The Ministry of Health has requested UGX 32.5 billion to implement hospital management systems aimed at digitising public health facilities and addressing theft of drugs and medical equipment by staff.
The request was presented by Joseph Ruyonga, Chairperson of Parliament’s Health Committee, before the Budget Committee on January 28, 2026, during discussions on the 2026/27 National Budget Framework Paper.
Ruyonga explained the need for digital systems to track hospital operations and improve accountability. “Digitisation of hospitals, we need UGX 32.5 billion for hospital management systems,” he said, emphasising the importance of a central database to monitor drug distribution and usage.
The proposal prompted calls for a comprehensive national strategy on healthcare digitisation. Achia Remigio, Vice Chairperson of the Budget Committee, stressed that the Ministry must outline how the funds will be deployed.
“We need a strategy. The committee must interrogate that. Is it across the country or only selected regional hospitals? Digitization is not just wires; it’s about networks and systems,” Achia said.
Paul Omara (Otuke County) raised concerns about coordination with other government digital initiatives. “What is our overall strategy as a country on the digitisation of our systems? Many sectors are proposing digitisation, but Parliament isn’t aware of a guiding policy. If ministries procure systems separately, it risks inefficiency and duplication,” he said.
Despite the concerns, some MPs supported the initiative. Sylvia Nayebare (Gomba Woman MP) highlighted the potential for improved transparency and healthcare planning. “Having a database and system is the backbone. We cannot accurately track how many patients received treatment or vaccines without it,” she said.
Ruyonga also noted potential challenges for cross-border healthcare, particularly in northern districts receiving patients from South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo, which could affect the accuracy of drug tracking. “When we introduce this, we need to consider how to handle patients from neighbouring countries who use our drugs,” he said.
The discussions underscore Parliament’s push for clear strategies, oversight, and coordination before approving funds for digital transformation in Uganda’s health sector. The Ministry of Health is expected to present a detailed digitisation rollout plan before the budget is finalised.
