Uganda Short 294 Ambulances, Health Minister Reveals Amid Japanese Donation

Uganda’s emergency medical services face a critical shortfall, with the country operating just half the required ambulances. Health Minister Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng disclosed that 590 vehicles are needed, including 510 Type B basic life support ambulances, 54 Type C advanced units, six air ambulances, and 20 marine ones. Currently, only 296 are available—285 Type B and 11 Type C—creating a gap of 294.

Speaking at the Ministry of Health headquarters, Dr. Aceng highlighted that requirements stem from policy: one Type B per 100,000 people at constituency level and one Type C per two million at regional level. Coverage has risen from under 2% in 2020/2021 to 54% now, aiding reductions in maternal and neonatal deaths, which make up 61% of transfers, and swift epidemic control like Ebola outbreaks.

The minister received 23 donated second-hand ambulances from Japan, allocated to constituencies such as Buikwe, Masindi, Pallisa, and others with better roads, prioritizing AFCON-hosting areas. Japanese Ambassador Sasayama Takuya emphasized ongoing support, including training and prior donations since 2020. Oyam District Health Officer Dr. Thomas Malinga noted how an extra ambulance could have prevented a recent maternal death due to delays.

Japan also donated seven fire trucks to police, with Inspector General Abas Byakagaba praising their role in curbing accident severity and fires. However, Dr. Aceng warned against misuse, citing cases where ambulances vanished en route to destinations, echoing Auditor General findings of 15 untraceable units worth Shs5.06 billion at Moroto Hospital.

Challenges persist, including staff shortages, funding issues, mechanical breakdowns, and substandard vehicles at hospitals like Kiruddu and Gulu. The government plans to address these in three years via the National Ambulance System, with funds allocated for 50 Type B and two Type C ambulances next year.

Source: Daily Monitor (Uganda)