The Archbishop of the Church of Uganda, Stephen Kaziimba Mugalu, has called on the government to fast-track the establishment of a national health insurance scheme, warning that rising medical costs are pushing many Ugandans to seek treatment abroad.

Speaking at a function marking over a century of service at Mengo Hospital, Kaziimba said the high cost of healthcare continues to lock out ordinary citizens from accessing essential medical services.

“Medical expenses have gone so high for a local Ugandan. I want to invite the government to consider national health insurance,” he said.

The Archbishop proposed that a portion of Uganda’s anticipated oil revenues be ring-fenced to support a national health insurance programme, arguing that such a mechanism would significantly ease the financial burden on households.

“Not every Ugandan is able to meet medical bills. Developed countries have health insurance systems that support their people,” he added, emphasizing the need for long-term, sustainable healthcare financing.

Kaziimba also urged Ugandans to regain confidence in local health facilities, noting that improvements in infrastructure and service delivery can reduce the need for costly medical trips abroad. He pointed to ongoing upgrades at Mengo Hospital as an example of the growing capacity within the country’s health sector.

The hospital has recently invested in modernising its facilities, including the launch of a new ward designed to improve patient comfort and overall care standards. Kaziimba commended the hospital’s leadership for maintaining a strong legacy while adapting to current healthcare demands.

He further highlighted the historical role of the church in Uganda’s social development, particularly in education and healthcare. According to the Archbishop, the Church of Uganda operates thousands of schools and hundreds of health facilities across the country, making it a key partner in national development.

Kaziimba said strengthening healthcare systems requires continued investment in infrastructure, personnel, and service delivery, adding that improved local capacity will help restore public trust in Uganda’s medical system.

Meanwhile, Mengo Hospital marked more than 130 years of service with a renewed focus on infrastructure development and patient-centred care. The hospital’s Executive Director, Simon Peter Nsingo, said the institution is shifting beyond traditional curative care to provide a more holistic healing environment.

“This year, Mengo Hospital celebrates 130 years of service to humanity. We are investing in healthcare that is not just about treatment, but also about creating a welcoming and conducive environment for our patients,” Nsingo said.

He explained that the hospital is implementing a five-year strategy aimed at improving infrastructure and enhancing service delivery, with a focus on creating a calm, respectful, and patient-friendly environment.

Nsingo said the recent upgrades, including newly renovated wards, are intended to meet the growing demand for quality healthcare services while improving patient experience.

“We are making our facilities welcoming and calming so that every patient feels respected and cared for,” he said, calling on Ugandans to utilize local health services.

The developments come at a time when healthcare providers are increasingly investing in modern infrastructure to improve service delivery and rebuild public confidence in domestic medical institutions.

The Bishop of Namirembe Diocese, Moses Banja, also hailed the transformation at Mengo Hospital, describing it as a major milestone in elevating healthcare standards.

Banja said the progress reflects years of planning, investment, and commitment by the hospital’s leadership, board, and staff.

“We are witnessing what we have been praying for to see Mengo Hospital grow to a higher level,” he said.

Banja, who previously served on the hospital’s board and now serves as Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees, attributed the success to teamwork and unity within the institution.

“Unity is very crucial. If you want to develop, you must work together,” he said.

He noted that the hospital is transitioning from scattered, low-rise structures to modern multi-storey facilities capable of accommodating more patients and improving efficiency in service delivery.

According to Banja, some of the upgraded wards now meet international standards, positioning Mengo Hospital as a competitive healthcare provider within the region.

He also highlighted the hospital’s inclusive approach to care, noting that patients from different religious backgrounds have expressed satisfaction with the services provided.