Lira City, Uganda: Lira Regional Referral Hospital is set to significantly boost women’s healthcare services in Northern Uganda after the construction of its new Gynaecology and Obstetric Fistula Ward reached 90 per cent completion, with official handover expected by the end of the month.
The modern facility, valued at Shs600 million, is expected to strengthen the hospital’s capacity to manage obstetric fistula and other complex urogynecological conditions that have for years burdened women across the sub-region.
“This ward is not just a building; it is a lifeline for women who have suffered silently for years,” said Jane Ruth Aceng, the Minister of Health, who officiated the project’s groundbreaking ceremony on Saturday. “By expanding capacity and improving specialized care, we are restoring dignity and hope to mothers affected by preventable childbirth injuries.”
The new ward expands the hospital’s fistula treatment capacity from 10 beds to 45 beds, a development health experts say will sharply reduce patient congestion and long waiting times.
Hospital management revealed that the facility will include a fully equipped conference room, offices for doctors and nursing staff, and modern patient care units furnished with beds and essential accessories.
“This expansion means we can admit more patients, perform more surgeries, and follow up our clients more effectively,” said Rose Lilly Acan, a senior gynaecologist at Lira Regional Referral Hospital. “Previously, many women waited months or even years for corrective surgery.”
The ward will also house advanced medical equipment tailored for urogynecology and fistula management, including modern operation tables, anaesthesia machines, and specialized surgical tools.
“The new equipment will allow us to carry out complex reconstructive surgeries safely and efficiently,” Dr Acan said, noting that the upgrades are expected to improve patient outcomes and reduce post-surgical complications.
Health officials say once operational, the ward will position Lira Regional Referral Hospital as a major referral centre for fistula care in Northern Uganda and neighbouring regions.
Beyond infrastructure, the project places strong emphasis on human resource development. One gynaecologist from the hospital is currently undertaking a fellowship in Urogynecology and Female Pelvic Floor Reconstructive Surgery.
“This training ensures sustainability,” said Andrew Odur, the Hospital Director. “We are not only investing in buildings but also in specialized skills so that our patients can receive world-class care right here in Lira.”
Obstetric fistula, often caused by prolonged and obstructed labour without timely medical intervention, remains a major public health challenge in Uganda, disproportionately affecting women in rural and underserved communities.
“For many survivors, the condition leads to chronic incontinence, social stigma, and economic hardship,” Dr Aceng said. “Facilities like this ensure early treatment, proper rehabilitation, and reintegration into society.”
With construction now in its final stages, hospital officials say preparations are underway for the official handover and commissioning of the ward before the end of the month.
“This is a proud moment for Lira and the entire region,” Dr Odur said. “We are witnessing a turning point in how women’s reproductive health conditions are managed.”
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