Govt earmarks sh2b for Soroti hospital upgrade
Okia noted that the hospital's infrastructure has deteriorated significantly, with electrical wiring dating back to the 1940s. He said the outdated infrastructure has contributed to safety risks for medical staff and patients, underscoring the urgent need for the planned renovations and expansion.
Soroti Regional Referral Hospital in Soroti City. (File)
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The Government has allocated sh2b for infrastructure development at Soroti Regional Referral Hospital in Soroti City.
For almost 10 years, Uganda's Parliament has consistently highlighted the declining state of Soroti Hospital during discussions on the national health budget and government accountability, and legislators have called for allocation of funds to improve the facility's outdated infrastructure.
Despite repeated government assurances and plans for redevelopment, the hospital continues to function in outdated facilities.
Since its establishment as a Regional Referral Hospital in 1996, Soroti has served as the main referral health facility for Teso sub-region and beyond, catering for a growing catchment population of approximately 2.7 million.
Hospital medics have repeatedly expressed concern that despite the facility's expanded mandate, no significant infrastructure improvements have taken place since it became a referral center, leaving many buildings over 80 years old in disrepair and causing severe overcrowding in outpatient wards, and diagnostic areas as patient numbers surge.
The announcement was made during the Shekinah Praise celebrations held at Erimu College in Soroti City on Sunday, August 16, 2026. The event was organised by renowned Teso gospel artiste Mary Mwanika of the Pentecostal Assemblies of God Soroti City Church-Agip.
Okia noted that the hospital's infrastructure has deteriorated significantly, with electrical wiring dating back to the 1940s. "This outdated system has led to electric shocks affecting medical staff in the theatre," he said.
Soroti Regional Referral Hospital was established in the mid-1920s as a treatment center for syphilis. It later became a district hospital in 1978 and was officially elevated to a regional referral hospital in 1996.
Okia, who was representing the Kumi Municipality MP, Silus Aogon, as the chief guest, expressed concern that they are advocating for the Ministry of Health to fulfill the Government commitment regarding the renovation and expansion of Soroti Regional Referral Hospital.
"We are also addressing the recruitment of staff, procurement of equipment, and electricity connections for the newly completed Otatai Health Centre III, which will help alleviate congestion at Eastern Division Health Centre III, the regional referral hospital, and Princess Diana Health Centre IV," observed Okia.
“The gospel artistes uplift and heal us through their music, inspiring politicians like me during challenging times,” he said.
Geoffrey Omolo, the Katakwi district chairperson, reflected on how his lifelong dedication to church services, starting from his youth, led him to roles as an interpreter, youth leader, pastor, reverend, and ultimately a politician.
“Between 2000 and 2001, while studying in Soroti, I dedicated my free time to the church, attending early morning services, participating in Saturday prayer and fasting, and experiencing a profound spiritual awakening that has guided my journey from youth leader to pastor, reverend and now to LC5 chairperson," Omolo said.
Ben Okiria, the Pallisa district chairperson, emphasised the need for worshipers to continue praying for leaders, highlighting the significance of divine guidance for addressing community needs.
A lifelong worshiper, Okiria led the congregation in one of his favourite praise songs, ‘Emalata lo asubi Akuj keda Akwap’ (Let us praise God who made Heaven and Earth), expressing how much this song enriches his spirituality.
“I grew up in the church, and my commitment remains strong. As I serve the Lord in my role as LC5 chairperson, I always remember that I’m still a child in the house of God,” Okiria shared.