Kabale District has received a state-of-the-art mobile digital X-ray machine equipped with computer-aided detection (CAD) software, aimed at enhancing tuberculosis (TB) screening and diagnosis in hard-to-reach areas.
The equipment was delivered by the Ministry of Health under the National Tuberculosis and Leprosy Programme (NTLP), with support from the United States Government. It is part of a nationwide initiative through which Uganda has acquired 48 portable digital X-ray machines and 33 tricycles fitted with TB LAMP diagnostic equipment, all designed to expand access to TB and lung disease screening in underserved communities.
The mobile X-ray unit (Serial Number: MOB6583/THICTB-2414) will be stationed at Rubaya Health Centre IV and deployed for outreach services across Kabale District and neighboring areas.
Speaking during the handover on Friday, Dr. Raymond Byaruhanga, Senior Technical Advisor for Communicable Diseases at the Ministry of Health, emphasized that the machine is expected to significantly reduce the workload at Kabale Regional Referral Hospital and eliminate the need for residents to seek costly diagnostic services from private clinics.
He urged district leaders and health stakeholders to ensure the machine is used strictly for public benefit and maintained in excellent condition.
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Paddy Mwesigye, Assistant District Health Officer in charge of Maternal and Child Health, welcomed the donation and assured the public that the Health Department has instituted strict protocols to manage the equipment. He tasked the District TB Focal Person with overseeing its operation and ensuring compliance with national health standards.
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Representing the Chief Administrative Officer, Senior Assistant Secretary Emmy Namanya highlighted that the mobile nature of the machine is especially suited for Kabale’s mountainous terrain.
Presiding over the ceremony, Kabale Deputy Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Christopher Aine urged the government to officially designate Kabale as a hard-to-reach district due to its rugged geography. He expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Health, noting that the new X-ray machine would help improve access to vital diagnostic services while reducing the financial burden on residents.
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The deployment of the mobile X-ray unit is expected to bolster Kabale’s fight against tuberculosis by improving early detection and timely treatment, particularly in remote and underserved areas.
