UCI AND MUST STRENGTHEN PARTNERSHIP TO ESTABLISH MBARARA CANCER CENTER.

Our leadership, led by Executive Director Dr. Jackson Orem, on friday afternoon, held a strategic meeting with the leadership of Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST), headed by Vice Chancellor Prof. Pauline Byakika-Kibwika, to advance plans for the establishment of the UCI–Mbarara Cancer Center.

During the meeting, MUST pledged to allocate 8.5 acres of land for the development of a comprehensive regional cancer center that will provide treatment, research, and training services. The facility will bring world-class cancer care closer to communities in western Uganda and neighboring regions, reducing the need for patients to travel long distances to Kampala.

Funding for the project—totaling USD 30 million—has been secured by the Government of Uganda. The investment will cover construction, equipping, and capacity building to ensure the new center meets international standards of oncology care.

Speaking at the meeting, Dr. Jackson Orem, Executive Director of UCI, commended MUST for its collaboration and commitment to improving health outcomes.

“This partnership represents a critical milestone in our effort to decentralize cancer services and strengthen regional capacity for cancer prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and research,” said Dr. Orem. “With this center, we are one step closer to achieving equitable access to quality cancer care for all Ugandans.”

In her remarks, Prof. Pauline Byakika-Kibwika, Vice Chancellor of MUST, reaffirmed the University’s dedication to supporting national health priorities.

“MUST is proud to partner with the Uganda Cancer Institute and Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital in establishing this landmark facility,” said Prof. Byakika-Kibwika. “Beyond improving service delivery, the center will serve as a hub for training and research—empowering the next generation of cancer specialists in Uganda.”

Adding his voice, Dr. Deus Twesigye, Ag. Director of Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital, welcomed the project as a timely boost to the regional health system.

“We see many patients presenting with cancers at the regional referral, though the clinic space currently available is limited,” said Dr. Twesigye. “The establishment of this center will greatly enhance early detection, timely treatment, and referral efficiency across the region.”

Construction of the UCI–Mbarara Cancer Center is expected to commence in the next Financial Year, following the completion of all preparatory works.