Uganda and Algeria Sign Major Cooperation Agreement, Katakwi Hospital Set for UGX 50 Billion Upgrade
In a significant move to bolster bilateral ties, the Governments of Uganda and Algeria have signed a substantial cooperation agreement aimed at funding key development projects in Uganda. The agreement was signed in Algeria by Uganda’s Finance Minister, Matia Kasaija, and his Algerian counterpart, Abdelkarim Bouzred.
The pact, facilitated through the Algerian International Cooperation for Solidarity and Development Agency, will see Algeria provide financial support for transformative projects in Uganda. The first and flagship initiative under this new framework is the expansion and rehabilitation of Katakwi General Hospital, backed by a generous grant of USD 13.7 million (approximately UGX 50 billion).
Minister Kasaija hailed the signing as a “another milestone in the ever-growing friendship and solidarity between the two nations.” He emphasized the profound impact the hospital project will have on the local population, stating it will “significantly transform health care delivery for Katakwi and the neighboring districts, benefiting over half a million people, not only for today, but for generations to come.”
The project is designed to address critical challenges in the region’s healthcare system. By expanding the facility’s capabilities, it will ease access to specialized care, drastically reduce the long travel distances patients currently endure, and lessen the associated financial burdens of transport, accommodation, and food for their families.
Furthermore, the upgraded hospital is expected to decongest overstretched regional referral hospitals and contribute to strengthening the overall health system through enhanced human resource development.
Looking ahead, Minister Kasaija already proposed a second phase for the project, which would include the construction of additional modern wards, the provision of advanced medical equipment, and comprehensive training programs for health workers.
In his remarks, Algerian Finance Minister Abdelkarim Bouzred applauded the strong bilateral relations between Algeria and Uganda. He formally pledged, on behalf of the Algerian government, his country’s full commitment to supporting the successful implementation of the cooperation agreement.
This agreement marks a new chapter in Uganda-Algeria relations, with a direct and immediate benefit to the healthcare infrastructure in the Teso sub-region.
