Oyam district receives new ambulance following 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, registration number 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 the Oyam District 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 towards improving emergency medical services in the area.

Speaking at the ceremony, Hon. Alum Ogwang emphasised the importance of accessible and timely healthcare, especially in rural communities. She reaffirmed her commitment to advocating for improved health infrastructure and commended 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 would greatly enhance the district’s capacity to respond to medical emergencies and safely transport patients, particularly expectant mothers. He urged the Chief Administrative Officer’s office to ensure the ambulance is used strictly for patient transport and not for carrying deceased individuals.

Mr. Oyuku also highlighted the timely arrival of the ambulance, which coincides 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, commended Hon. Alum Ogwang for her strong lobbying efforts and pledged to ensure the ambulance is put to proper use for the benefit of the district.

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

Betty Owani, the 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.