Bishop Jjumba breaking ground to officially commence the construction works at Kitovu Hospital
MASAKA — The Bishop of Masaka Diocese, Rt. Rev. Serverus Jjumba, has officially launched a major renovation and expansion project at St. Joseph’s Hospital Kitovu aimed at upgrading the facility .
The renovation forms part of the preparations to mark the hospital’s 75th anniversary. As part of the project, a new three-storey building will be constructed to accommodate the Outpatient Department (OPD) and a medical ward.
St. Joseph’s Hospital Kitovu was founded in 1955 by Archbishop Joseph Kiwanuka Nakabaale, Uganda’s first African Catholic bishop.
The hospital was later entrusted to the Medical Missionary Sisters for management before being handed over to the Daughters of Mary and the diocesan administration under the leadership of Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Katabaazi.
While breaking ground to officially commence the construction works, Bishop Jjumba said the Diocese has a responsibility to fulfil Archbishop Kiwanuka’s vision of promoting good health through the provision of quality healthcare services to all people without discrimination.
”We have a duty to continue the dream of Archbishop Joseph Kiwanuka by ensuring that people receive quality healthcare services regardless of their background,” Bishop Jjumba said.
The Bishop revealed that the initial plan was simply to renovate the existing structure. However, a detailed assessment found the building to be in a deteriorated condition, prompting discussions about demolishing it entirely and constructing a new facility.
”Our original intention was renovation, but after examining the building, we discovered that it was in a very poor state. We considered bringing it down completely and constructing a new one. After receiving satisfactory explanations from the project leaders, I was convinced to come and officially launch the project,” he explained.
Bishop Jjumba described the laying of the foundation stone as a symbol of commitment and accountability, noting that symbols play a significant role in the Catholic Church.
”The foundation is a sign that the management is committed to achieving something meaningful. It is also a symbol of accountability to the people we serve,” he said.
He called upon all stakeholders, well-wishers, and members of the community to support the project to ensure its successful completion.
Masaka Diocese Health Coordinator, Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Katabaazi, highlighted several challenges affecting the project.
He cited the rising cost of construction materials driven by global crises such as wars, disease outbreaks, and high taxation.
The challenges contributed to delays in the project, which had originally been scheduled to commence at the beginning of 2026 but instead started in the middle of the year.
The Pookino of Buddu County, Jude Muleke, commended Bishop Jjumba for building upon the achievements of his predecessors rather than neglecting them.
”I thank Bishop Jjumba for carrying forward the work of those who came before him and improving it for the benefit of the community,” Muleke said.
He urged leaders at all levels to embrace a culture of improving institutions they inherit and leaving them in a better state for future generations.
Masaka City Mayor Florence Namayanja praised the Catholic Church for its significant contribution to Uganda’s health and education sectors, saying the Church’s efforts greatly complement government programmes.
She also applauded the hospital’s management and board for their commitment to providing quality healthcare services to Ugandans.
According to Eng. Innocent Lujjero of Block Technical Services, the company contracted to undertake the works, the project is expected to be completed within one year.
The new three-storey structure, estimated to cost approximately Shs6 billion, will house a reception area, pharmacy, OPD services, medical wards, and other facilities designed to enhance patient care and improve the hospital’s operational efficiency.
The project is being funded by the Government of Germany through the support of Convoy of Hope and Kyamulibwa Anti-AIDS Program (KAP). Under the funding agreement, the Diocese is required to contribute 25% of the total project cost towards the construction and equipping of the ground floor facility.
The estimated cost of constructing the ground floor is UGX 1.5 billion, exclusive of equipment and furnishings.
Once completed, the project is expected to significantly strengthen healthcare service delivery at St. Joseph’s Hospital Kitovu and position the institution to better serve the growing population of Masaka City and the surrounding districts.
