Press Release
For Immediate Release

Uganda Cancer Institute Unveils New Division of Molecular Imaging and Therapy, Pioneering Advanced Cancer Care in Africa
Kampala, Uganda – March 17th 2025 – The Uganda Cancer Institute (UCI) is excited to announce the establishment of its new Division of Molecular Imaging and Therapy, a significant milestone in the country’s fight against cancer. This cutting-edge division, also known as the PET-Centre, will introduce advanced diagnostic and therapeutic services, enhancing cancer care capabilities not only in Uganda but across Africa.

The project is being implemented in two phases. Phase one, which is nearly 95% complete, has focused on equipping the radiotherapy bunkers and enhancing nuclear medicine capabilities. The newly established radiotherapy center at UCI boasts state-of-the-art machines, including the True Beam Linear Accelerators and advanced treatment planning systems, solidifying UCI’s status as a center of excellence in radiotherapy.

With support from the Government of Uganda, UCI’s new Division of Molecular Imaging and Therapy is set to transform cancer care with the introduction of the Symbia Intevo Bold Eco SPECT-CT scanner, a world-first in Africa. This revolutionary imaging technology will be complemented by a fully equipped radiopharmacy facility (hot labs) and clean room infrastructure, supporting the preparation of radiopharmaceuticals essential for cancer treatment. The unit is also designed to facilitate Targeted Radionuclide Therapy (TRT), a groundbreaking cancer treatment modality that uses radioactive isotopes to specifically target and treat tumors, reducing damage to healthy tissue and increasing treatment precision.

Dr. Osinde Godfrey, who leads the Nuclear Medicine department at the Uganda Cancer Institute, emphasizes the importance of this new division: “The Division of Molecular Imaging and Therapy will play a critical role in providing more accurate diagnostics and advanced treatment options, including Targeted Radionuclide Therapy, which is revolutionizing cancer care globally. We are excited to bring these transformative technologies to Uganda, offering patients a higher standard of care and improved outcomes.”

Phase II of the project is scheduled to begin in August 2025 with a groundbreaking ceremony marking the start of construction. This phase will involve the development of key facilities, including the isotope production facility, cold-kit production unit, research facilities, vivarium, PET scan facilities, interventional radiology suites, and endoscopy suites. These state-of-the-art facilities will ensure UCI remains at the forefront of cancer care and research, not just in Uganda, but throughout Africa.

Dr. Jackson Orem, Executive Director of the Uganda Cancer Institute, expressed his optimism for the future of cancer treatment in the region: “With the full support of the Ugandan government, we are creating a world-class cancer care facility. This expansion, through the establishment of the Division of Molecular Imaging and Therapy, will ensure that UCI continues to lead the way in cancer treatment, research, and training. It’s a major step toward improving the quality of life for our patients and advancing our ability to combat cancer in the region.”

The division’s creation marks a significant leap forward in Uganda’s healthcare infrastructure and offers a model for the rest of Africa in cancer care innovation. Once fully operational, this new division will provide a comprehensive array of diagnostic, treatment, and research services, positioning the Uganda Cancer Institute as a leader in molecular imaging and cancer therapy on the continent.

About the Uganda Cancer Institute (UCI)
The Uganda Cancer Institute is the leading cancer care and research center in Uganda. It is dedicated to providing high-quality cancer treatment, education, and research, working to improve the lives of cancer patients and enhance the quality of healthcare in the country and region.
For more information, please contact:

Public Relations Office, Uganda Cancer Institute
Email: christine.namulindwa@uci.or.ug
Phone: +256 414 531 773
Website: www.uci.or.ug