The CEO of the Saudi Fund for Development (SFD), Sultan Abdulrahman Al-Marshad, and the Ugandan Minister of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Matia Kasaija, signed a concessional development loan agreement valued at $30 million in Kampala today. This agreement, extended by the SFD, aims to contribute to the construction and equipping of the Heart Institute project in Kampala. The signing ceremony was attended by Uganda's Minister of Health, Dr. Jane Ruth Aceng, along with several other officials.

The primary objective of this agreement is to bolster the healthcare sector in Uganda and support the country in its third National Development Plan. This plan is focused on enhancing productivity and social well-being among the population while also addressing the treatment needs of patients suffering from cardiovascular disease. Additionally, it aims to reduce the necessity for medical treatment outside of Uganda. Importantly, this project aligns with the third sustainable development goal related to good health and well-being.

The comprehensive project encompasses the construction of the main medical building, a research center, and a residence building for doctors. It also includes the procurement of cutting-edge medical and technical equipment to increase the capacity for patient care, resulting in 222 medical beds, including 20 intensive care units. The initiative further ensures the proper equipping of surgical, emergency, and radiological rooms, as well as the provision of five fully equipped clinical and research laboratories. Additionally, it encompasses the training of healthcare professionals in the prevention and treatment of cardiac diseases.

The positive impact of this project is expected to extend to over 62,400 individuals, and it will contribute significantly to the growth of the local economy by generating both direct and indirect employment opportunities within the healthcare sector.

Source: Saudi Press Agency