Makerere University Unveils Expansion Plans for Lung Institute
In a significant development, Makerere University Lung Institute (MLI) is gearing up to celebrate its decade-long journey with a grand expansion. The Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, recently presided over the official handover of the construction site for the new Lung Institute complex, marking a pivotal moment in Uganda's healthcare landscape.
The upcoming six-level facility, set to rise at Mulago, holds the promise of revolutionizing respiratory health in the region. With an estimated budget of 3.6 billion Ugandan shillings, the project will be a collaborative effort between CK Associates and Mulago National Referral Hospital, who have generously provided the land.
At the handover ceremony, Prof. Nawangwe expressed his gratitude to Mulago Hospital for their partnership, emphasizing the importance of the Lung Institute's contributions to Uganda's healthcare system, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. He highlighted the devastating impact of respiratory illnesses, stating, 'I have witnessed the tragic loss of lives to these diseases, and MLI's efforts have proven invaluable in addressing these challenges.'
The MLI Board Chairperson, Prof. Charles Ibingira, revealed the Institute's plans to establish a Pulmonary Care Centre, an Intensive Care Unit (ICU), and specialized areas dedicated to human resource development and advanced lung health services. This expansion aims to further solidify MLI's position as a leading institution in the field.
Prof. Bruce Kirenga, the MLI Director, underscored the Institute's growing research capabilities, despite the current space constraints. He proudly mentioned the second-largest cold room in Uganda, a state-of-the-art facility at -80°C, capable of storing critical clinical and research materials. Prof. Kirenga also announced the upcoming memorandum of understanding with Mulago, aiming to enhance collaboration in research and clinical care.
Dr. Rosemary Byanyima, the Executive Director of Mulago National Referral Hospital, praised the Lung Institute's commitment to clinical research and trials, attributing these initiatives to the transformation of respiratory healthcare in Uganda. The handover event signifies a new chapter for MLI, aligning with its 10-year anniversary and its ambitious goal of becoming a regional hub for lung health, research, and innovation.
