Uganda Cancer Institute has unveiled upgraded radiotherapy facilities, marking a major milestone in boosting Ugandaโs cancer treatment capacity and improving patient care. The modernised unit was toured by Board Chairperson Damalie Nakanjako and Executive Director Jackson Orem, highlighting expanded infrastructure and redesigned, patient-centred spaces aimed at enhancing comfort, efficiency, and quality of care.
Central to the upgrade are three state-of-the-art TrueBeam linear accelerators, which deliver highly precise radiation therapy, targeting cancer cells while protecting healthy tissueโreducing side effects and shortening treatment time. Prof. Nakanjako described the development as transformative, noting the facility can now treat up to 300 patients daily, significantly increasing capacity and reducing the need for Ugandans to seek care abroad.
Over the past two years, the government has invested more than Shs 150 billion in the project, improving access to affordable and timely treatment. Dr. Orem emphasised that the upgraded centre will also serve patients from across East Africa, strengthening UCIโs position as a regional hub for specialised cancer care.
Additionally, Isaac Kajja highlighted improvements in nuclear medicine, enhancing diagnosis and management of complex cases. With about 37,000 new cancer cases recorded annually, the expansion is expected to play a vital role in addressing Ugandaโs growing cancer burden while offering renewed hope through accessible, high-quality care.
