Oyam District Receives Ambulance After MP’s Lobbying

15 October 2025, 7:55 am

By Eman yonah oruk

The Ministry of Health has officially handed over a brand-new ambulance UG3100193 to Oyam District, marking a vital boost to the region’s healthcare transport system. The donation was made possible through the lobbying efforts of Oyam Woman Member of Parliament, Hon. Santa Alum Ogwang.

The handover ceremony took place today at the Oyam District headquarters, where Hon. Alum Ogwang presented the ambulance on behalf of the Ministry. District leaders, health officials, and community members gathered to witness the event, which represents a significant step toward improving emergency medical services in the area.

Speaking at the ceremony, Hon. Alum Ogwang emphasized the importance of accessible and timely healthcare, especially in rural communities. She reaffirmed her commitment to advocating for improved health infrastructure and praised the Ministry of Health for upgrading several Health Centre IIs in Oyam District to Health Centre IIIs.

Oyam District LC5 Chairperson Benson Walter Dilla Oyuku expressed gratitude to both the Ministry and Hon. Alum Ogwang for their continued support. He noted that the ambulance will greatly enhance the district’s capacity to respond to medical emergencies and safely transport patients, especially pregnant mothers. He urged the Chief Administrative Officer’s office to ensure the ambulance is used strictly for patient transport—not for carrying deceased individuals. He also highlighted the timely arrival of the ambulance, coinciding with the planned upgrade of Anyeke Health Centre IV to a district hospital—one of only two such upgrades in Uganda, alongside Kasese.

Fredrick Herbat Kitutu, the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) of Oyam District, in his address, appreciated the District Member of Parliament for her strong lobbying capacity and promised to ensure that the ambulance is put to good use for the betterment of Oyam District.

District Health Officer Thomas Mailing welcomed the donation, saying it will ease their daily operations. He explained that the district receives an average of ten referral cases per day from both Oyam South and North, and the new ambulance will help reduce delays when multiple calls come in from different health units. He added that the improved transport capacity will enhance healthcare delivery and reduce preventable deaths, especially since Anyeke previously had only two ambulances.

Betty Owani, Secretary for Health and Social Services, also applauded the Ministry and Hon. Alum Ogwang for their persistence in securing the ambulance. She encouraged residents to seek medical attention at health facilities whenever they experience health concerns.

This donation aligns with the government’s broader efforts to strengthen Uganda’s health system and ensure equitable access to essential services across all regions.