St. Joseph’s Hospital Kitovu is seeking over Shs12 billion for a comprehensive renovation of its aging infrastructure as it prepares to mark 75 years of service in 2030.
Founded in 1955 as a small outpatient clinic by the Medical Missionaries of Mary with the support of Archbishop Joseph Kiwanuka, the hospital has grown into one of the leading Church-founded health facilities in the area.
Over the decades, its management has been overseen by different religious congregations, including the Daughters of Mary (Bwanda).
Rev. Fr. Emmanuel Katabaazi, the Health Coordinator for Masaka Diocese and the current hospital administrator, said the facility’s infrastructure has significantly aged and can no longer adequately meet modern healthcare standards.
He explained that as a Church-founded, private not-for-profit hospital, the small fees collected from patients only cover staff salaries and essential medical supplies and cannot sustain major construction or renovation works.
He noted that the large-scale facelift is part of preparations for the hospital’s 75th anniversary in 2030 and is intended to ensure that the facility remains relevant, safe, and capable of delivering quality healthcare services.
The renovation project officially commenced in 2025, with priority given to the Operating Theatre, which was in poor condition and posed potential health risks to patients.
The theatre has since been fully refurbished into a modern surgical facility. The Children’s Ward has also undergone a complete transformation and now includes a modern design with a dedicated play area to improve the healing environment for young patients.
So far, over Shs500 million has been spent on the renovations, thanks to support from partners including Open Hearts for Orphans and Home Free Canada.
The newly renovated Children’s Ward was officially opened during a thanksgiving Mass led by Msgr. Dr. Dominic Ssengooba, who represented the Bishop of Masaka.
He emphasized that a clean and welcoming hospital environment contributes significantly to patient recovery, noting that a beautiful and dignified setting gives hope to patients even before they receive medication.
He also urged health workers to serve with compassion and in the spirit of Christ.
Founders of Open Hearts for Orphans, Mr. and Mrs. Bartilinski, donated hospital beds and medical equipment worth Shs52 million.
They expressed satisfaction that their contributions were put to good use and pledged continued support to improve child healthcare globally.
They observed that when children fall sick, mothers often endure sleepless nights and emotional strain, stressing that the world needs well-established health facilities to improve healthcare for children and calling upon everyone to play a role in building a healthier future generation.
Home Free Canada, represented by Ms. Jennifer, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to supporting vulnerable children by paying hospital bills and combating malnutrition.
However, she urged parents to take greater responsibility in providing proper nutrition for their children, emphasizing the importance of balanced diets that help build strong bodies and provide energy for growth.
Masaka City Mayor Florence Namayanja pledged the city council’s support by reducing certain construction-related taxes and fees to ease the hospital’s financial burden during the renovation process.
With the Operating Theatre and Children’s Ward now completed, the hospital’s next focus will be the renovation of the Outpatient Department (OPD) and the Medical Ward.
The thanksgiving ceremony drew several dignitaries, including Pokino Jude Muleke, city officials, hospital staff, and medical students, reflecting strong community backing behind the hospital’s renewal drive.
As it approaches its 75-year milestone, St. Joseph’s Hospital Kitovu is positioning itself not only to celebrate its rich history but also to secure its future as a cornerstone of healthcare in Masaka and beyond.
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