UgandaToday: Makerere University Lung Institute Expansion Project Site Officially Handed Over
By Zahara Namuli | Uganda Today News
As Makerere University Lung Institute (MLI) prepares to celebrate its 10-year anniversary later this month, a major milestone has been achieved — the official handover of the construction site for its new multi-level complex.
The ceremony, presided over by Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe, Vice Chancellor of Makerere University, marked the start of the Institute’s long-anticipated expansion project at Mulago National Referral Hospital.
A UGX 3.6 Billion Investment in Lung Health
The new six-storey Lung Institute complex, to be constructed at Mulago, is part of MLI’s broader vision to strengthen respiratory health research, care, and training across Uganda and the region.
The UGX 3.6 billion first phase will be implemented by CK Associates, on land graciously allocated by Mulago Hospital. The facility is expected to transform Makerere University’s capacity in clinical research, postgraduate training, and specialized lung care.
Prof. Nawangwe: A Testament to Partnership and Impact
Speaking during the handover, Prof. Nawangwe commended Mulago Hospital for its generosity and reaffirmed Makerere’s commitment to advancing medical research through strong institutional partnerships.
Prof. Barnabas Nawangwe (left) officiates the site handover for the Makerere University Lung Institute expansion project at Mulago.
“The contribution of the Lung Institute to Uganda’s health sector cannot be ignored, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic,” he remarked. “MLI is extremely important — I have witnessed many people lose their lives to respiratory illnesses. Since MLI has demonstrated that it can address these challenges, we must support it.”
State-of-the-Art Pulmonary and Intensive Care Facilities
Prof. Charles Ibingira, Chairperson of the MLI Board, revealed that the new complex will host a Pulmonary Care Centre, an Intensive Care Unit, and facilities to bolster human resource development in respiratory medicine.
“These new facilities will position MLI as a regional hub for specialized lung health services,” Prof. Ibingira emphasized.
Prof. Bruce Kirenga: Growing Research Capacity
MLI Director Prof. Bruce Kirenga expressed optimism about the expansion, noting that despite space constraints, the Institute has already achieved notable milestones — including operating Uganda’s second-largest cold storage facility (a minus 80°C, 2300cc unit used for preserving clinical and research materials).
“Mulago has allocated us this space to synergize our work,” said Prof. Kirenga. “We are finalizing a memorandum of understanding with Mulago to further strengthen collaboration in research and clinical care.”
Mulago Applauds Makerere’s Research Excellence
Dr. Rosemary Byanyima, Executive Director of Mulago National Referral Hospital, lauded the Lung Institute’s investments in clinical trials and translational research.
She emphasized that initiatives like MLI’s are instrumental in transforming respiratory care and contributing to evidence-based medical practice in Uganda.
A Decade of Progress, A Future of Innovation
The groundbreaking event ushers in a new chapter for Makerere University Lung Institute — a decade after its founding. The expansion symbolizes the Institute’s unwavering commitment to becoming a regional center of excellence in lung health, research, and innovation.
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