Kabale District Receives Mobile Digital X-Ray Machine to Boost TB Detection.

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By Alex Byakatonda

Communications Officer, Kabale

Kabale District has received a mobile digital X-ray machine equipped with computer-aided detection (CAD) software from the Ministry of Health, aimed at enhancing tuberculosis (TB) screening and diagnosis in hard-to-reach areas.

The equipment, delivered under the National Tuberculosis and Leprosy Programme (NTLP) with support from the United States Government, is part of a broader initiative that saw Uganda receive 48 portable digital X-ray machines and 33 tricycles fitted with TB LAMP diagnostic equipment. The mobile units are designed to improve access to TB and lung disease screening, particularly in rural and underserved communities.

The mobile X-ray machine (Serial Number: MOB6583/THICTB-2414) will be stationed at Rubaya Health Centre IV, but will also support outreach services across Kabale District and neighboring areas.

Speaking during the handover, Dr. Raymond Byaruhanga, Senior Technical Advisor for Communicable Diseases at the Ministry of Health, emphasized that the machine is expected to reduce the burden on Kabale Regional Referral Hospital and eliminate the need for residents to seek costly X-ray services at private clinics.

“This machine is here to serve the people free of charge. It cost the government approximately USD 100,000 (about UGX 360 million), so it must be safeguarded and used effectively,” Dr. Byaruhanga said.

He urged district leaders and stakeholders to ensure that the machine is strictly used for public benefit and maintained in good condition.

Paddy Mwesigye, Assistant District Health Officer in charge of Maternal and Child Health, welcomed the donation and affirmed that the Health Department has established protocols to ensure the machine is well managed. The District TB Focal Person will oversee its use and compliance with operational standards.

Representing the Chief Administrative Officer, Emmy Namanya, Senior Assistant Secretary, noted that the mobile nature of the machine is particularly well-suited to Kabale’s challenging terrain.

“Because of our mountainous landscape, many communities are hard to reach. This mobile X-ray unit will bring essential services closer to the people,” he said.

Presiding over the ceremony, Kabale Deputy Resident District Commissioner (RDC) Christopher Aine called on the government to officially recognize Kabale as a hard-to-reach district due to its rugged terrain. He expressed appreciation to the Ministry of Health for the donation, highlighting its potential to ease access to vital diagnostic services and reduce the financial burden on residents.

“This is a service that must remain free to the public. The people of Kabale deserve affordable and quality healthcare,” RDC Aine emphasized.

The addition of the mobile X-ray machine is expected to strengthen Kabale’s fight against TB and improve early detection and treatment, especially in remote communities.

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