Parliament Raises Alarm Over Cancer Burden

What the report says

Parliament in Uganda has expressed concern about the country’s rising cancer burden, citing more than 30,000 new cases and about 18,000 deaths each year alongside weak screening and treatment capacity. According to Nile Post, the issue was raised during a Thursday plenary sitting, where Speaker Jacob Oboth-Oboth said the health sector needs stronger support in the next budget cycle.

The discussion focused on limited access to care, including only three radiotherapy machines nationwide and just one cancer screening van, which lawmakers said makes it difficult to reach communities beyond major towns. Legislators argued that early detection is key to improving outcomes and called for more screening equipment and better cancer services at regional referral hospitals.

State Minister for Health Dr Charles Ayume told Parliament that the government is working to decentralize cancer treatment through regional centres in Gulu, Mbale, Mbarara and Arua so patients do not have to rely mainly on Mulago. He also said the ministry is increasing public sensitisation on prevention, early screening and lifestyle changes.

The debate also touched on the distribution of ambulances to constituencies, with some lawmakers asking the ministry to explain delays and gaps. More broadly, the exchange reflects ongoing pressure on Uganda’s health system to expand cancer care infrastructure and improve access outside the capital.