be a key asset in diagnosing and treating cardiovascular conditions through minimally invasive procedures. Its installation marks a pivotal moment in Uganda’s journey to modernize its health services and reduce the need for patients to travel abroad for critical heart procedures. The Lab, fully funded by the Government of Uganda at a cost of UGX 7.98 billion, will serve as a hub for over 10,000 complex heart procedures over its operational lifespan.
The unveiling ceremony was presided over by the Honorable Minister of Health, Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng, who described the new Cath Lab as a “lifeline for thousands of Ugandans.” She emphasized that the facility would reduce the financial burden on families and improve accessibility to life-saving heart treatments. “This represents a step forward in ensuring that patients no longer need to travel abroad for critical heart procedures,” she said.
Advanced Technology to Save Lives
The new Cath Lab is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, making it the only facility of its kind in Africa. It replaces the previous Cath Lab, which had been in service since 2012 and decommissioned in October 2024. The older facility, funded by the government, carried out over 6,000 life-saving procedures during its 12 years of operation. With the upgraded technology, UHI will now be able to perform more advanced cardiovascular diagnostics, interventional treatments, and manage cardiovascular emergencies efficiently.
Dr. Omagino O.O. John, the Executive Director of the Uganda Heart Institute, highlighted the importance of the new Cath Lab in improving cardiac healthcare in the country. He noted that the government’s investment in advanced infrastructure, including the Cath Lab, the restoration of the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), and the upcoming construction of a new building, reflects Uganda’s commitment to providing world-class healthcare.
Tackling the Heart Disease Burden
Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of death globally, accounting for 17.9 million deaths annually. In Uganda, the situation is equally alarming. About one in four adults suffers from hypertension, a primary risk factor for heart disease, and approximately 16,000 babies are born each year with congenital heart conditions, half of whom require urgent treatment. Rheumatic heart disease continues to affect around 300,000 schoolchildren, making it the most common acquired heart condition in the country.
The new Cath Lab will be a game-changer in addressing these pressing issues. It will significantly reduce the need for costly overseas referrals by offering cutting-edge treatment options locally. In addition to treating adult patients, the facility will help treat congenital heart conditions in children, addressing a critical gap in pediatric cardiac care in Uganda.
Expanding Access and Capacity
The opening of the Cath Lab is just one part of a broader effort to enhance the Uganda Heart Institute’s capacity to provide specialized cardiovascular care. In addition to the installation of the Cath Lab, the government has approved funding for the construction of a new building to further strengthen UHI’s operations. Plans are also in place to recruit additional staff to meet the rising demand for heart care services. Furthermore, the government will support 1,000 patients annually by funding their treatment.
To further support the Institute’s workforce, a staff housing project will break ground in January 2025, offering much-needed accommodation to UHI staff and improving retention rates.
Shifting Public Perception and Improving Health Outcomes
The Chairperson of the Uganda Heart Institute Board, Dr. James Magara, spoke about the importance of changing public perceptions regarding healthcare in Uganda. “World-class healthcare is now available here in Uganda,” he affirmed, recounting instances where patients who previously sought treatment abroad were now able to receive care at UHI due to the advanced facilities. Dr. Magara also called for the establishment of additional Cath Labs across the country, recommending one for every one million people to ensure equitable access to cardiac care.
Looking to the Future
The launch of the new Cath Lab positions the Uganda Heart Institute as a leader in regional cardiac care and a key player in improving health outcomes for Ugandans. The Institute remains focused on its mission to promote health through preventive and clinical cardiovascular services, as well as cutting-edge research and training. With the support of the government and the new facilities, UHI is on track to becoming a global center of excellence in cardiovascular services.
As Dr. Aceng concluded, the government is committed to expanding access to specialized healthcare, investing in modern infrastructure, and prioritizing the health of the Ugandan people. The commissioning of the new Cath Lab is just the beginning of a broader vision to improve heart care across the country.
By Akena Martin
